Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, lies on the west coast, while Bareilly is a historic city in Uttar Pradesh's Rohilkhand region. This route connects two culturally rich and economically important cities, making it popular for business travelers, tourists, and those visiting family. Whether you are planning a weekend trip or a longer stay, understanding the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Bareilly is essential.

This guide covers all major transport options including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive routes. You will find detailed travel times, ticket costs, and insider tips to help you plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Mumbai to Bareilly – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a preferred mode for many due to its affordability and extensive connectivity. Mumbai and Bareilly are linked by several direct trains, making rail a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Mumbai’s major stations like Mumbai CST, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), and Dadar, arriving at Bareilly Junction (BE). Bareilly Junction is well connected to the city center.

• Duration and distance:

  The rail distance is approximately 1,600 km, with journey times ranging from 28 to 36 hours depending on the train service and route taken.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Sleeper class tickets start around ₹500, while AC 3-tier fares range from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800. Booking through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended for confirmed seats.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Several weekly trains like the Mumbai Bareilly Express and the Bandra Terminus Bareilly Express operate. Trains vary in punctuality; premium trains offer better amenities.

• Travel tips:

  Book tickets well in advance, especially during festivals. Carry your own food or buy from reputable vendors at major stations. Night travel is common, so pack essentials for comfort.

Bus

Long-distance bus travel between Mumbai and Bareilly is less common due to the vast distance but can be an option for budget travelers willing to endure a lengthy journey.

• Operators and routes:

  State transport buses like MSRTC and private operators run services connecting Mumbai to Delhi or Lucknow, from where you can take a connecting bus or train to Bareilly.

• Duration and cost:

  The total bus journey can take over 36 hours and cost between ₹1,200 and ₹2,000 depending on the operator and bus type.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo and deluxe buses offer better comfort but are limited on this route. Overnight buses are available but can be tiring for such a long distance.

• Breaks and stops:

  Buses stop at major cities like Surat, Vadodara, and Indore for refreshments. Plan for long breaks and possible delays due to traffic or road conditions.

• Booking tips:

  Use online platforms like RedBus or the MSRTC website for tickets. Confirm the bus route and drop-off points to avoid last-mile connectivity issues.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Bareilly offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat stops. However, it requires stamina and careful planning due to the long distance.

• Route details:

  The most common route follows NH48 from Mumbai to Delhi, then NH9 and NH30 towards Bareilly, covering approximately 1,500 km.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Driving non-stop takes around 28 to 30 hours. Expect multiple toll plazas on NH48 and NH30, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Road conditions:

  The Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48 are well maintained, but roads near Uttar Pradesh may have variable conditions. Avoid night driving in rural areas for safety.

• Stops and accommodations:

  Plan stops at cities like Nashik, Indore, and Agra for rest and refreshments. Several highway motels and dhabas offer decent food and rest facilities.

• Challenges:

  Heavy traffic near Mumbai and Delhi can cause delays. Carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals may be weak in some stretches.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Bareilly from Mumbai, especially for business travelers or those short on time. However, Bareilly’s airport has limited connectivity, so a connecting flight or alternative airports may be necessary.

• Airports:

  Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is well connected nationally and internationally. Bareilly Airport (BEK) is a regional airport with limited flights, primarily connecting to Delhi.

• Flight options:

  There are no direct flights from Mumbai to Bareilly. The usual route is Mumbai to Delhi (approx 2.5 hours), then a connecting flight or train/bus to Bareilly (about 3-4 hours by road or rail).

• Costs and booking:

  Mumbai-Delhi flights start around ₹2,000 to ₹4,000. Delhi-Bareilly flights or trains add to the cost. Book early on airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip for best fares.

• Travel tips:

  Factor in transit time and airport transfers in Delhi. Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola/Uber for airport to city travel.

• Alternatives:

  Consider flying into Delhi and taking a train or bus to Bareilly for a balance of speed and cost.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Bareilly, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights. Early booking secures better prices and confirmed seats, especially during peak seasons.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Mumbai CST, LTT, or the airport at least 1-2 hours before departure to avoid last-minute rush and check-in delays.

• Pack essentials for long travel:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and a light blanket for overnight journeys. Keep your ID and tickets handy for verification.

• Plan local transport on arrival:

  At Bareilly station or airport, use prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber for safe and convenient transfers to your accommodation.

• Stay updated on travel status:

  Check train running status on NTES or flight status on airline apps to avoid surprises and plan accordingly.

• Keep emergency contacts:

  Save numbers of local taxi services, your hotel, and emergency helplines to handle any unexpected situations.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Avoid traveling alone late at night, especially on less crowded trains or roads. Use official prepaid taxi counters at stations and airports to prevent scams.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and eat at reputable dhabas or station eateries. Avoid street food during travel to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains, book tickets at least 30 days in advance via IRCTC. For flights, compare fares on aggregator sites and book early to get discounts.

• Local commute:

  Bareilly has auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber. Negotiate fares beforehand for autos or use app-based rides for convenience.

• Luggage:

  Pack light and secure your bags with locks. Keep valuables like documents and electronics in a carry-on bag during train or bus travel.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause delays on roads and railways. Winter fog in North India may affect train and flight timings, so plan buffer time.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Bareilly depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak travel seasons and extreme weather ensures a comfortable journey.

Summer months can be hot in Bareilly, while monsoon rains may disrupt road and rail travel. Winter offers pleasant weather but dense fog can delay trains and flights.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when trains and flights are crowded and prices surge.

• Early morning departures help avoid Mumbai’s heavy city traffic and Delhi’s peak hour congestion.

• Monsoon season (July-September) can cause slippery roads and train delays; carry rain gear and check travel advisories.

• Winter fog (December-January) may affect visibility and cause flight/train delays; plan extra time for connections.

Arrival at Bareilly & What to Expect

On arrival at Bareilly Junction or Bareilly Airport, travelers find a city blending historical charm with modern amenities. The station is centrally located with easy access to the city via autos and taxis.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from the station and airport, providing safe and affordable local transport. Popular stay areas include Civil Lines and near the railway station, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses.

Conclusion

Among all options, train travel stands out as the most balanced choice for cost, comfort, and convenience on the Mumbai to Bareilly route. It offers direct connectivity, affordable fares, and an authentic Indian travel experience.

For those prioritizing speed, flying to Delhi followed by a train or taxi to Bareilly is efficient. With proper planning and advance bookings, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey across India’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Start your trip confidently and explore Bareilly’s rich heritage with ease.