Under The Starlight: Night Tours in India

When one plans a trip out-of-town, the general rule of thumb demands a planned schedule packed with activities throughout the day. The night-times are usually wasted at the accommodation, trying to get your interest piqued by the rundown foosball table in the hotel club house. Why waste your time indoors when you can explore an unseen view of the city? Embark upon a journey under the soft starlight with these night tours in India:

AGRA

Home to one of the seven wonders of the world, Agra invites thousands of visitors every day. In an attempt to combat the influx, the city has decided to allow night visits to the Taj Mahal for five days a month. The experience of witnessing the white marble under a full moon is unlike any other. However, the Taj Mahal is not the only breath-taking monument in Agra. Take a night tour of Agra and view the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Jama Masjid post dusk. You can also interact with the locals and learn more about the culture of the city, while beating the daytime crowd. Additionally you can even shop for souvenirs and taste the street food. WanderTrails offers a 3 hour package around Agra.

NEW DELHI

Delhi is a melting pot, full of diverse cultures and local attractions. Important monuments of India stand grand in the capital, even more spectacular at nighttime. With the visitor timings increasing recently, one can take a trip to these attractions even at night. Humayun’s Tomb and  Safdarjung tomb are among these. Other monuments to check out are Qutub Minar (which has been draped in lights), Nizamuddin Dargah (Qawali nights on Wednesdays) , India Gate, Connaught Place and the Birla temple.  On the flip side of these monumental wonders are night walks through the slim, excited lanes of Chandni Chowk. This is where the spirit of Delhi really comes alive at night. Do not miss out on the food. Audley Travel, Viator, Delhi by Locals and Yo Tours have various packages for Delhi.

JAIPUR 

While others sweat out in the harsh heat of Jaipur’s daytime, switch for the alternative night tours and escape the heated affair. A cultural hub, Jaipur is home to significant monuments such as the floodlit Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal and Water Palace. A night tour will take you through these popular attractions along with a guide for information. The illuminated view of these monuments will be savoured by you for life. You can even try out an open-jeep experience. You can check out Viator and TripAdvisor for options on the trips. 

AMBOLI

A wildlife hotspot in Maharashtra, Amboli is a paradise for herpers (those invested in learning about reptiles and amphibians). The dense forest of Amboli offers a wide variety of these animals. Atop the Sahyadri hills, this hill station is a tranquil setting and allows one to study reptiles under a microscope (and brush up on photography).  A night trail through these woods may be slightly disorienting due to the pitch dark with only torches for comfort, but makes for an unforgettable experience. Travelclix and Treks and Trails offer a night trail here. 

KOLKATA

The old world rustic charm never leaves West Bengal’s capital. While the streets are heavily stormed by people during the day, it is during the night that one can really appreciate Kolkata for the architectural muse that it is. You can join a tour and visit the less popular attractions such as Dead Letter Office, St. Andrews Church and Lascar War Memorial, alongside the crowd-favourites (Eden Gardens, Victoria Memorial Hall and the obvious priority, Howrah Bridge). For the more courageous, a horror themed tour takes you to the ominous spots of the city, giving a comprehensive look into history and mythical stories revolving these places. Of course, both the tours will be incomplete without tucking into the mouth-watering street food and chai. Let Us Go, Wandertrails and Calcutta Walks offer these services for those interested. 

CHENNAI  

The South Indian metropolitan has a lot to offer. Monuments, local hangouts, the beach, and various old streets often left unexplored. A night tour through the city will take you away from Fort St. George all the way to Marina Beach, unfolding Chennai’s cultural habitat, including the local favourite hangouts, important sights and popular attractions. Ancient buildings dotting the old streets are a lovely touch.  Thrillophilia offers such a walk.