3 Days in Bareilly for a Cultural Trip

Bareilly might not be the first place that comes to mind for a cultural getaway, but it's full of surprises. From its historic temples to bustling markets and unique local crafts, this city offers a slice of Uttar Pradesh that feels genuine and untouched by mass tourism. I've spent time getting lost in its lanes, chatting with local artisans, and tasting some of the best street food you can find. This itinerary covers the must-sees while leaving room for those little discoveries that make travel special.

Uttar Pradesh, uttar-pradesh
3 Days
Cultural
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Exploring the intricate carvings at Alakhnath Temple
Browsing the vibrant markets for traditional zardozi embroidery
Tasting the famous Bareilly ki barfi at a local sweet shop
Evening stroll along the Ramganga River with locals

Best Time to Visit

OctoberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Bareilly

Kick off your Bareilly trip with its most iconic spots, from historic temples to bustling markets, and savor the city's famous flavors.

Activities

Alakhnath Temple Visit

Start your day at this revered Shiva temple, a spiritual hub for locals. The morning aarti (prayer ceremony) is especially peaceful, with the sound of bells and chants filling the air. The temple's architecture, with its tall shikharas, is a sight to behold.

Alakhnath Road, near Choupla6:00 AM - 8:00 AM (best for aarti)Free (donations accepted)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees)
  • Remove shoes before entering
Trivati Nath Temple & Phoolmati Bazaar

Head to this unique temple dedicated to the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, then explore the lively Phoolmati Bazaar right outside. The market is perfect for picking up local souvenirs like brassware, religious items, or the famous Bareilly zardozi embroidery.

Trivati Nath Road, near Choupla9:30 AM - 11:30 AMFree (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Bargain gently in the market
  • Try fresh sugarcane juice from street vendors
Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat & Lunch at Tunday Kababi

Visit this important Islamic shrine with stunning white marble architecture, then walk to Bareilly's most famous eatery. Tunday Kababi serves melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs that the city is known for - don't miss them with roomali roti.

Dargah Road, near Qila12:30 PM - 2:00 PM₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Cover your head at the dargah
  • Go early to avoid lunch crowds at Tunday

Must Try Foods

Galouti kebab
Bareilly ki zarda (sweet rice)
Bedai with aloo sabzi

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Bareilly Junction (3 km from city center, 15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
ISBT Bareilly (2 km from city center, buses every 10-15 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cycle rickshaws widely available; Ola/Uber operate but less reliable than local transport

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Day 2

Day 2 in Bareilly

A mix of spiritual sites, local markets, and delicious food to dive deeper into Bareilly's culture.

Activities

Morning at Shri Banke Bihari Temple

Start your day with the serene vibes of Shri Banke Bihari Temple, one of Bareilly's most revered Krishna temples. The morning aarti here is a peaceful experience, with devotees singing bhajans and the scent of fresh flowers filling the air. The temple's intricate carvings and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit.

Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Civil Lines6:30 AM - 8:00 AM (morning aarti)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it's a religious site
  • Try the prasad offered at the temple
Explore Choupla Market

Head to Choupla Market, a bustling local bazaar known for its traditional crafts, jewelry, and textiles. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs like handmade juttis (embroidered shoes) or lac bangles. The market also has small eateries serving local snacks, so keep an eye out for piping hot kachoris.

Choupla Market, near Choupla Crossing10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (best before noon to avoid crowds)Varies (budget around ₹200-500 for small purchases)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely for better prices
  • Try the local kachoris from small stalls
Lunch at Shiv Misthan Bhandar

No visit to Bareilly is complete without trying the iconic 'Bareilly ki Barfi' at Shiv Misthan Bhandar. This legendary sweet shop also serves a hearty vegetarian thali with local favorites like aloo ki sabzi and poori. The melt-in-your-mouth barfi is a must-try, with flavors like plain, chocolate, and kesar.

Shiv Misthan Bhandar, Civil Lines12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (peak lunch hour, but worth the wait)₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Order the special thali for a full experience
  • Buy some barfi for later—it stays fresh for days

Must Try Foods

Bareilly ki Barfi
Kachori with spicy aloo sabzi
Malai Makkhan (a creamy local dessert)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Bareilly Junction (3-4 km from most locations, 15-20 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Choupla Bus Stand (central location, buses every 10-15 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cycle rickshaws easily available; Uber/Ola works but may take longer

Day 3

Day 3 in Bareilly

A relaxed day exploring Bareilly's hidden gems and local flavors, from serene parks to bustling markets and authentic eateries.

Activities

Morning Stroll at Gandhi Udyan Park

Start your day with a peaceful walk in Gandhi Udyan, Bareilly's oldest and most beloved park. The lush greenery, serene lake, and morning joggers give you a slice of local life. Don’t miss the small temple tucked inside the park—it’s a quiet spot for reflection.

Gandhi Udyan Park, near Bareilly College6:30 AM - 8:00 AM (coolest part of the day)Free
Tips:
  • Carry water—it can get warm by 8 AM.
  • Visit the park’s flower beds—they’re well-maintained and colorful.
Explore the Hidden Charm of Qila Chowk

Head to Qila Chowk, a lesser-known but vibrant market area with a mix of old-world charm and local hustle. The narrow lanes are packed with tiny shops selling everything from spices to handmade jewelry. Look for the old havelis (mansions) with fading frescoes—they tell stories of Bareilly’s past.

Qila Chowk, near Bareilly Fort ruins10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (before the midday heat)Free to explore (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Bargain gently—prices are often inflated for outsiders.
  • Try the local ‘kulfi’ from street vendors—it’s creamy and rich.
Lunch at Ramdev Mishthan Bhandar

Wrap up your Bareilly trip with a hearty lunch at this iconic sweet shop turned eatery. Their ‘thali’ is legendary—think fluffy puris, spicy aloo sabzi, and melt-in-the-mouth jalebis. The place is always buzzing, so go early to grab a seat.

Ramdev Mishthan Bhandar, Civil Lines12:30 PM - 1:30 PM₹150-₹300 per person
Tips:
  • Don’t skip the ‘rabri’—it’s their specialty.
  • Cash is preferred—many small shops don’t accept cards.

Must Try Foods

Kachori with spicy aloo sabzi
Bareilly’s special ‘malai kulfi’
Ramdev’s rabri

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Bareilly Junction (3 km from city center, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Qila Chowk Bus Stand (frequent local buses)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cycle rickshaws are everywhere; Uber/Ola cabs are less reliable but available.

Travel Tips

Start your days early to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds
Don't miss the small tea stalls near temples - they serve the best chai
Bargain politely in markets - it's expected but keep it friendly
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces often

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