Kanpur Uttar Pradesh, India Travel Guide
Kanpur Airport (KNU), also known as Chakeri Airport, serves the city. It is a domestic airport handling flights from various Indian cities. Airlines include IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Alliance Air. Flights mainly connect Kanpur to primary Indian metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Specific routes can vary, so check current schedules.
No direct international flights operate to Kanpur Airport. International travelers typically fly into primary Indian international airports like Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (DEL), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM), or Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (BLR).
Flight frequency and rates vary seasonally. Peak travel season (winter, October to March) generally sees higher demand and increased prices due to favorable weather.
Booking flights well in advance for peak periods secures better rates. Off-season travel (summer and monsoon) often presents lower prices. Use Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
Kanpur Airport is a relatively small domestic airport with basic facilities. It has a single terminal, check-in counters, and baggage claim. Limited food and beverage stalls are present. Wi-Fi availability can be inconsistent.
Ola and Uber offer transparent pricing straight from your smartphone.
Clearly state your accommodation address to the driver to avoid confusion.
Kanpur Central (CNB) is a major railway junction, one of the busiest in India. It offers extensive connectivity to all major cities across India. You find direct trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Prayagraj, Agra, Varanasi, and many different locations.
Kanpur is a major hub for bus services, a budget-friendly way to travel to nearby cities and states. Services are operated by Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and various private operators. Regular bus services connect Kanpur to urban areas within Uttar Pradesh (like Lucknow, Prayagraj, Agra, Varanasi) and to neighboring states. Major bus stands include Jhakarkati Bus Station and the ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal). Choose from AC (air-conditioned) and Non-AC buses, including Deluxe and Volvo services for more comfort.
If you plan to self-drive, you will need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid home country driving license. Driving inside India presents considerable challenges for most foreign tourists. This includes dense, often chaotic traffic, varied road conditions, a general lack of strict lane discipline, and the presence of pedestrians, animals, and slow-moving vehicles on roads. DiscoverCars.com for car rental options.
Road conditions vary significantly. National highways bridging major cities are generally well-maintained. However, roads within city limits and smaller routes can be congested, uneven, and sometimes poorly maintained. Road laws are often not strictly followed, and defensive driving is important. Night driving on highways can be notably risky due to poor lighting, unmarked vehicles, and stray animals. Drive cautiously and remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
No particular exit fees or taxes are levied on passengers departing from Indian air terminals or railway stations. The expense of your ticket typically includes all required charges. For domestic flights departing from Kanpur Airport, arrive at least 2-3 hours before the scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
For train travel, arrive at Kanpur Central railway station at least 30-45 minutes before your train's departure. Railway platforms can be crowded, and locating your specific platform and coach takes time. Check platform numbers on display boards, as they can change. For bus travel, arrive at the bus stand 15-30 minutes before your bus departure time. This allows you to find your bus and settle in.
The airport provides simple waiting areas and a few food stalls for departing passengers. Amenities are limited, so plan accordingly.
The railway station offers more extensive facilities, including waiting rooms, various food and book stalls, and porters (coolies) for luggage assistance.
Ensure you confirm any charges with porters beforehand at the railway station to avoid misunderstandings.
Reconfirm your flight or train schedule 24-48 hours before departure. This helps account for any last-minute changes or delays.
