Is India Worth Visiting? What I Learned Exploring the Golden Triangle and Varanasi
By Kassondra R., Bursch Travel Advisor
India is unlike anywhere else I’ve traveled. It’s colorful, chaotic, incredibly photogenic, and filled with experiences that stay with you long after you return home.
I recently spent 12 days exploring Northern India, including Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi, on an educational trip with Peirce & Leslie Travel. I came home with a completely new appreciation for India’s history, culture, hospitality, and incredible variety.
My biggest takeaway? India isn’t necessarily an easy destination, but it can be one of the most rewarding places you’ll ever visit.
Four Destinations, Four Very Different Experiences
Delhi: A City of Contrasts
Delhi is energetic, busy, and wonderfully chaotic. Exploring Old Delhi’s markets and narrow streets is a sensory experience, while sites like Humayun’s Tomb reveal the city’s remarkable history.
It’s a destination where having a knowledgeable local guide makes a tremendous difference.
Agra: Seeing the Taj Mahal in Person
The Taj Mahal is every bit as impressive as you’d hope. My recommendation is to see it from Mehtab Bagh gardens at sunset, then return for a visit at sunrise.
We stayed at Oberoi Amarvilas, where the rooms overlook the Taj Mahal. The service was extraordinary, and it would be a wonderful place to splurge for a night.
Jaipur: Palaces, Shopping, and Incredible Architecture
Jaipur was one of the most visually beautiful stops on our trip. Between the colorful markets, historic forts, royal palaces, and beautiful textiles, it’s a dream destination for photographers and shoppers.
The hotels were experiences in themselves. I loved Oberoi Rajvilas, with its peaceful gardens and roaming peacocks, but my favorite hotel inspection was Samode Haveli, a smaller heritage property in the historic Pink City.
When I return to Jaipur, that’s where I want to stay!
Varanasi: The Experience That Moved Me Most
Varanasi was my favorite stop, and I was moved to tears more than once.
Situated along the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is one of Hinduism’s holiest cities. Watching the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, with its chanting, music, and fire rituals, was an incredibly powerful experience.
This isn’t necessarily a relaxing destination. It’s crowded, intense, and deeply spiritual. But for travelers interested in culture and meaningful experiences, I can’t recommend it enough.
What Surprised Me Most About India
The hospitality was exceptional. From the hotels and restaurants to domestic flights and local guides, I felt incredibly well cared for throughout the trip.
I felt safe as a female traveler. I know safety is a concern for many travelers considering India. With our well-organized itinerary, private transportation, and knowledgeable guides, I felt comfortable throughout my experience.
The hotels can be extraordinary. India offers some truly remarkable luxury accommodations, from modern city hotels to historic palaces. Choosing the right property can completely change how you experience a destination.
The logistics are challenging. Traffic, long drives, crowds, and unfamiliar surroundings can make independent travel difficult. I would strongly recommend working with an experienced travel advisor and trusted local guides rather than attempting to plan everything yourself.
Planning Your First Trip to India? Here’s What I’d Recommend
Is India a good destination for first-time international travelers?
Personally, I wouldn’t recommend India as someone’s very first international trip.
It’s an incredibly rewarding destination, but the crowds, traffic, cultural differences, and busy pace can feel overwhelming. Travelers who have already explored Europe, South America, or other international destinations may feel more comfortable.
If you’re curious, adventurous, and open to new experiences, though, India has so much to offer.
What is the Golden Triangle in India?
The Golden Triangle is a popular travel route connecting Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
It offers a wonderful introduction to Northern India’s history, architecture, culture, and food. You’ll experience everything from Delhi’s bustling markets to the Taj Mahal in Agra and Jaipur’s beautiful palaces and forts.
For this itinerary, I’d recommend at least seven nights, with seven to nine nights being a comfortable starting point.
Should you add Varanasi to a Golden Triangle itinerary?
If you have the time and enjoy immersive cultural experiences, absolutely!
Varanasi was my favorite destination of the entire trip. The spiritual atmosphere along the Ganges River, the evening ceremonies, and the daily life surrounding the ghats made it unforgettable.
I’d recommend allowing approximately 10–14 nights if you want to combine the Golden Triangle with Varanasi or another additional destination without feeling rushed.
What is the best time of year to visit Northern India?
Generally, October through March offers more comfortable conditions for sightseeing in Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
We traveled in September, near the end of monsoon season. The scenery was beautifully lush, but it was also hot and humid, and heavy rains can affect travel plans.
The best timing depends on which regions and experiences you want to include, so it’s worth discussing your itinerary with a travel advisor before choosing dates.
Is it safe to eat and drink in India?
I had a wonderful experience with the food and felt very comfortable dining at the reputable hotels and restaurants included in our itinerary.
I would still recommend drinking bottled or properly filtered water and being thoughtful about where you eat. Working with knowledgeable local guides can help you discover great food experiences while making informed choices.
Do you need a private guide to visit India?
For the type of trip I experienced, I would highly recommend one.
India is a destination where transportation, distances between cities, crowds, and local logistics can be challenging. Having knowledgeable guides and private transportation made our journey much more comfortable.
We traveled with Peirce & Leslie Travel, whose team handled our itinerary and arrangements beautifully. Their attention to detail made a complicated multi-city trip feel surprisingly seamless.
Would I Recommend India?
Absolutely—to the right traveler.
India is ideal for people who love photography, history, wildlife, shopping, architecture, and cultural experiences. It offers everything from extraordinary luxury hotels to ancient temples, bustling markets, and deeply meaningful spiritual traditions.
But I would also encourage travelers to arrive with an open mind. There will be crowds, noise, traffic, early mornings, and moments that push you outside your comfort zone.
For me, those experiences were part of what made the journey so memorable.
Thinking about a trip to India? After experiencing these incredible destinations firsthand, I’d love to help you plan your own adventure! I can help you decide if India is the right fit, choose the best time to visit, and create a personalized itinerary that matches your interests and travel style.
