plaka shopping Sanjay from the Grand Hotel runs reputable and good-value tours that include the Attari Wagah border

A major textile plaka shopping centre, Ludhiana is also the headquarters plaka shopping of Hero Cycles, which manufactures upward of four million bicycles annually. This big city is a convenient base from which to attend the Kila Raipur Sports Festival (see p 200 ).

Sanjay from the Grand Hotel runs reputable and good-value tours that include the Attari Wagah border closing ceremony, Mata Temple and a night visit to the Golden plaka shopping Temple plaka shopping from 500 per person. Day tours can also include the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh and Sri Durgiana Temple. Customised tours to Dharamsala, Dalhousie and Manali can also be arranged.

Hotel MC International HOTEL $$ (%2222901; www.hotelmcinternational.com; The Mall; s/d incl breakfast 2800/3200; ai) This midranger has unadorned contemporary rooms, somewhat lifted by the incredibly bright bed covers and sparkling bathrooms. There is a 24-hour coffee shop and business centre but the advertised gym, beauty parlour and bar are all still on the planning board.