The largest city in Uttar Pradesh, Kanpur, exhibits a beautiful fusion of culture and colour. The bustling city was ceded to the British by the Nawab of Awadh, and it has remained a key hub throughout the Colonial era. Many historical & religious landmarks may be found in Kanpur, which is situated on the banks of the revered Ganges. The city is becoming a prestigious centre of learning, with several reputable institutions offering the highest calibre of education. The top experiences one must unquestionably not pass up in 2020 are listed below if you’re seeking to visit the city and are looking for the most well-known tourist attractions in Kanpur.
Places to Visit in Kanpur
- Allen Forest Zoo
- JK Temple
- Moti Jheel
- Z Square Mall
- Bithoor
- Japani Garden
- Ganga Barrage
- Kanpur Memorial Church
- Jajmau
- Kamla Retreat
- Nana Rao Park
- Jain Glass Temple
- ISKCON Temple
- Blue World Theme Park
- Green Park Stadium
1) Allen Forest Zoo
The Allen Forest Zoo, also known as the Kanpur Zoological Park, is the biggest zoo in North India and is a beautifully landscaped environment covering more than 70 acres. Some of the main draws in this area include tigers, chimpanzees, leopards, and rhinoceroses. Additionally, visitors can stroll around the botanical garden or relax by the lake. Another feature is the aquarium inside the zoo, and kids will enjoy riding the toy train. You can spend hours exploring the green open space and taking in the quiet surroundings in addition to marvelling at the numerous species kept in their enclosures.
2) JK Temple
The 50-year-old Shri Radhakrishna Temple, also known as the Juggilal Kamlapat Temple, is one of Kanpur’s most distinctive tourist attractions. The temple recreates the original vernacular style of temple architecture by housing five shrines in different towers. While the other shrines are home to the idols of Lakshminarayana, Ardhanarishwar, Namadeshwar, and Hanuman, the main temple is dedicated to Lord Radhakrishna. The mandapa has a high roof, and it’s continually filled with lots of natural light inside.
3) Moti Jheel
A trip to the Moti Jheel is recommended if you’re searching for some peace and quiet in a beautiful urban setting. The British constructed this rectangular lake cum reservoir to supply the city with water. Later, a recreation area was added to it, complete with a kid’s park and a beautifully designed garden. Moti Jheel is currently ranked among the top ten attractions in Kanpur, especially for families and groups of young children.
4) Z Square Mall
The Z Square Mall is one of Kanpur’s most popular entertainment and retail destinations. It is a posh, air-conditioned haven for individuals who love to eat, shop, and have fun. It boasts an open layout and an atmosphere that is kid-friendly. American fast food, Chinese cuisine, and the best of North Indian cuisine are just a few of the dining options available here. After perusing the brand showrooms, you can relax in one of the mall’s many cafés or treat yourself at the salon. Another popular destination in the Z Square Mall is the INOX multiplex, where you can see the newest Hollywood and Bollywood blockbusters.
5) Bithoor
The historic town of Bithoor, which is situated on the Ganges River bank, is only a short drive from Kanpur City. It serves as a significant spiritual centre and daily draws tens of thousands of Hindu pilgrims. Many people take holy baths at the Brahmavart and Patthar Ghats, and among Bithoor’s other notable sites is the Valmiki Ashram, where Sita Devi is reputed to have resided while in exile. The Sidhhidam Ashram, also known as the Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj Ashram, is a haven for individuals who are in need of peace and tranquilly and who have grown weary. A recreation of Mount Kailash, where Lord Shiva and Parvati are thought to reside, is one of the main attractions here. One of the prominent rebels of the 1857 revolution, Nana Sahib, also lived in Bithoor.
6) Japani Garden
The Japani Garden offers you a taste of Eastern aesthetics and is renowned as one of the best picnic spots in Kanpur. The garden is close to the famous Moti Jheel, making a single trip to both places perfect. Families congregate here on Sundays, and kids run around the open area having fun. It goes without saying that it’s a great location for people watching and spending a lazy evening reading a book.
