Delhi: Lucknow has joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the Gastronomy category, receiving recognition for a long culinary legacy that spans many regional food traditions. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay announced the inclusion on October 31 as part of a group of 58 new cities, bringing total membership to 408 across more than 100 countries.
The Creative Cities initiative highlights communities that integrate creativity into strategies for sustainable urban development. The United Nations in India wrote on X that Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh is known for Galouti Kabab, Awadhi Biryani, Chaat, Golgappe, Makhan Malai, and other traditional dishes, describing the city as enriched with culinary practices refined through centuries.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the tourism department in Uttar Pradesh filed the nomination in January, and the Union Ministry of Culture forwarded it to UNESCO in March after evaluation. He credited the achievement to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saying the inclusion honours food heritage and cultural vitality while contributing to tourism expansion and wider state development.
A post by the Uttar Pradesh government stated that the inclusion celebrates culinary traditions, Awadhi heritage, and a growing role in sustainable and innovative gastronomy. The message described the occasion as a source of pride, linking local flavours with culture and creativity.
Principal Secretary for Tourism and Culture Amrit Abhijat said the development will help build broader international visibility for the city’s food and hospitality sector. He reported that 8.27 million travellers came during 2024 and 7.02 million in the first half of 2025, underlining how cuisine and culture continue to influence travel patterns in the state.
Special Secretary for Tourism Isha Priya said Lucknow now stands among cities that use food as a link for cultural exchange and sustainable progress. She said new initiatives will be launched to strengthen this global identity.
A government post also mentioned Tunde Kababi and Kulcha-Nihari, noting that these long-known dishes will help promote Uttar Pradesh within international culinary circles.
Founded in 2016, The Traveller Trails is a print and digital magazine and a trusted source for current news, trends, analysis, opinions, interesting blogs, videos and exclusive interviews from every corner of the world.
