Bara Imambara

It is beautiful place for where you enjoy and learn both this place best form history students

A Glimpse into History at Bara Imambara

My visit to Bara Imambara in 2021 was a captivating journey through time. The ancient architecture stood as a testament to historical grandeur, with intricate detailing that showcased the marvels of old-world craftsmanship.

The highlight of the monument is undoubtedly the bhul bhulaiya, a maze within the palace. Despite its complexity, the structure is well-maintained, inviting visitors to explore the labyrinth of passages and soak in the enigmatic charm.

Bara Imambara is a treasure trove of architectural brilliance, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of the past. For history enthusiasts and those seeking a captivating experience, this monument is a must-visit, providing a window to a bygone era impeccably preserved.

Very nice place to visit. If you love historical places then this is the best place. Buy one combine ticket to see all places nearby.

Loved this place. This piece of art reflects the true Mughal architecture where one is thrilled to walk around. The architecture of the complex reflects the maturation of ornamented Mughal design, namely the Badshahi Mosque - it is one of the last major projects not incorporating any European elements or the use of iron.

Though I stay in Lucknow from past 24 years I visited this place only twice.
One was when I was small but this time I visited last week.
And this time One guide, (Don't remember his name properly)
But he made my day by giving us a good experience.
He even took my special care and called me "Chashme Wale Bhaiyya " all because I wore sunglasses.
And made it too frequent that every person in the group was there to look upon me in a good way, as he was also doing in a good gesture.
That atlast I was leading the group

Cannot be compared.these monuments are one of a kind depicting Mughal architecture. Once a visit is must to these monuments.

If you should about the Lucknow you will be definitely visit bara Imambara

Wonderful architecture.cultural site.
Do not book the guide - money waste

This very nice place and when I entered into the Bhul bhulya I'm very excited because there is (deewalo k)

It's really nice thing to help others to find the beautiful places in all around the world
Thank you

Labyrinth was an experience to take in. An architectural marvel. Historical gem. Loved my evening spent here on a cold winter day.

It's better to hire a guide. Our guide was Salman. They charge 175 for bhool bhulaiya and 200 for all places. Sometimes, some guides may behave improperly but I visited recently, it was all good.
The guide will tell you a lot of things whilst exaggerating. They will leave you in bhool bhulaiya to find your way out. Then after 10-15 min they will come and search. It is fun. Bowli is also nice. Guide showed us the artificial pond and its secret. Bathrooms were pretty clean to my surprise.
You will have to walk a lot so come as such.

Overall its fun.

It's an awesome place, I have visited 4. Times. I feel so happy n peaceful after visiting. With friends I enjoyed a lot.

It is one of the must visit for people visiting from outside.
Inside Imambara is a maze (Boolboolaiya) which everyone should try to decode (if possible without the help of Guide. In case you are lost ask for help. And also visit Shahi Baoli to know how cameras was used during that period

The place is very nice and the ancient building is also seen, the artwork is very nice
Without Guides You Can't enter inside the Imambara That's So Wrong
Those who belong to Lucknow have been here from many times, so they go to spend there time, so why do they always guide?
lot of money is being earned from the people by guiding them and without a guide these people do not let even the go in side the Imambara.it's so useles

Bara Imambara, also known as Asfi Imambara is an imambara complex in Lucknow, India built by Asaf-ud-Daula, Nawab of Awadh in 1784. Bara means big. This imambara is the second largest after the Nizamat Imambara.

Nice historical place!
Architecture is awesome.
Magnificent experience.
300mtrs dome without pillars or beam.
18th century architecture at its best.
Only proper maintenance and restoration of building is needed to shine it's glory.
Guides should give a bit more time to enjoy the grandeur of the Architecture and lovely view.

This is the amazing place get inside just and find yurself as a lap of nature its itself the great heritage of awadh nwab's, inside this yu will get many doors and window and all the one root and one destination point and upper view yu can get whloe city is just around yu yu can see all historical building form its roof and in many doors yu get clear view having a far distance and cler view of inside to outside get a pool that have a amazing secret yu can reflect in tha shadow by this ancient nwab's gets aware of enemy, really all is amazing here

Once yu should must visit

Best visiting place in Lucknow. Everyone will love it. The historical background and the architecture will stunned everyone. Most interesting is the bhul-bhulaiya which is inside of it. Guide is recommended.

