Kanpur Sightseeing: 8 Famous Places to Visit

Situated on the banks of the holy River Ganga, Kanpur offers is dotted with some of the most revered pilgrimage sites and finest historic spots exhibiting intricate architecture. It is also home to some of the most diverse cultures, cuisines, and traditional theatrical art. Apart from flaunting its epithet of the ‘Leather City of the World’ and ‘Manchester of India,’ Kanpur is also known for its historical and religious sites, making it the perfect amalgamation of two eras running parallelly. The city will lead you on a journey through the splendour and grandeur of India. So, get ready to get a glimpse of some of the most famous tourist places in Kanpur.

1. Kanpur Zoological Park

Popularly known as the Allen Forest Zoo, it is the largest zoo in North India. So, if you are someone who loves wildlife, this is one of the best places to visit in Kanpur. Built in a natural forest, this is a place where you can witness animals in their native habitat roaming carelessly. This is the perfect place where you can spot them in their innate biological and physical expressions. Moreover, there is also a large lake, a diversified botanical garden, a night house, an aviary featuring colourful avifauna an aquarium, life-size dinosaur sculptures, and a toy train witness all of this up close. So, you can be sure of a day full of adventures and surprises while you are at the Kanpur Zoological Park.

2. The Blue World Theme Park

Kanpur tourism has witnessed a rapid surge in recent years and most of the credit goes to the new Blue World Theme Park! Spread across 25 acres of land, it is one of the top places to visit Uttar Pradesh. Also, there are dedicated themed areas inspired by different cultures and traditions like Roman, Chinese, Egyptian, and European. There are also a plethora of dry and wet adventure rides that are a must-try for every adventure junkie. Also, the immersive 7D show, musical fountains, water pools, laser shows, and toy train rides will keep you and your kids busy all day long. You can also boat around the caverns on a boat in Blue World’s very own ‘Suhana Safar’ – a journey that will let you come across the diverse culture and heritage of various countries all across the globe. Blue World is definitely one of the best places to visit in Kanpur!

3. Nana Rao Park

Situated near the Phool Bagh area, Nana Rao Park is another famous place in Kanpur that should not be missed out on. Named after Nana Rao Peshwa, the park was known as the Memorial Well Garden pre-independence. This is one of the best spots in Kanpur for nature lovers. Popular for its verdant pastures, evergreen trees, and vibrant flowers, this place gives you a refreshing boost, this is a spot that you must add to your Kanpur sightseeing list. This is the reasons why the park is frequented for morning walks and other fitness activities like swimming, badminton, and yoga. You will also come across figures of famous luminaries of Rani Lakshmi Bai, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Tatya Tope, recognising their contribution to the Indian freedom struggle.

4. Moti Jheel

Moti Jheel is one of the most treasured recreational spots in Kanpur. Not just tourists, but residents of the city also adore this place. Constructed during the British colonial rule, the lake is redesigned to serve as a reservoir and also offer a scenic picnic spot for visitors. You can spend some quality time with your friends and family members here in the lap of nature. Nestled away from all the hustle and bustle of the industrial capital of Uttar Pradesh, it is also a great place to visit in Kanpur for couples. also avails boating facilities with an array of street food stalls and toys sold at the entrance and within its premises.

5. Juggilal Kamplapat Temple

Colloquially known as J.K. Temple and also as Radhakrishna Temple, this is one of the most auspicious and revered spots in Kanpur. Built in the year 1953, the temple is known for its unique architecture exhibiting the perfect combination of both ancient and modern traits. Do not forget to witness the splendid Radhakrishna statue located right at the centre of the temple. Counted amongst some of the most beautiful places in Kanpur, there is also a small lake with lotus flowers floating, surrounded by verdant green lawns and pastures. You should plan your visit during the month of August when the temple is all decked up on the occasion of Janmashtami.

6. Kanpur Memorial Church

Kanpur Memorial Church located on Albert Lane is yet another cherished spot in the city. Built in the year 1875, it is a memoir to pay homage to the lost British soldiers of the Sepoy Mutiny. Known for it is a historical Anglican Church known for its elaborate Gothic architecture, lush green surroundings, and the stunning sculpture of an Angel in the front by Carlo Marochetti, this is one of the top places to visit Kanpur. While it is one of the oldest churches in India, it is also one of the most beautiful ones. The church holds great historic significance as it tells the tale of the massacre and also the infidelity of 'The Butcher of Cawnpore' - Nana Sahib.

7. Jain Glass Temple

Yet another magnificent and regal structure in Kanpur is the Jain Glass Temple. Located on the Maheshwari Mohal Road, the temple was built by the Jain community in respect to the 23 Tirthankaras of the Jain tradition. As you enter, you will come across sculptures representing Bhagwan Mahavir and the Tirthankaras under a huge canopy on a marble platform. The very sight of the sculptures is mesmerising. To add to its grandeur, the architecture of the temple is extremely elaborate and intricate, making it one of the top places to visit Kanpur. With grand canopies and grand archways, the temple offers you a royal feel that fits perfectly for the divine deities. You can also have a look at the ancient scripts that are preserved for learning and worshipping purposes.

8. Becon Ganj Market

Located in the Becon Ganj area, this market is one of the best places to visit in Kanpur with friends and family. Named after William Bacon, the British Magistrate in 1828, this is a spot that is considered to be one of the oldest parts of the city. If you are planning on a day filled with fun, shopping, and street food, this is the best place for you! You can some of the most stylish apparel and jewellery. Right from traditional salwar kameez to trendy fashion accessories, you will get it all here! This is also a great place if you wish to get some souvenirs as a remembrance of your Kanpur trip.

Kanpur is bound to offer you an interesting mix of sights and experiences. While it is a bustling industrial hub, it also drenched in history and antiquity. There is a lot to discover in Kanpur and we hope that with all these amazing tourist spots in Kanpur, you will be able to make your trip a lot more memorable!