Welcome to a city where the stories of the Ramayana echo in the air and textile industries showcase their artistry in the local markets. Kanpur is a popular industrial hub however, it successfully attracts travel enthusiasts too. The best places to visit in Kanpur are a fusion of cultural heritage, tranquil temples, buzzing markets and scenic ghats.
Situated in Uttar Pradesh, the city is renowned for its colonial architecture and beautiful parks. What’s more? You get to see its vibrant culture while shopping, eating or exploring the neighbourhood. Let’s not forget the traditional crafts and street foods that add delight to your trip. Planning a trip already? Check out the best places to visit in Kanpur for a wonderful getaway.
17 Best Places To Visit in Kanpur Are
1. Kanpur Zoological Park
Get ready to step into the world of wild animals as you visit the Kanpur Zoological Park. Spread over 190 acres, it is one of the oldest zoological parks in India. The natural setting is home to many animals, including tigers, leopards, lions and deer. Carry your binoculars, as you can spot various species of birds here.
What’s more? It also features a botanical garden and a lake, thereby elevating your time. If you are travelling with children, they are sure to love a toy train ride and the butterfly park. Being one of the famous places to visit in Kanpur, it is ideal for families as well as elderly guests.
2. Nana Rao Park
Situated on the Mall Road, Nana Rao Park is one of the best places to visit in Kanpur. As the name suggests, it was historically built after the prominent leader called Nana Sahib. It was originally known as Memorial Well Garden. However, the British name was changed to Nana Rao Park after the Bibighar massacre.
In today’s time, Nana Rao Park is a beautiful park featuring statues of various freedom fighters including Rani Lakshmi Bai, Lala Lajpat Rai and Tatya Tope. It is an amazing destination to witness the local lifestyle of the people of Kanpur. Well-manicured lawns and lush greenery makes it a perfect place for yoga, walking and recreational activities.
3. Baba Anandeshwar Mandir
You are certain to enjoy your trip when mythology and mystery meet at one place. We are talking about Baba Anandeshwar Mandir. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the divine places to visit in Kanpur during your journey. Located on the banks of the Ganga river, the spiritual destination has an amazing story to tell.
According to the legend, the Mahabharata warrior Karna used to worship Lord Shiva at this site. Years later, locals witnessed a cow named Anandi pouring milk at a particular site. As the villagers were intrigued, they excavated the area and found an immovable Shivling. That is exactly how this temple was built and named. Anandeshwar Temple is also known as Chhoti Kashi in today’s time. It attracts thousands of devotees during Mahashivratri.
4. Blue World Theme Park
Who doesn’t love an extra dose of entertainment and adventure during a trip? If you are the one looking for a thrilling time, head to Blue World Theme Park. It is one of the biggest theme parks, with more than 50 rides and attractions for all age groups. As it is one of the famous places to visit in Kanpur, the place remains crowded during weekends.
Interestingly, the park features various zones inspired by Chinese, European, Egyptian and other cultures. What more? It also has a wave pool, water slides and a rain dance area. Such a destination becomes perfect for spending the entire day. You can also visit the dinosaur-themed park or enjoy the laser show during evenings.
5. ISKCON Kanpur Temple
You cannot miss visiting the ISKCON Kanpur Temple during your journey. It is one of the significant places to visit in Kanpur, all thanks to the divinity of this temple. Popularly known as Sri Sri Radha Madhav Mandir, it is a hub for teachings of Lord Krishna. Dedicated to Lord Krishna and goddess Radha, you get to see awe-inspiring architecture with grand towers and a spacious courtyard.
It is more like stepping into a colourful residence of the lord alongside idols of other deities. After exploring the city, you get an opportunity to attend rhythmic aartis and feel the much-needed peace. It also has a cow shelter where you can feed cows and photograph your spiritually enlightening journey.
6. Moti Jheel
The city truly surprises you with unique locations changing from serene to entertaining and more. Moti Jheel is one of the prominent places to visit in Kanpur. It is also called Pearl Lake, all thanks to its shimmering beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers an excellent escape from the city’s buzzing areas.
You can take a relaxing stroll with your partner or go boating on the lake. It also has jogging tracks, allowing you to witness the everyday life of locals. Interestingly, the area hosts the Ramayana-themed light and sound show, making it great for all age groups. Moti Jheel truly encapsulates the essence of Kanpur’s calming spirit.
7. Shri Dharmanath Swami Jain Shwetambar Temple
Popularly known as the Jain Glass Temple, it is one of the best places to visit in Kanpur. The grand exteriors with calming interiors are sure to capture your attention! Dedicated to the 15th Jain Tirthankara, Lord Dharmanath, it is a marvellous creation of the 1990s. The place of worship is celebrated for its soothing atmosphere and statues of various tirthankaras.
You get to see glasswork that is beyond aesthetics. It showcases scenes from Jain scriptures. You can also spot celestial beings, artwork displaying Jain monks and various practices. It sure is one of the beautiful Jain temples in India that you must explore. Surrounded by green gardens, you can enjoy a wonderful time praying, meditating and exploring the serenity.
8. Lal Bangla Market
You probably cannot miss visiting Lal Bangla Market if you are a shopaholic. It is one of the busiest places to visit in Kanpur. Unlike other markets, this one is known for trendy clothing and footwear. You can also find traditional handicrafts in selected stores and multiple household items.
Lal Bangla Market is particularly popular for educational toys, books and games. Hence, you can see a lot of families negotiating with vendors with their little ones. Keep walking across the market and you shall come across so many emotions. Friendly shopkeepers, helpful locals and tantalising street food stalls; these all truly tell you the vibe of Kanpur.
