Explore Beyond the Golden Triangle: Unique India Itineraries

Are you looking for unique India itineraries that are NOT the Golden Triangle? I’ve got you covered!

When most people think of touring India, they picture the Golden Triangle: the iconic loop connecting Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, famous for landmarks like the Taj Mahal and the pink city’s palaces. While these are sites worth visiting, India’s vast and varied landscape offers so much more. If you’re looking for a path less traveled, below are six alternative itineraries that promise an equally exciting experience.

When you are planning your India travel route, you can add these itineraries onto your plans or do these instead of the popular Golden Triangle. The lengths range from 7 to 10 days for each option. Of course, each itinerary can be adjusted based on your own personal travel agenda.

Is the Golden Triangle Worth Visiting?

First things first, if you are wondering if the Golden Triangle is worth visiting… yes it is! It’s a trip well worth taking, but it only gives a glimpse at what India has to offer. I recommend checking out some other destinations in the itineraries below for a more unique trip.

If you are looking for the ultimate India Itinerary for your first time visiting the country, check out my recommendations for the best 10 Day, 2 Week & 3 Week itinerary options (which do include the Golden Triangle).

On my first visit to India, I did the golden triangle plus Jodhpur, Goa, Mumbai, and Bangalore in about 16 days. I have since traveled to many other parts of the country and can highly recommend experiences in each region. The South and the Northeast are especially beautiful, in my opinion.

6 Unique India Itineraries

Here are 6 incredible India Itineraries that are not the Golden Triangle to help you discover hidden gems and underrated destinations.

1. South India Itinerary: Karnataka and Kerala

Overview: Bangalore → Coorg → Mysore → Alleppey → Kochi

Start in Bangalore, a city with a vibrant cafe culture. From there, head to Coorg where lush green hills and coffee plantations. Next, Mysore offers a glimpse into ancient royal India, with the Mysore Palace as a highlight.

Next head to Alleppey, famous for its backwaters. Renting a houseboat and floating through the tranquil waters is a must-do. End your journey in Kochi, where Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture blends with traditional Keralan elements.

Day 1: Explore Bangalore

• Start with a visit to the Lalbagh Botanical Garden to enjoy some greenery and tranquility.
• Head to the Bangalore Palace to explore its splendid architecture and history.
• Stroll through UB City and Brigade Road for shopping and dining.

Day 2: Discover More of Bangalore

• Visit the ISKCON Temple and feel the spiritual vibe.
• Explore the National Gallery of Modern Art and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace.
• Wind down at Cubbon Park or take a local food tour to savor South Indian delicacies.

Day 3: Immerse in Coorg’s Natural Beauty

• Travel to Coorg: Drive from Bangalore to Coorg (~5-6 hours).
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Explore the local market in Madikeri and enjoy some of Coorg’s famous coffee.

Day 4: Dive Deeper into Coorg

• Visit Abbey Falls and the Raja’s Seat for panoramic views.
• Explore the Dubare Elephant Camp and interact with elephants.
• Visit a spice plantation and learn about the local agriculture.

Day 5: Travel from Coorg to Mysore

• Travel to Mysore: Drive from Coorg to Mysore (~3 hours).
• Visit the Mysore Palace to witness its grandeur.
• Head to the Chamundi Hills and the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple.
• Stroll through the Devaraja Market for some local shopping.

Day 6: Explore Mysore’s Rich Heritage

• Explore the Railway Museum and St. Philomena’s Church.
• Visit the Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery.
• Relax at the Brindavan Gardens and enjoy the musical fountain show.

Day 7: Experience Alleppey’s Backwaters

• Travel to Alleppey: Take a train or bus from Mysore to Alleppey (consider an overnight journey to save time).
• Arrive in Alleppey and check into your houseboat or hotel.
• Start your houseboat cruise (usually board around 1pm) through the backwaters and enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility.
• Spending the evening enjoying local Kerala cuisine on the houseboat. Bring some games to play on the boat.

Day 8: Discover Alleppey’s Charm

• Depart your houseboat (usually around 9am)
• In the afternoon, explore the Krishnapuram Palace or head to Alappuzha Beach.
• In the evening, you can relax by the backwaters or visit local markets.

