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Exploring Lucknow: Sanatkada Festival and Timeless Traditions

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Exploring Lucknow: Sanatkada Festival and Timeless Traditions

Lucknow

Lucknow During Festival

Roobaroo Walks brings you an immersive Roobaroo Journey in collaboration with Deep Dive India—a thoughtfully curated exploration of Lucknow’s history, culture, and culinary wonders during the Sanatkada festival.

This special 4-day experience is designed to take you beyond sightseeing, offering you a deep connection to Lucknow’s vibrant heritage, food traditions, and living culture.

Program Highlights

  • Explore the architectural marvels of Constantia, Qaiserbagh, and the iconic Imambaras, unraveling tales of a bygone era.
  • Relish exclusive home-dining experiences featuring authentic Kayastha and Rampuri cuisines, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Awadh.
  • Discover the city’s hidden stories with curated walks like the “Raja Bazaar ki Sair” and “War Chronicles at The British Residency.”
  • Be part of the vibrant crafts bazaar and stage performances at the festival venue.
  • Meet the people who keep Lucknow’s traditions alive, from Ittar artisans to culinary masters.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: (31st January)

Arrival in the afternoon. Check in. (Participants are advised to arrive before noon)

Heritage walk 1: The French connection (2:30 PM)

We visit “Constantia”, the most magnificent monument of the era, designed by Major General Claude Martin.

Over the century that followed its founding as the capital of ‘Oudh’ in 1775, Lucknow was an important political and cultural hotspot. European adventurers, tradesmen and the company officials interacted closely with the local nobility. The story of this evolving relationship can be clearly glimpsed through the surviving architecture of the era.

Early Evening:

Visit the Festival venue on day 1 (Entry passes shall be pre-arranged), Check out the crafts Bazaar. Enjoy the stage performance

Late Evening: Culinary Experience 1: Home dining Experience: Kayastha

Making the most of her family inheritance in the form of rich culinary traditions, she hosts exclusive invitation only, experiential lunches that showcase authentic dishes from Kayastha cuisine, a food sub-genre that beautifully reflects the cultural and gastronomical inclusiveness of Lucknow – a city, not just of the Nawabs, but of all communities who contributed to this jewel of the Hindi heartland.

Narrative context: The Kayasthas seamlessly integrated Mughal (Nawabi) culinary techniques with their own traditions. While the community’s cuisine is celebrated for its meat dishes, its vegetarian offerings are equally noteworthy.

 

 

Day 2: (1st February)

Join the “Raja Bazaar ki Sair” – A festival walk by Ansaf and Anshubhi (8:00 AM)

The guests need to leave the hotel at 7:20 to be able to reach the starting point at Nadan mahal, Yahiyaganj. The walk includes Breakfast. Post walk. Return to the hotel / Festival venue

Lunch on your own.

Heritage walk 1: War Chronicles at The British Residency (3:00 PM)

This exploratory walk is woven around the breath-taking ruins of the British Residency at Lucknow, which was under siege for 148 days during the Indian uprising of 1857, and saw some of the fiercest fighting during the war. The ruins of this old British settlement spread over acres of pleasantly forested grounds, and listening to interesting, at times unbelievable trivia, anecdotes and stories, will help you get an intimate introduction to the history of the place and the people who once inhabited it.

The narrative also touches upon related events from the wider theatre of war across north India, and the aftermath of this important conflict which laid the foundations for the freedom struggles against colonial rule across the globe.

Evening: Self Exploration / unwind at the hotel / hang out at the festival venue.

Culinary Experience 2: The Provincial Cuisine of Rampur: A Home dining Experience. (8:00 PM)

Any study of the northern heartland is incomplete without understanding the Avadh countryside. The earliest Pathan settlers in Rohilkhand and Rampur, and evolved a cuisine which was a blend of the traditional Pathan cuisine and food of the Hindi heartland. This cuisine is largely non-vegetarian with use of vegetables in many preparations.

 

 

Day 3: (2nd February)

Early morning Dawn concert at Kaiserbagh. – Free (Recommended) 5:30 AM

Qaiserbagh Heritage walk : U.P. Press Club, Qaiserbagh

Explore the erstwhile palace of the last Nawab of Awadh, a site that has witnessed pivotal moments in Indian history. Qaiserbagh’s baradaris, royal homes, and old archways tell the tale of a bygone era, now hidden among the bustling modernity of Lucknow.

With the aid of old photographs, this walk will help you reimagine the grandeur of the lost buildings, uncovering how the palace complex continues to shape the cultural identity of the city today.

Community Lunch at Salempur house. (Festival Event) – Highly recommended (1:00 PM)

Old families from the city get together once a year the Salempur House grounds, with one signature dish representing their families culinary heritage.

