About Moradabad

Located in western Uttar Pradesh along the banks of the Ramganga River, Moradabad is a historic city best known for its exceptional brassware and metal handicrafts. Often called the “Brass City of India,” Moradabad has earned international recognition for its traditional craftsmanship, with artisans producing intricately designed decorative pieces, utensils, lamps, sculptures and other metal ware.

The city's history dates back to the early 17th century, when it was established during the Mughal period. Over the years, Moradabad developed into an important centre of trade and craftsmanship, with its metalworking traditions becoming an integral part of the city's identity. The skills passed down through generations continue to shape its thriving handicraft industry today.

Beyond its renowned brassware, Moradabad offers visitors an interesting mix of heritage, spirituality and local culture. Historic monuments, temples, mosques and the surrounding natural landscapes provide opportunities to explore a different side of western Uttar Pradesh. Moradabad offers a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship, history and cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh.

Attractions:

Pital Nagri: Moradabad is popularly known as “Pital Nagri,” or the “Brass City,” because of its long-standing tradition of metal craftsmanship. The famous Peetal Mandi is at the heart of this craft tradition, with numerous shops offering an extensive variety of brass and copper products. Visitors can find intricately carved decorative pieces, lamps, bells, incense holders, figurines, bowls, planters, utensils and other handcrafted articles. The market is particularly known for its detailed engraving, decorative finishes and traditional designs. The craft itself involves several specialised processes, including metal casting, hand engraving, shaping, polishing and decorative colouring. Traditional workshops, many of which have historically operated on a small or family-run scale, showcase the skill and precision required to transform raw metal into finished works of art.

Jama Masjid, Moradabad: Jama Masjid is one of the important historic landmarks of Moradabad and reflects the city's Mughal-era heritage. The mosque was built in the 17th century by Rustam Khan, who played a key role in the early development of Moradabad. The mosque is known for its traditional Mughal architectural character and its significance as a place of worship for the local Muslim community. Its large courtyard accommodates worshippers during congregational prayers, while the mosque becomes particularly lively during Ramadan and Eid. The surrounding area also offers visitors a glimpse into the historic character and everyday life of Moradabad.

Sai Temple: Sai Temple is a prominent spiritual destination in Moradabad, located in the Deen Dayal Nagar area near Shri Sai Karuna Dham. Dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba, the temple welcomes devotees and visitors from different faiths and is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Devotees visit the shrine for prayer and reflection, while the calm surroundings make it a pleasant place to spend some quiet time away from the bustle of the city. With its attractive architecture and serene devotional environment, Sai Temple has become a popular place of worship for both local residents and travellers visiting Moradabad.

Pataleshwar Temple: Pataleshwar Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Bahjoi on the Moradabad–Agra Highway. The temple is particularly known for the Shiva Lingam placed at the centre of its sanctum and for a distinctive local tradition associated with its worship. What makes the temple especially interesting is the tradition of devotees offering a broom to Lord Shiva, rather than the usual offerings of flowers, fruits and milk. According to local belief, offering a broom is associated with seeking relief from skin ailments. This unusual tradition has made Pataleshwar Temple a notable pilgrimage destination, attracting devotees from surrounding areas and beyond. The temple sees particularly large numbers of devotees during the holy month of Shravan, when special prayers and religious activities take place.

Prem Wonderland & Water Kingdom: Prem Wonderland & Water Kingdom is a popular family entertainment destination on Rampur Road in Moradabad, combining an amusement park with a water park. The park offers a variety of water-based attractions, slides, pools and recreational activities, along with amusement rides designed for children and families. Its water attractions make it particularly popular during the warmer months, while the amusement section provides entertainment for visitors who prefer rides and outdoor activities. With its combination of rides, water activities and leisure spaces, Prem Wonderland & Water Kingdom is a convenient choice for families and groups looking to include some recreation.

Deer Park: Deer Park is a green recreational space located near the Ramganga Bridge in Katghar, Moradabad. The park has historically been associated with the city's efforts to provide a space for wildlife and nature within the urban landscape. Surrounded by greenery and open spaces, the park offers a quieter environment away from the busy parts of the city. Its natural setting provides an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and observe the landscape around the Ramganga region. Today, the site is better known for its open, green surroundings and its place in Moradabad's local recreational landscape.

Bade Hanuman Ji Temple: Bade Hanuman Ji Temple is one of the prominent religious landmarks of Moradabad and is situated on a small hill and is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. One of the temple's most distinctive features is the cave located beneath the idol of Hanuman. According to local belief, this underground passage extends through a large part of the city. The temple is also associated with the belief that this is the place where Lord Hanuman manifested, adding to its religious significance. The temple complex houses several other Hindu deities, including Goddess Durga, Lord Rama and his family, Lord Krishna and his family, Sai Baba and Lord Bhairava. The presence of these shrines gives the temple a diverse devotional character and makes it an important centre of worship in the region.

Best Time to Visit Moradabad

The best time to visit Moradabad is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing, exploring the city's historic landmarks and visiting its famous brassware markets.

• October to November: Pleasant weather and comfortable conditions for exploring the city and its markets.
• December to February: The coolest period, ideal for sightseeing, although mornings and evenings can be chilly and foggy at times.
• March: Temperatures begin to rise, but the weather remains suitable for sightseeing, particularly during the mornings and evenings.
• April to June: Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often rising above 40°C, making outdoor sightseeing less comfortable.
• July to September: The monsoon brings rainfall and humidity, which can occasionally affect outdoor activities and travel.

How to reach:

By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, around 154 km away, is the nearest major operating airport which offers extensive domestic and international connectivity.

By Train: Moradabad is an important railway junction with excellent connectivity to major cities across India. Moradabad Junction is the principal railway station, with regular trains connecting the city with Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Bareilly, Haridwar and several other destinations.

By Road: Moradabad is well connected by road with Delhi, Lucknow, Bareilly, Haridwar and other major cities in northern India. National Highway 9 (NH 9) provides an important road link between Moradabad and Delhi, while regular buses, taxis and private vehicles are available for travel to and from the city.