Kannauja

Kannauja, also spelled Kannauj or Kanauj, is a historic city and the administrative headquarters of Kannauj district in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is located in the western part of the state, in the Doab region between the Ganges and Yamuna rivers. The city has a long recorded history and has repeatedly been a political and cultural center at various times.

Historically, Kannauja rose to prominence in ancient and early medieval India. It was a capital under Emperor Harsha in the 7th century and later remained an important regional center under successive dynasties. The city is frequently mentioned in traditional Indian chronicles and has long been recognized as a major hub of commerce, learning, and political power in the region.

In modern times Kannauja is known for its traditional industries, especially the perfume trade. The city has a centuries‑old reputation for producing attars and other essential oils, contributing to its title as a center of fragrance manufacturing. Agriculture and small-scale manufacturing also form important parts of the local economy.

Administratively, Kannauja serves as the district headquarters and is governed as part of Uttar Pradesh’s state administration. The urban area is served by a municipal council and is connected to surrounding towns and cities by road and rail, with rail links and regional bus networks connecting to larger urban centers in the state.