Welcome to the heart of Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, kebabs, and heritage! Among its many Mughal-inspired wonders, Chhota Imambara stands out like a crown jewel. Also known as Imambara Hussainabad Mubarak, this elegant structure isn’t just a religious site but also a blend of beauty, spirituality, and architectural brilliance.
If you’re planning a trip to Uttar Pradesh, the Chhota Imambara tourist place should be high on your bucket list. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone in search of breathtaking destinations, this guide is your one-stop article on what to expect, when to go, and how to experience it all.
Let’s take a detailed tour of Chhota Imambara and everything around it!
🏛️ What is Chhota Imambara?
Chhota Imambara is a historic Shia Muslim shrine located in the city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. It was constructed in 1838 by Muhammad Ali Shah, the third Nawab of Awadh. The monument was designed to serve both as a congregation hall for Shia ceremonies, particularly during Muharram, and as a mausoleum for the Nawab and his family.
Its official name is Imambara Hussainabad Mubarak, but it’s popularly known as Chhota Imambara (meaning “small shrine”) to distinguish it from Bara Imambara, another iconic landmark in Lucknow.
🧱 History of Chhota Imambara: A Glimpse into the Past
The construction of Chhota Imambara was aimed at providing employment to the poor during a severe famine in the region. It was part of a public welfare initiative that doubled as an architectural legacy. The Nawab also intended this to be his final resting place, which it eventually became.
The complex today includes:
- Main Hall (Imambara)
- Tombs of Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah and his family
- Naubat Khana (Drum House)
- Husainabad Tank and Fountain
- Watchtower (Satkhanda)
- Husainabad Clock Tower
🎨 Architecture and Design of Chhota Imambara
The architecture of Chhota Imambara is a remarkable blend of Mughal, Persian, and Indo-Islamic styles. It’s one of the most richly adorned monuments in Lucknow and features:
🕌 Exterior Beauty
- The central structure features golden domes, crescent moons, and intricate Arabic calligraphy.
- A lush charbagh-style garden surrounds the monument, symbolizing paradise in Islamic tradition.
✨ Interior Opulence
- The halls are decked with Belgian crystal chandeliers, some of which were imported during the Nawab’s era.
- Mirrors, stucco decoration, and colorful glass work adorn the interiors.
- The place glows in candlelight during Muharram, earning it the nickname: “The Palace of Lights.”
📍 Key Attractions Within Chhota Imambara Complex
🪦 Tomb of Muhammad Ali Shah
Located inside the Imambara, this is the Nawab’s final resting place, surrounded by beautifully carved structures and Quranic inscriptions.
⏰ Husainabad Clock Tower
At 221 feet, this Victorian-Gothic style clock tower is the tallest in India and was modeled after London’s Big Ben.
🏯 Naubat Khana
This was traditionally used for announcing arrivals and ceremonial music, marking the entrance to the complex.
📸 Satkhanda (Watch Tower)
Satkhanda literally means “seven-storeyed tower,” but construction stopped after four levels. It offers a fantastic view of Lucknow’s skyline.
🖼️ Husainabad Picture Gallery
Home to life-size portraits of Nawabs, the gallery lets you peek into the grandeur and personality of Awadhi royalty.
🛕 Religious Importance of Chhota Imambara
The Chhota Imambara is more than a monument—it’s a sacred Shia Muslim site. It holds deep religious significance during Muharram, when thousands of people gather for mourning processions and to offer prayers. The site lights up with decorations and spiritual chants during this time, offering a unique and emotional experience.
📅 Best Time to Visit Chhota Imambara
The best months to visit are:
- October to March – The weather is pleasant, making exploration more comfortable.
- During Muharram – For a cultural and spiritual experience, this is the time to witness the Imambara in its full glory.
🕰️ Timings:
- Open every day: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
💸 Entry Fees of Chhota Imambara
| Category | Entry Fee |
| Indian Citizens | ₹25 |
| Foreign Tourists | ₹300 |
| Children below 15 | Free |
🎟️ Combo tickets are also available if you’re visiting Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza together.
🗺️ How to Reach Chhota Imambara, Lucknow
Located in Husainabad, it’s well-connected by all major modes of transport.
✈️ By Air
- Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) is just 13–14 km away.
- Taxis and app-based cabs are easily available.
🚆 By Train
- Closest station: Lucknow Junction (LKO) or Charbagh Railway Station
- From the station, Chhota Imambara is just 5–6 km.
🚌 By Road
- Easily accessible via State and National Highways
- Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, buses, and cabs available locally.
💡 Tips for Tourists Visiting Chhota Imambara
- Photography is allowed, but avoid flash inside the main hall.
- Wear modest clothing to respect religious sentiments.
- Hire a local guide for rich historical context.
- Avoid Fridays during prayer hours if you’re not participating in worship.
- Carry water and sun protection if visiting in warmer months.
🧭 Nearby Attractions to Explore in Lucknow
Once you’ve soaked in the beauty of Chhota Imambara, don’t stop there! Explore these nearby tourist places in Lucknow:
🏯 Bara Imambara
- Just 1 km away
- Known for the Bhool Bhulaiyaa (labyrinth) and its massive central hall without any support beams
🏰 Rumi Darwaza
- Iconic Mughal-style gateway built in 1784
- An Insta-worthy photo spot!
🕌 Jama Masjid, Lucknow
- Built by Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1423
- Features 260 pillars and 15 domes
🏞️ Begum Hazrat Mahal Park
- A peaceful green space to unwind
- Dedicated to the freedom fighter Begum Hazrat Mahal
📽️ Cinematic & Cultural Influence
Chhota Imambara has also served as a filming location and inspiration for art and culture. Its beautiful backdrops are often seen in documentaries, historical TV shows, and travel vlogs. The monument adds rich visual and historical appeal to any form of storytelling.
🧳 Why You Must Visit Chhota Imambara
Still wondering if it’s worth it?
Let us convince you one last time:
- ✅ Perfect blend of art, faith, and history
- ✅ Ideal for photography lovers
- ✅ One of the top places to visit in Lucknow
- ✅ Family-friendly, peaceful, and enriching
- ✅ A great addition to heritage tours of Uttar Pradesh
✅ Conclusion: Chhota Imambara is a Must-See in Lucknow
To wrap it up, Chhota Imambara is not just a tourist spot—it’s an experience! With its glittering interiors, grand arches, and rich cultural value, this monument captures the essence of Lucknow’s Nawabi charm. It offers historical insights, religious significance, and aesthetic bliss, all in one beautifully maintained complex.
So if you ever find yourself in Uttar Pradesh or planning a heritage tour of India, make sure Chhota Imambara is on your list. You’ll walk away with a camera full of photos and a heart full of awe.
❓ FAQs About Chhota Imambara Tourist Places in Uttar Pradesh
1. Is Chhota Imambara worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s one of the top historical and architectural sites in Lucknow with deep religious and cultural significance.
2. Can we visit Chhota Imambara and Bara Imambara on the same day?
Yes, both monuments are located close to each other and can easily be covered in a single day.
3. Are guides available at Chhota Imambara?
Yes, local guides and audio tours are available at the entrance. Hiring one can add value to your visit.
4. What is the best time to visit Chhota Imambara?
Between October and March, or during Muharram if you want to see the shrine in all its illuminated glory.
5. What are the main attractions inside the Chhota Imambara complex?
Main attractions include the main Imambara hall, Muhammad Ali Shah’s tomb, Clock Tower, Satkhanda, and Husainabad Picture Gallery.