Imagine going down narrow lanes, getting greeted by people having a unique swag, and getting enticed by the delectable flavors of Thaggu ke Laddu, Welcome to Kanpur; the industrial capital of Uttar Pradesh. Kanpur is an important city in the Northern Belt due to its numerous industries and retail sectors. Besides exploring its industries and retail sectors, there are many fascinating things to do in Kanpur. Today we will explore myriads of things to do in Kanpur and why is it an important place to visit on a trip to India. Let’s know a little more about the history of Kanpur before we move to the top things to do in Kanpur.
Kanpur, initially called Kanhpur, is believed to have been established by King Hindu Singh from the former kingdom of Sachendi. Its name comes from Kanhiyapur, linked to Lord Krishna, and its history dates back to 600 BC to 1600 AD. There are many other historical places to visit in Uttar Pradesh and Kanpur holds a special place among them. Exploring the history of this ancient city, which is, one of the most historical places in India is among the best things to do in Kanpur. During the era of British rule, Kanpur’s strategic significance increased. It emerged as a crucial trading and military outpost in British India. The city saw substantial growth in its infrastructure and economic activities, establishing itself as a key industrial hub. After gaining independence in 1947, Kanpur continued to grow and evolve and so did the things to do in Kanpur. Presently, it is recognized as the economic heart of Uttar Pradesh, boasting a varied industrial sector that includes leather, textiles, and heavy machinery. Trade and business have been considered the top professions and best things to do in Kanpur.Tourists, travelers, and traders can find various resorts and hotels in Kanpur, for a comfortable stay and work experience. We have carefully selected the top 12 things to do in Kanpur, for you. Whenever you visit this ancient city, you will have all the information about the interesting things to do in Kanpur:
1. Explore the Allen Forest Zoo
![blog-images]()
The Allen Forest Zoo, known for its vastness and antiquity, stands as a top destination for those who love nature. Exploring the Allen Forest Zoo is among the best things to do in Kanpur and also among the most exciting things to do in Uttar Pradesh. Covering an area of 76.56 hectares, it is home to a diverse species of animals, birds, and reptiles, all living in their natural environments. Additionally, the zoological garden includes a botanical garden, an aviary, and a pristine lake, offering a great location for family excursions and outdoor picnics. Kanpur Zoological Park, located in Kanpur, India, is one of the country’s oldest zoos. It was inaugurated and opened to the public on February 4, 1974. Sprawling over an area of approximately 76.56 hectares, visiting this man-made forest is among the top things to do in Kanpur. The park’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills and a forest-like appearance, making it a prime example of a zoo designed with modern principles. The animals residing in the zoo live in spacious, enclosed areas that allow for natural movement and the expression of their biological and physiological needs. These spaces are strategically placed so that one cannot see into another, ensuring that the animals within do not experience unnecessary stress from their neighbors.Visiting hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 AM (Open all days except Monday)
Entry fee: 20/- INR for kids under 12 and 40/- for everyone else
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive exclusive offers, latest news and updates.
You have already subscribed our newsletter!
Thanks for Subscribing our newsletter!
2. Admire the Beauty of J K Temple
![blog-images]()
The Juggilal Kamplapat Temple, also known as the JK Temple, displays a stunning amalgamation of ancient and contemporary design. Believed to be dedicated to Radha and Krishna, the temple’s peaceful surroundings and exquisitely maintained gardens attract numerous visitors annually, if you skip visiting JK Temple, then you’re missing out on one of the best things in Kanpur. In the vicinity, you’ll find lakes and vegetation, including the well-known Moti Jheel. Built, in 1953, the JK temple is taken care of by the Singhania family and is still largely under the control of the JK trust today. At the heart of the temple reside the idols of the Hindu deities Radha Krishna, surrounded by verdant foliage and small ponds. Spend some time, in this refreshing and serene area, it is one of the most incredible things to do in Kanpur. The temple celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna during the Janmashtami festival in August. Celebrating Janmashtami here is one of the top things to do in Kanpur. Many pilgrims choose to visit the temple on this special occasion and the temple remains open throughout the day on Janmashtami.Visiting hours: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry fee: Free Entry
3. Go Boating on the Moti Jheel
Moti Jheel, a city lake and water reservoir, is a favored destination for fun activities in Kanpur. The Moti Jheel Park gained major popularity after getting featured in the famous Bollywood movie Bunty Aur Bubbly. Picture this, you are softly cruising over the calm waters of the vast Moti Jheel, enjoying the refreshing and calming ambiance. After taking a fun boat ride on this iconic waterbody, built in the British Era you can enjoy a picnic in the nearby park. Bordered by lush foliage, it provides opportunities for boating and features a nicely kept park, making it a perfect spot for unwinding and enjoying free time. Boating at the Moti Jheel is among the most fun things to do in Kanpur for couples as they can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing time here.Visiting hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry fee: No entry fee, boating costs approximately 50/- INR
4. Pay homage at Kanpur Memorial Church
![blog-images]()
Constructed in 1875 as a tribute to the British soldiers who perished in the 1857 uprising, the Kanpur Memorial Church stands as a significant historical site. Its ornate Gothic design, colorful stained glass windows, and tranquil ambiance make it a highlight for those interested in ancient architecture. For historians and people who love exploring the past paying homage to the long lost lives is among the best things to do in Kanpur. The Kanpur Memorial Church, also called All Soul’s Cathedral, stands as a remarkable building, built in 1875 to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the British soldiers who gave their lives during the chaotic Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Walter Granville, a former architect in the East Bengal Railway, designed the church in a stunning Lombardy Gothic style.Why visiting this monument is one of the most stirring things to do in Kanpur?
