The Helpful Stranger

Providing an authentic and honest opinion on travel destinations

Tag: India

  • Bundi self-guided walking tour

    For an authentic and hassle-free Rajasthan experience, look no further than Bundi! The former capital of a small princely state, Bundi boasts classic Rajasthani architecture and history without the over-tourism, scams and hustlers that plague some of its more well-known neighbours. This walking tour covers the main attractions – you can choose to do it Read more

  • Train travel in India: a practical guide

    Train travel in India: a practical guide

    While there are plenty of difficulties facing independent travelers in India, public transport needn’t be one of them! India has one of the largest and most established rail networks in the world. Although it may seem daunting at first and is not without its challenges, once you’ve mastered India’s trains then traveling around the country Read more

  • Shimla self-guided walking tour

    Shimla self-guided walking tour

    Originally developed by the British during the 1800s as the summer capital of the British Raj, Shimla’s cool mountainous climate meant that it became a popular retreat from the oppressive heat of the lowlands for many British officers, enlisted personnel, administrators and their wives during the sweltering summer months. With a mix of high-ranking government Read more

  • Ahmedabad self-guided walking tour

    India’s 5th largest city, Ahmedabad is the focal point of Gujarat state. Ideally located on the route between Mumbai and Rajasthan, the city does not see the same levels of tourism as these popular hotspots but it has plenty to offer to visitors. Founded in the early 1400s by the Sultan of Gujarat, Ahmed Shah Read more

  • Gwalior self-guided walking tour

    Located just over an hour from Agra by train, Gwalior is a classic northern Indian city. With a rich cultural heritage, it also boasts one of the country’s largest and most iconic forts. Despite this, Gwalior is way off the established tourist trail for most visitors to India. Check out this self-guided walking tour which Read more

  • Kolkata self-guided walking tour

    Kolkata self-guided walking tour

    As the former capital of British India, Kolkata has a special place in India’s history. Formerly known as Calcutta, the city gained prominence in the early 1700s after the establishment of Fort William by the British and became the centre of operations for the British East India Trading Company, which later developed into Company rule Read more

  • Bengaluru self-guided walking tour

    Known today as a modern tech hub, Bengaluru is the capital of Karnataka state and one of the largest cities in India. Having once been a part of the Mysore kingdom under Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, it later became the regional capital when the British took control and moved administrative functions to the area Read more

  • Chennai self-guided walking tour

    Chennai self-guided walking tour

    Formerly known as Madras, the metropolis that is now Chennai has played a key role in India’s history and has a strong cultural and religious heritage. This self-guided walking tour takes in some of the notable sites around the seafront area. I recommend completing this walk in the morning, as temperatures can get quite hot Read more

  • Crossing the Petrapole/Benapole border from Kolkata to Khulna

    The Petrapole/Benapole border is the only land border between India and Bangladesh that is open for foreigners to cross. It’s also the only Bangladeshi land border which issues visa-on-arrival. We made the crossing between Kolkata and Khulna without any major problems in the end, although it did take most of the day. Read on for Read more

  • How to cross the Wagah border from India to Pakistan

    Disclaimer: we crossed the Wagah border from India into Pakistan in April 2025. I wrote this guide at the time. A few weeks later, the border was closed after a rise in political tensions between India and Pakistan. The diplomatic situation between the two countries is always fraught and can change quickly. I recommend checking Read more