Moradabad is a city in western Uttar Pradesh, known for its brass handicrafts and rich cultural heritage. It lies about 167 kilometers northeast of Delhi, making it a popular destination for business and leisure travelers from the capital.

This route is commonly traveled due to Moradabad's industrial importance and its proximity to Delhi. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Moradabad, covering trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Delhi to Moradabad – Main Options

Train

Train travel is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Moradabad from Delhi. The city is well connected by rail, with several trains running daily from major Delhi stations.

• Trains depart mainly from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI), reaching Moradabad Junction (MB) in about 3 to 4 hours, covering roughly 167 km.

• Ticket fares range from INR 150 for sleeper class to INR 600 for AC chair cars, making it affordable for most travelers.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but morning and evening trains tend to be crowded, especially during festivals and holidays.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure confirmed seats.

• Moradabad station has basic amenities and easy access to auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws for last-mile connectivity.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and budget-friendly option for traveling from Delhi to Moradabad. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Buses depart from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi and arrive at Moradabad Bus Stand, with an average journey time of 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic.

• Fares typically range from INR 150 to INR 350, depending on the type of bus (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC).

• MSRTC and UPSRTC operate regular services, but private operators often provide more comfortable and faster options.

• Traffic congestion on NH9 and NH24 can cause delays during peak hours and monsoon season, so plan accordingly.

• Food options are available at major highway rest stops like Muradnagar and Hapur, but carrying water and snacks is advisable.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Moradabad offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby areas or travel on your own schedule.

• The route mainly follows NH9 and NH24, covering approximately 167 km, with an average drive time of 3.5 to 5 hours depending on traffic.

• Toll plazas are present on the highways, so keep INR 100 to INR 200 handy for toll payments.

• Fuel stations and restaurants are available along the route, particularly near Ghaziabad and Hapur, making stops convenient.

• Traffic congestion is common near Delhi and Ghaziabad during peak hours, so starting early morning or late evening is recommended.

• Self-drive car rentals and cab services like Ola and Uber are available in Delhi, with fares ranging from INR 2500 to INR 4000 for a one-way trip.

Flight

There are no direct flights between Delhi and Moradabad due to the short distance and good road and rail connectivity. The nearest airport to Moradabad is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 90 km away.

• Travelers can fly from Delhi to Pantnagar Airport and then take a taxi or bus to Moradabad, which takes about 2 to 3 hours by road.

• Flight duration from Delhi to Pantnagar is approximately 1 hour, but combined travel time and transfers make this option less practical.

• Flight fares vary widely depending on the season, but generally cost more than train or bus travel for this route.

• This option is suitable only if you plan to visit Pantnagar or nearby areas along with Moradabad.

• Booking flights in advance is essential to get reasonable fares, especially during peak travel seasons.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Delhi to Moradabad. It covers essential steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your train or bus ticket online at least 2 to 3 days in advance to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Reach the departure station or bus stand at least 30 minutes early to find your platform or bus bay without stress and to handle security checks.

• Carry a valid photo ID such as Aadhaar or passport, as it is mandatory for ticket verification on trains and buses in India.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, since food options on trains and buses may be limited or crowded.

• Upon arrival at Moradabad Junction or bus stand, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and reliable local transport.

• Keep local currency handy for small expenses like auto-rickshaw fares and tolls, as digital payments may not always be accepted in smaller vehicles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings close and avoid displaying expensive items to prevent pickpocketing, especially in crowded stations and buses.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey to avoid stomach issues common among travelers in India.

• Book tickets through official platforms like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC or UPSRTC websites for buses to avoid scams and inflated prices.

• Use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs for local travel in Moradabad to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Carry a small bag with essential medicines, hand sanitizer, and face masks, as hygiene standards vary across transport modes.

• During monsoon season, expect occasional delays due to waterlogging on highways and railway tracks; plan extra travel time accordingly.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Moradabad depends on weather and traffic conditions. Summers can be hot, while monsoons bring heavy rains and occasional delays.

Winter mornings may have fog, causing train and road delays, so plan your departure times accordingly for a smoother journey.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi, as trains and buses get overcrowded and prices may surge.

• Monsoon months (July to September) can cause waterlogging on NH9 and NH24, leading to slower road travel and occasional train delays.

• Early morning departures between 5 AM and 7 AM help avoid Delhi’s peak traffic and reduce overall travel time.

• Winter fog from December to January can delay trains and reduce visibility on roads, so allow extra time if traveling during this period.

Arrival at Moradabad & What to Expect

When you arrive at Moradabad Junction, you will find basic facilities such as waiting rooms, ticket counters, and food stalls. The station is well connected to the city center by auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws.

Prepaid taxi counters are available outside the station, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Moradabad, offering convenient and safe options to reach your accommodation or other destinations.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Moradabad is straightforward, with trains offering the most efficient and affordable option for most travelers. Buses and self-drive cars provide flexibility, while flights are generally not practical for this short route.

Plan your trip by booking tickets in advance, choosing departure times to avoid traffic, and using reliable local transport upon arrival. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey between Delhi and Moradabad.