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Famous Landmarks in Bareilly

Famous Landmarks in Bareilly

Bareilly Uttar Pradesh, India Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat is a prominent Islamic shrine honoring Ahmed Raza Khan, a revered Islamic scholar and Sufi saint. It is a significant pilgrimage site for followers. The dargah is known for its distinct Indo-Islamic architecture, intricate calligraphy, and spiritual ambiance. Visitors often come to offer prayers and seek blessings.

Ahmed Raza Khan (1856–1921) formerly was an influential figure whose teachings emphasized traditional Sunni Islam and Sufism. The dargah is a thriving legacy of his spiritual and intellectual contributions.

Nath Temples & Bareilly Cantt

  • Bareilly is "Nath Nagri" due to five ancient Shiva temples.
  • Four temples are at city corners; a fifth, Jagannath Temple, is central.
  • Bareilly Cantt is a historical British-established area.
  • It features colonial-era architecture and green avenues.

Visitor Information & Tips

Access & Fees

  • Religious sites: Daily 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
  • Museums: Typically 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, not Open on mondays.
  • Entry to most religious sites is free.
  • Cultural institutions could charge a nominal entry fee.
  • Formal guided tours are not common; arrange a local guide via your hotel.
  • A local guide offers personalized exploration and insights.

Best Viewing & Photography

  • Seek permission before photographing individuals, notably at places of worship.
  • Early mornings or late afternoons offer best light and fewer crowds.
  • Maintain respectful demeanor, particularly at holy places.
  • Weekdays, mornings or mid-afternoons, are less crowded.

Avoid peak prayer times at religious sites for tranquility. Bareilly is flat, so viewpoints are within architectural courtyards.

Museums & Culture

  • Bareilly Museum: Repository for archaeological and cultural heritage.
  • Collections from antiquity Ahichchhatra, sculptures, coins, paintings.
  • Museum closes Mondays and public holidays; nominal entry fee.
  • Limited dedicated art galleries or specialized museums.

Historical Sites

  • Ahichchhatra (50 km away):

    Ancient city, capital from the northern part of Panchala kingdom. Ruins include fortifications and temples. Open during daylight hours, no formal entry fee. Requires private vehicle.

  • Old City/Qila Market:

    Features traditional Indian architecture, narrow lanes, old havelis reflecting pre-colonial past.

  • Bareilly Cantt:

    Showcases distinct colonial-era bungalows and military buildings, British architectural influence.

  • Religious Sites:

    Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat and Nath Temples spiritual landscape. Few other memorial sites.

  • Industrial/Military:

    Cantt represents military heritage. No significant industrial sites open to tourists.

Natural Attractions

Bareilly's natural attractions are mainly modest parks and nearby wildlife areas.

Parks, Wildlife, & Waterways

  • Company Garden (Phool Bagh)

    Historical garden for relaxation and picnics, with walking paths.

  • Children's Park

    Smaller park with playground equipment for families.

  • Fun City

    Amusement and water park with recreational green spaces.

  • Ramganga Barrage

    About 70 km away, offers scenic views of the river and rural landscape.

  • Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

    60 km away, significant wildlife sanctuary for tigers, leopards, and birds. Safari bookings available through GetYourGuide.

  • Flat Plains

    Bareilly is on the Gangetic plains, so no dramatic geological features like mountains.

Shah Daanah Mosque

An old mosque with unique architecture, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Less frequented by general tourists, for quiet reflection.

Local Markets

Explore smaller, specialized local markets beyond Qila for specific goods, spices, or foods. Discover hidden treasures and an authentic experience.

Local Eateries

Specific local eateries known for particular dishes, often tucked away in less conspicuous lanes, offer authentic culinary delights.

Bareilly's Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known sites, Bareilly holds smaller, less-frequented places that offer unique charm.

  • Unique Photo Opportunities: Intricate architectural details of the Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat and ancient Nath temples.
  • Everyday street scenes, featuring cycle-rickshaws and local life, for rich cultural photography.
  • Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is an emerging destination for wildlife tourism.

Nearby Excursions

Several accessible locations offer enriching experiences within a day's travel from Bareilly.

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

Approximately 000 meters away (1.5-2 hours drive), this a protected area for wildlife hosts tigers, leopards, and diverse birdlife.

Travel Notes

  • Book jeep safaris in advance for wildlife viewing.
  • Private car highly suitable for reaching the reserve.
  • Plan for a full day trip, departing early morning.

Ahichchhatra

About 50 km away (1.5 hours drive), an ancient archaeological site and capital of the northern Panchala kingdom.

Travel Notes

  • Explore extensive ruins, temples, and residential structures.
  • Best visited with a private vehicle.
  • A half-day trip typically is sufficient for exploration.

Rampur

About 30 km away (A drive of one hour), this historic city is home to the famous Rampur Raza Library.

