Attention all travel enthusiasts! Are you looking for an offbeat and exciting destination to explore? Look no further than Kanpur – the city that has something for everyone.
From its rich historical heritage to its vibrant culture and delectable cuisine, Kanpur is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant bazaars, where you can find anything from traditional handicrafts to the latest fashion trends. Get a taste of the local cuisine, which is famous for its unique blend of spices and flavors.
Explore Kanpur’s many historical sites, including the iconic Kanpur Fort, the beautiful Jain Glass Temple, and the fascinating Moti Jheel. Take a leisurely stroll through the city’s sprawling parks and gardens, or spend an afternoon exploring the bustling markets and shopping districts.
No matter what your interests or preferences may be, Kanpur has something to offer. So why wait? Book your trip to Kanpur today and discover the city’s many wonders for yourself!
About Kanpur
Kanpur is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. With a population of over 3 million people, it is the twelfth most populous city in India. The city is situated on the banks of the Ganges River and is an important industrial and commercial center in the region.
The history of Kanpur dates back to the ancient period, with references to the city found in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. The city’s name is derived from the Kanpur Mahal, a palace built by the rulers of the Chandela dynasty in the 13th century.
During the British colonial period, Kanpur became an important center for the textile industry. The city was also a major hub for the Indian Rebellion of 1857, with the famous Siege of Cawnpore (now Kanpur) taking place here. The event saw a group of Indian rebels, led by Nana Sahib, capture and hold British forces under siege in a building known as the Satichaura Ghat.
After India gained independence in 1947, Kanpur continued to develop as an industrial and commercial center. Today, the city is known for its leather and textile industries, as well as its many educational institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur.
Kanpur is also a popular tourist destination, with many historical sites and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s many temples and mosques, including the Kanpur Memorial Church and the Jain Glass Temple. The city’s vibrant bazaars and shopping districts are also a major draw for visitors, offering a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and other souvenirs.
Architecture of Kanpur
cultural heritage. The city’s many historical sites and cultural attractions feature a blend of Indian and Western architectural elements.
One of the most famous examples of the city’s architecture is the Kanpur Memorial Church, a beautiful Gothic-style church built in memory of the British soldiers who lost their lives in the Siege of Cawnpore in 1857. The church features a stunning white exterior, with intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows inside.
Another notable example of Kanpur’s architecture is the Jain Glass Temple, a unique temple constructed entirely out of glass. The temple features beautiful glass walls and ceilings, with intricate artwork and carvings adorning every surface.
The Kanpur Fort, a historical fort constructed in the 18th century, is another important architectural landmark in the city. The fort features a blend of Mughal and British architectural elements, with beautiful gardens and fountains throughout the complex.
In addition to these famous landmarks, Kanpur also features a wide range of modern architectural styles. The city is home to many modern skyscrapers, including the Kanpur Development Authority Building, a stunning glass and steel structure that serves as the headquarters of the city’s planning and development authority.
Overall, the architecture of Kanpur is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern styles, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage and its dynamic and evolving urban landscape.
35 Places to Visit in Kanpur
Kanpur is a vibrant city in Uttar Pradesh, India with a rich history and cultural heritage. Here are 35 places to visit in Kanpur:
- Shri Radhakrishna Temple
- JK Temple
- Allen Forest Zoo
- ISKCON Kanpur
- Moti Jheel
- Kanpur Memorial Church
- Phool Bagh
- Green Park Stadium
- Nana Rao Park
- Jajmau
- Kanpur Sangrahalaya
- Bithoor
- Kherepati Temple
- Kamla Retreat
- Shri Radha Krishna Temple of Love
- Boodha Bargad
- Shri Hanuman Mandir
- Blue World Theme Park
- Sri Sri Radha Madhav Temple
- Gautam Buddha Park
- Patthar Ghat
- Kanpur Gardens
- Kanpur Central Museum
- Anandeshwar Temple
- Jain Glass Temple
- Shri Radhakrishna Temple (Rawatpara)
- Jama Masjid
- Massacre Ghat
- Gandhi Hall
- Allen House Institute
- Kanpur University
- Sarsaiya Ghat
- Jajmau Fort
- Motijheel Lake
- Dwarkadhish Temple
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Kanpur. There are many more attractions in and around the city that you can explore during your visit.
