Set on the banks of the Ganges, India's most sacred river, Kanpur has a family-friendly theme park and one of India's oldest zoos. You can also wander around lush city gardens, visit a neo-Hindu temple and devour sumptuous Uttar Pradesh cuisine.
Things to do in Kanpur
Kids will love Blue World, al theme park filled with thrill rides and roller coasters. In the Water Zone you'll find slides, wave pools and log flumes. Every night the park dazzles visitors with a choreographed musical fountain show, which uses the latest sound and light technology.
Blending ancient architecture with a modern style, JK Temple is a neo-Hindu temple built from gleaming white marble. It also features a handful of shrines dedicated to Hindu deities. Afterwards, visit the striking Jain Glass Temple, which is adorned in intricate mosaics.
Wildlife lovers will jump at the chance to visit Kanpur Zoological Park, which runs a fantastic wildlife conservation programme. It's one of India's oldest zoos and is home to exotic animals, such as Bengal tigers, cheetahs and leopards. There's a beautiful botanic garden to explore, plus life-size sculptures of prehistoric dinosaurs.
Uttar Pradesh is famous for its rich Nawabi cuisine, which was influenced by India's mighty Mughal Empire. Don't leave without sampling Bharwan Chicken Pasanda, an indulgent dish served with luscious coconut-cashew sauce and seasoned with cinnamon, ginger and cardamom. Wash it down with a creamy mango lassi.
Getting around Kanpur
Taxis and auto rickshaws service Kanpur, while Lucknow's Chaudhary Charan Singh International is a two-hour drive away. Trains arrive at Kanpur Central, located in the heart of the city.