It is because this structure stands as a testament to the morbid and savage reality of the struggle for India’s independence and the countless lives that were lost on both sides.
Visiting hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry fee: Free Entry
5. Visit the Village of Bithoor
Situated along the Ganges river, Bithoor is a quaint village rich in mythological and historical importance. For religious souls seeking serenity in a spiritual setting, exploring Bithoor is one of the best things in Kanpur. According to Hindu mythology, Bithoor is considered the birthplace of Lord Rama’s two sons, Luv and Kush. The village contains numerous temples, such as the Valmiki Ashram and Brahmavart Ghat, which attract pilgrims. Bithoor is a cozy hamlet, settled beside the holy river Ganga, everything about this place feels mystical and pure. If you’re in Kanpur and you haven’t visited Bithoor then you have missed one of the most historic and best things to do in Kanpur.Visiting hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry fee: Free Entry
6. Have fun at Blue World Theme Park
![blog-images]()
Do you want a day filled with excitement and laughter with loved ones? Look no further than the Blue World Theme Park. Even lovebirds, visiting North India for honeymoon, feel, that spending a day at the Blue World Theme Park is one of the best things to do in Kanpur for couples. It offers a range of exhilarating attractions, including water slides and thrilling rides. Additionally, the park boasts themed zones that showcase various global regions, ensuring there is something fun for everyone. Visiting this park should be on your list of things to do in Kanpur, without a doubt. Spending a day at the Blue World Theme Park is among the most exciting things to do in Kanpur with friends. Located on Mandhana-Bithoor Road, the Blue World Theme Park stands out as an incredible water and amusement destination, boasting an extensive selection of rides. These rides have been categorized into various themes, including European, Fairy Land, Chinese, Jungle, and Indian themes. Covering an area of 25 acres, the park features both a Water Park and an Amusement Park, along with numerous multi-cuisine restaurants. Imagine spending a fun day at this park, bonding with your loved ones, isn’t this one of the best things to do in Kanpur?Additionally, the park features musical fountains, laser light shows, and an engaging 7D movie experience. It also provides a special area for events such as birthdays or social get-togethers.
You can even rent swimwear at the Blue World Water Park.
Visiting hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry fee: 600/- INR
7. Admire the ISKCON Temple
The ISKCON Temple in Kanpur is a breathtaking structure devoted to Lord Krishna. It serves as a sanctuary for spiritual reflection and cultural engagements, providing a serene setting to local worshippers and visitors. The temple frequently organizes a range of religious and cultural gatherings. Attending these gatherings is among the most memorable things to do in Kanpur for the devotees of Krishna. The gods and goddesses in this area undergo a yearly grand bath, a long-standing tradition of immersing the sacred idols in water, at the prestigious Royal Gold Leaf Shrine. Alongside the usual ceremonies, three major celebrations highlight this important tradition. Offering prayers to the incarnations of Lord Krishna, Sri Sri Radha Madhav, Sri Sri Nitai Gurusundar, and Sri Sri Janakai Janaki Vallabha Laxman Hanuman at the ISKCON temple are among the most famous things to do in Kanpur.Visiting hours: 4:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Entry fee: Free Entry
8. Behold the Magnificent ‘Kanch Ka Mandir’ Jain Temple
![blog-images]()
The Kanch Ka Mandir a marvellous Jain Temple is situated in the Maheshwari Mohal. This small, elegant temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira and the other 23 Jain Tirthankaras is constructed from glass. Appreciating the beauty and visiting the ‘Kanch Ka Mandir’ is one of the top things to do in Kanpur, for people belonging to the Jain community and others. It proudly showcases a collection of intricate, gemstone statues, eye-catching mirror decorations, and fragile glass paintings emphasizing the rich history and customs of Jainism. Praying in the calm and tranquil environment of the Kanch Ka Mandir is among the best things to do in Kanpur. The temple also features a stunning garden connected to it, which houses notable statues of Jain gods. Soaking up in the serenity of this temple is among the purest things to do in Kanpur. With royal design elements like canopies and intricately decorated archways, the temple exudes a divine ambiance, further amplified by the availability of ancient scriptures offered for study and prayer. This temple is a renowned holy place for both followers and tourists in the area. Feeling the purity and serenity of this temple and observing its architecture is one of the top things to do in Kanpur.Visiting hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Entry fee: Free Entry
