Kanpur Travel Guide
Nestled
on the banks of the eternal Ganga, Kanpur stands as one of North
India’s major industrial centres with its own historical,
religious and commercial importance. Believed to be founded by king
Hindu Singh of the erstwhile state of Sachendi, Kanpur was
originally known as `Kanhpur’. Historically, Jajmau on the
eastern outskirts of present day Kanpur is regarded as one of the
most archaic townships of Kanpur district. Upto the 1st half of the
18th century Kanpur continued to survive as an insignificant
village. Its fate, however, took a new turn soon after. In May 1765,
Shuja-ud-daula, the Nawab Wazir of Awadh, was defeated by the
British near Jajmau. It was probably at this time that strategic
importance of the site of Kanpur was realised by the British.
European businessmen had by this time gradually started establishing
themselves in Kanpur. In order to ensure protection to their lives
and property the 'Awadh local forces' were shifted here in 1778.
Kanpur passed into British hands under the treaty of 1801 with Nawab
Saadat Ali Khan of Awadh. This forms a turning point in the history
of Kanpur. Soon Kanpur became one of the most important military
station of British India. It was declared a district on 24th March
1803.
Getting There:
By Air:
The civilian air terminal Chakeri (Ahirwan) at Kanpur has become
operational since January 1996 and is serviced by U.P. Air, Archana
Airways and private airlines. Chakeri Airport is 13 km from the city
centre. Apart from this the nearest airport is Amausi, Lucknow, 65
km.
By Rail :
Kanpur is on the main route and is connected to all the major
stations of the country by express, super-fast and passenger trains.
By Road :
Kanpur is connected by road with all the major cities of the
country. It is situated on National Highway No. 2 on the
Delhi-Agra-Allahabad-Calcutta route and on National Highway No. 25
on the Lucknow-Jhansi-Shivpuri route.
Tourist Attractions:
Valmiki Ashram
It is closely associated with the Indian epic Ramayana. Located on
a hillock, it is believed to be the place where Sita stayed during
her exile and where her sons - Luv and Kush - were born. A stairway
to heaven's if ascended, offers a panoramic view of the city and its
surroundings.
Shri Radhakrishna temple
Shri Radhakrishna temple is a mixture of the north and south Indian
styles of temple architecture. Since the temple has been built by
the JK Trust and is also known as the JK Temple.
Moti Jheel
Located near the temple is the Moti Jheel, which is quite popular
as a picnic spot. It is actually a drinking water reservoir of the
Kanpur Waterworks but the area around it has been developed into
beautifully lanscaped gardens.
Kanpur Zoo
Rated one of the best zoological parks in the country, the Kanpur
Zoo or the Allen Forest Zoo has been home to several species of
fauna since its inauguration in 1971. Wild animals and the avian
species can be easily spotted here.
Brahmavat Ghat
This is a shrine situated on banks of the Ganges. The Devotes offer
prayers at an altar where wooden slippers, are kept .
Patthar Ghat
This is situated on the banks of Ganges, is a bathing place built
of red stone by the minster of Avadh,Tikait Rai. The structure is
marvel of Indian architecture. A huge temple devoted to Lord Shiva
is also situated here.
Dhruv Teela
It is believed to be the spot where, according to Hindu mythology,
the child Dhruva meditdated standing on one leg . Pleased by his
devotion , god granted him a boon-to shine as a star for eternity
Some other place of interest include the Ram Janaki Temple, Luv-kush
Temple, HariDam Ashram and Nana Saheb Smarak.
