Bareilly Travel Guide

Why is Bareilly special?

As a local, I can tell you Bareilly is more than just a transit point; it's a city with a soul, rich in culture and surprisingly green pockets waiting to be discovered.

A blend of old-world charm and burgeoning modernity. The pace is generally relaxed, with bustling market areas contrasting with serene temple complexes and quiet residential streets. It's authentic, unpretentious, and deeply rooted in its heritage.

• Home to the famous 'Jhumka' (earring) and 'Surma' (kohl) traditions, celebrated in local folklore and craftsmanship.
• A significant center for Sufi and Hindu spiritualism, boasting numerous ancient temples and dargahs that draw devotees from far and wide.
• Known for its delicious local cuisine, especially its sweets like 'Balushahi' and 'Petha', and vibrant street food culture.
• A gateway to the Kumaon Himalayas, offering a unique blend of plains and hill culture, making it a culturally rich stopover.

What should you see in Bareilly?

• Fun City

  what locals do

  Families and youngsters flock here for a day of rides, water slides, and general amusement. It's a popular weekend getaway.

  best time

  Late afternoon to evening, especially on weekends, to enjoy the rides and avoid the midday heat.

  cost

  INR 500-800

  local tip

  Wear comfortable clothes and carry a change if you plan to enjoy the water park. Food options inside are decent but can be pricey.

  observation

  A modern amusement park offering a break from traditional sightseeing, popular with children and teenagers.

  Google Maps rating

  4.1

  Address

  Pilibhit Bypass Rd, Chhoti Vihar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243002, India

  View on Google Maps

• Shree Baba Alakhnath Temple

  what locals do

  Devotees visit daily for darshan and prayers, especially during festivals like Maha Shivratri. Many come to offer milk and water to the Shiva lingam.

  best time

  Early morning for Aarti (prayers) or late evening for a peaceful visit.

  cost

  Free

  local tip

  Be respectful of local customs. Remove your shoes before entering the temple premises. Photography might be restricted inside the sanctum.

  observation

  One of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in Bareilly, known for its spiritual ambiance and historical significance.

  Google Maps rating

  4.6

  Address

  State Highway 37, 9CC2+CHR, Phool Bagh, Quilla Chhawni, Phool Bagh, Quilla Chhawni, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243003, India

  View on Google Maps

• Shri Baba Trivati Nath ji Mandir,Bareilly

  what locals do

  A significant pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees, people come to seek blessings and perform rituals. It's particularly busy on Mondays.

  best time

  Morning hours for tranquility, or during evening Aarti for a vibrant spiritual experience.

  cost

  Free

  local tip

  Look for the unique architecture and the serene pond within the temple complex. There are small shops outside selling puja items.

  observation

  Another prominent 'Nath' temple of Bareilly, forming part of the city's spiritual identity with its ancient roots.

  Google Maps rating

  4.7

  Address

  Baba Trivati Nath Mandir Marg, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India

  View on Google Maps

• Shri baba Dhopeshwar Nath ji Temple

  what locals do

  Locals visit this ancient temple, one of the four 'Nath' temples of Bareilly, for daily prayers and special occasions, believing it fulfills wishes.

  best time

  Any time of day, but early mornings are quieter for reflection.

  cost

  Free

  local tip

  Explore the surrounding area, which often has small local vendors selling flowers and offerings.

  observation

  A historically rich temple, offering a glimpse into the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of Bareilly.

  Google Maps rating

  4.7

  Address

  8C8R+26F, End of, Dhopa Rd, Sadar Bazar, Cantonment, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243001, India

  View on Google Maps

• Jhumka Point

  what locals do

  A popular spot for photos and selfies, especially for those familiar with the iconic Bollywood song 'Jhumka Gira Re Bareilly Ke Bazaar Mein'. It's a modern landmark.

  best time

  Late afternoon or evening for the best light and cooler temperatures.

  cost

  Free

  local tip

  It's a relatively new attraction, so expect a crowd, especially on weekends. There are often street food vendors nearby.

  observation

  An artistic installation celebrating Bareilly's cultural association with the 'jhumka' (earring), a fun photo opportunity.

  Google Maps rating

  4.4

  Address

  Madina Masjid Road, Rehpura, Ram Nagar Colony, Dhantiya, Uttar Pradesh 243502, India

  View on Google Maps

• Shri Laxmi Narayan Mandir Bareilly

  what locals do

  A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, locals visit for peaceful prayers and to admire its intricate architecture.

  best time

  Morning or evening during Aarti for a spiritual experience.

  cost

  Free

  local tip

  The temple is known for its serene atmosphere, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection away from the city's bustle.

  observation

  A well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing temple, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Hindu devotional art.

