The historic city of Kanpur, situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River, encompasses a rich mixture of tradition and industry. Kanpur was previously the “Manchester of India” due to its textile industry, but modernly Kanpur is an urban kingdom with ancient monuments and street markets.
Everything about Kanpur weathers a journey from the architectural glory of the Kanpur Memorial Church to the pristine residence of animals at The Allen Forest Zoo, everything in this city speaks a lore yet to be explored!
Those seeking to go deeper into the heart of Uttar Pradesh need look no further than Kanpur as a starting point. That is, if you are a history lover, food lover or adventure lover — this city has it all! The best part? it is super easy to reach! Here’s how you can visit this magical place and enjoy your experience.
How to Reach Kanpur
By Air
If you are travelling from major Indian cities, flying into Kanpur is one of the most convenient options. For international and longer domestic flights, your best bet is going to be in the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai or Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.
From Delhi:
Travel Time: 1 hour flight
Airline Options: IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet have frequent flights operating at Kanpur Chakeri Airport.
Pro Tip: You can get a great deal if you book through MakeMyTrip or such platforms.
From Mumbai:
Time for Flying: Approximately 1½ hours.
Available Airlines: IndiGo,Air India and otheroptions.
Tip: Always check ClearTrip, I found some good prices!
From Other Cities:
Hyderabad: Around 2 hours.
Bangalore: 2.5 hours.
Chennai: Roughly 2.5 hours.
Trivandrum: About 3 hours.
Kolkata: 1.5 hours.
Bhubaneswar: 1.5 hours aprox
Kanpur is only a 15-20 minute taxi from the city centre once you land at Chakeri Airport.
By Train
Indian Travelling by train is a great choice to enjoy the beauty of India if you are one who prefers scenic route.
From Delhi:
Duration: 8-10hrs depending on train
Most Recommended Train : Shatabdi Express & Gomti express: These is the fastest option.
Note: Your tickets can be booked at both IRCTC and EaseMyTrip
From Mumbai:
Journey Time: About 18-20 hours
Trains: Nashik Express and CSTM-Kanpur Exp.
PRO-TIP: Save an entire day of travel on overnight trains!
From Other Cities:
HYDERABAD: AL, 20-24 HOURS
30-32 hours, and gorgeous views of the countryside though -> Bangalore
The travelling time from Chennai would be approximately 26-28 hours.
Kolkata: 12-14 hours.
Bhubaneswar: Approximately 15-17 hours.
By Road
Those who love road trips will find it thrilling to drive down to Kanpur! Traveling on well-kept highways with opportunities to stop in small towns and for local food makes the trip enjoyable.
From Delhi:
Distance: 500 km.
Approximate Time: 8 — 10 hours (depends on traffic)
Route: This is the best route along with Yamuna Expressway smooth roads and lovely scenes.
From Lucknow:
Distance: 90 km.
Time taken: About two hours.
Route – Lucknow-Kanpur Road is a direct and best road.
From Agra:
Distance: 400 km.
Duration: About 6-8 hours.
Route-Chore: NH 19 or Agra-Delhi Highway is well connected to NH 2 (with a Kanpur signboard just after Etawa) – Dr. D Sridhar, I repeat
From Other Cities:
Alternatively, it can also be reached by road from cities such as Varanasi, Jhansi and Allahabad.
Getting around in Kanpur
The city has a number of modes of transport which are very convenient and enjoyable once you reach there. You can take an auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw or like Ola and Uber book a taxi also. Alternatively, for an authentic experience take a cycle-rickshaw to the iconic Phool Bagh or shopping Mall Road and soak in the lively street life.
Advice for Getting Your Money’s Worth Out of the Trip
Try Local Food: You cant leave Kanpur without eating the street food. Do not miss the chaat, kebabs and thandai. The local restaurants to try near Bada Chauraha are —
Explore Historical Places: The city that has a lot of history in it! Allocate some time for the Kanpur Memorial Church, Jama Masjid and All India Manufacturers’ Organization. Every site mirrors the cityscape architecture & grand colonial history.
Souvenir Shopping: Kanpur is a shopper’s delight. From leather items to handwoven textiles, Drive to Nawabganj for inspiring gifts
Keep In Touch: Download maps and travelling programs in your native land. You can also plan your entire day while you are on move as most of the hotels have Wi-Fi.
ITINERARY: If the time permits you can also visit adjacent spots like Kalyanpur and Bithoor, an ancient town about 80 km from the city.
Safety at Weather Conditions: It is too hot during the summers (April to June) and chilly during winters (November to January) in Kanpur. Dress appropriately and plan you trip around it.
Consult travel guides: For more information, you can go through the articles on platforms like Travelsome, TripAdvisor and Thrillophilia, in detail concerning things to do or places to visit in Kanpur.
Finally, it is more than a city, it also a tale waiting to unfold. Known for its deep-rooted history, cultural diversity and tasty cuisine, your travel to Kanpur is going to be memorable. So gather your bags, get your tickets booked through MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip or EaseMyTrip and be ready for a lifetime adventure! Safe travels!
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