Travel Notes

  • The library has rare manuscripts, miniature paintings.
  • Explore palaces and gardens.
  • Accessible by private car, train, or bus.
  • Dedicate a half to full day based on your interest.

Moradabad

About 90 km away (2-2.5 hours drive), known as the "Brass City of India."

Travel Notes

  • Famous for its thriving brassware industry.
  • Good for shopping intricate metal crafts.
  • Observe the artisan process.

Multi-Day Extensions

Hill Stations

  • Nainital (120 km): Lakes, boating, scenic views (2-3 days).
  • Jim Corbett National Park (150 km): Safaris to see animals (2-3 days).
  • Best reached by private automobile from Bareilly.

Cultural & Historical Hubs

  • Lucknow (250 km): Awadhi cuisine, monuments (2-3 days).
  • Agra (240 km): Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri (1-2 days).
  • Excellent rail and bus connections to these cities.

Insights

Ancient History

Ahichchhatra nearby displays the region''s distant history, formerly a thriving capital of the Panchala kingdom.

Spiritual Core

The Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat and the Nath Temples highlight Bareilly's profound spiritual significance for diverse faiths.

Colonial Echoes

Bareilly Cantt preserves a tangible link to the Uk Raj era through its architecture and layout.

Suggested Regional Routes

Golden Triangle Extension

Connect Bareilly to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur for a classic North India circuit.

Uttar Pradesh Cultural Circuit

Explore Bareilly, then Lucknow for Awadhi culture, Varanasi for spirituality, and Agra for the Taj Mahal.

Himalayan Foothills Journey

From Bareilly, journey to Nainital, then Jim Corbett National Park, and further to Uttarakhand destinations.

Logistical Connections

Nainital/Corbett are best by private car. Lucknow/Agra/Delhi have excellent train and bus links.

Independent vs. Organized

Independent travel is flexible. Custom tours can be arranged via local agents, though at a higher cost.

Seasonal Natural Highlights

Bareilly's natural surroundings offer peaceful retreats, especially for wildlife and river scenery.

Winter Attractions

  • Winter (November-February) attracts migratory birds.
  • Excellent bird-watching opportunities near Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.
  • Lush green fields during and after monsoon season.

Rural & Cultural Excursions

Expand your cultural exploration beyond Bareilly with these nearby historical and spiritual sites.

Authentic Experiences

  • Explore rural villages for a brief insight into Indian life.
  • Best with a local guide for social exchanges.
  • Consider Naimisharanya (130 km) for Hindu pilgrimage.
  • Naimisharanya requires a longer day trip or overnight stay.

Image Details

The grand facade of Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat, a significant Islamic shrine in Bareilly.

An inspiring architectural marvel, abundant in spiritual heritage and intricate design.

Regional Connections

Bareilly can serve as a starting point for longer regional travel, connecting you to some of India's renowned destinations.

Northern India Circuit

Consider adding 1-3 days to explore popular nearby tourist locations.

Destinations

  • Nainital: Scenic lakes and cooler temperatures.
  • Jim Corbett National Park: Wildlife safaris for tiger sightings.
  • Lucknow: Awadhi cuisine and historical monuments.

Cultural Richness

Delhi and Varanasi are logical next steps for a comprehensive India experience.

Essential Stops

  • Delhi: Major international hub with historical sites.
  • Varanasi: India's spiritual capital on the Ganges.
  • Excellent connectivity for onward travel.

Northern Adventure

Begin or end in Bareilly, then connect to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur for a classic North India circuit.

Route Options

  • Golden Triangle Extension.
  • Uttar Pradesh Cultural Circuit.
  • Himalayan Foothills Journey.

Tailor your journey to match your interests, from historical sites to nature escapes.

Transport Considerations

Efficient travel between Bareilly and these destinations is well-established.

Connectivity

  • Private car recommended for hill stations.
  • Excellent train/bus links to major cities.

Choose the mode of transport that suits your financial limits and travel style.

Optimizing Your Time

Make the most of your extended trip with these recommendations.

Duration

  • Nainital/Corbett: 2-3 days.
  • Lucknow: 2-3 days.
  • Agra: 1-2 days.

Allocate sufficient time to immerse yourself in every destination's unique offerings.

Beyond the Gate

Image Reference

The entrance gate to Jim Corbett National Park, inviting visitors to a wildlife adventure.

Adventure Awaits

This park is India's oldest national park, renowned for its tiger conservation efforts and thrilling wildlife safaris.

Plan Your Safari

A multi-day visit allows for multiple safaris and enjoying the natural surroundings. Book safaris through GetYourGuide.

Travel Planning Tip

Consider linking Bareilly into a broader North India itinerary for a seamless and enriching journey through a mix of terrains and traditions.