List of Popular Places to Visit in Kanpur
Kanpur is a vibrant and historic city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kanpur:
- Shri Radhakrishna Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
- Allen Forest Zoo: This zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and more. It’s a great place for a day out with the family.
- Phool Bagh: This beautiful garden is a popular spot for picnics and evening strolls. It’s home to a number of colorful flowers and has a large fountain at its center.
- Kanpur Memorial Church: This historic church was built in memory of the British soldiers who died in the Siege of Cawnpore during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
- Moti Jheel: This large lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing. It’s also a great place to relax and take in the scenic views.
- Jain Glass Temple: This unique temple is made entirely of glass and is dedicated to the Jain religion. It’s known for its intricate designs and beautiful craftsmanship.
- Kanpur Sangrahalaya: This museum is home to a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Kanpur.
- Nana Rao Park: This park is a great place to go for a morning walk or an evening jog. It’s also home to a number of statues and monuments that commemorate Kanpur’s history.
- Blue World Theme Park: This water park is a popular destination for families and offers a range of thrilling rides and attractions.
- Jajmau: This historic site is home to a number of ancient ruins and is believed to have been an important center of trade and commerce during the Gupta Empire.
Weather and Best time to visit Kanpur
Kanpur experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The best time to visit Kanpur is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and temperatures are cooler. During this time, the temperature ranges between 7°C and 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The summer months in Kanpur, from March to June, are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 45°C. It can be uncomfortable to travel during this time, so it is best to avoid it.
The monsoon season in Kanpur lasts from July to September and brings moderate to heavy rainfall. While the rainfall can make the city look beautiful, it can also cause problems with transportation and may affect your travel plans.
Overall, the best time to visit Kanpur is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
How To Reach Kanpur
Kanpur is a well-connected city and can be easily reached by various means of transportation. Here are the ways to reach Kanpur:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kanpur is the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, which is approximately 80 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kanpur.
- By Train: Kanpur is a major railway junction and is well-connected to major cities across India. The Kanpur Central Railway Station is one of the busiest railway stations in the country, and many trains pass through it on a daily basis.
- By Road: Kanpur is well-connected to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states through a network of state and national highways. You can take a bus, hire a taxi, or drive your own vehicle to reach Kanpur.
- By Metro: Kanpur Metro is a rapid transit system under construction in Kanpur. Once it is completed, it will provide a fast and convenient way to travel within the city.
Overall, Kanpur is easily accessible by air, rail, and road, making it a convenient destination to visit.
Accommodation options in Kanpur
Kanpur offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular accommodation options in Kanpur:
- Luxury Hotels: Kanpur has several luxury hotels that offer top-notch amenities and services, such as The Landmark Hotel, Hotel The Meera, and Hotel Mandakini Plaza.
- Mid-Range Hotels: There are also many mid-range hotels in Kanpur that offer comfortable rooms and decent amenities, such as Hotel Vijay Intercontinental, Hotel Gaurav, and Best Western Bliss.
- Budget Hotels: For those on a budget, there are many budget hotels and guesthouses in Kanpur that offer basic amenities and services at affordable rates. Some popular options include Hotel Royal Paradise, Hotel Shree Krishna Dham, and Hotel Pragati Manor.
- Homestays: If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, there are also several homestays and guesthouses in Kanpur where you can stay with local families and experience their culture and way of life.
Overall, Kanpur has a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, so you can easily find something that fits your budget and preferences. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel season, to ensure availability.
Best Places to Stay in Kanpur as a visitor
Kanpur offers a variety of places to stay for visitors, depending on their preferences and budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kanpur:
- The Landmark Hotel: This is a luxury hotel that offers top-notch amenities and services. It is centrally located and is close to many of Kanpur’s attractions.
- Hotel Vijay Intercontinental: This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and decent amenities at an affordable price. It’s located in the heart of the city and is close to the Kanpur Central Railway Station.
