Uttar Pradesh
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3 Days in Kanpur for a Food Trip
Kanpur might not be the first place that comes to mind for food lovers, but trust me, it's packed with hidden gems and local flavors that will surprise you. From spicy street food to rich Mughlai dishes, this city has something for every palate. I've spent years exploring its lanes and can confidently say that Kanpur's food scene is underrated but absolutely worth experiencing.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Kanpur
Kick off your Kanpur food journey with a mix of iconic sights and must-try local flavors, from bustling markets to legendary eateries.
Activities
Breakfast at Thaggu Ke Laddu
Start your day with Kanpur’s most famous sweet shop, known for its melt-in-the-mouth 'laddu' and crispy 'kachori-sabzi'. The shop’s quirky name (which humorously translates to 'the cheat’s laddus') adds to its charm. Pair your laddus with a steaming cup of chai for the perfect morning treat.
- Try the 'malai laddu'—it’s a local favorite.
- Parking can be tricky; opt for a quick auto-rickshaw drop.
Explore JK Temple and Phool Bagh
Head to the serene JK Temple, a stunning white marble structure dedicated to Radha-Krishna. After soaking in the spiritual vibes, take a short walk to Phool Bagh, a historic garden with colonial-era fountains and lush greenery. It’s a great spot to digest breakfast before lunch.
- Remove shoes before entering the temple.
- Phool Bagh is quieter in the mornings—perfect for photos.
Lunch at Raja Thandai & Chaat
No visit to Kanpur is complete without trying its legendary chaat and thandai. Raja Thandai serves some of the creamiest, nuttiest thandai in town, alongside crispy aloo tikki and tangy pani puri. The bustling vibe here is as authentic as it gets.
- Ask for 'special thandai'—it’s richer and topped with dry fruits.
- Avoid peak lunch hours (12:30-1:30) if you dislike crowds.
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Kanpur
Dive deeper into Kanpur’s industrial heritage, enjoy its vibrant street food, and unwind by the Ganges.
Activities
Explore Allen Forest Zoo
Start your day with a visit to Allen Forest Zoo, one of the largest zoos in North India. Spread over 77 acres, it’s a green oasis in the city with a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, and exotic birds. The walking trails are shaded, making it pleasant even in the morning heat.
- Carry water and wear comfortable shoes—it’s a lot of walking.
- Visit early to avoid the midday rush and heat.
Lunch at Biryani by Kilo
Head to Biryani by Kilo for a hearty lunch. Known for its aromatic dum-cooked biryanis, this place is a favorite among locals. Try their Lucknowi biryani or the spicy Hyderabadi version, paired with a cooling raita. The rustic ambiance adds to the experience.
- Portions are generous—consider sharing if you’re not too hungry.
- Weekends can get crowded, so arrive a bit early.
Evening at Ganga Barrage
Wrap up your day with a relaxing evening at Ganga Barrage. The sunset views over the river are stunning, and the cool breeze is a welcome break. Locals often gather here for walks, street food, and kite flying. Grab a cup of masala chai from a nearby stall and soak in the vibe.
- Try the local 'kulle ki chaat'—a hollowed-out fruit filled with spicy goodness.
- Parking can be chaotic, so consider taking an auto-rickshaw.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Kanpur
A relaxed day exploring Kanpur's hidden gems, from historic markets to local crafts and lesser-known but delicious food spots.
Activities
Morning at Lal Imli Market
Start your day at Lal Imli Market, a bustling local market known for its textiles, especially woolen goods from the nearby Lal Imli factory. It's a great place to pick up affordable shawls, blankets, and fabrics. The market also has small stalls selling local snacks, perfect for a quick bite.
- Bargaining is expected here, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.
- Try the hot samosas from the small stalls near the entrance.
Visit to Blue World Theme Park
Head to Blue World Theme Park, a fun spot for families and those looking for a bit of leisure. It’s not as crowded as major attractions, making it a peaceful place to unwind. The park has rides, a small lake, and plenty of green space to relax.
- Weekdays are less crowded if you prefer a quieter experience.
- Carry water as it can get hot in the afternoon.
Evening at Moti Jheel
Wrap up your day at Moti Jheel, a serene lake surrounded by gardens. It’s a favorite among locals for evening strolls. The area comes alive with street food vendors in the evening, offering everything from chaat to kebabs.
- Try the aloo tikki and dahi vada from the stalls near the lake.
- Visit just before sunset for the best views.