With a rich history, vibrant present and promising future, Meerut is full of potential, with an abundance of experiences and attractions for visitors to enjoy. An ancient city 72 kilometres from New Delhi, in the heart of Uttar Pradesh state, India, Meerut plays a key role in national culture and heritage, as a popular traditional centre and the largest producer of musical instruments and sports goods in the country. It is the 63rd most rapidly growing urban area on the globe, and the 14th fastest expanding city in India, making it an exciting and energetic place to visit.
Landmarks and tourist attractions saturate Meerut, as monuments like Meerut Cantt, a symbol of the Indian Rebellion, and Hastinapur, a historical and political centre, are scattered around the city in addition to significant buildings like St John’s Church. Visitors can also explore the local, holy Jain temples, which lie near the Ganga River, discover any of the museums and galleries within the city’s streets, or visit other landmarks like India’s oldest mosque, Jama Masjid. Shopping is also a possibility, with thousands of shops in the many modern malls and old market streets, such as Abu Lane and Begum Bridge Road, perfect places to buy the local products of sportswear and musical instruments. Visitors can try the delicious national cuisine, such as naan khatai or rewarees, found at any local marketplace, street food vendor or restaurant.
Buses from the capital, New Delhi, leave for Meerut on a regular basis and visitors can also take the train to the city, using one of its four main railway station, which connect to other major areas throughout India. Drivers can easily find Meerut using the national highways that run throughout the country, and once inside Meerut, there are local bus services and taxis for visitors to use.
The name of the city comes from the Marathas civilisation that once occupied the area during the Vedic age, although historians believe the original settlement was washed away by Ganges floods. Some of the city landmarks date back to the 11th century when Muslim rulers occupied Meerut before British colonialists came to India. Since national independence, it has grown as an important industrial town, developing its traditional industries and creating modern ones.