  Google Maps rating

  4.5

  Address

  Bajariya, Puranmal katra, sahukara, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243003, India

  View on Google Maps

• Children's Park

  what locals do

  Families bring their kids here for play, and adults often come for a leisurely stroll or morning exercise. It's a green lung in the city.

  best time

  Early morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather.

  cost

  INR 10-20

  local tip

  Great for a relaxing break, especially if you have kids. There are usually snack vendors outside the park.

  observation

  A well-maintained public park offering recreational facilities and green space for residents.

  Google Maps rating

  4

  Address

  near Kargil Chowk Cantt, Civil Lines, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243001, India

  View on Google Maps

• Panchal Museum

  what locals do

  Students and history enthusiasts visit to learn about the ancient history and culture of the Panchal region, which Bareilly was once part of.

  best time

  During opening hours, typically morning to early afternoon, avoiding public holidays.

  cost

  INR 20-50

  local tip

  Check opening hours before visiting, as they can sometimes vary. It's located within the M.J.P. Rohilkhand University campus.

  observation

  A small but informative museum showcasing artifacts and archaeological finds from the historical Panchal kingdom.

  Google Maps rating

  4.1

  Address

  9FC4+4WC, M.J.P Rohilkahand University, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243006, India

  View on Google Maps

• Bareilly junction view point

  what locals do

  A unique spot for train enthusiasts to observe the bustling Bareilly Junction, one of the significant railway hubs in Uttar Pradesh. Locals might just pass by or pause for a moment.

  best time

  Any time of day, but especially interesting during peak train movement hours.

  cost

  Free

  local tip

  It's more of a functional viewpoint than a dedicated tourist spot. Good for a quick stop if you're interested in infrastructure or local life.

  observation

  Offers a panoramic view of the railway junction, showcasing the city's connectivity and daily rhythm.

  Google Maps rating

  4.4

  Address

  8CQ6+9RX, District Road, Civil Lines, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243001, India

  View on Google Maps

Ratings and opening hours from Google Maps.

What do most visitors miss in Bareilly?

• Bareilly City Main Gate East

  description

  An old, imposing gate that once marked an entrance to the city. It stands as a silent sentinel, reflecting the architectural style of a bygone era.

  how to reach

  Located on Rajau Paraspur, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or local bus. It's a landmark on the eastern side of the city.

  why locals love it

  It's a piece of forgotten history, a reminder of the city's past boundaries and grandeur, often overlooked by tourists.

  sensory detail

  The weathered stone and intricate carvings tell tales of old, standing amidst the modern bustle, a stark contrast of time.

• Ashok pillar

  description

  A smaller, yet significant, replica or historical marker related to the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. It's a quiet historical spot in the heart of Civil Lines.

  how to reach

  Situated in Civil Lines, a central area. Best reached by auto-rickshaw or even a walk if you're exploring the Civil Lines market.

  why locals love it

  It's a subtle nod to India's ancient history, a simple monument that adds character to the urban landscape without being overtly touristy.

  sensory detail

  The cool stone of the pillar, standing amidst green foliage, offers a moment of historical pause in a busy commercial district.

• Vijay Dwar

  description

  Another specific gate in Bareilly, often less frequented than other landmarks. It's a simple, yet aesthetically pleasing archway.

  how to reach

  Located in Civil Lines, it's easily found while exploring the area. Auto-rickshaws are readily available.

  why locals love it

  It's a familiar local landmark, a point of reference that locals pass by daily, embodying a sense of place without being a major attraction.

  sensory detail

  The sturdy archway, often adorned with local posters or banners, feels like a gateway to the everyday life of Bareilly.

• Qila Market

  description

  The bustling, traditional market around the old fort area (Qila). It's a labyrinth of narrow lanes filled with shops selling everything from textiles and spices to traditional Bareilly 'surma' and 'jhumkas'.

  how to reach

  Take an auto-rickshaw to Qila Chowk. From there, explore the market on foot. It's best experienced by walking.

  why locals love it

  It's the heart of traditional Bareilly shopping, where you find authentic local products and experience the city's vibrant commercial spirit.

  sensory detail

  The air is thick with the aroma of spices, the chatter of vendors, and the vibrant colors of fabrics and trinkets, a true feast for the senses.

• Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower)

  description

  A historic clock tower, a central landmark in Bareilly, surrounded by a busy intersection and local shops. It's a hub of activity.

  how to reach

  Located in the heart of the city, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw. It's a well-known point of reference.

  why locals love it

  It's a timeless meeting point and a symbol of the city's enduring heritage, a place where generations have gathered.

  sensory detail

  The rhythmic chime of the clock tower cuts through the constant hum of traffic and street vendors, a comforting sound of the city.

