Ghaziabad Travel Guide



Ghaziabad, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is often overshadowed by its more glamorous neighbor, Delhi. But if you're looking for a destination that's both offbeat and yet close enough to the national capital, Ghaziabad is worth considering.


Located about 25 kilometers east of Delhi, Ghaziabad is part of the National Capital Region (NCR) and is well connected to other parts of India. The city has a rich history, having been ruled by various dynasties over the centuries, including the Mughals, the Marathas, and the British. Today, it's a bustling industrial city that's rapidly developing into a hub for education, healthcare, and real estate.


If you're planning a trip to Ghaziabad, here are some things you shouldn't miss:


Explore the Old City

Ghaziabad's Old City is a maze of narrow lanes, crumbling buildings, and bustling bazaars. The best way to explore it is on foot, as most of the lanes are too narrow for vehicles. As you wander through the streets, you'll come across several historical sites, including the Jama Masjid, the Chandi Mandir, and the Swarna Jayanti Park.


The Jama Masjid, built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, is one of the largest mosques in India. Its imposing façade and towering minarets make it a popular spot for photographers. The mosque is also famous for its intricate marble carvings and beautiful calligraphy.


The Chandi Mandir, located in the heart of the Old City, is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Chandi. It's believed to have been built by the Marathas in the 18th century and is famous for its colorful frescoes and ornate carvings.


The Swarna Jayanti Park, located near the Chandi Mandir, is a sprawling green space that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. The park has several jogging tracks, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a popular spot for families.


Shop at the Bazaars

Ghaziabad's bazaars are a shopaholic's paradise. From traditional handicrafts to trendy fashion accessories, you'll find everything here at reasonable prices. The most popular bazaars in Ghaziabad are the Gaur Central Mall, the Pacific Mall, and the Vasundhara City Centre.


The Gaur Central Mall, located in the heart of the city, is one of the largest malls in Ghaziabad. It has over 250 shops selling everything from designer clothing to electronics. The mall also has several restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot for a day out with friends and family.


The Pacific Mall, located in the neighboring city of Sahibabad, is another popular shopping destination. It has over 130 stores, a food court, a multiplex cinema, and an indoor amusement park.


The Vasundhara City Centre, located in the Vasundhara neighborhood of Ghaziabad, is a smaller mall with around 60 shops. It's a great place to shop for local handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles.


Sample the Local Cuisine

Ghaziabad's cuisine is a blend of Mughlai, Awadhi, and Punjabi influences, making it a food lover's delight. Some of the must-try dishes in Ghaziabad include kebabs, biryanis, and chaat.


Kebabs are a staple of Mughlai cuisine and are made with minced meat, spices, and herbs. They're usually grilled on skewers and served with a mint chutney. Some of the best places to try kebabs in Ghaziabad are Karim's, Al-Bek, and Tunday Kababi.


Biryani is another popular dish in Ghaziabad, and there are several varieties to choose from, including chicken, mutton, and vegetarian. The biryanis in Ghaziabad are typically cooked in the Awadhi style, which involves slow-cooking the meat or vegetables with rice and spices. Some of the best places to try biryani in Ghaziabad are Biryani Junction, Biryani Paradise, and Wahid Biryani.


Chaat is a type of street food that's popular all over India, and Ghaziabad is no exception. Some of the must-try chaat dishes in Ghaziabad include papdi chaat, aloo tikki chaat, and dahi bhalla. These dishes are usually made with a combination of fried or roasted snacks, potatoes, chickpeas, and yogurt, and are topped with tangy sauces and chutneys. Some of the best places to try chaat in Ghaziabad are Ravi's Aloo Tikki Wala, Vaishno Chat Bhandar, and Chhappan Bhog.


Visit the Temples

Ghaziabad has several temples that are worth visiting, whether you're religious or not. The most famous of these is the Shri Dudheshwar Nath Mandir, located in the Dasna neighborhood of Ghaziabad. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built over 500 years ago. It's famous for its annual mela, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over India.


Another famous temple in Ghaziabad is the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Mandir, located in the Loni neighborhood. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to be the birthplace of the deity. It's a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.


Other temples worth visiting in Ghaziabad include the Vaishno Devi Temple, the Hanuman Mandir, and the Sai Baba Mandir.


Experience the Nightlife

Ghaziabad may not have the same nightlife scene as Delhi, but there are still plenty of places to hang out after dark. Some of the most popular nightlife spots in Ghaziabad include the Moksh Restro Lounge, the Velocity Lounge Bar, and the Vapour Bar Exchange.


The Moksh Restro Lounge, located in the Indirapuram neighborhood, is a popular spot for drinks and live music. The lounge has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.


The Velocity Lounge Bar, located in the Pacific Mall, is another popular nightlife spot in Ghaziabad. The bar has a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere, making it a great place to hang out with friends.


The Vapour Bar Exchange, located in the Indirapuram neighborhood, is a unique concept bar that allows customers to trade stocks in drinks. The prices of the drinks fluctuate based on demand, making it an exciting and interactive experience.


Stay in a Heritage Property

If you're looking for a unique accommodation experience in Ghaziabad, consider staying in one of the city's heritage properties. These properties are typically old havelis or mansions that have been converted into hotels or guesthouses.


One of the most famous heritage properties in Ghaziabad is the Neemrana Fort Palace, located about 50 kilometers from the city. The palace is over 500 years old and has been converted into a luxury hotel. It's a great place to stay if you're looking for a luxurious and historic experience.