Lucknow to Get a Cultural Revival with New Heritage Projects

Lucknow is preparing for a significant cultural and tourism boost as the state government rolls out a series of initiatives aimed at celebrating the city’s rich heritage while improving the overall visitor experience. From a new culture complex near Shaheed Path to a double-decker heritage bus service, the capital is set to strengthen its identity as a centre of living culture rather than just a city of monuments.

Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh announced that a dedicated Culture Building will be developed near Shaheed Path. This complex will house offices of various institutions under the culture department, bringing them together at one location. The idea, Singh explained, is to create an integrated cultural ecosystem that improves coordination and makes it easier for the public to access information, events and resources related to Lucknow’s heritage. For residents and visitors alike, this means that culture, history, and administration come together under one roof.

Highlighting Lucknow’s unique character, the minister said the city’s heritage goes far beyond historic buildings. Its identity lies equally in classical music, literature, crafts, cuisine and everyday traditions. Future tourism planning will focus on presenting Lucknow as a “living heritage” destination — a city where culture is not frozen in the past but continues to thrive in daily life.

In a major step for cultural education, a new campus of Bhatkhande Culture University will also be developed to international standards. This move is expected to reinforce Lucknow’s long-standing reputation as a hub for classical music and performing arts, while attracting students and cultural exchanges from across India and abroad.

To make sightseeing more convenient and engaging, a double-decker heritage bus service will be launched on January 6. The bus will run between 1090 Crossing and the Residency, covering key heritage areas and cultural landmarks in a single circuit. With affordable ticket prices and curated tours, the service aims to offer both tourists and locals an easy way to rediscover the city’s historic heart.

The minister also directed officials to prepare a focused roadmap to position Lucknow alongside Agra and Varanasi on the international tourism map. Emphasis has been laid on timely completion of museums, memorials and cultural centres currently under construction, with strict attention to quality, transparency and accountability.

Senior officials reviewed the progress of major tourism and culture projects, including heritage sites, visitor amenities and promotional activities. The broader objective is to develop destinations that seamlessly blend Lucknow’s heritage and cultural depth with modern facilities, ensuring the city emerges as a vibrant, welcoming and globally recognised centre of living heritage tourism.

For the people of Lucknow, these initiatives promise not just increased tourism, but a renewed pride in the city’s cultural soul — one that honours tradition while looking confidently towards the future.