Lucknow: In a historic achievement under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Lucknow has been declared a ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO. The announcement was made during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on the occasion of World Cities Day.
This international recognition highlights Lucknow’s rich culinary traditions, cultural diversity, and innovative gastronomy, marking another milestone in Uttar Pradesh’s growing global prominence.
Global Honor Reflects India’s Cultural Strength
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh praised the achievement, emphasizing that under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a symbol of national pride.
He said, “This honor reflects global recognition of Lucknow’s cuisine and culture. It is a testament to the growing strength of Uttar Pradesh’s tourism sector and the realization of the vision of a developed state.”
Journey to UNESCO Recognition
According to the Minister, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department submitted Lucknow’s nomination to the Union Ministry of Culture on January 31, 2025. After a detailed review, the Government of India forwarded the final dossier to UNESCO on March 3, 2025.
Following months of evaluation, Lucknow was officially included in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) under the ‘City of Gastronomy’ category on October 31, 2025.
Cultural Communication Through Food
Principal Secretary (Tourism and Culture) Amrit Abhijat noted that Lucknow is now among 70 cities worldwide recognized for their creative contributions to gastronomy. Eight new cities joined the network this year.
He said that Lucknow’s inclusion will further enhance its culinary heritage and global identity, adding that the city welcomed 8.274 million tourists in 2024, and 7.02 million visitors in just the first half of 2025 — reflecting the strong link between food, culture, and tourism growth in Uttar Pradesh.
Food as a Bridge of Cultural Dialogue
Special Secretary (Tourism) Isha Priya remarked that Lucknow now stands alongside select global cities using food as a medium for cultural dialogue and sustainable development.
She added that in the coming years, the Tourism Department will introduce new initiatives and festivals to promote Lucknow’s gastronomic identity internationally.
The Flavors of Lucknow on the Global Map
This UNESCO recognition shines a spotlight on Lucknow’s world-famous Awadhi cuisine, rooted in the city’s Nawabi traditions and culinary artistry. From Tunde Kababi’s kebabs to Kulcha-Nihari breakfasts, Lucknow’s flavors are now set to represent India’s culinary excellence on the global stage.
From mouth-watering Galouti Kabab to Awadhi Biryani, delectable Chaat & Golgappe, desserts like Makhan Malai & so much more – Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh is a haven for food, enriched in centuries-old traditions.
— United Nations in India (@UNinIndia) October 31, 2025
Lucknow is now recognised by @UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy pic.twitter.com/fXhU6kSeWd
As Lucknow basks in this international acclaim, it reinforces its position not only as a center of heritage and hospitality, but also as a living emblem of India’s diverse and evolving food culture.