- The Bridge Hotel: This is a boutique hotel that offers stylish and modern rooms. It’s located in a quiet neighborhood, but is still close to many of Kanpur’s popular attractions.
- Hotel Gaurav: This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services at reasonable prices. It’s located in the heart of the city and is close to many shopping and dining options.
- Hotel Pragati Manor: This is a budget hotel that offers basic amenities and services at an affordable price. It’s located in the heart of the city and is close to many of Kanpur’s popular attractions.
Overall, the best places to stay in Kanpur depend on your preferences and budget. If you’re looking for luxury, The Landmark Hotel is a great option, while Hotel Vijay Intercontinental is a good mid-range option. The Bridge Hotel is perfect for those who want a more stylish and modern experience, while Hotel Pragati Manor is ideal for those on a budget.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Kanpur as per user Reviews
Here are the top 10 hotels in Kanpur as per user reviews on popular travel websites:
- The Landmark Hotel – This is a luxury hotel that offers top-notch amenities and services. It has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 450 reviews.
- Hotel Mandakini Plaza – This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services. It has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 150 reviews.
- Best Western Bliss – This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services. It has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 130 reviews.
- The Bridge Hotel – This is a boutique hotel that offers stylish and modern rooms. It has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 90 reviews.
- Hotel Gaurav – This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services. It has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 180 reviews.
- Hotel Vijay Intercontinental – This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services. It has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 170 reviews.
- Hotel The Meera – This is a luxury hotel that offers top-notch amenities and services. It has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 60 reviews.
- Hotel Royal Cliff – This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services. It has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 50 reviews.
- Hotel Bliss – This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services. It has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 40 reviews.
- Hotel Mayfair – This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and good services. It has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 20 reviews.
Overall, these hotels have received high ratings from visitors, with many praising their amenities, services, and location.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Kanpur
Sure, here are some travel tips to know before your trip to Kanpur:
- Climate: Kanpur has a hot and dry climate, especially during the summer months, which can be scorching. It is advisable to visit the city during the winter months, between November and February, when the weather is pleasant.
- Clothing: Lightweight cotton clothing is ideal for the hot weather in Kanpur. However, if you plan to visit during the winter months, you may need warmer clothing, especially for the evenings.
- Transportation: Kanpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The city has an airport, and there are regular flights to major cities in India. Taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws are also available for transportation within the city.
- Accommodation: Kanpur has a range of hotels and guesthouses to suit all budgets. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Food: Kanpur is famous for its chaat, a popular street food. The city also has several restaurants serving North Indian cuisine, as well as international cuisine. It is advisable to try the local delicacies, but be cautious about street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Language: The official language of Kanpur is Hindi. However, English is also widely spoken in the city, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist places.
- Safety: Kanpur is generally a safe city, but like any other place, it is advisable to take precautions to avoid any unpleasant incidents. It is advisable to avoid traveling alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- Places to visit: Kanpur has several tourist attractions, including the Allen Forest Zoo, Kanpur Memorial Church, Jajmau, and the Moti Jheel Lake. It is advisable to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your trip.
I hope these travel tips are helpful for your trip to Kanpur. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Best Places for Shopping in Kanpur
Kanpur is known for its vibrant markets and shopping destinations. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Kanpur:
- Naveen Market: Located in the heart of the city, Naveen Market is a popular shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. It is known for its variety of clothing, footwear, and accessories, and is also a great place to buy handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Mall Road: Mall Road is another popular shopping destination in Kanpur, with several malls and retail stores. It is a great place to shop for branded clothes, accessories, and electronics. The Z-Square mall, South X mall, and Rave 3 mall are some of the popular malls on Mall Road.
- Birhana Road: Birhana Road is a bustling shopping destination in Kanpur, known for its street markets and shops. It is a great place to buy traditional Indian wear, including sarees, lehengas, and salwar kameez. The market is also known for its jewelry shops and stores selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
- PPN Market: PPN Market is a popular market in Kanpur, known for its variety of clothing and accessories. It is a great place to shop for ethnic wear, including traditional sarees and salwar kameez. The market is also known for its footwear stores and jewelry shops.
