Being one of the major industrial and educational hubs in Uttar Pradesh, Kanpur is a bustling city frequented by tourists every year. Be it the history, culture or energy, Kanpur offers a substantial travel experience to every visitor. If you are planning a road trip or weekend getaway, there are numerous places to visit near Kanpur within 100 km that fit the requirements. There are historical landmarks and scenic spots that you can add to your travel plans. When finely curating your travel itinerary to Kanpur and the surrounding area, ensure that you keep a check on the best nearby destinations to explore during your vacation.
Top 10 Places To Visit Near Kanpur Within 100 km
Be it religious sites or nature escapes, the area around Kanpur has a lot of renowned and hidden gems, which you can consider exploring.
1. Bithoor
Photo: Anupamg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bithoor is a popular riverside town, located 1-2 hours’ drive from Kanpur. The town is located along the banks of the Ganga River and has a mythological and cultural significance. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Brahma is believed to have created humankind. The Brahmavart Ghat is one of the most sacred riverbanks in India, and devotees gather here for prayer and ritual baths. Not just the mythology, Bithoor also has historical associations with the story of Rani Lakshmibai, as it served as her childhood home, making it an important site during India’s First War of Independence in 1857.
Distance From Kanpur: 24 km
Major Attractions: Brahmavart Ghat, Valmiki Ashram, and Dhruva Teela
2. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Bruna Fossile / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For bird enthusiasts, head to Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary. It is one of the major attractions near Kanpur within 100 km, also known as Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad Bird Sanctuary. This is a protected wetland that is renowned for its vibrant bird life and biodiversity. During the winter months, aka migration month, the sanctuary is filled to the brim with migratory birds like Siberian cranes, painted storks, and various species of ducks and geese. The sanctuary is equipped with observation towers, walking trails, and boating facilities, allowing you to witness the birds up close without causing a ruckus.
Distance From Kanpur: 42 km
Major Attractions: Migratory bird species, wetlands
3. Allen Forest Zoo
Photo: Vinayak Yashansh Pandey Gunnu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Also known as Kanpur Zoo, Allen Forest Zoo is another one of the must-visit destinations from Kanpur. It is one of the few zoological gardens in India that is located within a natural forest. The zoo was established in 1971 and it covers a large area, housing various animals like lions, tigers, and deer. The zoo also has a botanical garden, making it a great spot for those interested in both flora and fauna. Surprisingly, there is a lake present inside the zoo where the visitors can enjoy a boat ride and a butterfly park. There are informative exhibits available all around and well-maintained walking trails, which allow you to explore the habitat settings and check out the animals and birds around.
Distance From Kanpur: 10 km
Major Attractions: Wild Animals, Butterfly Park, and Lake
4. Panki Hanuman Mandir
Photo: Rameshchaudhari1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another one of the places to see near Kanpur within 100 kms is Panki Hanuman Mandir. It is a popular pilgrimage destination, which attracts devotees from across the country. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and the main attraction there is the idol of the deity. It is said that anything you wish from the deity is granted. Major events are held during Hanuman Jayanti, which sees thousands of pilgrims gather to celebrate. The surrounding area includes small markets where visitors can buy religious souvenirs and offerings.
Distance From Kanpur: 11 km
Major Attractions: Main shrine, local markets, and Hanuman Jayanti celebrations
5. Jajmau
Photo: Charles Ag. Tegart / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
To experience a blend of history and industry, Jajmau is one of the oldest suburbs in Uttar Pradesh, renowned for its archaeological significance. During excavations in Jajmau, there were several relics dating back to the early civilisation unearthed during that time. The town is also famous for its Siddhanath Temple, an ancient shrine that draws both pilgrims and tourists. Beyond the historical experience, Jajmau is also renowned for its leather industry, producing high-quality leather goods that are sold across India and internationally.
Distance From Kanpur: 10 km
Major Attractions: Siddhanath Temple, ancient ruins, leather markets
6. Kannauj
Photo: g.kaustav / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another ancient city in Uttar Pradesh that you can consider visiting from Kanpur to Kannauj. The city offers a glimpse into the glorious past of the country. It served as a powerful kingdom once and is now home to numerous historical sites, including the majestic Chini Ka Rauza. It is also renowned for its traditional perfumery industry that dates back centuries. The town is filled with small, family-run perfume distilleries, where visitors can see the process of making “ittar.” Also, there is an Archaeological Museum in Kannauj that offers a glimpse into the traditional artefacts from ancient civilisation.
Distance From Kanpur: 87 km
Major Attractions: Perfume distilleries, Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary
7. Kalpi
Photo: Ghosh Ujjwal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kalpi is one of the popular tourist attractions near Kanpur within 100 km. It is a historic town that is renowned for its ancient ruins. If you explore the town with a local guide, you do get to learn about the connection to Rani Lakshmibai and ancient relics. One of the notable sites in Kalpi that you must visit is Rani Lakshmibai Samadhi, a memorial dedicated to the queen who fought bravely during the 1857 rebellion. There are numerous temples in the town, which you can visit to offer prayers. The town’s rustic charm, combined with its heritage sites, makes it an insightful journey into India’s past.
Distance From Kanpur: 78 km
Major Attractions: Rani Lakshmibai Samadhi, Yamuna River views
8. Lucknow
Photo: Rajesh Kathpalia / Wikimedia Commons
The capital city of Lucknow doesn’t require a separate introduction. The city is located on the banks of the Gomti River and is a place overflowing with culture and heritage. You get to witness a blend of Mughal and British heritage in the city. Key attractions include the Bara Imambara, a historical complex built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, and Chota Imambara, known for its exquisite decorations. Also, while you are there, ensure to head to the iconic Rumi Darwaza, which is a reflection of the stunning Awadhi architecture. You can also stroll through Hazratganj Market, a bustling shopping area for traditional crafts and Lucknow’s famous chikankari embroidery.
Distance From Kanpur: 90 km
Major Attractions: Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza
9. Brahmavart Ghat
Photo: Binod9041 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Often considered a mythological and spiritual retreat, Brahmavart Ghat is another one of the places to visit near Kanpur Uttar Pradesh within 100 kms. This sacred ghat is believed to be the place where Lord Brahma, the creator of Hindu mythology, performed a Yajna and established a “Brahma Shila” stone, which is the foundation of human civilisation. The ghat attracts pilgrims who come to take a holy dip in the Ganges and perform religious rites. While you are there, you can also explore the nearby Valmiki Ashram where Sage Valmiki wrote the Ramayana.
Distance From Kanpur: 25 km
Major Attractions: Brahma Shila, Valmiki Ashram, riverside views
10. Siddhi Dham – Sudhanshu Ashram
Photo: Arastu Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located along the outskirts of Kanpur, Siddhi Dham is a popular spiritual destination dedicated to the spiritual leader Acharya Shri Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj. The ashram is quite popular for meditation, spiritual learning, and inner peace. The ashram is known for its sprawling, well-maintained gardens, serene landscapes, and sacred temples, creating a sanctuary for those seeking mental and spiritual rejuvenation. One of the highlights of Siddhi Dham is the “Manav Utkarsh Seva Samiti,” a humanitarian service program, offering various community services.
Distance From Kanpur: 20 km
Major Attractions: Meditation hall, temples, spiritual sessions, yoga programs
With so many places to visit near Kanpur within 100 km, all you have to do is plan your visit ahead of time. There are several destinations, perfect for taking a road trip or staying for the weekend. Be it a religious or historical destination, there’s something to cater to everyone’s interests. You can plan your trip with TripXL to discover all these popular destinations.
Cover Photo: Udayraj18 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only