Attars, also known as ittars or attar perfumes, are traditional, non-alcoholic perfumes that have been used in India for centuries. The city of Kannauj, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India, is renowned for its production of high-quality attars.

Attars are made by distilling essential oils from flowers, herbs, and other botanical materials. The process of distillation involves heating the raw materials in a large copper still and then collecting the distilled oils that rise to the surface. The distillation process can take several days to complete, and the resulting attar is highly concentrated and long-lasting.

Kannauj is particularly known for its production of attars made from the flowers of the mogra (Jasmine) and kewda (Pandanus odoratissimus) plants. These attars are highly sought after for their delicate and floral scents, and are used in perfumes, incense, and other traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicines.

In addition to mogra and kewda attars, Kannauj is also known for producing attars made from a wide variety of other botanical materials, including sandalwood, rose, and patchouli. Each attar has its own unique scent and therapeutic properties, making them popular not only in perfumery but also in traditional medicine.

Attars from Kannauj are also known for their high quality and purity, as the city has a long tradition of producing attars and has strict guidelines for their production. As a result, Kannauj attars are considered to be some of the best in the world, and are highly valued by perfumers and traditional medicine practitioners alike.

In conclusion, Attars of Kannauj are the traditional, non-alcoholic perfumes made by distilling essential oils from various botanical materials. They are particularly known for their delicate and floral scents, purity, and therapeutic properties, making them highly sought-after by perfumers and traditional medicine practitioners.