- Zanjeer Market: Zanjeer Market is a popular market in Kanpur, known for its variety of clothing, footwear, and accessories. It is a great place to shop for trendy and affordable clothes and accessories.
- General Ganj: General Ganj is a popular shopping destination in Kanpur, known for its traditional bazaars and markets. It is a great place to buy handcrafted items, including jewelry, textiles, and home décor.
These are some of the best places for shopping in Kanpur. Make sure to explore these markets and enjoy the local shopping experience during your trip to Kanpur.
Handicrafts of Kanpur
Kanpur, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, has a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its handicrafts. Here are some of the popular handicrafts of Kanpur:
- Leather Goods: Kanpur is famous for its leather goods, including bags, shoes, and belts. The city has a rich history of leather work, and the leather produced here is of high quality.
- Brassware: Kanpur is also known for its brassware, which includes decorative items such as lamps, figurines, and vases. The brassware of Kanpur is known for its intricate designs and beautiful craftsmanship.
- Pottery: Pottery is another popular handicraft of Kanpur. The city is known for its clay pottery, including earthenware, terracotta items, and ceramic artifacts. The pottery of Kanpur is known for its unique designs and beautiful colors.
- Textiles: Kanpur is also famous for its textiles, including silk and cotton fabrics. The city has a rich tradition of weaving and printing, and the textiles produced here are of high quality.
- Embroidery: Embroidery is another popular handicraft of Kanpur. The city is known for its intricate embroidery work, which includes zardozi, chikankari, and phulkari. The embroidery work of Kanpur is known for its beautiful designs and fine craftsmanship.
- Woodwork: Kanpur is also famous for its woodwork, including furniture, toys, and decorative items. The woodwork of Kanpur is known for its beautiful designs and intricate carving.
These are some of the popular handicrafts of Kanpur. If you’re interested in handicrafts, make sure to explore the local markets and shops to find some unique and beautiful items during your trip to Kanpur.
** Things you should buy from Kanpur as a tourist
Kanpur is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a variety of unique products that are worth buying as a tourist. Here are some of the things you should consider buying from Kanpur:
- Leather Goods: Kanpur is famous for its leather products, including bags, shoes, belts, and jackets. The city has a long tradition of leather work and produces high-quality leather products.
- Brassware: Kanpur is also known for its brassware, which includes decorative items such as lamps, figurines, and vases. The brassware of Kanpur is known for its intricate designs and beautiful craftsmanship.
- Pottery: Kanpur is famous for its pottery, including earthenware, terracotta items, and ceramic artifacts. The pottery of Kanpur is known for its unique designs and beautiful colors.
- Textiles: Kanpur is also known for its textiles, including silk and cotton fabrics. The city has a rich tradition of weaving and printing, and the textiles produced here are of high quality.
- Embroidery: Kanpur is known for its intricate embroidery work, which includes zardozi, chikankari, and phulkari. The embroidery work of Kanpur is known for its beautiful designs and fine craftsmanship.
- Ayurvedic Products: Kanpur is home to a variety of Ayurvedic products, including herbal medicines, cosmetics, and beauty products. These products are made from natural ingredients and are known for their therapeutic properties.
- Sweets: Kanpur is famous for its sweets, including the iconic “Thaggu Ke Laddu.” These sweets are made using traditional methods and are a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
These are some of the things you should consider buying from Kanpur as a tourist. Make sure to explore the local markets and shops to find unique and high-quality products during your trip to Kanpur.
Nightlife in Kanpur
Kanpur, located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, has a bustling nightlife scene with a variety of options for those looking to have a good time after the sun goes down. Here are some of the popular nightlife spots in Kanpur:
- Pind Balluchi: This is a popular restaurant and bar that offers a lively atmosphere and serves a variety of food and drinks. The restaurant also features live music performances, making it a popular destination for those looking to enjoy a night out.
- Wah Ji Wah: Another popular restaurant and bar in Kanpur, Wah Ji Wah serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes and has a well-stocked bar. The restaurant also features a dance floor and live music performances, making it a popular destination for those looking to dance the night away.
