7 Reasons to Venture Beyond the Golden Triangle in India

Are you planning to travel to India? Are you wondering about how to shortlist the places and more importantly, where to start? If you have asked around where to go in India, chances are people will recommend the Golden Triangle. While it is indeed a classic route, there are 7 reasons to venture beyond the Golden Triangle in your trip to India

What is the Golden Triangle in India?

The Golden Triangle in India is a trio of cities located in north and west India: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. On a map, the locations of these cities create a triangle. Most international travelers tend to visit these places due to easy accessibility and the diversity they offer within a relatively short distance.

Check out my other India travel resources here!

Why is the Golden Triangle so popular?

There are many reasons the Golden Triangle is chosen time and again by travelers as the place to visit in India.

Easy accessibility: Travelers can fly into the Delhi airport to start their India Golden triangle trip.
Easy navigation – Because these cities are well connected via roads and trains, navigating is relatively easy.

Location – The three cities are close to each other. Therefore, travelers do not need much time to go from one spot to the next.
The beauty and charm – This list would be remiss without mentioning that it is beautiful in the Golden Triangle. After all, one of the 7 new wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is on this itinerary!

Reasons to venture beyond the Golden Triangle in India

Even though the Golden Triangle is popular and there are a lot of beautiful places to explore, I would strongly recommend venturing beyond these areas. Here are some reasons to consider as you plan your India trip.

1. Been there, done that

The Golden Triangle is easily the most popular route tourists take in India. It does not need more exploring, as these cities experience a lot of tourist footfall. If you want to travel off the beaten (to death) path, consider going outside these areas.

2. India has so much to offer

Seriously, this cannot be emphasized enough. India is a vast country. While the Golden Triangle has a lot to see, it is barely scratching the surface of everything that India has to offer. Opportunities to experience culture, diversity and adventure are awaiting you. Go on out there and explore!

3. You love adventure

If you are an adventure lover, you will love the variety of adventure travel experiences India has to offer! There’s white water rafting, bungee jumping in Rishikesh Valley, trekking in North-East India and Manali, surfing in Goa, or scuba diving in Andaman – just to name a few.

4. It’s not your first time in India

The Golden Triangle is a good way for first time travelers to acclimatize to India. However, if you have already traveled in India, and are attuned to the culture, experience, sights, smells, and the general sensory overload, you are ready to venture beyond 😉

5. Think of all the food!

Food is an integral part of Indian culture and the India travel experience. The cities of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra have delicious food, but there is so much variety to try! From theplas in Gujarat, to vada pav in Mumbai, kathi rolls in Kolkata, and dosa in Chennai, you are spoilt for choice.

Also, if you are vegetarian or vegan, the sheer number of food options will leave you floored and content.

PS. Granted, there are some good spots in these cities for food from other parts of the country, but I will make this disclaimer – it is not always authentic (there, I said it).

6. You are looking for spiritualism on your trip

If spiritualism is on top of the requirements for your India trip, add Haridwar or Amritsar to your list. Experience an evening Ganga Aarti on the banks of the Ganges river and the devotees who take a dip in its holy waters.

Amritsar houses the Golden Temple (place of worship of Sikhs, but is welcome to people of all faiths). Spend an evening enjoying the serene waters and the golden facade of the temple. And afterward, indulge in the communal langar where devotees cook a meal for thousands of people.

7. You have more than a weeks’ time in hand

About 8-10 days is sufficient to explore the Golden Triangle area. However, if you have a few more days in your trip, consider adding a couple of places close by. For instance, Rishikesh, Shimla and Udaipur can be easily added to this itinerary.

Or better yet, create your own India route through other parts of the country. I am working on a few unique itinerary ideas too, so make sure to come back soon to check it out!

With all that, I feel I also have to add the disclaimer that the Golden Triangle is beautiful. I have explored it and loved it. And you likely will too. If you have not visited India before and are set on visiting these 3 cities, you absolutely should. But consider also traveling beyond these places. Because India has a lot to offer, and you will miss out on many experiences if you limit yourself to the comfortable zone only!

So, after reading this article, will you venture beyond the Golden Triangle?

Still want to visit one part of the Golden Triangle? Check out my 2-day itinerary for Jaipur, home to architectural gems like Hawa Mahal and Amer Fort here.