Background: Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women globally, despite being largely preventable through early screening and vaccination. In resource-limited settings like Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, socio-economic and cultural factors often hinder awareness and access to preventive measures such as Pap smears and HPV vaccination. Understanding the knowledge levels and barriers to cervical cancer prevention is critical for designing effective public health interventions.Material and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 women aged 18 years and above in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, from July to September 2024. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising two sections: socio-demographic details and a knowledge assessment on cervical cancer and its prevention. Knowledge scores were categorized into four levels: Very Good (>80%), Good (60–79%), Fair (41–59%), and Poor (<40%). Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to evaluate correlations.Results: The study population comprised 68% rural residents, with the majority engaged in homemaking (40%) and agriculture (26%). While 78% correctly identified cervical cancer as cancer of the cervix, only 71% were aware of HPV as a major risk factor, and 78.5% recognized the preventive role of HPV vaccination. Knowledge about Pap smears as a screening tool was high (75%), but only 64% were familiar with screening frequency recommendations. Barriers to screening included socio-cultural stigma (69%) and economic constraints (58%). Knowledge distribution revealed 27% with very good scores, 34% with good scores, 29% with fair scores, and 10% with poor scores.Conclusion: The findings indicate a foundational awareness of cervical cancer among women in Kangra, with significant gaps in comprehensive knowledge and persistent socio-cultural barriers to screening. Addressing these gaps through targeted, culturally appropriate educational campaigns, enhancing accessibility to screening services, and promoting HPV vaccination are imperative to improving cervical cancer prevention and early detection in this community.