Things To Do
in Bareilly
Bareilly is a historic and bustling city in western Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its markets, crafts, and warm hospitality. The old town hums with street-food aromas, textile workshops, and centuries-old mosques and temples. It serves as a gateway to rural Uttar Pradesh while offering a mix of traditional dhabas, modern cafes, and lively bazaars.
Visitors can explore centuries-old crafts like zardozi embroidery and sample hearty North Indian dishes along busy lanes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the famous Alakhnath Temple, where the morning sun casts a serene glow on the sacred site. Afterward, stroll through the bustling streets of Bareilly, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere as locals start their day. Don't forget to stop by a local chai stall for a refreshing cup of tea, accompanied by traditional snacks.
In the afternoon, head to the Bareilly Fort, where you can explore the remnants of this historical structure while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After your exploration, visit the nearby Jagannath Temple, known for its intricate architecture and tranquil ambiance. Sample delicious local cuisine at a nearby eatery, trying out dishes like kebabs and biryani.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Ramganga River, where you can witness the beautiful reflections of the city lights on the water. Find a cozy spot at a riverside café to enjoy a cup of coffee and indulge in some people-watching. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bazaar, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Start your day with a visit to the Bareilly Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and heritage of the region through fascinating exhibits. Take your time exploring the artifacts and learning about the cultural significance of each piece. The peaceful atmosphere of the museum makes it a perfect spot to absorb the local history.
In the afternoon, visit the Dargah of Baba Nakkh, a revered Sufi shrine that offers a glimpse into the spiritual side of Bareilly. The architecture and the serene ambiance will provide a reflective space for your thoughts. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café and engage with locals to hear their stories of the city.
As evening approaches, attend a cultural performance at a local theater, where you can experience traditional music and dance forms from the region. The vibrant performances will give you an insight into the rich artistic heritage of Bareilly. After the show, grab dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of North Indian cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍝Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $10-20 |
| 💧Water (1.5L) | $0.40-0.60 |
| 🚌Local transport (1 ride) | $0.25-0.70 |
| 🏨1-night at a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich markets and crafts that are easy to explore on foot
- Affordable food and accommodations
- Warm hospitality and easy access from Delhi and Lucknow
- Good base for exploring rural Uttar Pradesh
- Limited nightlife and fewer nightlife venues
- Summer heat can be intense
- Occasional traffic congestion in busy markets
- Smaller-scale tourism infrastructure than metro cities
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Bareilly
Visit one of these nice places.
A spiritually rich site with domes and courtyards ideal for morning golden light and evening silhouettes.
A tranquil lakeside setting with waterbirds and reed beds—great for wildlife and sunset photography.
Narrow lanes, colorful storefronts, and shoppers under warm neon lighting make compelling street photography.
Food in Bareilly
Bareilly Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked beef or mutton curry simmered with spices, often enjoyed with naan or paratha.
Must-Try!
Yogurt-based curry served over spicy rice, a comforting North Indian classic.
Marinated paneer chunks grilled to smoky perfection, commonly served with chutney.
Crushed samosas topped with chutney, yogurt, onions, and spices for a tangy bite.
Slow-simmered kidney beans in a spiced gravy with rice, a hearty staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Packed with stalls offering chaat, samosas, parathas, and kebabs from late morning into night.
Markets near the textile hubs where you can grab quick vegetarian thali and kebabs between shopping.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms: modest clothing in crowded spaces and religious sites.
Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques; use your right hand for giving and receiving.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in sacred spaces, and respect private areas.
Safety
Tipping in Bareilly
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave about 5–10% if service is not included. Small tips to hotel staff, porters, and taxi drivers are common but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept cards and mobile wallets in larger establishments. Have small change handy for street vendors and rickshaws.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April to June sees hot, often humid days with temperatures commonly in the 35–45°C range. Carry water, sunscreen, light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
July to September brings heavy humidity and frequent rain; roads can flood in low-lying areas. Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
October to February is cool to mild, with temperatures ranging from 8–22°C. Warm layers are recommended, especially at night.
March and early April offer pleasant weather with blooming trees; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Bareilly at Night
Hiking in Bareilly
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside hike along the Tons river with forested slopes; suitable for a half-day outing.
A day trip toward the northern hills with overlooks and gentle trails near the Nainital region; ideal for a nature break from the city.
Airports
How to reach Bareilly by plane.
Major gateway in the region with domestic and limited international flights; road or rail connections to Bareilly are straightforward.
Smaller regional airport offering limited services; useful for certain domestic routes and a scenic detour toward the hills.
Major international hub with broad connections; a common transit point for international travelers to Bareilly via train or road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The city has a diverse population with a long tradition of religious coexistence; you’ll see mosques, temples, and dargahs throughout the city.
A mix of traders and artisans, especially in textiles and embroidery workshops.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region with local clubs and matches played across age groups.
Popular in schools and street play; weekend games are common in parks.
A favorite indoor sport with many community courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bareilly.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options abound; look for chana, paneer, dal-based dishes, and dairy-rich curries. Request no ghee or dairy if needed; many dishes can be made dairy-free on request.