Agra, located in Uttar Pradesh, is famous worldwide for the Taj Mahal and attracts millions of tourists annually. Bareilly, also in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich cultural heritage and is a commercial hub in the Rohilkhand region. Traveling between Agra and Bareilly is common for both business and leisure, making this route popular among travelers.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bareilly from Agra, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel times, ticket costs, and tips to plan your trip efficiently and comfortably.

Getting from Agra to Bareilly – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is one of the most convenient and economical ways to reach Bareilly from Agra. Indian Railways operates several trains connecting these cities, offering a balance of comfort and affordability.

• Key stations:

  Depart from Agra Cantt (AGC) or Agra Fort (AF) railway stations and arrive at Bareilly Junction (BE).

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 6 to 8 hours, covering around 350 km. Ticket prices range from ₹150 for sleeper class to ₹600 for AC tiers.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple trains run daily, including express and passenger trains. AC coaches offer decent comfort, while sleeper class is budget-friendly but less spacious.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets via IRCTC online or at stations well in advance, especially during festivals or weekends to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Scenic route and timing:

  The train passes through rural landscapes and small towns. Early morning or evening trains provide pleasant weather and views.

• Challenges:

  Delays can occur due to congestion on busy routes; arrive early to avoid platform confusion at Agra stations.

By Bus

Buses are a popular choice for budget travelers and offer flexible timings. Both government and private operators run services between Agra and Bareilly.

• Bus stands:

  Depart from Agra ISBT or Idgah Bus Stand and arrive at Bareilly Bus Stand or Bareilly ISBT.

• Duration and fares:

  The journey takes about 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic, with fares ranging from ₹200 to ₹500 based on bus type.

• Bus types:

  Options include ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo AC buses. Volvo buses provide better comfort but are costlier.

• Frequency:

  Buses run throughout the day and night, allowing travelers to choose convenient departure times.

• Road route:

  The route primarily follows NH 509 and NH 30, passing through Mathura and Moradabad, with several rest stops for refreshments.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons to escape overcrowding. Night buses may be less safe for solo female travelers.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Agra to Bareilly offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The road distance is approximately 350 km, mostly on national highways.

• Route details:

  Take NH 509 from Agra to Mathura, then NH 30 towards Bareilly. The roads are mostly four-lane highways with tolls at intervals.

• Travel time:

  The drive typically takes 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

• Rest stops:

  Several dhabas and fuel stations are available along the route, including popular stops near Mathura and Moradabad.

• Driving conditions:

  Roads are generally good but watch for heavy traffic near towns and occasional potholes in rural stretches.

• Best time to drive:

  Start early morning to avoid city traffic in Agra and reach Bareilly before dark for safer driving.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive cars and taxis are available in Agra through providers like Zoomcar or local agencies. Pre-book for better rates.

By Flight

Currently, there are no direct commercial flights between Agra and Bareilly. However, travelers can consider nearby airports for connecting flights.

• Nearest airports:

  Agra Airport (AGR) has limited flights mainly to Delhi. Bareilly Airport (BEK) operates limited services, mostly chartered or regional flights.

• Connecting flights:

  One can fly from Agra to Delhi and then take a train or bus to Bareilly, but this is time-consuming and costly.

• Practicality:

  Flights are not recommended for this route due to lack of direct connectivity and better alternatives by road and rail.

• Future prospects:

  Keep an eye on regional connectivity schemes (UDAN) which may introduce direct flights in the future.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Agra to Bareilly, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

• Book your train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or MSRTC and private bus websites/apps to secure your seat, especially during peak seasons.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Agra Cantt station or bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus easily.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, and a power bank. Trains and buses have limited refreshment options en route.

• Use prepaid taxis or app cabs on arrival:

  At Bareilly station or bus stand, opt for prepaid counters or Ola/Uber for safe and fixed-rate rides to your accommodation.

• Plan your local commute:

  Bareilly has auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based autos where available.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers of local police, hospitals, and your accommodation for quick assistance if needed.

Practical Travel Tips

• Train ticket booking:

  Always book via IRCTC or authorized agents to avoid scams. Use the Tatkal scheme for last-minute bookings but expect higher prices.

• Bus travel safety:

  Prefer government-run or reputed private buses with good reviews. Avoid overcrowded buses and keep your belongings secure.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks. Avoid roadside food stalls unless they look clean and busy.

• Local transport apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Bareilly and Agra; use them for safer and cashless rides, especially at odd hours.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep your bags close and use locks. At busy stations, be cautious of touts and pickpockets.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon can cause road delays and slippery conditions; plan accordingly and check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel between Agra and Bareilly is during the cooler months from October to March, avoiding the intense summer heat and monsoon rains. Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and provide a comfortable journey.

Travelers should avoid peak festival weekends like Diwali or Holi when trains and buses are crowded, and roads are busier than usual.

• Avoid traveling during early morning fog in December and January, which can delay trains and reduce visibility on roads.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause waterlogging and slow traffic, so plan extra travel time.

• Depart between 6 AM and 9 AM for smooth city exits and pleasant weather.

• Weekdays are preferable over weekends to avoid heavy passenger loads on public transport.

Arrival at Bareilly & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bareilly Junction or the bus stand, travelers will find a bustling city with easy access to local transport. The station area has prepaid taxi counters and plenty of auto-rickshaws.

Popular stay areas include Civil Lines and near the railway station, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses. Nearby attractions like the Bareilly Fort and local markets are easily accessible by short rides.

For late arrivals, it is advisable to book cabs via Ola or Uber apps to ensure safety and avoid overcharging. Local buses and autos are available but may be less reliable after dark.

Conclusion

Among the travel options, taking a train from Agra to Bareilly stands out as the most efficient and comfortable choice, balancing cost, travel time, and convenience. Regular train services and affordable fares make it ideal for most travelers.

Whether you prefer the scenic train journey, the flexibility of driving, or the budget-friendly bus rides, this guide equips you to plan your trip confidently. With proper preparation and timing, your journey from Agra to Bareilly will be smooth and enjoyable.