Lucknow Designated UNESCO ‘City of Gastronomy’ | 01 Nov 2025

Why in News?

Lucknow has been officially recognised by UNESCO as part of its Creative Cities Network (UCCN) under the “City of Gastronomy” category, acknowledging its centuries-old culinary legacy rooted in Awadhi cuisine and composite cultural heritage.

Key Points

• About: The announcement was made during UNESCO’s 43rd General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, marking a major global recognition for Lucknow’s food heritage and local innovation.
• Nomination Process: The Directorate of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh, prepared the nomination dossier, which was submitted to the Ministry of Culture on 31st January 2025. India officially nominated Lucknow on 3rd March 2025 for the “City of Gastronomy” tag.
• Cultural Heritage: The nomination highlighted traditional Awadhi dishes such as galouti kebab, nihari-kulcha, puri-kachori, tokri chaat, and desserts like malai gilori and makhan malai, which reflect the city’s Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb, its unique blend of Hindu and Muslim cultural influences.
• Significance: The “City of Gastronomy” recognition will promote sustainable tourism, preserve traditional recipes, and support local artisans and chefs, aligning with India’s efforts to showcase its soft power through culture and cuisine.
• Other Indian Cities in UCCN: As of now, India has eight cities recognised under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
• With Lucknow’s inclusion in 2025, the total rises to nine Indian cities in the network.