Rohilkhand Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Rohilkhand with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the cultural and natural attractions, try local cuisines, and discover nearby destinations.


Introduction to Rohilkhand

Located in the plains of Uttar Pradesh, Rohilkhand boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Rohilkhand offers an array of attractions and activities to enjoy.

List of Places to Visit in Rohilkhand

  • Culturally Important Attractions:

    • Katra Kala: A historical fort located in Budaun, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

    • Raza Library: A renowned library in Rampur that boasts a vast collection of ancient manuscripts, books, and Mughal artifacts.

    • Ahmed Ali Khan’s Palace: A splendid palace in Moradabad that blends the architectural styles of Mughal, Rajput, and British empires.

  • Natural Attractions of Rohilkhand:

    • Jim Corbett National Park: A sprawling reserve that features a diverse wildlife population, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.

    • Chuka Beach: A scenic beach located near Bareilly, which is perfect for relaxation and picnics.

    • Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary: A sanctuary in Unnao that is home to over 250 species of migratory birds.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Rohilkhand has a rich and diverse cultural history, which is evident in its numerous museums and historical sites. These are a few of the must-visit attractions in Rohilkhand.

Katra Kala

Katra Kala is an ancient fort located in the city of Budaun. This historical site is famous for its Indo-Islamic architecture, which is a fusion of Mughal and Rajput styles. The fort is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset and offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Raza Library

Founded in 1774, the Raza Library is one of the oldest and largest libraries in India. It is located in the city of Rampur and boasts a vast collection of ancient manuscripts, books, and Mughal artifacts. Visitors can browse through the library’s impressive collection and learn about Indian history and culture.

Ahmed Ali Khan’s Palace

Located in Moradabad, this splendid palace is a fine example of the fusion of Mughal, Rajput, and British architectural styles. The palace is known for its intricate carvings, paintings, and artifacts. Visitors can explore the palace and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Natural Attractions of Rohilkhand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Rohilkhand is home to several natural attractions that offer breathtaking views and an array of outdoor activities. These are a few of the must-visit natural attractions in Rohilkhand.

Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is a sprawling reserve located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The park is home to a diverse wildlife population, including Bengal tigers, elephants, and leopards. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, bird watching, and nature walks in this beautiful natural wonder.

Chuka Beach

Located near Bareilly, Chuka Beach is a scenic beach that is perfect for relaxation and picnics. The beach offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for water sports and recreation.

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is a sanctuary located in Unnao and is home to over 250 species of migratory birds. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, nature walks, and wildlife photography in this serene natural habitat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rohilkhand

Rohilkhand has several hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the landscape and an excellent workout. These are a few of the popular routes for hiking and biking in Rohilkhand.

  • Bareilly-Bhimtal Road: A scenic road that connects Bareilly to Bhimtal and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Moradabad-Bijnor Road: A challenging biking route that passes through dense forests and hills and offers a chance to explore several historical sites.

  • Haldwani-Bhimtal Road: An easy hiking route that passes through charming villages and scenic hills and offers a chance to enjoy nature at its best.

Best Things to Do in Rohilkhand: Activities and Tours

Rohilkhand offers several exciting activities and tours that provide a chance to experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the region. These are a few of the best things to do in Rohilkhand.

  • Trekking and Hiking: Rohilkhand has several scenic trails that offer an excellent opportunity for trekking and hiking.

  • Jeep Safaris: Jeep safaris offer a chance to explore Jim Corbett National Park and spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife.

  • Cultural Tours: Rohilkhand is known for its rich cultural heritage, and cultural tours offer a chance to explore the region’s history and traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rohilkhand

Day 1: Arrive in Moradabad and explore Ahmed Ali Khan’s Palace and the city’s lively bazaars.

Day 2-3: Head to Jim Corbett National Park and enjoy jeep safaris, bird watching, and nature walks.

Day 4-5: Visit Budaun and explore Katra Kala and other historical sites in the city.

Day 6-7: Visit Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary and enjoy bird watching and nature walks.

Food and Drink Scene of Rohilkhand

The food and drink scene of Rohilkhand is vibrant and diverse, with an array of traditional and modern cuisines and beverages to try. These are a few of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Rohilkhand.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Galouti Kebab: A popular non-vegetarian dish made with finely minced meat and spices.

  • Biryani: A fragrant rice dish that is typically served with meat, vegetables, or eggs.

  • Kachori: A deep-fried pastry stuffed with lentils, spices, and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Lassi: A refreshing yogurt-based drink that is perfect for hot summer days in Rohilkhand.

  • Sattu: A nutritious drink made with roasted gram flour and water, which is perfect for breakfast or a light snack.

Where to Stay in Rohilkhand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rohilkhand offers several accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts. These are a few of the best places to stay in Rohilkhand.

  • Rampur: Hotel Maulya Palace

  • Bareilly: Hotel Swarn Towers

  • Moradabad: Clarks Inn

What to Buy in Rohilkhand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Rohilkhand is famous for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and spices. These are a few of the must-buy souvenirs and local products to bring home.

  • Brassware and Copperware

  • Handicrafts and Textiles

  • Spices and Dry Fruits

Local Culture and Customs of Rohilkhand

Rohilkhand has an ancient and rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. These are a few of the local customs and traditions of Rohilkhand.

  • Attire: Dress conservatively and avoid revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

  • Greeting: Use the traditional Indian greeting of “Namaste” when meeting local people.

Best Time to Visit Rohilkhand

The best time to visit Rohilkhand is between October to March when the weather is pleasant and mild. Summers (April - June) can be hot and humid, while monsoons (July - September) can be wet and unpredictable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rohilkhand

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions

  • Tip service staff at hotels and restaurants

Don’t:

  • Drink and drive

  • Engage in unethical activities such as poaching or littering

Safety and Health

Rohilkhand is a safe destination, but visitors should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and health.

Safety in Rohilkhand

  • Avoid traveling alone at night

  • Be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas

Health in Rohilkhand

  • Drink bottled water

  • Carry insect repellent and sunscreen

Getting to Rohilkhand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rohilkhand is well-connected to major cities in India and can be reached via road, rail, and air.

Airports Near Rohilkhand

  • Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi

  • Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow

Bus Stations Near Rohilkhand

  • Moradabad Bus Stand

  • Bareilly Bus Stand

  • Rampur Bus Stand

Other Options

  • Train: Rohilkhand has several railheads that connect it to major cities in India.

  • Taxi: Taxis and cabs are readily available in Rohilkhand and are a convenient mode of transportation.

How to Get Around in Rohilkhand

Rohilkhand can be explored via road and offers several transportation options such as taxis, cabs, and buses. Visitors can also rent a bike or car and explore the region independently.

Where to Go Next from Rohilkhand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rohilkhand is located in close proximity to several popular tourist destinations in India. These are a few of the nearby destinations and excursions from Rohilkhand.

  • Nainital: A charming hill station located in the Himalayas and is famous for its scenic views and tourist attractions.

  • Agra: Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Taj Mahal, Agra is a popular destination that is only a few hours’ drive from Rohilkhand.

  • Jaipur: Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a vibrant city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and several tourist attractions.

Conclusion

Rohilkhand is a beautiful and fascinating region that offers an insight into India’s rich culture and heritage. Visitors to Rohilkhand can explore historical sites, national parks, and scenic views while enjoying warm hospitality and delicious local cuisines. Plan your trip today and experience the wonders of Rohilkhand!