Dilkusha Kothi was built in the 18th century by Major Gore Ouseley, the British resident and a good friend to the then ruler of Oudh, Nawab Saadat Ali Khan, this monument was initially built as a hunting lodge for the Nawabs. And the Begums (wives of the Nawabs) love it! They used to come here to relax, unwind, and enjoy a picnic. However, it’s interesting to note that there wasn’t a separate ladies’ room, a feature common to all Nawabi buildings. I guess the ladies had to improvise.
This structure has fascinated people from all over the globe since the earliest times. Even William Howard Russell, an acclaimed correspondent of The Times, was smitten by the beauty of Lucknow that he witnessed from this very spot. He declared that it was the most beautiful city he had ever come across, adding that its beauty exceeded that of Rome, Athens, and Constantinople. And this, mind you, at a time when the building was damaged by heavy artillery fire during the Indian Revolt of 1857.
The Dilkusha Kothi also charmed Mary Linley Taylor, a famous British actress, who was so impressed by it that she named her home in Seoul after it. I guess it’s safe to say that the Dilkusha Kothi has an irresistible charm that has enchanted many.
The architecture of the Dilkusha Kothi is simply breathtaking. The design of this structure bears a striking resemblance to Seaton Delaval Hall, an amazing country house located in Northumberland, England. With its four ornamental octagonal towers and impressive flight of steps leading to the central doorway, this structure is a feast for the eyes
After visiting the Dilkusha Kothi, there are plenty of other tourist attractions in Lucknow which you can check out. Lord Hanuman Temples of Aliganj, Charbagh Railway Station, Gurudwara Yahiyaganj, Sikandar Bagh, National Botanical Research Institute, Vidhan Bhawan, Jain Temple, La Martiniere, Buddha Temple, and Shaheed Smarak are just a few popular options. So, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!