Kanpur has come a long way since its beginnings as a little town called Kanhpur in the 13th century to become a significant industrial and commercial centre in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The city has been through many catastrophes in the history, including the 1857 Rebellion and other community riots, yet it has always emerged stronger. The city's proximity to a large number of tanneries has earned it the title "Leather Capital of India." The city is now recognised for the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK), which is one of India's most renowned engineering and research institutes.
Kanpur's long history has resulted in a lot of tourist destinations. The Lombardy gothic architecture style is featured in the Kanpur Memorial Church, which was completed in 1875. Several memorial monuments from the mutiny can be seen there. The JK Temple is a one-of-a-kind blend of ancient and modern architecture. As per investigations, the neighborhood of Jajmau is the region's oldest inhabited territory, dating back to 1300 – 1200 BCE, and contains a number of historical relics. Another famous destination is the Allen Forest Zoo. It is one of the few zoos in the world that is situated in a natural forest, and it is home to unusual flora and species.

Learn about Kanpur's history

Kanpur was founded by king Hindu Singh Chandel of Sachendi and governed by the dynasty between the 10th and 13th centuries. Kanpur's historical importance has grown over time, as it has been a significant city of the Panchala, the Slave dynasty, the Marathas, the Mughals, and eventually the British, who took it from Peshwa Baji Rao in 1801 A.D.
Baji Rao's son, Nana Sahib, was a key figure in the 1857 insurrection, which turned Kanpur, then called as Caunpore, into a British garrison town and, eventually, a central focus of the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny. The British India Corporation, India's first woollen mill, was founded in Kanpur in 1876. It grew from a collection of villages to become one of the country's largest cities.

Shop until you drop

Kanpur's shopping malls and street food are well-known. Sisamau Bazaar is one of Kanpur's oldest markets, where one may obtain the finest value for money. Although the throng may be the main challenge, keep an eye out for the greatest leather bags, shoes, and sarees. Sadar Bazaar, with its vivid artefacts, is another shopping destination.
While shopping in Kanpur, don't forget to try the street food, particularly khoya laddoo and biryani. It is preferable to go for a walk through the streets to see what the city has to showcase. Two days of touring within the city can be planned, with the evening spent exploring the cuisine and retail facilities.

Local Culture

• Festival: Kanpur is ravishingly lit during the Diwali and Janmashthami festivals, which are commemorated here with much grandeur and devotion. In addition, Ram Leela is celebrated with majesty, and the Ganga Fair is a major annual event held following Holi.
• Language: Kanpur's residents speak a variety of languages, including Hindi, English, Bengali, Punjabi, and others, but the city's uniqueness stems from the presence of a large Awadhi community.
• Art: Kanpur has had a significant role in the spread of the theatre form 'Nautanki.' Ram Lila and other cultural events provide a forum for aspiring artists. Kanpur is also known for its traditional Indian dance and music.
• People: As per the 2001 census, the city of Kanpur has a population of 2,701,324 people. The bulk of the public hails from Uttar Pradesh's central and western regions. Other ethnic groups have settled in the city, including Punjabis, Anglo Indians, Sindhis, Bengalis, and South Indians. Kanpur's citizens are extremely patriotic and played a key role in India's independence.
• Food: Kanpur's cuisine, influenced by Mughal cooking skills, is one of the city's many specialties. There are several delectable cuisines to choose from, including Nawabi food and Punjabi meals. After a dinner of Nawabi food, your meal would be completed without 'paan.'

Places to visit

• J.K. Temple: The half-century-old Juggilal Kamlapat Temple, also known as Shri Radhakrishna Temple, is a treat to the eyes and one of Kanpur's most unusual attractions. Five shrines are housed in separate towers at the temple, which is built in the classic traditional style of temple architecture. The main shrine is devoted to Lord Radhakrishna, with idols of Ardhanarishwar, Namadeshwar, Lakshminarayana, and Hanuman ensconced in the smaller shrines.
• Blue World Theme Park: Blue World Theme Park, situated on Mandhana-Bithoor Road in Kanpur, has emerged as the city's most refreshing escape. This fantastic water and amusement park offers a variety of rides that give a dash of excitement to everyday life. It is one of the most exciting locations to visit in Kanpur with kids because the rides are organised into different themes.
• Allen Forest Zoo: Kanpur Zoological Park, commonly known as Allen Forest Zoo, is situated 7 kilometres outside of Kanpur city. The zoological park contains scenic landscapes, a tranquil lake, lush-green vegetations, and uncommon animal species, as well as exclusive flora and fauna. White tigers, leopards, black bears, grizzly bears, rhinoceros, and other animals may be seen. Nature enthusiasts and bird watchers will like the park.
• Nana Rao Park: Another noteworthy spot to see in Kanpur is a large public garden on Mall Road. This revitalising location is great for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Life-size statues of significant historical figures such as Tatya Tope, Lala Lajpat Rai, Rani Lakshmi Bai, and Ajizan Bai can be found in the lush green park.
• Moti Jheel: Moti Jheel, in Kanpur's Benajhabar neighbourhood, is a water storage facility as well as a popular tourist destination. Moti Jheel, which translates to "Pearl Lake," also offers boating, as well as a variety of street food stalls and toys for sale at the entryway and within the grounds. Moti Jheel, along with Moti Park and Kamala Retreat, was built during British colonial control and is a popular local hangout.
• Jain Glass Temple: The temple was established by the Jain community in honour of the 23 Tirthankaras of the Jain religion and is situated on the Maheshwari Mohal Road. As you approach, you'll see sculptures of Bhagwan Mahavir and the Tirthankaras on a marble pedestal, which is shaded by a large canopy. The sculptures are mesmerising just by looking at them. The temple's architecture is exceedingly ornate and intricate, adding to its majesty.
• Kanpur Memorial Church: Kanpur Memorial Church, on Albert Lane, is another important landmark in the city. It was built in 1875 as a memorial to the British soldiers who died during the Sepoy Mutiny. One of the best locations to see in Kanpur is the old Anglican Church, which is famed for its ornate Gothic architecture, beautiful green grounds, and the magnificent sculpture of an Angel in the front by Carlo Marochetti.

How to reach?

• By Air: Kanpur Airport is the closest airport. It has flights daily to and from Delhi and Lucknow. To travel to the destination, one can take a taxi from the airport.
• By Train: Kanpur Central railway station is the closest station. It is linked to the railheads of Delhi and Lucknow on a daily basis. To go to the place, one can use a taxi or a car.
• By Road: Kanpur has well-maintained roads and motorways that connect it to its neighbouring cities. Travelers to Kanpur can take use of a good bus service provided by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation.