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Things to Do in Bareilly

Things to Do in Bareilly

Bareilly Uttar Pradesh, India Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Bareilly's flat terrain means adventure options are limited within the city, but nearby areas provide opportunities.

Nature & Wildlife

Hiking & Trekking

No formal routes within Bareilly. Gentle nature walks are possible in city parks or under supervision in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve. Dedicated hiking is in Himalayan foothills.

Wildlife Safaris

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (60 away) offers jeep safaris to observe tigers, leopards, and diverse birdlife. Book safaris through GetYourGuide.

Water & Adventure Sports

Water activities are limited to Fun City water rides. Bareilly lacks dedicated facilities for high-adrenaline adventure sports like rafting or rock climbing.

Cycling & Safety

  • No dedicated cycling routes or mountain biking trails.
  • City roads are often congested.
  • Cycling on main thoroughfares is not recommended for tourists due to traffic safety.
  • Stick to quieter residential lanes or within parks if you wish to cycle.

Holi Festival

  • Exuberant festival of colors
  • Usually in February or March
  • Lively community celebrations
  • Traditional food and beverages

Diwali Festival

  • Celebration of lights
  • Typically in October or November
  • Home-cooked elaborate meals
  • Community gatherings and decorations

Eid Celebrations

  • Islamic festivals (Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha)
  • Celebrated with enthusiasm
  • Special prayers and feasts
  • Community gatherings

Festival Dates Vary

Dates for these festivals are based on lunar calendars and vary annually. Check specific dates well in advance if you wish to experience them.

Cultural Immersion

Bareilly provides rich opportunities for cultural immersion, specifically through its traditions and festivals.

Workshops & Ceremonies

  • Formal workshops for tourists are not common.
  • Observe local artisans in Zari-Zardozi embroidery or brassware.
  • Attend an 'aarti' at Nath temples or prayer at Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat for spiritual insight.
  • Local cultural events showcase regional traditions.

Language & Community

Language Learning

No formal short-term classes. Engage in informal learning of basic Hindi phrases through interaction with friendly locals.

Community Tourism

Community-based tourism initiatives specifically for foreign tourists are very limited or non-existent in Bareilly.

Cultural Festivals

Experience festivals like Holi, Diwali, Eid, Shivratri, and Janmashtami for lively cultural immersion. The Urs at Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat attracts many devotees.

Spa & Wellness

Upscale hotels may feature in-house spas or fitness centers. Local beauty parlors provide essential services, but dedicated high-end wellness centers for tourists are not prominent.

Yoga & Meditation

Bareilly does not host specific yoga or meditation retreats targeting foreign tourists. Local yoga centers exist for residents.

Traditional Healing

Ayurvedic and Unani medicine practitioners are present. These are typically clinics for local residents and not structured as tourist experiences.

Relaxation & Wellness

Bareilly's wellneswhat is available are modest, mainly found within hotels or local establishments.

Hotel & Local Wellness

  • Upscale hotels feature in-house spas or fitness centers.
  • Bareilly does not have hot springs or important natural therapy options.
  • Some hotels feature swimming facilities for guests. No public pool clubs for tourists.
  • Ayurvedic and Unani medicine practitioners are present, mainly for local residents.

Entertainment & Nightlife Overview

Live Music & Theater

Live music venues are very limited. Local auditoriums host cultural events, but schedules cater to local audiences, not regular tourist attractions.

Nightclubs & Bars

Bareilly does not have prominent nightclubs or dance venues. No specific bar districts exist. Alcohol is served in licensed hotel bars and some restaurants.

Late-Night Options

Limited late-night entertainment. Most retailers and restaurants close by 10:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Subdued Nightlife

Bareilly's nightlife focuses more on dining and local gatherings, generally subdued.

Local Events

Check local listings for cultural events, plays, or concerts if you seek specific performances.

Hotel Amenities

Some hotel restaurants might occasionally feature live music or offer a quieter bar setting.

Shopping & Local Crafts

Bareilly offers rich opportunities for cultural immersion, specifically through its traditions and festivals.

Markets & Artisan Crafts

  • Traditional Markets: Qila Market (oldest, famous), Janakpuri Market (diverse goods), Civil Lines Market (modern shops).
  • Artisan Workshops: Zari-Zardozi embroidery (gold/silver thread on fabrics) and wooden furniture making.
  • Souvenirs: Bareilly ki Surma (kajal), Zari-Zardozi items (shawls, garments), wooden handicrafts, local sweets/snacks.
  • Luxury Shopping: Limited to modern malls (Phoenix United, Fun City) or Civil Lines area for branded stores.

Ethical & Practical Tips

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans and small businesses. Bargain politely in markets; avoid excessively low offers. Avoid purchasing wildlife products.

Shipping

Major international courier services (DHL, FedEx) and India Post are available for international shipping of more substantial purchases or souvenirs.

Customs

Be aware of your home country's import regulations for textiles, handicrafts, and food products. Keep receipts for your purchases.

Live Music Venues

Very limited options. Some hotel dining might occasionally have live music, but dedicated performance spaces are rare.

Theater & Performances

Local auditoriums host cultural events, plays, or concerts, with schedules catering to local audiences. Check local listings for events.

Bars & Nightclubs

Bareilly does not have prominent nightclubs or dance venues. No specific bar districts. Alcoholic beverages are served in licensed hotel bars and certain restaurants.

Nightlife Summary

Late-Night Entertainment
  • Limited options past 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM.
  • Most shops and restaurants close relatively early.
  • Hotel facilities generally offer the latest options.
Cultural Focus
  • Evening entertainment leans towards community gatherings.
  • Dining out for dinner is a main evening activity.
  • Enjoy the local pace and family-oriented environment.

Image Context

A close-up of a Zari-Zardozi artisan at work, illustrating the traditional embroidery technique in Bareilly.

Activity Planning Summary

Recommended Activities

  • Explore iconic landmarks like Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat and Nath Temples.
  • Immerse in the culinary scene with street food and traditional dishes.
  • Go on a wildlife safari at Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.
  • Seek out local cultural events or artisan workshops.

Important Considerations

  • Respect local customs and religious practices.
  • Learn a few basic Hindi phrases for more seamless interactions.
  • Communicate dietary needs clearly, especially for allergies.
  • Check festival dates if you plan to experience cultural celebrations.
Things to Do in Bareilly. Activities, Experiences, Adventures