9. Phool Bagh Park
One of the historic places to visit in Kanpur has to be on your list. Phool Bagh is a unique place known for its glorious past. Built during the British era, it was earlier known as Queen’s Park. Do you know many leaders like Mahatma Gandhi delivered speeches here? That’s exactly why it attracts hundreds of history buffs and travel enthusiasts here.
The park also houses the Kanpur Museum, showcasing the city’s rich artefacts and exhibits. You get to walk through tree-lined paths and relax at the seating areas. What’s more? You can spot a towering Indian flag, adding a sense of pride and patriotism. Make sure to capture the idyllic sunset from here.
10. Sisamau Bazaar
It would definitely be unfair to go back without buying the best souvenirs from India at Sisamau Bazaar. It is one of the oldest and most vibrant buzzing markets of the city. Being one of the best places to visit in Kanpur, you get to understand the city’s rich heritage here. You can find multiple traditional shops selling a wide variety of textiles.
If you are a foodie, you might love this place. Let’s not forget to try Badnaam Kulfi and Thaggu ke laddu during shopping breaks. You can also buy amazing leather jackets, belts and wallets. Many heritage shops also offer perfumes and kitchen utensils. Weekends are generally crowded, so allocate time accordingly.
11. Japanese Garden
The historic city has a few surprises that are certain to amaze you. The Japanese Garden is one of the interesting places to visit in Kanpur. It is more like a serene retreat located within the area of Moti Jheel. As the name suggests, this park is inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics. You can find small water bodies throughout. It also has fancy bridges and ponds of koi fish, creating a picturesque backdrop for pictures.
What makes this place beautiful is the careful placement of rocks and gently flowing waters. The interior creates a harmonious atmosphere. You can indulge in meditation or simply enjoy the sunset on a quaint bench. Since it is located near Moti Jheel, you can easily add two places to your itinerary for exploration.
12. Brahmavart Ghat
Here is another historic destination ready to encircle you in mythology. Brahmavart Ghat is one of the best places to visit in Kanpur for a divine time. As the name suggests, it is steeped in spiritual significance. According to the legend, this is the place where Lord Brahma commenced the creation of the universe by performing a yajna. It is also associated with the installation of the Brahmeshwar Mahadev.
You can take a holy bath in the holy river of the Ganga, as it is believed to be auspicious. Interestingly, you can also spot a horseshoe nail embedded in the steps. It dates back to the time when Lord Brahma’s horse walked during the yajna. You can also go boating on the Ganges, especially during sunset. Make sure to capture the stunning surroundings while boating on the river.
13. Tapeshwari Devi Mandir
Awaken your spiritual sense as you visit Tapeshwari Devi Mandir. It is surely one of the best places to visit in Kanpur for a divine time. The temple is primarily dedicated to the goddess Durga; however, various incarnations of the goddess can be found here. It is highly revered by locals, all thanks to the magical vibes you feel here.
What’s more? The stunning architecture of the temple mesmerises you. The pointed dome on the outside, with intricate carvings on the inside, both totally elevate its overall presence. You can easily attend aartis and be a part of everyday rituals along with locals. The temple remains quite crowded during the Navratri and Maha Ashtami festivals.
14. Valmiki Ashram
Say hi to exhilarating views as you visit the famous Valmiki Ashram. Located approximately 22 kilometres from the city, it is a beautiful hillock in Bithoor. This revered site is indeed one of the best places to visit in Kanpur. You get to know a lot about Hindu mythology, as it is believed to be the place where Sage Valmiki composed the epic Ramayana.
The legend also suggests that Goddess Sita sought refuge during her exile at this place. As you visit this place, you can see the Sita Kund. It is a sacred pond used by the goddess for pure water. It also has Swarg Naseni (Stairway to Heaven) with 48 steps. What’s more? The ashram has Sita Patal Pravesh, from where she left the mortal world. Seek blessings, soak in the views and meditate in the soothing surroundings.
15. Ram Janki Mandir
You can only understand a city well when you visit offbeat places or the ones that are truly local. Ram Janki Mandir is one such destination you must visit during your trip. Located in the vegetable market area, this temple is best known for its simplistic architecture. You get to witness the essence of divinity as locals gather to sing devotional songs.
It is dedicated to many Hindu deities, including Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva and more. What’s more? Locals gather early in the morning to practise yoga in the temple premises. You can also be a part of various social initiatives undertaken by one of the great places to visit in Kanpur.
16. J K Temple
A magnificent place like J K Temple attracts thousands of tourists. Being one of the prominent places to visit in Kanpur, it was constructed by the Singhania family. You get an excellent opportunity to see ancient architecture with a fusion of modernity. It truly reflects the traditions and cultural elegance of the city like never before!
Dedicated to Lord Radha and Krishna, the temple symbolises love and devotion. It also houses shrines of various other deities. As you enter the place of worship, you can see carvings on white marble with symmetrical layouts throughout the space. Be a part of melodious aartis and devotional singing to soak in the essence of this place.
17. Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama
You certainly know about the legendary Swami Vivekananda, who made an impact on the world. He started with Ramakrishna Mission, and you can now visit this ashrama in Kanpur. The Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama is best known for daily worship, celebration of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti and religious festivals.
Considering the aim of this mission, various educational initiatives are taken here. At times, school students visit the ashrama to understand about Vivekananda’s life and teachings. If you are seeking solace or wish to indulge in community service, this is the place to be. Being one of the underrated places to visit in Kanpur, it clearly has a lot for someone dedicated to humanity.
Your Ticket to Kanpur’s Best Destinations!
The best places to visit in Kanpur are here to make you feel like a true wanderer. The city literally has it all. From awe-inspiring architectural gems and busy markets to mythological legends, the list remains endless. No matter whether you love solace or have a kick for exploration, the underrated city of Kanpur narrates stories of the bygone times at every nook and corner.
