Kannauj is a historic city located in Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its rich heritage and famous perfume industry. It lies approximately 120 kilometers west of Lucknow and about 90 kilometers east of Kanpur, making it a popular destination for cultural and business travelers.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kannauj from nearby cities and major transport hubs. You will learn about train, bus, car travel options, step-by-step planning, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Major Cities to Kannauj – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and affordable way to reach Kannauj, especially from Lucknow, Kanpur, and Delhi. The Kannauj railway station is well connected but has limited direct trains from some cities.

• Kannauj Railway Station (KJN) lies on the Kanpur-Lucknow line, with daily trains connecting to Lucknow (approx 3 hours) and Kanpur (approx 2 hours), fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on class.

• From Delhi, you can take a train to Kanpur or Lucknow and then a connecting train or road transport to Kannauj; direct trains to Kannauj from Delhi are rare and may require advance booking via IRCTC.

• Train frequency is moderate, with more trains during weekdays; weekends and festival seasons see higher crowding, so book tickets early to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Station facilities are basic; expect limited food stalls and seating. It helps to carry water and snacks, especially during summer or monsoon when delays can occur.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to track waterlogging near Kannauj; plan extra travel time during July-September.

Bus

Buses offer flexible travel options to Kannauj from nearby cities and towns. State-run and private buses operate regularly, connecting Kannauj to Lucknow, Kanpur, and other parts of Uttar Pradesh.

• Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) runs frequent buses from Lucknow’s Charbagh Bus Station to Kannauj, with journey times around 3 to 4 hours and fares between ₹80 and ₹150.

• From Kanpur, private and state buses depart from Kanpur Central Bus Stand, taking about 2.5 to 3.5 hours to reach Kannauj, with fares typically ₹70 to ₹120.

• Buses run every 30 to 60 minutes during the day, but frequency reduces after sunset; night buses are limited, so plan daytime travel for safety and convenience.

• Road conditions on NH34 and connecting state highways are generally good, but toll plazas and traffic congestion near Lucknow and Kanpur can cause delays during peak hours.

• Monsoon rains may affect road quality and cause slower travel; avoid traveling during heavy rainstorms or late evenings in the rainy season.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Kannauj offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions or travel on your own schedule. The city is accessible via national and state highways.

• From Lucknow, take NH34 west towards Kannauj, covering about 120 km in approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic; tolls apply on some highway stretches.

• From Kanpur, the route via NH34 east covers roughly 90 km and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours; watch for local traffic and occasional roadworks near towns.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be booked via Ola, Uber, or local cab services; prepaid taxis are recommended to avoid fare disputes and ensure safety.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available along the highway, with dhabas offering local snacks and refreshments; plan breaks especially if traveling with family.

• During monsoon, some rural roads near Kannauj may get slippery or waterlogged; check weather and road conditions before starting your journey.

Flight

Kannauj does not have its own airport. The nearest airports are in Lucknow and Kanpur, from where you can continue by train, bus, or car.

• Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow is about 120 km from Kannauj, with flights connecting to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities; travel time to Kannauj by road is around 3 hours.

• Kanpur Airport is smaller, with limited flights mostly to Delhi; it is approximately 90 km from Kannauj and reachable by taxi or bus in about 2.5 hours.

• From either airport, pre-booked taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are the safest and most convenient options to reach Kannauj directly.

• Airport shuttle services to Lucknow city are available, but onward transport to Kannauj requires separate arrangements; plan your transfers carefully to avoid long waits.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling to Kannauj for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common issues.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or UPSRTC websites to secure seats, especially during festivals or weekends when demand is high.

• If arriving by flight, arrange a prepaid taxi or app-based cab from Lucknow or Kanpur airport to Kannauj to avoid bargaining or unsafe rides.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as local transport and station facilities may be limited during travel.

• Check the weather forecast before departure; avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains or foggy winter mornings to prevent delays.

• Use Google Maps or local apps to track your route and estimated arrival time, and share your travel plan with family or friends for safety.

• On arrival in Kannauj, use local auto-rickshaws or cycle rickshaws for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand or use meter-based autos where available.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of safe drinking water and avoid street food during travel to prevent stomach issues common in Indian journeys.

• Use trusted online platforms like IRCTC for train bookings and UPSRTC for bus tickets to avoid scams and fake tickets.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid traveling alone late at night, especially on less crowded trains or buses.

• Local transport in Kannauj includes autos and cycle rickshaws; always agree on fares before starting your ride to avoid overcharging.

• Pack light luggage as crowded trains and buses have limited space; use sturdy bags with locks to protect your belongings.

• During summer, carry sunscreen and hats as temperatures can rise above 40°C; in winter, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so dress accordingly.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kannauj is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and travel conditions are comfortable. Summers can be very hot, and monsoon rains may disrupt road and rail services.

Planning your travel outside major festivals like Diwali and Holi will help you avoid heavy traffic and crowded transport.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of July to September due to possible road waterlogging and train delays in the region.

• Winter fog in December and January can cause train delays, especially in early morning hours; plan to travel later in the day if possible.

• Peak festival periods like Diwali see a surge in travelers; book tickets well in advance and expect crowded trains and buses.

• Early morning departures from Lucknow or Kanpur help avoid city traffic and ensure smoother road travel to Kannauj.

Arrival at Kannauj & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kannauj railway station or bus stand, you will find basic facilities and local transport options such as auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws. The city center is about 2 to 3 kilometers from the station, easily reachable by these local vehicles.

Accommodation options are available near the city market and main roads, ranging from budget hotels to guesthouses. It is advisable to book your stay in advance during festival seasons. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are limited, so negotiate fares carefully or ask your hotel to arrange transport.

Conclusion

Traveling to Kannauj is straightforward with several options available depending on your budget and convenience. Train travel is economical and connects well with nearby cities, while buses provide flexible schedules. Driving offers comfort and freedom, especially if you want to explore the region.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging reliable local transport will make your journey to Kannauj smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and experience the rich culture and heritage of Kannauj without stress.