- The Sugar Factory: This is a popular nightclub located in the heart of Kanpur. The club features a dance floor, a bar, and live DJ performances, making it a great destination for those looking to party and dance until the early hours of the morning.
- Barcode: This is another popular nightclub in Kanpur, known for its great music and lively atmosphere. The club features a dance floor, a bar, and live music performances, making it a popular destination for those looking to have a good time.
- Sky Lounge: This is a rooftop bar and lounge located in the city center, offering great views of the city skyline. The bar serves a variety of drinks and features a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great destination for those looking to unwind after a long day.
These are just a few of the popular nightlife spots in Kanpur. It’s always a good idea to check with locals and do some research to find the latest and greatest places to go out at night.
Things to do in Kanpur
Interesting things to see and do. Here are some of the top things to do and activities you can do in Kanpur:
- Visit the Kanpur Zoo: The Kanpur Zoo is a great place to visit for animal lovers. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, lions, and more.
- Explore the Allen Forest Zoo: Another popular destination for animal lovers is the Allen Forest Zoo, which is home to a variety of exotic animals, including white tigers, bears, and leopards.
- Visit the Kamla Retreat: Kamla Retreat is a beautiful nature reserve located on the outskirts of Kanpur. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities in this scenic location.
- Take a boat ride on the Ganges River: The Ganges River is a sacred river in India, and taking a boat ride on the river is a great way to experience the local culture and see some of the beautiful scenery in the area.
- Visit the JK Temple: The JK Temple is a beautiful temple located in Kanpur, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Visitors can take a guided tour of the temple and learn about its history and significance.
- Enjoy street food: Kanpur is famous for its delicious street food, including chaat, samosas, and jalebis. Visitors can explore the city and sample some of the local cuisine from the street vendors.
- Explore the Kanpur Memorial Church: The Kanpur Memorial Church is a beautiful historic building located in the city center. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church and learn about its history and significance.
These are just a few of the top things to do and activities you can do in Kanpur. The city has a rich history and culture, and there are many other interesting sights and experiences to be had.
Lesser Known facts about Kanpur
- Kanpur is also known as the “Manchester of the East” due to its large textile industry.
- The city is situated on the banks of the river Ganges and is one of the oldest industrial townships in India.
- Kanpur was established in the 19th century and was originally a small village called “Kanhpur.”
- The city has a rich history and has been ruled by different dynasties such as the Mauryas, Kushanas, Guptas, Mughals, and British.
- Kanpur played a crucial role in the Indian War of Independence in 1857, also known as the “First War of Indian Independence” or the “Sepoy Mutiny.”
- The city is home to one of the largest leather industries in the world and is famous for its high-quality leather products.
- Kanpur is also a major center for the production of pan masala, a chewing tobacco mixture popular in India.
- The city is home to one of the oldest and largest universities in India, the Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University.
- Kanpur has produced some notable personalities, including Indian film actor Rajesh Khanna, Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, and mathematician Shakuntala Devi.
- The Allen Forest Zoo in Kanpur is one of the most famous zoos in India and is home to many exotic animals, including white tigers, lions, and elephants.
FAQ about Kanpur
Q: Where is Kanpur located?
A: Kanpur is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated on the banks of the Ganges River.
Q: What is Kanpur known for?
A: Kanpur is known for its large textile and leather industries. It is also known for its historical significance in the Indian War of Independence in 1857.
Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Kanpur?
A: Some popular tourist attractions in Kanpur include the Allen Forest Zoo, Kanpur Memorial Church, Bithoor, and the JK Temple.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kanpur?
A: The best time to visit Kanpur is during the winter season, which lasts from November to February. The weather is cool and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for sightseeing.
Q: What is the nearest airport to Kanpur?
A: The nearest airport to Kanpur is the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, which is about 80 kilometers away from the city.
Q: Is Kanpur a safe place to visit?
A: Kanpur, like any other city, has its share of safety concerns. Visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially when traveling alone or at night. It is also recommended to stay in safe and reputable accommodations and avoid carrying valuables around in public places.