Bareilly Travel Guide

Discover the cultural, natural, and adventure attractions in Bareilly with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about must-visit places, things to do, where to stay, and local customs.


Introduction to Bareilly

Bareilly, located in the Rohilkhand region of Uttar Pradesh, is a city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and scenic views. It is home to several museums, temples, and parks, making it a popular tourist destination in India. Surrounded by the river Ramganga, Bareilly is also an excellent destination for adventure enthusiasts looking for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

List of Places to Visit in Bareilly

Here are some of the top places to visit in Bareilly:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alakhnath Temple- A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that features intricate carvings and murals.

  • Dhopeshwar Nath Temple- A historic Hindu temple with an ancient architecture style and intricate carvings.

  • Bareilly Fort- A 400-year-old fort that was once the residence of the Rohilla Kings.

  • Butler Palace- A grand heritage home that has been converted into a museum showcasing local history and culture.

  • Mahanth Ganesha Mandir- A popular temple housing a massive idol of Lord Ganesha that attracts devotees from all over the country.

Natural Attractions of Bareilly: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Deer Park- A beautiful park featuring lush greenery, lakes, and wildlife such as deer, peacocks, and birds.

  • Pithoragarh- Known for its stunning natural beauty, trekking routes, and adventure activities such as rock climbing and paragliding.

  • Ramganga River- A scenic river offering opportunities for water activities such as kayaking, rafting, and fishing.

  • Timarni Tal- A vast lake surrounded by hills and forests perfect for picnics and nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bareilly

Bareilly offers several hiking and biking routes, ideal for adventure enthusiasts looking to explore the city’s natural beauty. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Dhomakot-Nainital-Haldwani Circuit- A scenic route through the Kumaon hills that offers spectacular views, forests, and wildlife.

  • Cheena Ranges- Located amidst the Cheena Hills, this route offers hikers an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Bareilly’s lush forests and hills.

  • Mall Road- A popular cycling route with stunning views of the city’s landmarks, monuments, and lush green surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Bareilly: Activities and Tours

Here are some must-do things when visiting Bareilly:

  • Attend the Alakhnath Fair- Held in the Alakhnath Temple, Bareilly, this fair attracts thousands of devotees every year celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Shiva.

  • Explore the local bazaars- Shop for souvenirs and local products in Bareilly’s bustling bazaars such as Bans Mandi, Grain Market, and Kutchery Road.

  • Enjoy street food- Taste the famous chaats, kebabs, and local sweet delicacies of Bareilly in its street food joints such as Tikkiwala and Ashoka Chaat House.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bareilly

Day 1: Visit Alakhnath Temple, Dhopeshwar Nath Temple, and Bareilly Fort

Day 2: Explore the Butler Palace Museum, Deer Park, and Ramganga River

Day 3: Go hiking in the Cheena Ranges and explore its natural beauty

Day 4: Visit Mahanth Ganesha Mandir and take a bike ride on Mall Road

Day 5: Take a day trip to Pithoragarh and go rock climbing or paragliding

Day 6: Visit Timarni Tal and enjoy a picnic in the lush green surroundings

Day 7: Shop for souvenirs in the local bazaars and indulge in street food

Food and Drink Scene of Bareilly

When in Bareilly, do not miss the opportunity to taste its famous cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bareilly ke Biryani- A famous rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables.

  • Muradabadi Dal Kabab- Made from lentils and minced meat, this dish is a popular street food in Bareilly.

  • Iftar Delicacies- During the fasting month of Ramadan, Bareilly is known for its lip-smacking iftar delicacies such as samosas, kebabs, and sweets.

Local Beverages

  • Arhar Ki Dal Ka Sharbat- A refreshing drink made from lentils, sugar, and water.

  • Sharbat-e-Khas- A popular drink made from rose syrup, water, and ice.

  • Nimbu Pani- A refreshing drink made from lemon, water, and sugar.

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

Bareilly offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for tourists, backpackers, and business travelers. Here are some popular options:

  • Hotel Swarn Towers- A luxurious hotel offering comfortable rooms, spa, and fitness center.

  • Hotel Bareilly Palace- Located in the city center, this hotel offers elegant rooms, a restaurant, and a banquet hall.

  • Panth Villa Guest House- A popular guest house offering affordable rooms and excellent service.

  • Oyo 2236 Hotel Crown Station- A budget hotel located in a prime location.

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

Bareilly is known for its intricate handicrafts, textiles, and local products. Here are some popular souvenirs to buy from Bareilly:

  • Bareilly Handicrafts- Items such as handicrafts, pottery, and brassware make great souvenirs to take home.

  • Jhumka Earrings- These beautiful earrings are famous in Bareilly and will make a great gift for someone special.

  • Zari Sarees- Bareilly is famous for its fine quality Zari sarees that are handwoven by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Bareilly

Bareilly has a diverse culture with people of various religions such as Hindi, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian living together. When visiting Bareilly, it is recommended to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Do not forget to remove your shoes when entering a temple or other religious sites, and ask for permission before taking photographs of the locals, especially women.

Best Time to Visit Bareilly

The best time to visit Bareilly is from October to March when the temperature is comfortable and pleasant. The weather during these months is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bareilly

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.

  • Carry a valid identification document with you at all times.

  • Try the local street food and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Engage in any illegal or unethical activities.

  • Take photographs of the locals without their permission.

  • Visit Bareilly during monsoon season (July to September) as heavy rains can cause significant disruptions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bareilly

Bareilly is a relatively safe city, but travelers are advised to take necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid visiting isolated areas alone

  • Keep your belongings safe and under your observation

  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas

Health in Bareilly

Bareilly has good medical facilities, and travelers can easily find qualified doctors and hospitals. However, it is recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and take necessary precautions such as staying hydrated, using mosquito repellent, and avoiding street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

Getting to Bareilly: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bareilly is well-connected to major cities in India with several transportation options such as:

Airports Near Bareilly

  • Pantnagar Airport (85 km)

  • Indira Gandhi International Airport (251 km)

Bus Stations Near Bareilly

  • Bareilly Bus Station

  • Rohilkhand Roadway Bus Station

Other Options

  • Railway- Bareilly Junction Railway Station is well-connected to several major cities in India.

  • Private Taxi- You can also hire a private taxi service to reach Bareilly from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Bareilly

Bareilly has a well-developed transportation system, and tourists can easily get around the city using the following options:

  • Auto-Rickshaws- These are the most popular mode of transportation in Bareilly and are readily available throughout the city.

  • Taxis- Taxis are also available, and you can find them at major bus stands, railway stations, and hotels.

  • Buses- Bareilly has good bus connectivity, and tourists can travel by bus to nearby destinations and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Bareilly: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some popular destinations near Bareilly that you can visit:

  • Nainital- A popular hill station located 140 km from Bareilly, known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities.

  • Lucknow- A city located 250 km from Bareilly, known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and cultural attractions.

  • Varanasi- A historic city located 450 km from Bareilly, known for its ancient temples, vibrant ghats, and spiritual significance.

Conclusion

Bareilly is a beautiful city with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. This comprehensive travel guide provides you with valuable insights to explore the city and its attractions. From museums, heritage sites, outdoor adventures, delicious food, and shopping, Bareilly has something for everyone. So why wait? Plan your next trip to Bareilly and experience this magnificent city for yourself!

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