Lucknow's urban tourism landscape received a significant boost with the inauguration of a new electric double-decker bus service dedicated to city sightseeing. The 'Lucknow Darshan' bus was officially flagged off from the 1090 Crossing on Tuesday by Uttar Pradesh's Tourism and Culture Minister, Jaiveer Singh.
A Grand Launch for a Green Initiative
The launch event transformed into a vibrant public spectacle as curious residents gathered to witness the open-top electric vehicle, capturing photos and videos. The inaugural ride saw participation from senior officials of the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (UPSTDC) and representatives from 24 local tour and travel operators, highlighting strong community involvement in developing Lucknow's organized tourism circuit.
The service, which opens to the general public on Wednesday, is designed as a guided city tour. It promises an elevated view of Lucknow's iconic heritage sites, bustling public spaces, and the rhythm of everyday life. The planned route connects major landmarks including:
- Vidhan Sabha Bhavan
- The Residency
- UP Darshan Park
- Hazratganj
- Raj Bhavan
- Gomti Riverfront
- Chattar Manzil
- Begum Hazrat Mahal Park
Notably, the tour package includes entry to The Residency and UP Darshan Park, along with special access to the Vidhan Sabha Bhavan.
Innovative Features and Future Plans
Adding a unique and sustainable Lucknowi touch, the service will issue plantable seed paper tickets for the bus ride. Crafted from scrap cloth without felling trees, these tickets contain Tulsi seeds that passengers can plant after their journey. Officials stated this innovative idea aims to link tourism with small, citizen-led green actions.
Minister Jaiveer Singh emphasized, "This bus allows visitors to experience Lucknow's culture, streets, food corridors, and public life in one comprehensive journey." He also indicated that the route may be extended in the future to include Rashtra Prerna Sthal and other famous locations.
Practical Details for Travelers
The Lucknow Darshan bus will operate two tours daily: from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The fare is set at Rs 500 for adults and Rs 400 for children aged between 5 and 12 years. A promotional 10% discount on these fares will be available until January 31. Bookings can be made exclusively through the official UPSTDC website.
Ashish Kumar, Managing Director of UPSTDC, expressed optimism that the service will become a popular choice for families, students, and first-time visitors seeking a relaxed and informative way to see Lucknow from a fresh perspective. He revealed future expansion plans, stating, "Once the proposed green corridor route becomes operational, we will conduct a survey and extend the service to key heritage sites in the old city and later to other destinations as well."
This initiative marks a concerted step towards enhancing organized, eco-friendly tourism in the capital of Uttar Pradesh, offering both locals and tourists a novel way to rediscover the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
