Kanpur is the major industrial city in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Located at the bank of river Ganges, it was formerly known as the 'Manchester of India'. However, with the advent of more industrialized regions, it is now stated to be the commercial capital of the state. The city is famous for its leather industry and fine products. Apart from this, it now houses flourishing industries such as textile goods, aviation, wool and leather industries, cotton, flour and vegetable oil mills, sugar refineries and chemical works. Moreover, Kanpur houses a number of historical structures, which are a reminder of the glorious past. Therefore, from travel and tourism perspective, the city has much to offer.

Tourist Attractions

One of the frequently visited places in Kanpur is Allen Forest Zoo. Popularly known as the Kanpur Zoo, it was established in 1971. As it also houses the botanical gardens, it serves as a good picnic spot. The Zoo is named after Sir Allen, who was a member of Indian Civil Service and a botanist as well. Currently, the Zoo houses a number of varied species of animals, birds and reptiles. Apart from this, Jajmau is a significant destination from tourism perspective. It is an important excavation site and is located on the eastern side of the city.

The mound of Jajmau was discovered in the excavations undertaken during 1957- 58. The items excavated include potteries, utensils and busts belonging to the era between 700 BC and 1600 AD. The place finds reference in Hindu mythology and currently, houses Siddhanath and Siddha Devi temples and the mausoleum of Makhdoom Shah Ala-ul-Haq. He was a famous Sufi saint and the champion of secularism, whose tomb was built here by Feroze Shah Tughlaq in1358. A mosque built by Kulich Khan in 1679 AD also stands here.

The Kanpur Memorial Church is another fascinating building in the city. It was built in the year 1857, to pay homage to the British, who lost their lives in the Sepoy Mutiny, held in the same year. Designed by Walter Granville, the red brick building has been constructed in Gothic style, with stained glass windows and unique memorials. The eastern side of the church comprises of a memorial garden. It is separated from the main building by a gothic screen bearing the figure of an angel by Baron Carlo Marochetti, representing the 'symbol of peace'.

Apart from this, Shri Radhakrishna Temple is a magnificent structure, which houses five shrines, the central one dedicated to Sri Radhakrishna. The others have idols of Shri Laxminarayan, Shri Ardhanarishwar, Shri Narmadeshwar and Shri Hanuman. The Jain Glass Temple is also a worth visiting place, which is intricately decorated with glass and enamel work. Besides, Green Park is the finest playgrounds in Kanpur. Various international cricket matches have been played here and it boasts of one of the best pitches in the world. Other places worth visiting in Kanpur are Moti Jheel, Brijendra Swarup Park, Nana Rao Park and Kamla Retreat.

How to Reach
By Air: Kanpur has its own airport, which is popularly known as Chakeri Airport. Located on the outskirts, it connects the city with all the major cities as there are regular flights operating from here.

By Rail: The main railway station of the city is known as Kanpur Barrack, which falls on the Grand Chord route. Various trains operating from here connect Kanpur to the rest of the country.

By Road: Kanpur is linked to all the major cities in the state via a good network of roads. There is regular bus service from the city, which makes it fairly reachable.