Where should you eat in Bareilly?

• Darbar-E-Khas, A Boutique Hotel

  dish

  North Indian Thali, Mughlai curries

  cost

  INR 800-1200 per person

  area

  Pilibhit Bypass Rd

  what makes special

  Known for its elegant ambiance and refined North Indian and Mughlai cuisine, offering a fine dining experience in Bareilly.

  timing hack

  Go for dinner to enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere. Reservations are recommended on weekends.

• The Green Door

  dish

  Continental breakfast, pastas, gourmet sandwiches

  cost

  INR 400-700 per person

  area

  Pilibhit Bypass Road

  what makes special

  A popular cafe with a chic, modern interior and a diverse menu, perfect for a relaxed meal or coffee.

  timing hack

  Visit during brunch hours on a weekend for a lively atmosphere, or weekdays for a quieter experience.

• ajanta Sweets N Bakes

  dish

  Balushahi, Petha, Samosa, Jalebi

  cost

  INR 100-300 per person

  area

  Rampur Garden

  what makes special

  A local institution for traditional Indian sweets and savory snacks. Their 'Balushahi' is a must-try.

  timing hack

  Go in the morning for freshly made sweets and hot snacks. It gets busy during festivals.

• Quaci 2D Cafe

  dish

  Coffee, shakes, quick bites (burgers, fries)

  cost

  INR 300-500 per person

  area

  Rajendra Nagar

  what makes special

  A uniquely themed cafe with 2D cartoon-like interiors, offering a fun and Instagrammable dining experience.

  timing hack

  Ideal for an afternoon coffee break or a casual evening snack. It's a hit with youngsters.

• PIND BALLUCHI

  dish

  Dal Makhani, Butter Chicken, Amritsari Kulcha

  cost

  INR 600-900 per person

  area

  Deen Dayal Puram

  what makes special

  Offers authentic Punjabi cuisine in a rustic, village-themed ambiance, known for its rich flavors and generous portions.

  timing hack

  Perfect for a hearty North Indian dinner. Expect a wait on weekend evenings.

• Deenanath Lassi and lunch Centre

  dish

  Sweet Lassi, Chole Bhature, Aloo Tikki

  cost

  INR 150-300 per person

  area

  Civil Lines

  what makes special

  A no-frills, local favorite for refreshing lassi and delicious, affordable street food and simple meals.

  timing hack

  Best for a quick, authentic lunch or an afternoon snack. Their lassi is particularly popular in summer.

• Bajrang Dhaba

  dish

  Tandoori Roti, Paneer Butter Masala, Dal Fry

  cost

  INR 250-450 per person

  area

  Sanjay Nagar, Pilibhit Bypass Rd

  what makes special

  A classic dhaba experience offering robust and flavorful North Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a casual setting.

  timing hack

  Great for a late lunch or early dinner. It's a popular stop for travelers on the bypass road.

• The Grey House (Cafe | Terrace | Lounge) | Grey Courtyard

  dish

  Pizzas, mocktails, continental appetizers

  cost

  INR 500-800 per person

  area

  Janakpuri

  what makes special

  A trendy cafe and lounge with a vibrant terrace, offering a modern menu and a lively atmosphere, especially popular in the evenings.

  timing hack

  Visit in the evening to enjoy the terrace seating and the energetic vibe. They often have music.

For the freshest sweets and street food, hit the local stalls and bakeries in the morning; for a relaxed meal, evenings are best at cafes and restaurants.

How much does a day in Bareilly cost?

How do you get around Bareilly?

• Auto-rickshaws

  details

  Widely available and convenient for short to medium distances within the city. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey or insist on meter.

  cost

  INR 50-200 per ride

• Cycle Rickshaws

  details

  Best for short distances in crowded market areas where larger vehicles cannot go. An eco-friendly and traditional way to explore.

  cost

  INR 20-50 per ride

• Ride-sharing Apps (Ola/Uber)

  details

  Limited availability compared to larger cities, but can be found for cabs. Offers convenience and transparent pricing.

  cost

  INR 100-400 per ride

• Local Buses

  details

  An extensive network connecting various parts of the city. Cheapest option but can be crowded and confusing for first-timers.

  cost

  INR 10-50 per ride

When is the best time to visit Bareilly?

• October to March offers pleasant, cool weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, and monsoons (July to September) bring heavy rainfall, making travel less comfortable.

What should you pack for Bareilly?

• Light cotton clothing for comfort, especially during warmer months.
• A light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings, especially from November to February.
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring temples and markets.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the sun.
• Insect repellent, especially if visiting during monsoon or evenings.
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

What does a trip to Bareilly look like?