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Kanpur!

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Population

2.7 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

calendar_month

Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Uttar Pradesh map North India 🦁 Wildlife Kanpur Uttar Pradesh Ganges leather industry Nana Rao Park Allen Forest Zoo

Kanpur, situated on the banks of the Ganges, is a major industrial city in Uttar Pradesh. Known for its leather industry and historical significance during the 1857 revolt, it offers a blend of industrial progress and historical landmarks.

Kanpur offers a glimpse into India's industrial heartland and its colonial past. While it lacks the polished tourism infrastructure of other cities, it provides an authentic experience of urban Indian life. Be prepared for crowds, pollution, and a less tourist-oriented environment, but also for unique cultural encounters.

Plan for at least two to three days to explore Kanpur's main attractions. Getting around is best done using auto-rickshaws, taxis or the metro. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to comfortable hotels.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

12-25 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather. This period offers the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Why Visit:

The weather is ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying the city's parks. Festivals like Diwali (October/November) and Holi (March) offer vibrant cultural experiences. It's also a good time to visit the Kanpur Zoo.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect slightly higher prices and more crowds at popular attractions. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.

Shoulder Season

July to September

28-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with high humidity and occasional heavy rainfall. The city looks green, but outdoor activities can be challenging.

Why Visit:

The monsoon brings relief from the summer heat, and the city is less crowded. You might find better deals on accommodation. However, be prepared for potential travel disruptions due to rain.

Tip: Some attractions might have limited hours due to the weather. Check local forecasts before planning outdoor activities.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extremely hot and dry weather. Heatwaves are common, making it uncomfortable to explore the city.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense heat. Outdoor activities are difficult and can be dangerous. The heat can also make sightseeing unpleasant.

Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned spaces, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Nana Rao Park

⏱ 2 hours Free

Nana Rao Park is a historical site and a popular recreational space in Kanpur. It was a key location during the 1857 revolt and now features well-main...

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Allen Forest Zoo

⏱ 3-4 hours β‚Ή40 (Indians), β‚Ή600 (foreigners)

Allen Forest Zoo, also known as Kanpur Zoo, is one of the largest open-air zoos in India. It houses a diverse collection of animals in their natural h...

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Shri Radhakrishna Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

Shri Radhakrishna Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and peaceful at...

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Kanpur Memorial Church

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Kanpur Memorial Church, also known as All Souls' Cathedral, is a historical church built in memory of British soldiers who died during the 1857 revolt...

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J.K. Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

J.K. Temple is a modern temple complex dedicated to various Hindu deities. The temple is known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere....

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Moti Jheel

⏱ 2 hours Free

Moti Jheel is a popular recreational area featuring a lake and gardens. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature....

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ISKCON Kanpur

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

ISKCON Kanpur is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. It offers a spiritual and peaceful e...

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Things To Do

attractions

Ganga River Boat Ride

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή200-500 per person

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Ganges River. Experience the holy river and view the city from a different perspective....

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attractions

Leather Shopping

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή1000+ depending on purchases

Explore the local leather markets and shops. Kanpur is famous for its leather products, including shoes, bags, and cloth...

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attractions

Cooking Class

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-2500 per person

Learn to cook traditional Uttar Pradeshi dishes. A local chef will guide you through the process of preparing regional s...

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attractions

Bird Watching at Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary

⏱ 4-5 hours (including travel) πŸ’° β‚Ή50 entry fee, β‚Ή500-800 for transport

Visit the Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, located a short distance from Kanpur. Observe a variety of local and migratory bird ...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend a Local Wedding

Variable | N/A (Invitation required)

Experience the vibrant and elaborate celebrations of an Indian wedding. This is a cultural immersion...

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celebration

Visit a Leather Tannery

2-3 hours | β‚Ή100-300 (may require arrangement)

Learn about the leather production process in Kanpur, a major leather manufacturing hub. This is a u...

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celebration

Participate in a Ganga Aarti

1 hour | Free

Witness the Ganga Aarti, a Hindu prayer ritual performed on the banks of the Ganges River. This is a...

