How to get to Aligarh

Aligarh is a significant historical and educational centre in the northern part of India, attracting travellers with its unique architecture and the atmosphere of the state of Uttar Pradesh. If you are planning to visit Aligarh, it will be useful to know that thanks to its favourable geographical location, the city enjoys excellent transport accessibility. When deciding how to reach Aligarh, tourists can choose between travelling by train, a comfortable bus, a car, or a combined route involving a flight to the nearest major airports.

There are practically no direct regular flights to the city, so travellers will need to choose one of the neighbouring transport hubs. The nearest airport is located just 80 kilometres away, in Agra, which is convenient for those planning domestic flights within the country. An alternative could be a flight via Ghaziabad, which is situated slightly further, at a distance of about 106 kilometres from the destination.

However, for most international tourists, the most comfortable option remains flying via Delhi. The capital's airport, located approximately 120 kilometres from Aligarh, receives flights from all over the world and offers excellent connections. Upon arrival in any of these cities, you can easily continue your journey by ground transport, as the airports have convenient links to the region.

The train is one of the most convenient and rational ways to reach the city. Unlike the situation with airports, rail connectivity here is excellently developed: Aligarh hosts a major station, Aligarh Junction, which serves as an important transport hub on the main line connecting the north and east of the country.

Trains regularly pass through this station from Delhi, Kolkata, Kanpur, and many other cities. A journey from the capital, for example, will take only about two to three hours, making this route very popular among tourists. Thanks to the frequent schedule of trains and a wide choice of service classes — from general coaches to comfortable air-conditioned compartments — you can easily select a suitable option for your trip.

Travelling by bus allows you to immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life and enjoy the landscapes of Uttar Pradesh. One of the most popular routes is the trip from Delhi: covering a distance of about 130–140 kilometres, you will arrive at your destination in approximately 3–4 hours, depending on traffic. Many services from the capital pass through Ghaziabad, located 105 kilometres from Aligarh, making this city a convenient intermediate point to start your journey.

If you are travelling from the direction of the famous Taj Mahal, the road from Agra will take even less time — just about two to three hours. The distance between the cities is around 90 kilometres, and buses run here with enviable regularity. State and private carriers offer various comfort classes, ensuring a reliable and budget-friendly connection between the region's key tourist spots.

A car trip is an excellent choice for those who value freedom of movement and want to enjoy the colourful views of Uttar Pradesh. The drive from Delhi usually takes about 3–4 hours, as you will need to cover a distance of 130–140 kilometres, often passing through industrial Ghaziabad. This route via the historic Grand Trunk Road or the modern Yamuna Expressway is quite comfortable, however, it is worth allowing extra time for potential traffic jams when exiting the capital.

The fastest route awaits travellers departing from Agra: the distance of 90 kilometres can easily be covered in just 2–2.5 hours. If you do not plan to rent a car, a convenient alternative would be to hire a taxi: the average cost of a trip between neighbouring cities varies from 2,500 to 4,000 rupees depending on the car class and your bargaining skills.

Preparing for a trip to Aligarh requires knowledge of some local nuances to ensure your journey is as comfortable and safe as possible. We have gathered useful recommendations for you that will help you enjoy the flavour of India without unnecessary organisational hassles.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate in the city varies from very hot summers to cool winters. From April to June, it is best to wear light cotton clothes in light colours, while from December to February, be sure to bring a warm jacket or sweater for the evenings. Given the region's conservative traditions, opt for modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.
2. Transport in the City. The most common and convenient way to travel short distances is by auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws. They are manoeuvrable and accessible, but meters are rarely used. The main rule: always agree on the fare in advance, before you get into the vehicle, to avoid misunderstandings at the end of the journey.
3. Finances and Payment. The local currency is the Indian Rupee. Although major hotels may accept cards, you will need cash for daily expenses, transport fares, and shopping at markets. Try to always carry small denominations, as vendors and drivers often do not have change for large banknotes.
4. Health and Hygiene. Drink exclusively bottled water and check the seal integrity when purchasing. Avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. It is also recommended to carry hand sanitiser and repellents, as mosquitoes can be a nuisance during certain seasons.
5. Language Barrier. The main languages of communication here are Hindi and Urdu. English is well understood in the university area and major hotels, but communicating on ordinary streets and bazaars may be more difficult. Download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases for courtesy.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to greet locals with a slight bow with folded palms or a traditional "Salam". When entering homes, mosques, and temples, be sure to remove your shoes. Remember that money should be handed over or food eaten only with the right hand, as the left is considered "unclean".
7. What to Avoid. Refrain from public displays of affection, as this is not customary in the local culture and may cause disapproval. Also, do not photograph locals, especially women, without their prior verbal permission.
8. Unique Tip. Aligarh is known throughout the country as the "City of Locks". Be sure to visit the local markets to purchase a reliable handmade padlock or a decorative brass item — this is the best and most authentic souvenir you can bring back from this trip.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and avoid most typical tourist difficulties. Respect for local traditions and a little preparation will make your stay in this historic city a bright and memorable event.