There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Kanpur into a quick city adventure. From KNU, the Taxi / Auto-rickshaw can get you into town in around 75 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside KNU
A few things to sort out before you leave KNU:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for India. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Kanpur takes about 75 minutes by Taxi / Auto-rickshaw. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What’s Worth Seeing in Kanpur
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Kanpur, two standouts are:
- JK Temple (Juggilal Kamlapati Temple) — The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
- Nana Rao Park (Company Bagh) — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside KNU — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- KNU Premium Waiting Lounge
- Local Souvenir & Book Shop
Transport from Kanpur Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Auto-rickshaw | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Auto-rickshaw is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Eating Well on a Kanpur Layover
For food in Kanpur, local travelers recommend Little Chef Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Baba Biryani is another popular pick.
Back at KNU, KNU Airport Refreshments is the go-to. Airside Snack Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kanpur might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kanpur.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at KNU, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kanpur itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for India that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at KNU aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kanpur itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KNU has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kanpur is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Kanpur.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.