Note: On own. Coupons are available at the venue, the guests need to purchase food coupons to avail of the dishes of their choice.

Heritage walk 3: Husainabad Heritage zone (3:00)

The Royal buildings of the Nawabs. (1775 – 1857)

Print of old paintings, maps and detailed historical narratives to help us reimagine the original glory of the most iconic structures of Lucknow. We also understand the significance of the Shia Muharram rites and the centrality of the Imambara’s to Lucknow’s socio -cultural life. The architectural mathematics and precision of the labyrinth.

  • Bada Imambara. (Architectural nuances, Anecdotes and the vision overview)
  • Chota Imamabara.
  • Husainabad drive through.

Evening: Self Exploration / unwind at the hotel / hang out at the festival venue.

Late evening: Drive to Hazratganj.

Ganjingpost colonial Lucknow:

We go “Ganjing” in the Victorian era markets of Hazratganj, the commercial and shopping hub of the city. Built over 175 years ago, this mile long boulevard is lined with neat little mansions, now converted for use as shops, theatres, cafes, offices and residences.

This walk aims to leave you with a clearer understanding of how Lucknow society (and palette) has evolved over time.

This is also a food walk and your dinner tonight is taste an assortment of chaats, street foods and desserts, impromptu breaks at a quaint pan shop …food representative of how Lucknow eats today!

 

 

Day 4: (3rd February)

A Private Ittar Experience (Morning)

A visit to a heritage bungalow of erstwhile land barons of Awadh or Taluqdars where we have arranged an interaction with an itr producer and a private pop-up of selected natural essences from Kananuj.

Check out of the hotel.

Vintage Avadhi Cuisine (Brunch)

It is said that the culture of the North which evolved in Delhi, was perfected in Lucknow. And few things are a greater testimony to this than the Lucknowi food! We visit an old Kothi (home) in the Old city for a curated Brunch.

Included and Excluded

Inclusions-

  • Facilitation of the programme as per itinerary.
  • Cultural practitioners / performances as per itinerary.
  • Entry ticket to monuments for Indian citizens
  • Meals where included in the experience.
  • Entry passes to the festival venue for 4 days
  • Walks and experience that are a part of the festival / registration services

Exclusions-

  • Transfers (Can be arranged at actuals on request)
  • Accommodation
  • Personal expenses.

Price Breakup

INR 18500/- per person + 5% GST.

(minimum group size: 9 people)

Disclaimer

  • Itinerary: Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Meal Disclaimer: Curated meals are primarily non-vegetarian. Vegetarian options are available upon request, though we recommend confirming your preferences in advance.

Lucknow During Festival

Roobaroo Walks brings you an immersive Roobaroo Journey in collaboration with Deep Dive India—a thoughtfully curated exploration of Lucknow’s history, culture, and culinary wonders during the Sanatkada festival.

This special 4-day experience is designed to take you beyond sightseeing, offering you a deep connection to Lucknow’s vibrant heritage, food traditions, and living culture.

Program Highlights

  • Explore the architectural marvels of Constantia, Qaiserbagh, and the iconic Imambaras, unraveling tales of a bygone era.
  • Relish exclusive home-dining experiences featuring authentic Kayastha and Rampuri cuisines, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Awadh.
  • Discover the city’s hidden stories with curated walks like the “Raja Bazaar ki Sair” and “War Chronicles at The British Residency.”
  • Be part of the vibrant crafts bazaar and stage performances at the festival venue.
  • Meet the people who keep Lucknow’s traditions alive, from Ittar artisans to culinary masters.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: (31st January)

Arrival in the afternoon. Check in. (Participants are advised to arrive before noon)

Heritage walk 1: The French connection (2:30 PM)

We visit “Constantia”, the most magnificent monument of the era, designed by Major General Claude Martin.

Over the century that followed its founding as the capital of ‘Oudh’ in 1775, Lucknow was an important political and cultural hotspot. European adventurers, tradesmen and the company officials interacted closely with the local nobility. The story of this evolving relationship can be clearly glimpsed through the surviving architecture of the era.

Early Evening:

Visit the Festival venue on day 1 (Entry passes shall be pre-arranged), Check out the crafts Bazaar. Enjoy the stage performance

Late Evening: Culinary Experience 1: Home dining Experience: Kayastha

Making the most of her family inheritance in the form of rich culinary traditions, she hosts exclusive invitation only, experiential lunches that showcase authentic dishes from Kayastha cuisine, a food sub-genre that beautifully reflects the cultural and gastronomical inclusiveness of Lucknow – a city, not just of the Nawabs, but of all communities who contributed to this jewel of the Hindi heartland.

Narrative context: The Kayasthas seamlessly integrated Mughal (Nawabi) culinary techniques with their own traditions. While the community’s cuisine is celebrated for its meat dishes, its vegetarian offerings are equally noteworthy.

