Moti Mahal Palace Lucknow
Built by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan, the Moti Mahal is popularly known as the Pearl Palace. This historical monument located on the banks of river Gomti is constructed next to Mubarak Manzil and Shah Manzil. A former residence of the Nawabs of Lucknow during the time, Moti Mahal was initially a part of the Qaisar Bagh complex.
The deteriorating flawless white structure of the palace is a great birdwatching spot, as the Nawabs of the time used to love sighting birds and other animal fights for entertainment.
History of Moti Mahal Palace
There are several Moti Mahals all over the country. Most of them are restaurants and hotels, but the Moti Mahal of Lucknow was the residence of the Nawabs of Awadh. Also known by its literally translated name, Pearl Palace, Moti Mahal is located on Rana Partap Road on the bank of River Gomti, facing the Stadium and close to Hazratganj. It owes its name to its pearl-like white structure.Moti Mahal was constructed by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan so that his family could enjoy the sight of the animal fights, which were commonly held on the opposite side of the bank of the river. Nawabs of Awadh were bird lovers. The palace also enabled them to watch a variety of birds flying close by. It is, however, believed that these two reasons were merely a façade and the place that was built like a citadel, was used to keep a close watch over the movements and operations of the enemies. The Nawab made two more additions to the palace, Shah Manzil and the Mubarak Manzil.Architecture of Moti Mahal Palace
On the banks of the Gomti River near Hazratganj, Moti Mahal is one of the most beautiful tourist landmarks in Lucknow. The monument was built by Saadat Ali Khan - the Subahdar Nawab of Awadh. Often touted as the ‘Palace of Pearls’ was once the residence of the royal family of Lucknow. Not just this, this popular historical tourist site in Lucknow also served military purposes. For that, the fort was used as a citadel to track the enemy operations. On the left and right sides of Moti Mahal, there are two other monuments - Shah Manzil and Mubarak Manzil.
These buildings along with the Moti Mahal were used by the Nawabs to watch animal fights and birds in flight that used to observe on the riverbank. At present, the beautiful complex of this must-visit place in Lucknow is dotted with a gorgeous garden that includes fountains and statues. The garden also hosts exhibitions, marriage functions, and parties.