7) Ganga Barrage
The Ganga Barrage, also known as Lav Kush Barrage, spans the majestic Ganges and is a famous feature of the city. It is sometimes referred to as the Marine Drive of Kanpur. The importance of the barrage is more utilitarian than cultural. The river may be seen majestically from there, but it is also today a vital logistical lifeblood. There are many tea shops and restaurants nearby, so you can grab some munchies and spend a typical Kanpur evening by the holy Ganga.
8) Kanpur Memorial Church
Dedicated to the British people who died during the siege of Kanpur, one of the worst episodes of the 1857 revolution, the Kanpur Memorial Church was built in 1875. Visitors will be captivated by the building’s remarkable Gothic-style architecture from a distance as it rises over the surroundings. The church’s many turrets and red brick construction are a nod to the 19th-century European architectural style that predominated there. The memorial garden next to the church, a Gothic screen, and the intricate angel sculpture are further noteworthy features of this location.
9) Jajmau
A bustling industrial area called Jajmau serves as the centre of Kanpur’s renowned leather industry. Numerous priceless archaeological artefacts, some of which date back more than a thousand years, have also been discovered there. In addition to scouring the leather markets for a deal, you may tour some of the town’s historic mosques. Hindus value visiting the Siddhnath Ghat, which is situated on the banks of the Ganges.
10) Kamla Retreat
The Singhania family’s private mansion, the Kamla Retreat, is one of Kanpur’s best-preserved locations but requires advance permission to visit. Due to the abundance of greenery and open spaces, as well as the tranquilly of the neighbourhood, many people come here to take a break from the daily grind. The retreat has a museum where a variety of local artefacts are displayed. A well-kept garden, a swimming pool where you can splash around, and a large collection of paintings are also notable features of this place.
11) Nana Rao Park
Nana Rao Park, which is near to the city’s business district, is a well-liked gathering place for Kanpur residents looking to enjoy some fresh air and outdoor activities. The park, which was created in Nana Sahib’s honour after India attained freedom, was formerly a memorial for the British women and children who perished in the 1857 Rebellion. These days, the neatly mowed lawns and vibrant flower beds in this metropolitan area offer a picturesque environment for a romantic stroll. History buffs will know some of the historical figures who have been memorialised here, like Tatya Tope and Rani Lakshmi Bai.
12) Jain Glass Temple
The stunning Jain Glass Temple is an important spiritual site for Jain followers and a magnificent modern monument that you must visit when touring Kanpur. To view the structure glisten in the best light, visit it early in the morning or late at night. The temple has intricate pillars, lofty painted ceilings, lavish furnishings, and a stunning domed central tower. It is built in the conventional Hindu architectural style. The entire space is decorated with mirrors and glass, including vibrantly coloured murals with glass components, giving it an unmistakably glimmering appearance. The statues of the 24 Thirthankaras are also housed on a sizable marble pedestal.
13) ISKCON Temple
ISKCON, or the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, is a majestic structure composed of white marble that honors dedication and peace. At its ashram, you are welcome to explore the roomy rooms and meditate for a while. The temple also has a dining area where healthy vegetarian food is served. Numerous marble statues of Hindu gods are housed within the temple complex, which also boasts musical fountains and a lovely pond. Additionally, you can purchase mementos from the well-stocked gift shop at the temple to bring back memories of your vacation to Kanpur.
14) Blue World Theme Park
On Mandhana-Bithoor Road in Kanpur, Blue World Theme Park has established itself as the most rejuvenating escape in the city. Numerous rides at this fantastic water and amusement park provide a dash of excitement to everyday life. It is among the most exciting locations to visit in Kanpur with kids because the rides are divided according to themes.
15) Green Park Stadium
While visiting Kanpur, no cricket lover should skip a trip to the Green Park Stadium. The Uttar Pradesh Sports Department is in charge of maintaining the stadium, which opened in 1945. The largest manually controlled scoreboard in the world is located at the stadium. To have the best experience, schedule your trip around a live cricket match!
