Kanpur, known as the ‘Manchester of the East’, is a lively city in Uttar Pradesh with a rich history, cultural heritage, and industrial significance. From its roots as a major centre for the textile industry to its historical monuments, bustling markets, and delectable street food, Kanpur tourism offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Explore the city's landmarks like the Kanpur Zoological Park and the Moti Jheel. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in local delicacies like the famous Thaggu ke laddu and paan as you immerse yourself in the vibe of this dynamic city. Make the most of your visit to the town with the help of this detailed Kanpur travel guide.
How to reach Kanpur
- By air:Kanpur Airport (KNU), known as Chakeri Airport, is the main airport serving the city. It is located around 17 km from the city centre. The airport has a single terminal offering flights to Kanpur.
- By train: The Kanpur Central Railway Station is the city's main station. It is served by numerous trains, making it easily accessible from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
- By road: Kanpur is well-connected to cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states by a network of state and private buses. Buses ply to destinations like Lucknow, Agra, Delhi, and Allahabad.
- Getting around/local transport in Kanpur: You can get around in Kanpur using taxis, tempo, auto rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws. The city also has a well-established bus network connecting to various parts of the city.
Kanpur Zoological Park
Spread over 76 hectares, featuring diverse wildlife, including big cats, primates, and birds, with a focus on conservation and education.
Experience Time: 3-4 hoursNana Rao Park
Exploration time: 1-2 hoursMoti Jheel
Exploration time: 2 hoursRam Janki Mandir
Exploration time: 30 minutesGautam Buddha Park
Exploration time: 1 hourKanpur is a paradise for food lovers with its diverse culinary offerings. Whether you're craving traditional Indian dishes or exotic international flavours, these restaurants in Kanpur will surely delight your palate.
Kanpur has an extensive list of things to do. Here are some of the things make the most of your journey to Kanpur:
The best time to visit Kanpur is from October to March as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions.
Hindi is a widely spoken language in Kanpur. Additionally, people also speak English and Awadhi.
Shopping in Kanpur is a delight, especially for clothing and handicrafts. Here are the top shopping destinations:
- Sadar Bazaar: Explore the charming Sadar Bazaar in Kanpur for rustic items that delight your senses. This market is vibrant and offers a memorable shopping experience. Look out for leather goods that are popular due to their affordable prices.
- Naveen Market: Naveen Market is Kanpur's largest shopping destination, known for its cotton goods and leather items. The market is always bustling with tourists and locals bargaining for the best deals. Leather bags and shoes are quite affordable here.
- The Mall Road: The Mall Road in Kanpur is the go-to place for clothes shopping, with a mix of premium and high-end brands. The place offers an upmarket shopping experience, blending modern comforts with the traditional charm of Kanpur city.
- Sisamau Bazaar: Sisamau is one of Kanpur's oldest and busiest markets, with merchants selling various goods such as home goods. It is particularly famous for its sarees, which offer great value for money.
Here are some of the prominent festivals that are celebrated in Kanpur with great fervour:
Kanpur, a vibrant city, pulsates with a rich historical legacy. Here are some of the more reasons to explore the destination:
- Bithoor: A short drive from Kanpur, Bithoor town sits on the banks of River Ganges, drawing pilgrims. The Brahmavart and Patthar Ghats are famous for people taking holy dips. Valmiki Ashram, linked to Sita Devi's exile, and Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj Ashram are key attractions here. Don’t miss the bathing ghats and several opportunities to explore the culture of this historic town.
- Jain Glass Temple: The Jain Glass Temple in Kanpur is a modern marvel and spiritual centre for Jains. Visit at daybreak or in the evening to see it shimmer. The temple's Hindu-style architecture features ornate pillars, painted ceilings, and a stunning domed tower. Adorned with glass and mirrors, it has colourful murals and statues of the 24 Tirthankaras on a marble platform.
- Green Park Stadium: Green Park Stadium in Kanpur is famous for its flat pitches. It is unique for its Student's Gallery, the only one in the country. The stadium recently underwent expansion with the construction of a new three-storey pavilion. The modern amenities make it a standout feature of the stadium.