Uttar Pradesh is considered the largest state of India by population and the fourth largest state by area. Lucknow is the administrative and legislative capital of the state, and Praygraj is the judicial capital. It was on November 9, 2000, that the Indian Parliament established the state of Uttranchal from the northwestern part of Uttar Pradesh. Read this blog to learn more about the capital city of Uttar Pradesh.
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The Capital City of UP: Lucknow
The capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, is known for its vibrant culture and history. It is situated on the banks of the Gomti River, which is around 45 miles away from the northeast of Kanpur. The city of Lucknow is known as the city of ‘Nawabs’ and serves as the cultural hub as well as the administrative head of the state.
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Geography and Demography of Lucknow
Boarded by Barabanki to the east, Unnao to the west, Raebareli to the south, Sitapur and Hardoi to the north, Lucknow is very strategically planned. It covers a total area of about 402 square kilometers and is 123 meters above sea level.
- Lucknow’s population as of 2024 is estimated at 4,038,214, which makes it the 11th most populous city in India.
- About two-thirds of the population of Lucknow resides in urban areas, while the remaining live in rural areas.
- Lucknow’s sex ratio is 906 females for every 1000 males, which is slightly lower than the national average.
- In the Lucknow district, the literacy rate is 79.33%, with men having a higher rate than women.
- Lucknow’s population has a mix of socio-economic backgrounds. The city has a growing middle class. A significant portion of the population is also employed in government services, education, and traditional industries like handicrafts and textiles.
- The city also has a student population owing to the presence of several prestigious universities and educational institutions.
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Historical Background of Lucknow
The historical journey of Lucknow traces back to 1528, when it was under the rule of Babur, who was the first Mughal ruler of India. Later, the territory came under the rule of Akbar when it became a part of the Oudh Province.
A drastic shift came for the city of Lucknow in the year 1775 when Asaf al-Dawah, who was the nawab of Oudh, shifted his capital from Faizabad to Lucknow.
Under British rule, there were several events that took place in Lucknow during the Indian Mutiny in 1857, when British army commissioner Sir Henry Lawrence and many European residents were held captive for months.
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Climate of the City of Lucknow
Lucknow has a pleasant climate all year round. Wintertime brings lower temperatures of about 15 degrees Celsius, while summer temperatures range from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius. Lucknow’s moderate climate makes it a desirable travel destination, enabling visitors to enjoy the city all year round in comfort.
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Cuisine of Lucknow
The city of Lucknow is also known as the city of Nawabs and the Nawabi cuisine, Lucknow is considered the hub for food enthusiasts and very popular for its dishes, which are prepared by royal chefs who have experience presenting their culinary skills. Kebabs, Kulcahs, the famous Lucknawi Biryani, and many other dishes are considered an important and vital part of the city’s cultural identity.
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FAQs
The capital city of Uttar Pradesh is Lucknow.
Lucknow is situated on the banks of the Gomti River, approximately 45 miles northeast of Kanpur. It is bordered by Barabanki to the east, Unnao to the west, Raebareli to the south, and Sitapur and Hardoi to the north.
Lucknow has a rich historical background dating back to 1528, when it was under the rule of Babur, the first Mughal ruler of India. It later became a part of the Oudh Province under Akbar’s rule. In 1775, it became the capital of Oudh when Asaf al-Dawah, the nawab of Oudh, shifted his capital from Faizabad to Lucknow. The city also witnessed significant events during the Indian Mutiny in 1857.
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