Bara Imambara, also known as Asfi Imambara is an imambara complex in Lucknow, India built by Asaf-ud-Daula, Nawab of Awadh in 1784. Bara means big. This imambara is the second largest after the Nizamat Imambara. The building also includes the large Asfi mosque, the Bhul-bhulaiya (the labyrinth), and Bowli, a step well with running water. Two imposing gateways lead to the main hall. It is said that there are 1024 ways to reach the terrace but only two to come back first gate or the last gate. It is an accidental architecture. Construction of Bara Imambara was started in 1780, a year of a devastating famine, and one of Asaf-ud-Daula's objectives in embarking on this grandiose project was to provide employment for people in the region for almost a decade while the famine lasted. It is said that ordinary people used to work in the day building up the edifice, while noblemen and other elite worked at night to break down anything that was raised that day. It was a project that preceded a Keynesian-like intervention for employment generation. Construction of the Imambara was completed in 1794. The estimated cost of building the Imambara ranges between half a million rupees to a million rupees. Even after completion, the Nawab used to spend between four and five hundred thousand rupees on its decoration annuallyThe simple grave of Asaf ud-Daula under a canopy inside the Bara Imambara; a watercolor by Seeta Ram, c. 1814–15. The architecture of the complex reflects the maturation of ornamented Mughal design, namely the Badshahi Mosque - it is one of the last major projects not incorporating any European elements or the use of iron. The main imambara consists of a large vaulted central chamber containing the tomb of Asaf-ud-Daula. At 50 by 16 meters and over 15 meters tall, it has no beams supporting the ceiling and is one of the largest such arched constructions in the world. There are eight surrounding chambers built to different roof heights, permitting the space above these to be reconstructed as a three-dimensional labyrinth with passages interconnecting with each other through 489 identical doorways. This part of the building, and often the whole complex, may be referred to as the Bhulbhulaiya.

The entry fee is 50 per person which is just fine because its beautiful.
Person visiting 1st time will definitely love it.

Lucknow, the capital of the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh is a modern city that can boast of having magnificent historical monuments. Situated at the banks of river Gomti, tributary of the Ganga, Lucknow is known for its gardens, parks and unique archaeological monuments. Famous as the city of Nawabs, Lucknow has retained its charm as a bastion of culinary and cultural delights. The people of this city are known for their exquisite charm, courtesy and flair of the Urdu language. Lucknow is also famous for its exclusive 'chikan' embroidered dress materials.

The city is home to 'Bara Imambara', a historical edifice with such a marvellous architecture that even modern architects seem to be perplexed by its design. The Imambara was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784 and its designer was Kifayat-ullah who is said to be a relative of the architect of the Taj Mahal. Built by the Nawab in a famine relief programme, this fort like huge and elegant structure is also called Asafai Imambara. The structure shows the mixture of Rajput and Mughal architectures with Gothic influences. The Bara Imambara is an interesting building. It is neither a mosque, nor a mausoleum, but a huge building having interesting elements within it. The construction of the halls and the use of vaults show a strong Islamic influence.

The Bara Imambara is, in fact, a great hall built at the end of a spectacular courtyard approached through two magnificent triple-arched gateways. The central hall of the Imambara is almost 50 meters in length and 16-meter wide. The ceiling of this columnless hall is more than 15-meter high. The hall is one of the largest of its kind in the world without any external support of wood, iron, or stone beams. The roof has been put together with interlocking bricks without using a beam or a girder. Hence, it is viewed as a unique achievement of architecture. The building, which consists of three huge halls, has an amazing maze of corridors hidden in between its walls that are about 20 feet thick. This dense, dark maze called the 'bhul bhulaiya' is to be explored only if you are strong-hearted. It is a network of more than 1000 labyrinthine passages, some of which have dead-ends, some end at precipitous drops while others lead to entrance or exit points. Help of an "approved" guide is recommended if one wants a tour of the secret labyrinth without getting lost.

Another intriguing structure at the Imambara is the five-storied baoli (step well), which belongs to the pre-Nawabi era. Called the Shahi-Hammam (royal bath), this baoli is connected with the river Gomti. Only the first two stories are above water, the rest being perennially under water.

Counted among the top historical places in Lucknow, Bara Imambara aka Asafi Imambara is a historical monument that dates back to 1784. Built by Asaf-ud-Daula, one of the renowned Nawabs of Awadh, the complex comprises a large mosque (Asfi Mosque), a labyrinth (the Bhul Bhulaiya), and a stepwell with running water (Shahi Baoli). The structure boasts of two large gateways that will lead you to the central hall, which is touted to be the largest vaulted chamber in the world.

