1. A Tranquil Witness To History's Victims
Kanpur's major park has a fascinating history, and one which illuminates the nation's past like few other locations. After the "Indian Mutiny" of 1857, the British turned it into a memorial to British civilians who died in the uprising. When India gained independence, it became a memorial to the far greater number of Indians executed in the park by the British as punishment for the revolt. These days, the park is full of statues of independence icons and is a relaxing place to spend time.
2. A Monument To Modern Hindu Holiness
Located in the western part of central Kanpur, the Shri Radhakrishna Temple (also known as the J.K. Temple) is the city's most beautiful Hindu place of worship. It's also a testament to the desire to recreate sacred Hindu art and architecture in modern India. Although it looks centuries old, the temple only dates back to 1960. This means there is modern lighting and ventilation, while the five shrines retain a timeless feel in keeping with the holiness of the temple.
3. Ideal For Animal Addicts
Often referred to as Kanpur Zoo, Allen Forest can be found a mile or two northwest of the city center, clustered around a purpose built lake, and is a must for animal lovers. Laid out across 77 acres by a British scientist called, predictably, Sir Allen Forest, the zoo remains true to his ideal of a forest filled with wildlife, as close to their natural habitat as possible. Exotic species abound, including cheetahs, rhinos, leopards, jaguars, bears, hippos, and chimpanzees. Don't be alarmed if you stumble upon something far larger, as a series of dinosaur sculptures are also dotted around the park.
4. Go Hell For Leather To This Intriguing Suburb
Possibly Kanpur's most engaging suburb, Jajmau is situated a short distance southeast of the city center, on the banks of the Ganges. Its claim to fame is simple. For thousands of years, craftsmen in the area have been master leatherworkers, creating all kinds of clothing, armor, furnishings and more. If you want to pick up some recent products, head to Lal Bungla, the suburb's commercial hub, but it's worth exploring the whole area. From the twin temples of Siddhnath and Siddha Devi, to the digs at ancient Siddhapuri and the mausoleum of Sufi saint Makhdoom Shah Ala-ul-Haq, there's plenty to see.
5. Kanpur's Christian Hub
Kanpur's major Christian place of worship rounds off a tour of the town's diverse spiritual centers. It reflects modern India's inclusiveness, but is interesting in its own right. Located on Albert Lane, the church was erected by the British in 1875 - again as a memorial to the dead of the 1857 rebellion. Appearing more like a northern Italian cathedral than something on the Gangetic plain, it's a beautiful, if jarring, addition to the city's attractions.
