Things To Do
in Meerut
Meerut is a historic city in western Uttar Pradesh, just northeast of Delhi, blending ancient heritage with a lively modern economy. It is renowned for its bustling markets, traditional crafts, and a distinctive street-food culture that reflects its UP roots. The city played a notable role in the 1857 rebellion, which adds historical gravitas to its old lanes and monuments.
Today, Meerut pulses with educational institutions, manufacturing activity, and a warm, hospitable local scene that invites wandering through its markets and savoring its hearty North Indian flavors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic St. John's Church, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. After exploring the church, stroll through the vibrant local market, where you can savor fresh fruits and traditional snacks. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Meerut by visiting the nearby Augarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling delicious North Indian cuisine like paneer tikka and biryani. Post-lunch, head to the Meerut Museum, which houses an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts and historical exhibits. Spend some time relaxing at the tranquil Gandhi Bagh, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and maybe even catch a glimpse of locals practicing yoga.
As the sun sets, visit the local market again to shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a popular eatery, trying out Meerut's famous chaat and other street food delicacies. Conclude your day by witnessing the vibrant nightlife at a local café, where you can enjoy live music or cultural performances.
Begin your day at the iconic Red Fort, a symbol of Meerut's rich historical past, where you can admire its impressive architecture. After exploring the fort, make your way to the nearby Shahid Smarak, a memorial dedicated to the martyrs of the First War of Independence. Take a moment to reflect on the significance of this site as you roam its grounds.
Savor a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, enjoying local flavors and specialties. Post-lunch, visit the historic site of the First War of Independence, where you can learn about the pivotal events that took place in Meerut. Spend the afternoon wandering through the lush gardens surrounding the site, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
For dinner, head to a traditional food joint known for its kebabs and biryanis, indulging in mouthwatering flavors. After your meal, visit a local cultural center to catch a performance showcasing Meerut's rich artistic heritage. Wrap up your day with a casual walk around the city, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city center | $200-350 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $5-15 |
| 🧥Casual clothing item | $12-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich street-food culture and markets
- Historic sites and a strong sense of local life
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Congested traffic in peak hours and busy markets
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Aap English bolte hain?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Dukaan khuli hai?" - Is the shop open?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Kripya dheere boliye" - Please speak slowly
Places to Visit in Meerut
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic central landmark with busy markets; ideal for capturing city life and atmospheric street scenes.
Historic grounds and temple area offering colorful, candid scenes of local rituals and daily life.
Protected nature area near Meerut great for wildlife and landscape photography, especially at dawn.
Food in Meerut
Meerut Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple breakfast pairing of spiced urad dal-laced bedmi bread with savory potato curry.
Must-Try!
Chickpea curry served with soft, fluffy fried bread; a beloved staple across UP.
Crispy potato patties topped with chutneys, yogurt, and chaat masala for a tangy bite.
Mughlai-style minced meat kebabs often enjoyed with chutney and onions.
Rich milk-based dessert paired with syrupy jalebi for a sweet finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market district where you can sample chaats, kebabs, sweets, and regional snacks.
Historic lanes with condensed clusters of stalls offering quick bites and traditional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste; remove shoes when entering homes or temples; dress modestly around religious sites.
Respect local customs during festivals; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Meerut
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tips of 5–10% are common if service is good; small tips for drivers and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; cards and digital wallets (UPI, PayTM, Google Pay) are common in cities and malls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often between 35–45°C; carry water, wear hats, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Profuse humidity with intermittent heavy rains (July–September); roads can flood in low-lying areas and humidity remains high.
Cool to mild with temperatures commonly from 5–20°C; pack light woolens and enjoy pleasant evenings outdoors.
Meerut at Night
Hiking in Meerut
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nearby nature reserve with walking trails and birdwatching, offering a break from city life.
Rural trails and gentle hikes suitable for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Meerut by plane.
Main international gateway for Delhi; around 110-160 km from Meerut, reachable by road or train.
Domestic airport near Pantnagar, Uttarakhand; roughly 150-180 km from Meerut; convenient for domestic flights.
Lucknow's airport; about 420-500 km from Meerut; longer trip but useful for connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major community in Meerut with a long history in the region.
A significant minority that contributes to the city’s diverse culture, markets, and cuisine.
Largely present in surrounding areas and villages; many residents commute to the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The prevailing sport across schools, clubs, and streets; local matches and domestic games are popular.
Traditional kushti-style wrestling and training gyms are part of the culture in parts of western UP.
Played in schools and community events; a common regional sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meerut.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful; look for dal, paneer, and seasonal vegetables; you can request ghee-free preparations if needed.