One of the marvels of Mughal Architect. Built in the heart of Lucknow, this monument gives the royal feel of Nawabs of 1770's.

Its beautiful makbara made with beautiful architecture? And one place i really like which is "Bhul Bhulaiya" ️ it was amazing concept to build Bhul Bhulaiya. And u can go with ur family or hangout with friends!
Parking area is such a beautiful and greenery. U can visit here Morning & Evening to enjoy this beautiful place

The architecture of the complex reflects the maturation of ornamented Mughal design, namely the Badshahi Mosque - it is one of the last major projects not incorporating any European elements or the use of iron. The main imambara consists of a large vaulted central chamber containing the tomb of Asaf-ud-Daula. At 50 by 16 meters and over 15 meters tall, it has no beams supporting the ceiling and is one of the largest such arched constructions in the world. There are eight surrounding chambers built to different roof heights, permitting the space above these to be reconstructed as a three-dimensional labyrinth with passages interconnecting with each other through 489 identical doorways. This part of the building, and often the whole complex, may be referred to as the Bhulbhulaiya. Known as a popular attraction, it is possibly the only existing maze in India and came about unintentionally to support the weight of the building which is constructed on marshy land. Asaf-ud-Daula also erected the 18 meter (59 foot) high Roomi Darwaza, just outside. This portal, embellished with lavish decorations, was the Imambara's west-facing entrance.

The design of the Imambara was obtained through a competitive process. The winner was a Delhi architect Kifayatullah, who also lies buried in the main hall of the Imambara. It is another unique aspect of the building that the sponsor and the architect lie buried beside each other. The roof of Imambara is made up from the rice husk which makes this Imambara a unique building

Awesome place to visit. Guide preferable as he will let us know the history and details about it.

Excellent place because the famous labyrinth will just mesmerize you after you understand it's architectural significance and it's history. It is very well maintained. A must visit for people who visit Lucknow.

*Bara Emambara*
The building also includes the large Asfi mosque, the Bhul-bhulaiya (the labyrinth), and Bowli, a step well with running water. Two imposing gateways lead to the main hall. It is said that there are 1024 ways to reach the terrace but only one to come back. It is an accidental architecture.

Construction of Bara Imambara was started in 1784, a year of a devastating famine, and one of Asaf-ud-Daula's objectives in embarking on this grandiose project was to provide employment for people in the region for almost a decade while the famine lasted. It is said that ordinary people used to work in the day building up the edifice, while noblemen and other elite worked at night to break down anything that was raised that day. It was a project that preceded a Keynesian like intervention for employment generation. Construction of the Imambara was completed in 1791. Estimated cost of building the Imambara ranges between half a million rupees to a million rupees. Even after completion, the Nawab used to spend between four and five hundred thousand rupees on its decoration annually.

Bara Imambara, also! Known as Asfi Mosque is an imambara complex in Lucknow, India built by Asaf-ud-Daula, Nawab of Awadh in 1784. Bara means big.

When I go there I looked Bara Imambara is very beautiful. This is very awesome place for tour in the Lucknow. This is a great place to visit. Therefore, you are requested to visit this place whenever you come to Lucknow. I hope to you will visit here. You will have a welcome in Bara Imambara of Thank you

I have visited this place numerous times and it never gets old. The place is a bit crowded and the guides may not give you a breather and would want you to avail their services but if you can get past it, the experience is worthwhile.

It has five components -
1) two beautiful gates
2) mosque
3) bhool bhulaiya (labyrinth)
4) bowli (step well)
5) main area / hall

The architecture is just amazing. It seems that there is no use of iron and the entire structure is supported by materials like a particular kind of lentil among others.

In order to get the full experience, I would suggest get a good guide. You will have to pay for the tickets and the guide after you enter through the gate.

Such an Awesome historical place it is.so strategically Made by the ruler of that time. It is a pure maze seriously, and guides overthere are very polite and helpful.
If you are visiting lucknow, this has to be must visit place for you.

Got a superb guide who could explain us the complete procedure how to visit this place.
Also was with us for the complete time (@ a cost of RS 200.00 for four persons) showing us the intricusies of the lybernith.

Beautifully constructed in old Lucknow, the Bara Imambara is place of mourning and sorrow (refer to one of the text images below) that stands testimony to the life and times of Imam Hussain and his family - the courage and hardships that they endured during their lives. The Bara Imambara houses an interesting maze and a beautifully built Bauli that is a must see. There is no entry fee to the Imambara. However, when in the Bauli, you might want to hire a guide to help you with its history. There is an entry fee to the Bauli.

