Winter is here—there’s a nip in the air and the humidity is low, making it a great time to explore Indian cities on foot. Whether you’re traveling to a new destination or want to pull back the curtain on your own city, these walking tours are the best way to (re)discover the streets of India. Apart from city attractions, many tour companies also offer themed walks centered on food, architecture, culture, history, and more. Here are our picks across nine cities in India.
Table of Contents
Mumbai’s Eclectic Architecture, Walking Tours
Did you know that Shakespeare’s face is sculpted on the façade of a building in South Mumbai? Or that the architecture of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya incorporates Islamic windows, Hindu temple motifs, and Rajasthani jharokhas? Explore these and more architectural gems with architect Nikhil Mahashur of Walkitecture. His tours around the cultural precinct of Kala Ghoda reveal a blend of Gothic, Indo-Saracenic, Neoclassical, and Art Deco styles. Walkitecture also collaborates with local businesses for experiential walks, such as a recent one with Blue Tokai Coffee in Kala Ghoda, ending with coffee and snacks.
Follow their Instagram for updates on upcoming walks.
Uncovering Stories of Delhi, Walking Tours
Steeped in history, Delhi is a city built on layers of the past. On a walking tour with Anas Khan of Unzip Delhi, you’ll delve into the heritage and culture of Old Delhi, where Khan’s family has lived for over 250 years. His tours cover areas like Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi), Nizamuddin, the ruins of Mehrauli, Humayun’s Tomb, and the Red Fort. These walks, available on weekends, offer a deep dive into the city’s rich history. Check their Instagram profile or WhatsApp 7982839895 for more details.
Bengaluru’s Garden Trail, Walking Tours
Known for its sprawling parks and gardens, Bengaluru is best explored on a Nature Trail with Unhurried. Wander through Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, taking in its ancient trees, lake, and beautiful glasshouse, or stroll through Cubbon Park, learning about its Victorian past when people commuted on horseback and danced in ballroom halls. Discover more on their Website..
Traditions of Chennai, Walking Tours
Chennai’s rich history, culture, and cuisine come alive with Storytrails. Their thematic trails, led by expert storytellers, uncover the city’s unique layers. On the British Blueprints Trail, explore colonial Madras through its architectural legacy. The Steeple Chase reveals Chennai’s Christian history, while the Peacock Trail takes you through Mylapore, a neighborhood older than the city itself, rich with stories of local life, gods, demons, and ancient customs. Learn more on their website.
Photography Walk in Kolkata, Walking Tours
Kolkata’s heritage architecture and leisurely pace make it a perfect city for a photography walk. With Calcutta Photo Tours, led by the internationally published photographer Manjit Singh Hoonjan, you can explore the city’s architectural heritage on the European Calcutta tour. For those interested in people-watching and portrait photography, the Mesmerising Markets walk or the Culture Kaleidoscope tour offers a vibrant view of Kolkata’s bustling markets and diverse communities. These tours can be tailored for both amateur and professional photographers. Check their Website.
Heritage of Hyderabad, Walking Tours
Hyderabad Magic’s Charminar Precinct Walk offers a glimpse into the city’s history from the Qutb Shahi dynasty to the Nizams’ rule. You’ll see traditional crafts like zardozi and lac bangles as you navigate the busy streets and bazaars. The tour includes a visit to the Mecca Masjid, so remember to dress modestly and carry a long scarf or dupatta for women. The tour concludes at the grand Chowmahalla Palace. Please find out more on their Website.
Lucknow’s Culinary Delights, Walking Tours
Tornos India’s tours are a great way to explore Lucknow’s rich heritage and cuisine. The Lucknow Mutiny Tour takes you back to the 1857 siege, while the Wajid Ali Shah Walk explores the Kaiserbagh Palace Complex. The Evening Culinary Walk is a must for food lovers, taking you through the city’s best street food spots, ideal for those who enjoy meat dishes. Discover more on their Wesbite.
Slice of Mysuru, Walking Tours
With Gully Tours, experience Mysore’s history, markets, and cuisine on a combined walk. Their Malgudi Tour is a treat for fans of R. K. Narayan, visiting the places that inspired his writings and the R. K. Narayan Museum website.
Agra Beyond the Taj Mahal, Walking Tours
Agra Heritage Walks offer a unique way to explore the city beyond the famous Taj Mahal. Led by locals, these tours take you to temples, mosques, dargahs, artisans’ workshops, and traditional businesses. The Poetry Walk is particularly special, tracing the old city’s cultural history through the verses of its poets. Check their Instagram for more details.
FAQs about Exploring Indian Cities Through Walking Tours
-
What kind of themes do these walking tours cover?
These walking tours cover a variety of themes such as architecture, history, culture, nature, and cuisine. For example, Walkitecture in Mumbai focuses on the city’s architectural styles, while Storytrails in Chennai offers themed walks that explore colonial history, local traditions, and religious heritage. Culinary tours, like those offered by Tornos India in Lucknow, provide an immersive experience of local food culture.
-
How can I join a walking tour in these cities?
To join a walking tour, you can usually find information and updates on the tour companies’ websites or social media profiles. For instance, Walkitecture updates their Instagram with upcoming tours, Unzip Delhi can be contacted via WhatsApp, and Calcutta Photo Tours offers detailed information on its website.
-
Are these walking tours suitable for all age groups?
While most walking tours are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of age groups, it’s important to check specific tour details. Some tours, such as those involving extensive walking or visits to less accessible areas, may be more suitable for adults and older children.