 

 

Day 2: (1st February)

Join the “Raja Bazaar ki Sair” – A festival walk by Ansaf and Anshubhi (8:00 AM)

The guests need to leave the hotel at 7:20 to be able to reach the starting point at Nadan mahal, Yahiyaganj. The walk includes Breakfast. Post walk. Return to the hotel / Festival venue

Lunch on your own.

Heritage walk 1: War Chronicles at The British Residency (3:00 PM)

This exploratory walk is woven around the breath-taking ruins of the British Residency at Lucknow, which was under siege for 148 days during the Indian uprising of 1857, and saw some of the fiercest fighting during the war. The ruins of this old British settlement spread over acres of pleasantly forested grounds, and listening to interesting, at times unbelievable trivia, anecdotes and stories, will help you get an intimate introduction to the history of the place and the people who once inhabited it.

The narrative also touches upon related events from the wider theatre of war across north India, and the aftermath of this important conflict which laid the foundations for the freedom struggles against colonial rule across the globe.

Evening: Self Exploration / unwind at the hotel / hang out at the festival venue.

Culinary Experience 2: The Provincial Cuisine of Rampur: A Home dining Experience. (8:00 PM)

Any study of the northern heartland is incomplete without understanding the Avadh countryside. The earliest Pathan settlers in Rohilkhand and Rampur, and evolved a cuisine which was a blend of the traditional Pathan cuisine and food of the Hindi heartland. This cuisine is largely non-vegetarian with use of vegetables in many preparations.

 

 

Day 3: (2nd February)

Early morning Dawn concert at Kaiserbagh. – Free (Recommended) 5:30 AM

Qaiserbagh Heritage walk : U.P. Press Club, Qaiserbagh

Explore the erstwhile palace of the last Nawab of Awadh, a site that has witnessed pivotal moments in Indian history. Qaiserbagh’s baradaris, royal homes, and old archways tell the tale of a bygone era, now hidden among the bustling modernity of Lucknow.

With the aid of old photographs, this walk will help you reimagine the grandeur of the lost buildings, uncovering how the palace complex continues to shape the cultural identity of the city today.

Community Lunch at Salempur house. (Festival Event) – Highly recommended (1:00 PM)

Old families from the city get together once a year the Salempur House grounds, with one signature dish representing their families culinary heritage.

Note: On own. Coupons are available at the venue, the guests need to purchase food coupons to avail of the dishes of their choice.

Heritage walk 3: Husainabad Heritage zone (3:00)

The Royal buildings of the Nawabs. (1775 – 1857)

Print of old paintings, maps and detailed historical narratives to help us reimagine the original glory of the most iconic structures of Lucknow. We also understand the significance of the Shia Muharram rites and the centrality of the Imambara’s to Lucknow’s socio -cultural life. The architectural mathematics and precision of the labyrinth.

  • Bada Imambara. (Architectural nuances, Anecdotes and the vision overview)
  • Chota Imamabara.
  • Husainabad drive through.

Evening: Self Exploration / unwind at the hotel / hang out at the festival venue.

Late evening: Drive to Hazratganj.

Ganjingpost colonial Lucknow:

We go “Ganjing” in the Victorian era markets of Hazratganj, the commercial and shopping hub of the city. Built over 175 years ago, this mile long boulevard is lined with neat little mansions, now converted for use as shops, theatres, cafes, offices and residences.

This walk aims to leave you with a clearer understanding of how Lucknow society (and palette) has evolved over time.

This is also a food walk and your dinner tonight is taste an assortment of chaats, street foods and desserts, impromptu breaks at a quaint pan shop …food representative of how Lucknow eats today!

 

 

Day 4: (3rd February)

A Private Ittar Experience (Morning)

A visit to a heritage bungalow of erstwhile land barons of Awadh or Taluqdars where we have arranged an interaction with an itr producer and a private pop-up of selected natural essences from Kananuj.

Check out of the hotel.

Vintage Avadhi Cuisine (Brunch)

It is said that the culture of the North which evolved in Delhi, was perfected in Lucknow. And few things are a greater testimony to this than the Lucknowi food! We visit an old Kothi (home) in the Old city for a curated Brunch.

Included and Excluded

Inclusions-

  • Facilitation of the programme as per itinerary.
  • Cultural practitioners / performances as per itinerary.
  • Entry ticket to monuments for Indian citizens
  • Meals where included in the experience.
  • Entry passes to the festival venue for 4 days
  • Walks and experience that are a part of the festival / registration services

Exclusions-

  • Transfers (Can be arranged at actuals on request)
  • Accommodation
  • Personal expenses.

Price Breakup

INR 18500/- per person + 5% GST.