I visited Bara Imambara on my visit to Lucknow during the evening. As it was near closing time we had to go in a guided group tour of the place. Also couples need to mandatorily take a guide here. The place has good architecture with the Baoli and Bhul Bhulaiya being the main attractions. The place also has a mosque in its compound along with the famous Rumi Darwaza. Also you need to take off your shoes when visiting the place.

Construction of Bara Imambara was started in 1784, a year of a devastating famine, and one of Asaf-ud-Daula's objectives in embarking on this grandiose project was to provide employment for people in the region for almost a decade while the famine lasted. It is said that ordinary people used to work in the day building up the edifice, while noblemen and other elite worked at night to break down anything that was raised that day. It was a project that preceded a Keynesian like intervention for employment generation. Construction of the Imambara was completed in 1791. Estimated cost of building the Imambara ranges between half a million rupees to a million rupees. Even after completion, the Nawab used to spend between four and five hundred thousand rupees on its decoration annually.

It is a great place and one of the reasons to visit Lucknow and bhulbhulaiya is must try.but go with extra time because it will take time to complete the visit and very good to just sit and chill out

Require proper monitoring for guide tarrif and options. These guys force to take a guide. If it is related to the prevention of bad practices, install the CCTV instead

This is the historical building situated in Lucknow, India. It was build by Nawab of lucknow Asif-ud-daula in 1784. Many visitors come here across the country to visit. There are two buildings, one of which is bada imambada and the other is chhota Imambada. There is a bhoolbhulaiyya in Imambada also.

Bara Imambara is also known as Asfi Mosque is an imambara complex in Lucknow, India built by Asaf-ud-Daula, Nawab of Awadh in 1784. Bara Imambara is a must visit place if you are visiting or living in Lucknow. Here you can see Bara Imambara, Bowli, Roomi Darwaza. For all this the cost of ticket per head is ₹50/- only. You have to pay ₹20 for baggage security, ₹10 for shoes security. Shoes are not allowed inside the bara Imambara.

Bara Imambara was constructed by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah in 1784. In order to employ people during the 11-year famine,  the nawab planned to build it.  The famine affected the nobles and the common people. Kifayatullah was the architect and designer of the monument who came from Delhi and designed it.

लखनऊ के प्रमुख ऐतिहासिक स्थलों में से एक है । यहीं पर भूलभुलैया भी है । यहाँ जाने के लिए रेलवे स्टेशन से शेयर ऑटो मिलते हैं जो मेडिकल चौक तक जाते हैं वहां से ई रिक्शा द्वारा या पैदल लगभग 1 किमी की दूरी तय करके यहाँ पहुँचा जा सकता है । लखनऊ के सबसे साफ और स्वच्छ इलाकों में यह भी है । शुक्रवार को दूसरी मीटिंग ना जाएं अन्यथा आप इसे देखने से वंचित हो सकते हैं ।।

It's a beautiful place. Can be called the crown of lucknow. A must place to visit with your family whenever you are in lucknow and are in a mood to enjoy. The reason i gave this monument a 4 star is that people responsible for the visitor's enjoyment and exploration have made it a business rather than their duty. They take really high charge just to let you in and won't even allow you to visit some places without hiring their guide. And if you denied they won't even let you in. The best thing about this place is that TikTok is strictly prohibited here

So it's in old Lucknow, and has historic charm. It has ticket counter near the entrance. There are 3 main attractions 1.) Baoli 2.) Bhool bhulaiya 3.) Jal Mahal, tickets are available separately and in combo as well. Couples are not allowed inside no. 2 and no. 3 attraction without guide. The guide rates are written at the ticket counter and I did not find any kind of cheating. You also need to remove your shoes for going inside these attractions, there is shoe area available, will keep your shoes/sandals at a nominal cost of 5 rs. The combined ticket costs 50 rs per person which is the best option. Take a guide, it's better, we had guide with a group of others, as there was shortage of guides, but he gave a good deal, in 100 rs for both of us (we are a couple), he showed us all three attractions (along with the group ofcourse), but it was worth it. In the evening you will get the last guide around 05: 15 - 05: 30 in winter time, so go there accordingly. There is a small shop inside selling soft drinks and chips and all. There are three more stalls of small items made from shells basically women items.

When I visited for first time this place Because most of door's was unlocked and after a year I visited again then almost all doors are locked which is not so surprised and not so joyful.