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celebration

Enjoy a Classical Music Performance

2-3 hours | β‚Ή300-1000

Attend a classical music performance showcasing Indian ragas and traditional instruments. This is an...

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celebration

Visit a Local Market

2-3 hours | Free (shopping costs vary)

Explore a bustling local market and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Kanpur's commercial...

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celebration

Celebrate Diwali with a Local Family

Variable | N/A (Invitation required)

If invited, experience Diwali, the festival of lights, with a local family. Diwali is one of the mos...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Thaggu ke Laddu
Thaggu ke Laddu

Famous sweet shop known for its delicious laddus (try the special badnam laddu).

Kanpur ki Chaat
Kanpur ki Chaat

A variety of savory snacks available at street food stalls, especially in Meston Road.

Awadhi Biryani
Awadhi Biryani

Try the flavorful biryani at restaurants specializing in Awadhi cuisine.

Lassi
Lassi

A refreshing yogurt-based drink, available at local dairies and sweet shops.

Where to Eat

Z Square Mall Food Court

Z Square Mall Food Court

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Multiple

πŸ“ The Mall

Offers a variety of food options in a modern setting. A good place for a quick and casual meal with family.

Various cuisines

β‚Ή500-800 for two

The Terrace Grill

The Terrace Grill

β‚Ήβ‚Ήβ‚Ή

Multi-cuisine

πŸ“ Civil Lines

Offers a pleasant dining experience with grilled dishes and a rooftop ambiance. Ideal for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Grilled dishes

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Meston Road

Meston Road

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene and choose stalls with fresh ingredients. Try different varieties of chaat for a flavorful experience.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Kanpur

More restaurants & dishes from Kanpur

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Civil Lines

A central and upscale area with good connectivity and amenities. Ideal for business travelers and those seeking a comfortable stay, but can be pricier.

Best For: Business travelers, families

Near Kanpur Central Station

A convenient location for travelers arriving by train. Offers budget-friendly accommodation, but can be noisy and crowded.

Best For: Budget travelers, short stays

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Mandakini Palace

πŸ“ Near Kanpur Central Station

Basic but clean rooms, convenient location for transport. Good for a short stay.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

OYO Rooms Kanpur

πŸ“ Various locations

Offers budget-friendly accommodation with standardized amenities. Check reviews before booking.

β‚Ή700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2500-4000/night

The Landmark Hotel

πŸ“ Civil Lines

Comfortable rooms, good service, and a restaurant on site. A good option for business or leisure travelers.

β‚Ή2500-4000/night

Hotel Royal Cliff

πŸ“ Near Mall Road

Offers well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, and banquet facilities. Suitable for families and business travelers.

β‚Ή2000-3500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4000+/night

Kanha Galaxy

πŸ“ Near Bithoor Road

Offers luxurious rooms, multiple dining options, and a swimming pool. Provides a comfortable and upscale stay.

β‚Ή4000+/night

Hotel Vijay Intercontinental

πŸ“ The Mall

Modern amenities, excellent service, and multiple dining options. Ideal for a luxurious and convenient stay.

β‚Ή5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Kanpur Airport (KNU), 15km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Kanpur Central (CNB)

Main railway station with trains from major cities, centrally located.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 5-7 hours (β‚Ή500-2000)
  • From Mumbai: 20-24 hours (β‚Ή800-3000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Jhakarkati Bus Terminal
Routes:
  • From Lucknow: 2-3 hours (β‚Ή200-400)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances, negotiating fares

Bargain for the fare before starting the ride. Confirm the destination with the driver.

subway

Metro

πŸ’° β‚Ή10-30 depending on distance

Best for: Longer distances, avoiding traffic

Check the metro map and plan your route. Purchase a smart card for convenient travel.

directions

Taxi/Uber/Ola

πŸ’° β‚Ή150-400 depending on distance

Best for: Comfortable and convenient travel

Book through the app for transparent pricing. Confirm the destination with the driver.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear light and breathable clothing, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: Widely available

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions, cards accepted at larger establishments

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, stomach infections. Carry necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available at the airport or local stores. Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone are popular networks.

WiFi: Available at hotels and some cafes

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is the primary language. English is spoken in tourist areas and by many locals.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή20-50

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