Walking tours of 5 Indian cities

1. Amritsar One of the largest cities in Punjab, a lot of people vist Amritsar to pray at the Golden Temple. But the city’s narrow lanes offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the city. Start your walk at the Town Hall, built in 1873 and a fine example of colonial architecture. It was once the centre of Amritsar’s local administration. Visit Jallianwala Bagh where in 1919 hundreds of people were shot dead. The massacre’s scars can still be seen on the walls. Then head to Gurdwara Saragarahi, built to honour the memory of the soldiers who died in the Battle of Saragarhi in 1987. Then there’s Ramgarhia Bunga, a former garrison house, built in the 18th century. The army was station there to protect Golden Temple from invaders. Qila Ahluwalia is a fort that once belonged to Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, a great Sikh warrior. And Jalebiwala Chowk in the city’s commercial district is where you should stop to savour some lip-smacking delicacies. Along the way you’ll also pass Balanand Akhara, Sangalwala Akhara and Chitta Akhara, which aren’t linked to wrestlers, but are 250-year-old hostels for spiritualists and saints. Sangalwala Akhara is one of Sikhism’s largest schools of learning, and is well known for its large library. End your trip at the magnificent Golden Temple, which was completed in 1604 and is considered the holiest gurdwara of Sikhism.