Chattar Manzil, Lucknow - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 6 km from Lucknow Junction, Chattar Manzil is a heritage palace located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Popularly known as Umbrella Palace, it is one of the best places for sightseeing in Lucknow.

Situated on the banks of River Gomti, the Chattar Manzil was served as a palace for the rulers of Awadh and their wives. The construction of Chattar Manzil was started by Nawab of Lucknow, Ghazi-ud-din Haider, and was completed by his son Nasir-Ud-din Haider. Nawab Saadat Ali Khan named the Palace after his mother, Chatter Kunwar, however, the design and architecture add another dimension to it. The Palace is characterized by finely built gilt umbrella domes or 'chattras' which can also be pinned for the genesis of the name.

The architecture of Chattar Manzil boasts a beautiful fusion of both Indian and European architectural styles. It consisted of a Bari (larger) Chattar Manzil and Chhoti (smaller) Chattar Manzil, however, only the larger one still exists. This 5 storied palace is an architectural marvel with its twin underground floors and three that soar high. The underground rooms are massive and open directly on the banks of the Gomti River. The beautiful gardens were added by Nawab Nasir Uddin Haider which further enhance the beauty of the Chattar Manzil. These gardens were named as Gulshan-e-Iram which literally translates to Garden of Paradise.

The Chattar Manzil was an important place for the Lucknawi rebels during the Revolt of 1857. The site is under restoration and an archaeological excavation is being carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India. At present, the palace has been remodeled and houses the office of the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI).

Timings: 9.30 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free