(minimum group size: 9 people)

Disclaimer

  • Itinerary lease note that the itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Meal Disclaimer:
    Curated meals are primarily non-vegetarian. Vegetarian options are available upon request, though we recommend confirming your preferences in advance.

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Reviews

Madgenius
Excellent value and well-designed walking and boat tours by extremely knowledgeable and friendly local guides. Simply a must for a city like Varanasi, which has so many hidden delights. I’m so grateful to’ve done two tours. Moreover, Roobaroo is Indian owned and operated. I’ve already recommended these peeps to my mates and I’ll continue to do so!
Mrigank

We contacted Roobaroo walks for a unique business requirement, as we were going to produce a video in Varanasi and required expert know-how for the on-ground scene. What started as a business arrangement turned into an experience of a lifetime, as the team from Roobaroo walks created the perfect walk for us to help with our requirements. Their knowledge about Varanasi, their innate ability to pre-judge our volatile requirements and arrange for the same, and overall, the personal attention given to each and everyone during the tour was something which we did not anticipate.

We were able to capture some iconic events, which are usually little known to the outside world but par for the course for our guides. I hope I get to meet the team again when I plan my visit to Varanasi with my families, an enthralling place which is ripe with so much history that it demands multiple visits.

Stempyren from New Zealand

During our stay in Varanasi we attended three tours with Roobaroo Walks. These were 1. The Essential Varanasi Walk (northern part of the city) 2. the City of Good Life Walk (southern part of the city) and 3. the Food Walk (street food tour).

We thoroughly enjoyed each tour and would recommend Roobaroo Walks to anyone travelling to Varanasi. The city is incredible, however, it was intentionally designed to feature a complex network of small alleys, which can be really tricky to navigate if you are a traveller. Accordingly, a guided tour is a great way to really make the most of your time in Varanasi and will also give you an enhanced insight into local life.

Anchal and Aayush are fantastic tour guides. They are both extremely kind, well-spoken and fun. They answered all of our questions about life in Varanasi, and India in general, comprehensively and all of our tours went over time because they were so generous with their time! If you are considering booking a tour with this company you definitely should!!!

John from USA
My wife and I were in Varanasi for the first time. On our first outing alone, we were pretty overwhelmed. However, having Aayush with us brought the city to life and showed us a completely different side. We ended up doing the Essential Varnassi and City of Good Life tours – we learned so much on the old city tour that we had to continue with another one the next day! Would strongly recommend to anyone who wants to better understand Varanasi.
Madgenius from Jaipur
Excellent value and well-designed walking and boat tours by extremely knowledgeable and friendly local guides. Simply a must for a city like Varanasi, which has so many hidden delights. I’m so grateful to’ve done two tours. Moreover, Roobaroo is Indian owned and operated. I’ve already recommended these peeps to my mates and I’ll continue to do so!
John from USA
My wife and I were in Varanasi for the first time. On our first outing alone, we were pretty overwhelmed. However, having Aayush with us brought the city to life and showed us a completely different side. We ended up doing the Essential Varnassi and City of Good Life tours – we learned so much on the old city tour that we had to continue with another one the next day! Would strongly recommend to anyone who wants to better understand Varanasi.
Mrigank from Sydney

We contacted Roobaroo walks for a unique business requirement, as we were going to produce a video in Varanasi and required expert know-how for the on-ground scene. What started as a business arrangement turned into an experience of a lifetime, as the team from Roobaroo walks created the perfect walk for us to help with our requirements. Their knowledge about Varanasi, their innate ability to pre-judge our volatile requirements and arrange for the same, and overall, the personal attention given to each and everyone during the tour was something which we did not anticipate.

We were able to capture some iconic events, which are usually little known to the outside world but par for the course for our guides. I hope I get to meet the team again when I plan my visit to Varanasi with my families, an enthralling place which is ripe with so much history that it demands multiple visits.

Stempyren from New Zealand

During our stay in Varanasi we attended three tours with Roobaroo Walks. These were 1. The Essential Varanasi Walk (northern part of the city) 2. the City of Good Life Walk (southern part of the city) and 3. the Food Walk (street food tour).

We thoroughly enjoyed each tour and would recommend Roobaroo Walks to anyone travelling to Varanasi. The city is incredible, however, it was intentionally designed to feature a complex network of small alleys, which can be really tricky to navigate if you are a traveller. Accordingly, a guided tour is a great way to really make the most of your time in Varanasi and will also give you an enhanced insight into local life.

Anchal and Aayush are fantastic tour guides. They are both extremely kind, well-spoken and fun. They answered all of our questions about life in Varanasi, and India in general, comprehensively and all of our tours went over time because they were so generous with their time! If you are considering booking a tour with this company you definitely should!!!

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