Nanakmatta is a sacred town located in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, known for its historic Sikh gurudwara. Bareilly, a major city in Uttar Pradesh, lies about 180 kilometers south of Nanakmatta. Many travelers visit Nanakmatta from Bareilly for religious purposes or to explore the serene surroundings.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Bareilly to Nanakmatta. You will learn about train, bus, and car travel options, step-by-step planning, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. This will make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Bareilly to Nanakmatta – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for this route. It offers a balance of comfort and speed, especially for those who prefer rail travel over road.

• Bareilly Junction (BE) is the main railway station connecting to Nanakmatta Railway Station (NKM). The distance by rail is approximately 180 km with direct trains available on select days.

• Trains like the Bareilly–Nanakmatta Passenger run daily, taking around 4 to 5 hours depending on the service and stops, with fares typically between ₹50 and ₹150.

• Train travel is comfortable with reserved seating, but trains can be crowded during weekends and festivals, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging; check live train status before departure.

• Both stations have basic waiting rooms and food stalls; however, carrying your own snacks is recommended for longer waits or early morning trains.

Bus

Buses are a flexible and widely used option, especially for travelers without advance bookings. They connect Bareilly to Nanakmatta via state and private operators.

• Buses depart from Bareilly Bus Stand and reach Nanakmatta Bus Depot, covering around 180 km in 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Both government-run buses by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation and private operators run on this route, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹300 depending on the bus type.

• Frequent departures are available throughout the day, but buses tend to be crowded during holidays and weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

• The route follows NH309 and NH734, with several toll plazas and rest stops offering local food and tea stalls for breaks.

• During the monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides in hilly sections near Nanakmatta; check weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bareilly to Nanakmatta offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for families or groups wanting to explore at their own pace.

• The road distance is about 180 km via NH309 and NH734, usually taking 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.

• Major toll plazas on the route include Rampur and Kashipur; keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• There are several highway dhabas and rest areas where you can stop for meals or refreshments, such as near Rudrapur and Kichha.

• Driving during early morning hours helps avoid city traffic in Bareilly and ensures a cooler, less crowded journey.

• Self-drive cars can be rented from Bareilly with providers offering vehicles from economy to SUV; ensure your vehicle is well-serviced for the hilly terrain near Nanakmatta.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Bareilly to Nanakmatta, follow these steps to ensure a smooth trip.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or official bus portals at least a week in advance to secure your seat, especially during festivals.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some trains and buses may have limited onboard services.

• Reach Bareilly Junction or the bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus easily.

• If driving, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps and check for live traffic updates to avoid delays.

• Carry some cash for tolls, local transport, and small purchases, as not all places accept digital payments.

• Upon arrival at Nanakmatta, use local shared autos or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for last-mile connectivity to your accommodation or the gurudwara.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses; use a money belt or locked bag to prevent theft.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during the journey and avoid street food unless you are sure of its hygiene to prevent stomach issues.

• For train travel, book tickets through IRCTC and check PNR status regularly; for buses, confirm timings a day before as schedules may change.

• In Nanakmatta, local transport options include shared autos and cycle rickshaws; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based cabs for transparent pricing.

• Pack a small first-aid kit including medicines for motion sickness or common ailments, as medical facilities may be limited en route.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts; avoid traveling at night on hilly roads due to slippery conditions and poor visibility.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bareilly to Nanakmatta is during the cooler months from October to March. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rains and possible road disruptions.

Planning your trip outside major festivals like Gurpurab or Diwali can help avoid crowding and higher travel fares.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons like Baisakhi and Gurpurab when trains and buses are heavily booked and crowded.

• Monsoon months (July to September) may cause delays due to landslides or waterlogging, especially near the foothills of Uttarakhand.

• Early morning departures help you avoid city traffic in Bareilly and reach Nanakmatta before afternoon heat or evening fog sets in.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, causing slower train and road travel; plan extra time if traveling between December and February.

Arrival at Nanakmatta & What to Expect

When you arrive at Nanakmatta Railway Station or Bus Depot, you will find basic facilities like waiting areas and auto stands. The town is small but well connected by local transport.

For local commute, shared autos and cycle rickshaws are common and affordable. App-based cabs like Ola may be limited but can be found in nearby larger towns. Popular areas to stay include near the Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib and the town center, offering budget guesthouses and dharamshalas.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Bareilly to Nanakmatta depends on your preferences. Trains offer a cost-effective and comfortable option with direct connectivity, while buses provide flexibility and frequent departures. Driving yourself gives freedom to explore en route and manage your schedule.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather and traffic conditions, and preparing for local transport upon arrival. With these tips, you can confidently make your trip to Nanakmatta smooth, safe, and enjoyable.