What is it that the turtle sees that the Falcons don’t? It is the epic serenity that comes with slow movement.When you go slow, you live the moments to the fullest unhurried. It is an experience of serenity and calmness. True India exploration lies in its walking tours where you just go with the flow in the bustling streets, bazaars and see a lot happening all at once.
If you are keen in exploring the true essence of Indian cities, you can’t go wrong with Same Day Walking Tours in India, and Heritage Walk Tours. In most of the Indian tourist destinations, you must go out and stroll across the bazaars, to explore and experience the true Indian surroundings that are often loud, but vibrant and engaging.
What are India Walking tours and why do they matter?
Walk Tours in India are all about enjoying the journey rather than just visiting destinations. Instead of moving from one monument to another, walk tours encourage exploring new places on foot at a leisurely pace.
Indian cities are amazing to be explored by foot. Watching the old architecture, vibrant bazaars, and daily rituals of people is a wholesome experience for the new visitors. India is unlike any other country in the world and a walking tour enables you to notice and appreciate the small details – worshipping a cow for example.
Walking tours are eco-friendly and create lasting memories which often lack in standard monument to monument tours by cars.
Popular Heritage Sites Best Explored on Foot
India is treasured with so many heritage sites that you’ll have a lifetime of memories when you explore them. Their historic lanes, neighborhoods, bazaars are all picturesque and you’ll love capturing them with your best people. Here are some of our top picks for Walking tours.
1. Old Delhi, Delhi
Old Delhi has to be the number one place when it comes to walking tours in India. Old Delhi was the capital of Mughal Empire which ruled from 1648 to 1857. Before the Mughals, Delhi was the seat of power for multiple dynasties which were collectively known as Delhi Sultanate.
Hundreds of years of history, heritage and architecture was formed and evolved in the city called as Old Delhi before the British came in and established a new and well planned city called New Delhi.
Old Delhi is an amazing place where the old world charm resides in the air, quaint lanes and surroundings. A stroll across the Old Delhi neighbourhoods will entice your mind and will leave you spellbound. On a typical Delhi Walking tour, you will visit the Chandni Chowk market on a Tuk Tuk along with Jama Masjid and nearby areas.
2. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Agra city amuses you with its one and only, it comes to walking tours in India the Taj Mahal; the paradisiacal monument from the Mughal Era. The monument attracts visitors from all around the world and leaves them speechless. But, there is more than the Taj Mahal in Agra, it’s the ever-lasting Old Agra city which was established by Mughal rulers. It’s charming with old architectural monuments which were built along with the Taj Mahal and other Mughal monuments. The architecture is inspiring and enthralling.
Another amazing element of Agra walk travel is the artisans who are carrying the legacy of several artforms which were brought to this place by different Emperors. For instance, the art of Parchin Kari or Pachhekari is the best known. In this marble pieces are cut in different shapes and are decorated by inlaying intricately cut pieces of different semi-precious stones in them. The results are magnificent. This art form was brought to India by Jahangir, a Mughal Emperor and can be seen in several monuments such as Taj Mahal, Itimad-Ud-Daulah, Agra Fort and more.
3. Jaipur’s Old City, Rajasthan
Jaipur is a beautiful city that is an impeccable amalgamation of both heritage and a modern city. Being a capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur has two parts; one modern Jaipur, and the other Jaipur Old City. The Jaipur Old City is a different world altogether. It is a planned city and was built by the founder of Jaipur – Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727. Jaipur Old City walk tour oozes you with old world luxury as you get to see all the buildings, royal gates, traditional havelis, mansions and other monuments all cladded in a single colour – a mix of orange, red and pink.
Jaipur Old city is the best part to explore walking as some of the structures belong to their original era and are in good conditions. It is a journey to the past and will leave you with lasting memories. Jaipur is known for its distinct colourful designs in architecture and clothes which you’ll see plenty on this Jaipur Walking tour.
Recommended Walking Tour Routes and Itineraries
Walking Tours are seamless experiences that take you to places, meet the locals, and know history in deep. These are private guided tours where a Govt. a Certified tour guide accompanies you. Here are some recommended Walk Tours in India.
- Old Delhi Heritage Walk (3-4 hours): Includes Red Fort’s vicinity, Jama Masjid, Chawri Bazaar, and local street food stops.
- Agra Heritage Walk (3 hours): Visit Old Agra, Taj Ganj, Kinari Bazaar and Lohar Gali
- Jaipur Cultural Walk (4-5 hours): Explore Johari Bazaar, Tripolia Bazaar, City Palace exterior, and lunch at a local eatery.
Who should choose Walking Tours in India?
1. If you love cultural immersion
Walking slows down and encourages exploration in a relaxed manner. You meet locals, understand their daily lives, explore art places, often get invited to their homes, and more. In a nutshell, it is a first-hand experience of the city.
2. If you have an eye for detail and beauty
Indian cities are vibrant; full of colours, intricate architecture, and designs. It’s all in colours and there are certainly no monochromatic spaces in India. If you have an eye for detail and beautiful things; Walking Tours in India around Indian cities will give you a lasting impression that you’ll cherish for years to come.
3. You prefer Immersive Experiences
Unlike regular tours where you move from monument to monument in a car, walking tours are immersive experiences where you explore everything by yourself. You shall be amused by a live painting session while your partner may explore some hidden architectural treasure. Walking tours are all about experiences and not about just the monument itself.
4. Health & Wellbeing
You can binge eat while you are on a Walking Tours in India! Walking is good for health and helps you connect well with the environment.
Tips for Enjoying Walking Tours in India
1. Clothing: Wear full light-coloured breathable clothes and wear light and comfortable shoes.
2. Skin Care: Carry good sunscreen with a hat, and drink plenty of water.
3. Start Early: If you are travelling in an Indian summer, it is highly recommended to start early. The sun usually gets harsh after 9 AM.
4. Safety: Opt for a Govt. certified local guide who has good knowledge about the area.
5. Follow required Etiquette: Respect local customs. Wear full clothes while entering a religious place. Seek permission before photographing & Enjoying Walking Tours in India.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing India is more than just monuments; it is about the local surroundings and living streets, bazaars, and everyday lifestyle of Indians. It is a slow journey to understand India, Indians, and the history of India while creating unforgettable travel stories.
Interested in exploring India on foot? Check out our curated Walking Tours in India packages tailored for curious and conscious travelers like you!
