Sikandar Bagh

Sikandar Bagh is a popular tourist spot in Lucknow that has a rich history. Once upon a time, the place emerged as the site of a ferocious clash between the Indian force and the British Army during the pre-Independence era. There was a time when it also became a cultural center, hosted plays, music, dance, and poem competitions all across the year.

When you take a trip of the place early in the morning, you will come across people of many age groups enjoying their morning walk, playing various games, and the fresh air of the morning.

Sikandar Bagh is located in a space of approximately 120 square yards. It is worth noting that it was established by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, who also happens to be the last Nawab of Oudh as his summer abode. Reports claim that it was named Sikander after Alexander the Great. However, some other reports claim that it was named after Sikander Mahal Begum, the beloved wife of Nawab. Despite witnessing several raids and attacks, Sikandar Bagh still emanates a certain aura that can be seen in several structures of that era. The garden has also emerged as an indispensable part of the renowned National Botanical Research Institute.

History:

When it comes to the history of this famous tourist destination, Sikandar Bagh provided an outstanding stronghold for the Indian troops during the British Residency siege of Uttar Pradesh’s capital Lucknow. The brutal war that took place here reportedly took over two thousand lives. One significant incident that took place here will leave you in awe as it put light on the excellent valor showcased by the female soldiers of Begum Hazrat Mahal.

The whole scenario was highlighted by an onlooker whose name was Sergeant Willian Forbes Mitchell. He divulged that there was a huge peepal tree in the garden and below it; there were some water jars kept for the soldiers.

After one such incident of a battle, the Sergeant observed the scattered bodies of some English fighters at a particular place. After noticing the wounds, he concluded that all of them had been shot from above. He instructed Wallace (name of the soldier) to find out if there was someone hidden under the tree. And, he spotted someone hidden under the tree and fired a shot. The next moment, the body of a woman fell from the tree to the ground with a loud thud. When he discovered it to be a woman’s body, he was filled with huge regret. He immediately made a statement filled with huge pain saying that had he known earlier that it was a woman, he would have fired a shot at himself rather than claiming the life of the woman.

Meanwhile, the woman’s identity could not be revealed ever to date. However, a statue was constructed in her memory. And, you will also notice a bust with the caption “Unknown Heroine” inside the area of the park. The statue continues to remind visitors about her sacrifice and valor made by the woman.

There is yet another interesting incident associate with the memorial. One year after the popular Sikandar Bagh was raged, a photographer of Italian-British origin captured some photographs of the damaged structure of the monument. When you will look at the image, you will notice how much damage had inflicted on the structure and intensity of the fighting that took place here. The main interesting thing that has enthralled everyone is the fact that it was clicked almost two hundred years ago.

Architecture:

Sikandar Bagh has carved its identity as one of the highly popular tourist destinations that are situated in close proximity to the National Botanical Research Institute. It is one of the highly popular tourist destinations in Lucknow. The whole building was created at a cost of Rs 5 lakh. The structure also housed a mosque as well inside. The mosque was equipped with big walls and three getaways in three directions. Unfortunately, only one structure is left now as the remaining as completely demolished during the Indian Revolt of 1857.

Popular Culture:

Best Time to Visit: You can visit Sikandar Bagh from October to March, as during these months you will witness tolerable weather. You may face scorching heat in summer as the temperature hovers between 40 degrees Celsius to 48 degrees Celsius. You may visit the place all across the year if you plan to undertake a short trip. However, the weather remains quite pleasant during the winter months. And, during such weather, you will be able to enjoy sightseeing along with your family and friends.

How to Reach?

You can reach Sikandar Bagh conveniently via Airplane, train, and bus. It is worth noting that the international airports in UP include Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport and Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport. There are domestic airports as well as located in Agra, Jhansi, Meerut, Gorakhpur, and Kanpur.

There is a wide network of railways as well. You will find a total of 430 functional railway stations in Uttar Pradesh.

One of the most convenient ways to reach UP is through roads. You will find many National Highways and Expressways known as Yamuna Expressway, Agra Expressway, NH34, NH 19, NH 30, and NH21. The state highways are effectively maintained. Uttar Pradesh Road Transport Corporation has buses for all leading routes in the state.

Nearby Attractions:

You will also come across several popular attractions nearby Sikandar Bagh and you may explore them to make your trip memorable. Some of the famous spots that you may visit may include Buddha temple, Shaheed Smarak, La Matiniere, Jain temple, Hanuman Temple of Aliganj, etc. You may also visit the Vidhan Sabha and Tombs of Saadat Ali Khan & Khurshid Zadi.

Therefore, we can conclude here that if you looking for a perfect short break from the hustle and bustle of your daily life, you can certainly undertake the trip to Sikandar Bagh , Lucknow. The trip will definitely break the monotony from your life and leave you rejuvenated.