9. Go on Evening Strolls at Kamla Retreat
![blog-images]()
Kamla Retreat, situated on Kamala Nehru Road in Kanpur, is a prestigious government-owned property belonging to the esteemed Singhania family. Going for evening walks in Kamla Retreat Park is among the most refreshing things to do in Kanpur. The picturesque location of Kamla Retreat is perfect for unwinding and enjoying oneself, highly favored by visitors and their loved ones. Visiting this place is among the famous things to do in Kanpur. Surrounded by verdant landscapes, the Kamla Retreat presents stunning vistas of manicured lawns, lush parks, and waterways. It serves as an excellent spot for various outdoor pursuits like sports, strolls, picnics, family reunions, swimming, and boating. Visitors can appreciate the grandeur of the estate’s royal fountains and its craftsmanship, they can also avail of the amenities such as a swimming pool, zoo, and educational museum to enrich their experience at Kamla Retreat.Visiting hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry fee: Free Entry
10. Shop Leather and Handcrafted Goods
![blog-images]()
When visiting this vibrant city, you can’t go back home without taking a priced souvenir. Shopping is among the best things to do in Kanpur. From leather goods to unique handicrafts, you can get it all here. Below is a list of the best markets in Kanpur, do visit these places if you want to get the real Kanpuriya feels:This shopping mall stands out as one of the biggest in North India, featuring an extensive selection of stores, eateries, and entertainment choices. It is an exclusive hub for shopping, dining, and enjoying free time. Shopping for the latest fashion goods and items is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Kanpur.
Are you seeking a more classic shopping trip? Look no further than Naveen Market. It provides a diverse selection of products, from apparel and accessories to electronics and crafts, all at affordable rates. The lively market is an excellent spot to immerse in the local culture and pick up souvenirs. Shopping from the Naveen Market is among the famous things to do in Kanpur.
Is it possible to end your Kanpur excursion without buying premium quality leather goods? Leather products like bags, purses, shoes, belts, and much more are among the best things in Kanpur, as it is a major producer of leather goods. Head to Sismau Bazar and Jajmau, one of the oldest markets of Kanpur, famous for its economical range of products from regular-use items to premium quality leather goods.
Renowned for its lively markets and energetic ambiance, Birhana Road is a favored spot for shopping in Kanpur.Here, shoppers can discover a wide range of goods, including fabrics, shoes, and home items, alongside its reputation for street food stalls.
Visiting hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry fee: Free Entry
11. Visit Nearby Cities
Kanpur, being an industrial hub is well-connected to major cities of Uttar Pradesh like Lucknow, Agra, and Prayagraj. So the next time you visit Kanpur, don’t forget to keep a few days in hand to explore these amazing places nearby. Along with numerous fun-filled things to do in Kanpur, exploring these cities has its own charm.
12. Explore Kanpur’s Nightlife
![blog-images]()
If you thought that Kanpur was only about history, mythology, and trade, you’re highly mistaken. This vibrant city becomes even more lively after sundown. There are numerous things to do in Kanpur at night. Having fun at famous clubs and bars such as Quality Bar, Tadka, Chillum, Sky Lounge, and Six Pocket Snooker Club are some of the most fun top things to do in Kanpur for couples and youngsters. The list of famous things to do in Kanpur is endless, we have covered not just the top 10 things to do in Kanpur but 12, but do you know what the most important among the top things to do in Kanpur is? It is tasting some Kanpuriya flavors and treating your taste buds with the authentic flavors of Uttar Pradesh:- Thaggoo Ke Laddu
- Shami Kebabs
- Shekhawat Thali
- Kebab Paratha
- Biriyani
- Badaam Kulfi
- Basket Chaat
- Mattha Bread
- Imarti
- Sultani Daal
We hope the next time you visit this fast-paced metropolis, that has kept its cultural heritage alive through its people and lifestyle, you won’t wonder about what the top things to do in Kanpur are, and your trip will be as fun as it was for Bunty aur Bubbly. Lastly, a pro tip, if you ever get lost in the Leather Capital, don’t panic. Just head towards the Ghantaghar, situated in the heart of the city, it is among the best things to do in Kanpur, as from here, some warmhearted Kanpuriya will surely help you out.
Christmas & New Year
