Travel and photography enthusiasts often assume that colourful streets and postcard-worthy shots are only possible on a trip abroad, but several old Indian cities are home to lanes that can easily rival any international destination. Walking through these streets not only means great photographs, it also offers a close look at local culture and the everyday lives of the people who live there. Here are 7 such colourful streets across India, each vibrant enough to feel like a festival all year round.
The Blue Lanes of Jodhpur
The city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan is known for its old buildings painted in shades of blue. The old town around Mehrangarh Fort offers a stunning view, with a sea of blue houses visible from higher ground. The mix of narrow lanes and blue homes creates a perfect setting for photography, which is why visitors from across the world are drawn here.
The Pink Lanes of Jaipur
Jaipur is known as the 'Pink City' because of its distinctive colour. Most buildings in the old city are painted pink, and that shade has become the city's biggest identity. Walking through the markets around Hawa Mahal, visitors get to see Rajasthani architecture and the glow of pink hues together, giving the city a look unlike any other.
The Colourful Lanes of Panjim
Panjim, the capital of Goa, still carries the architecture of its Portuguese era. In its old neighbourhoods, houses painted in yellow, blue, red and green make every street come alive. Walking through these lanes on foot feels like a completely different experience, almost like strolling through a European town.
Mumbai's Street Art Lanes
In parts of Mumbai, walls are covered with large murals and street art. These colourful artworks reflect the city's contemporary art scene as well as the everyday lives of its people. Each wall seems to tell its own story, making these lanes worth exploring on foot.
Ahmedabad's Old 'Pols'
The traditional residential neighbourhoods in the old parts of Ahmedabad are known as 'pols', filled with colourful doors, carved wooden structures and traditional houses. Walking through these narrow lanes gives a close look at the lifestyle and architecture of old Gujarat.
The Narrow Lanes of Varanasi
The narrow lanes of Varanasi are packed with temples, old houses, shops and religious decorations. Something new and colourful appears at every turn. These lanes aren't just visually striking, they are deeply tied to the city's centuries-old traditions and faith.
The Colourful Lanes of Kolkata
In the old quarters of Kolkata, colourful buildings, small shops and wall art are a common sight. The streets here present a blend of Bengali culture, local art and everyday life that draws in every traveller who walks through them.
