Delhi, the capital of India, and Kanpur, a key industrial city in Uttar Pradesh, are both rich in culture, history, and economic influence. Both of the cities are rich in culture, history, and economic influence. These two cities are popular choices for road trips, whether you are traveling for business or leisure.
Covering an approximate Delhi to Kanpur distance of 480–500 km, this road journey offers scenic pit stops and hassle-free expressways. Depending on your route and halts, the drive usually takes around 7 to 9 hours.

Thinking of hitting the road? Book a comfortable Delhi to Kanpur cab or taxi and enjoy a smooth, flexible ride at your convenience.
Road Distance Between Delhi and Kanpur
Depending on the route chosen and following traffic patterns, the distance between Delhi to Kanpur ranges from 480 km to 500 km. Most of the time, travelers choose the Yamuna Expressway or NH 19 because of better road quality and faster travel time.
It takes about 7 to 9 hours by road, but the time can vary during peak hours or festive days. To experience a smooth drive, it is ideal to start the journey early in the morning.
Planning a road trip during winter or post-monsoon is highly recommended, as the weather is pleasant and the roads are more navigable. You can use Google Maps to monitor traffic live and toll plazas.
The Best Chosen Route For Your Road Trip From Delhi to Kanpur
The most preferred road routes taken by travelers to Kanpur from Delhi are:

Route 1: Via Yamuna Expressway & NH 19 (Recommended)
Approximate Distance: 529 km
Route Taken: Delhi →Greater Noida→Agra→Etawah→Kanpur
Benefits: High-speed highway with smooth roads for driving and better toll management.
This route is taken mainly for traveling fast and is ideal for premium vehicles and family trips.

Route 2: NH 44
Approximate Distance: 487 km
Route Taken: Delhi→Aligarh→Mainpuri→Kannauj→Kanpur
Benefit: You will drive through rural landscapes with scenic views.
This route suits motorcyclists enjoying leisurely rides.
Driving Tip: While both of the routes are safe, the Expressway is faster and has better road maintenance of the roads. Always keep changes and FASTag recharged for tolls, and check Google Maps for real-time updates before departure.
Distance & Travel Tips When Going by Cab or Personal Car
Cab or Car Travel from Delhi to Kanpur: What You Need to Know
The Delhi to Kanpur distance by car remains consistent with road estimates of 480–500 km, and the journey duration is about 8 hours on average.
Why choose a cab for your Delhi to Kanpur Road Trip?
- You will get the freedom to stop at various locations to enjoy the scenic views and create memories.
- You can relax by enjoying the passenger seat and not worrying about driving.
- You can book fleets as per your needs and comfort.
- Cabs are ideal for family trips, senior citizens who want to travel, and also if you travel for business.
Estimated Cab Fare:
- One-way cab from Delhi to Kanpur: ₹4,000 – ₹7,000 (depends on car type)
- Round-trip or day rental packages are also available
Trusted providers like ChikuCab offer flexible options, including one-way cabs, outstation round trips, or tempo travelers for group travel.

Comparing Travel Options: Bus, Train, and Flight from Delhi to Kanpur
A. Train Travel: Efficient & Affordable
Delhi to Kanpur train routes are among the busiest in North India.
Trains like Vande Bharat, Shatabdi Express, Rajdhani, and Prayagraj Express offer daily services.
Duration: 5 to 6 hours on average
Booking: Easily available on IRCTC or railway booking apps
Best for: Budget travelers, solo commuters
B. Flight Travel: Time-Saving but Limited
Delhi to Kanpur flights are limited but available.
Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours of flight time
Airports: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Kanpur Airport (KNU)
Airport Distance: Kanpur Airport is about 17 km from the city center
Fare: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 depending on time of booking
Booking: Many apps are available for both iOS and Android Users. You can also book flights through various airline websites.
C. Bus Travel: Economical and Well-Connected
Delhi to Kanpur buses are frequently available via both government and private operators.
Options include Volvo, AC sleeper, and non-AC seater buses
Duration: 9 to 12 hours, depending on route and traffic
Booking: Available on various mobile apps and the UPSRTC website
Travel Mode Comparison Table:
Mode | Duration | Cost(Approx.) | Comfort | Booking Ease |
Car/Cab | 7–9 hrs | ₹4,000– ₹7,000 | High | Easy |
Train | 5–6hrs | ₹300– ₹1,200 | Moderate | IRCTC |
Flight | 1.5hrs | ₹2,000–₹5,000 | High | Airline Sites |
Bus | 9–12hrs | ₹500–₹1,200 | Moderate | Bus Portals |
Attractions & Eateries Stops Along the Route
Exciting Stops Between Delhi and Kanpur
Making the journey fun is all about where you stop!
Agra: Home of the Taj Mahal, perfect for a short detour along the way
Etawah Safari Park: Great for families and nature lovers to visit
Mathura & Vrindavan: Ideal for spiritual travelers and Krishna devotees
Foodie Favourites:
Highway Masala: Famous for Chhole Bhature and a variety of North Indian and South Indian Cuisine with breakfast arrangements.
Bikanervala: A well-known North-Indian food chain serving sizzling chaats and South-Indian cuisine.
Hie Five Dhaba: A must-try spot for vegetarians. Palak Paneer and Lachha Paratha are recommended the best.
Handy Travel Tips Before Hitting the Road
Make Your Delhi-Kanpur Road Trip Smooth!
Here are essential tips to enhance your road journey:
- Start early morning to skip Delhi’s rush hour
- Carry ID proof and extra cash for tolls
- Keep snacks, water, and a power bank in case
- Refuel at major pumps near Agra and Etawah
- Download offline maps in case of low connectivity
- Wear light cotton in summer and layer up in winter
Plan smart and your road trip will be as enjoyable as the destination itself!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. What is the total distance covered from Delhi to Kanpur by road?
The total distance ranges between 480 to 500 km, basically depending on your chosen route.
Q2. Which is the fastest mode to reach Kanpur from Delhi?
Air Transport is the fastest mode to reach Kanpur from Delhi in about 1.5 hours, but train, bus, and road routes are more flexible.
Q3. Are direct trains from Delhi to Kanpur available or not?
Yes, multiple trains, including Shatabdi and Rajdhani, are available daily from Delhi to Kanpur.
Q4. How long does it take to reach Kanpur from Delhi to Kanpur by cab?
It takes around 8 hours to reach Kanpur from Delhi, depending on traffic.
Wrap-Up: Plan Your Next Trip from Delhi to Kanpur
Traveling from Delhi to Kanpur has been a lot easier to cover as there are many travelling options available. Whether you are a leisure traveler from Delhi to Kanpur by car or a train traveller, there is an option for every traveler.
So, are you ready for a ride of comfort and peace with scenic routes?
Book your cab for the Delhi to Kanpur Road Trip today and experience a journey full of comfort and memories!
I’m a wanderer who loves venturing on to unknown and unseen places. I explore freely to various fun and adventurous places, whether it be spiritual temple tours, captivating landscapes, and more. I wonder around in search of hidden gems and tourist attractions, temples, and other places.