Ganesh Chaturthi is almost here, and Lucknow is getting ready for the festive season. This year, Ganesh Chaturthi falls on September 14, 2026, making it the perfect time to start planning your festive mithai shopping.

And while laddoos have their place on the festive table, nothing can replace modaks- especially not on Ganesh Chaturthi as they are closely associated with Lord Ganesha. Traditional Mithai Shops in Lucknow have given the festive favourite a local twist, with everything from khoya and besan to kesar, kaju and dry-fruit versions.

If you're looking for modaks in Lucknow this Ganesh Chaturthi, here are five sweet shops in Lucknow worth checking out.

Ram Asrey is one of Lucknow's best-known names for traditional mithai, and its Ganesh Chaturthi modaks have been a festive favourite. A previous local guide noted that the shop offers khoya, khoya-kesar and besan modaks, while pista and badam varieties can be prepared on order.

The modaks are known for being just the right amount of sweet, making them a good pick if you prefer classic North Indian-style mithai over heavily flavoured versions.

What to try: Khoya, khoya-kesar and besan modaks.
Good for: Traditional festive offerings and gifting. Location: 43/48, Naval Kishore Road, near Leela Theatre, Hazratganj

If variety is what you're after, Madhurima should be high on your list. The Lucknow sweet shop has previously offered a wide selection of modaks, including besan, kesar and chocolate varieties. Local coverage has also reported that Madhurima has experimented with as many as 15 varieties for Ganesh Chaturthi.

The chocolate option also makes this a fun choice if you're buying modaks for children or family members who prefer contemporary flavours.

What to try: Besan, kesar and chocolate modaks.
Good for: Families looking for both traditional and modern flavours. Location: Vibhuti Khand Road, Gomti Nagar

Neelkanth is another name to add to your Ganesh Chaturthi sweet-shopping list in Lucknow. Its current online listings specifically feature modak among its popular dishes.

The shop's menu listings also show a particularly tempting selection under its festive modak range, including besan modak, kaju-kesar modak, khoya-kesar modak, khoya modak, anjeer modak and rice modak.

So, whether you want something rich and nutty or prefer a more traditional rice-based option, there is plenty to choose from.

What to try: Kaju-kesar, anjeer, khoya-kesar and rice modaks.
Good for: Those who want plenty of flavour options. Location: 3/118, Vivek Khand, Gomti Nagar

For a more traditional mithai experience, Radhey Lal's Parampara is worth considering. A previous Lucknow modak guide reported that Parampara offered more than seven varieties of modaks, with besan and khoya among the most popular choices. The shop has also been known to customise combinations on request.

That makes it a useful stop if you're buying a larger box for family, a puja or festive gifting and want more than one variety in the mix.

What to try: Besan and khoya modaks.
Good for: Traditional flavours and customised orders. Location: 3, Sapru Marg, opposite Udyan Bhawan

Mahalaxmi Sweets is another established Lucknow name to keep on your radar this Ganesh Chaturthi. The shop has previously reported a rise in demand for modaks around the festival, with its owner noting that the sweet has become increasingly popular as Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations have grown in Lucknow.

If you're based around Aliganj, this makes for a convenient option for picking up festive sweets without heading across the city.

What to try: Check the festive modak selection closer to Ganesh Chaturthi.
Good for: Aliganj residents looking for a local festive mithai stop. Location: Purania Road, Aliganj

If you're team traditional, go for khoya or besan at Ram Asrey or Parampara. If you're looking for something richer, Neelkanth's kaju-kesar or anjeer varieties are worth considering. And for children or anyone who likes contemporary mithai, Madhurima's chocolate modak is an easy pick.

One thing to keep in mind: modak selections are seasonal, so varieties, availability and prices can change around Ganesh Chaturthi. It's best to call ahead if you're ordering a larger quantity or a specific flavour.

With Ganesh Chaturthi falling on September 14 this year, don't leave your modak shopping until the last minute.