Day 9: Explore Kochi’s History

• Travel to Kochi: Depart from Alleppey to Kochi by road or train (~1.5 hours).
• Visit the Fort Kochi area and explore the St. Francis Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica.
• Check out the Chinese Fishing Nets and the Mattancherry Palace.

Day 10: More of Kochi

• Visit the Hill Palace Museum.
• Explore the Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum or check out the antique shops.
• Enjoy a Kathakali dance performance or a sunset cruise.

2. Northeast India Itinerary: Meghalaya and Assam

Overview: Guwahati → Shillong → Cherrapunjee → Kaziranga

Land in Guwahati and make your way to Shillong. Explore the city’s colonial-era charm before heading to Cherrapunjee, one of the wettest places on Earth, where you’ll find living root bridges and stunning waterfalls.

Finish your trip with a visit to Kaziranga National Park in Assam, home to the rare one-horned rhinoceros.

Day 1: Land at Guwahati

• Depending on your flight time, you can spend the night in Guwahati or continue onto to Shillong the same day.

Day 2: Drive to Shillong

• Travel to Shillong: Drive from Guwahati to Shillong (~3-4 hours).
• Take a leisurely walk around Ward’s Lake
• Later explore Police Bazar for shopping and dining.

Day 3: Embrace Shillong’s Charm

• Visit the Elephant Falls
• Explore the Mawphlang Sacred Forest.

Day 4: Discover Shillong’s Outskirts

• Head to the Shillong Peak for a panoramic view of the city.
• Visit Laitlum Canyon and take a short walk in the fields along the top
• Relax in the serene surroundings or explore more local cuisine and culture in Shillong.

Day 5: Explore Cherrapunjee’s Natural Wonders

• Travel to Cherrapunjee: Depart from Shillong to Cherrapunjee (~2 hours).
• Visit the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India.
• Explore the Mawsmai Cave or hike down to Wei Sawdong Waterfall
• Stop by the viewpoint for Seven Sisters Falls.
• In the evening, relax at your accommodation and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Day 6: More Exploration in Cherrapunjee

• Trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridges in Nongriat village.
• In the afternoon, relax at your accommodation after your long hike.
• Enjoy another peaceful night in Cherrapunjee.

Day 7: Kaziranga National Park Arrival

• Travel to Kaziranga: It’s a long journey from Cherrapunjee to Kaziranga (~8-9 hours), so prepare for an early start and a full day of travel.
• Once you arrive at Kaziranga, check into your hotel or resort. Relax and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 8: Discover Kaziranga

• Start with an elephant safari to see the park’s famous one-horned rhinoceroses up close.
• Follow up with a Jeep safari to explore more of the park’s zones and spot other wildlife.
• Visit the nearby tea gardens and perhaps the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
• Enjoy a local Assamese dinner to cap off your Northeast India adventure.

If you want to extend your time in Meghalaya there’s plenty more tourist spots to check out.

3. North India Itinerary: Ladakh

Overview: Leh → Nubra Valley → Pangong Tso

This itinerary is the most adventurous on the list. Ladakh is for those who seek epic adventures and want to experience the soaring Himalayan mountains.

Start your journey in Leh, acclimatizing to the altitude while exploring Buddhist monasteries and palaces. Then drive through Khardung La, one of the world’s highest roads, to Nubra Valley. Lastly, no visit to Ladakh is complete without seeing Pangong Tso, a high-altitude lake known for its changing colors.

Day 1: Acclimatize in Leh

• Arrive in Leh. It’s crucial to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Stay hydrated and take it easy.
• If you feel up to it, take a gentle walk around the Leh market. Try some local Ladakhi cuisine.

Day 2: Explore Leh

• Visit the Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.
• Explore the Leh Market further, visit the Hall of Fame museum, and understand the region’s history and culture.
• In the evening rest and relax as you prepare for the upcoming journey.

Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley

• Depart early for Nubra Valley via Khardung La pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Take your time and enjoy the breathtaking views.
• Arrive in Nubra and visit the Diskit Monastery and the iconic Maitreya Buddha statue.
• Explore the Hunder sand dunes. You might want to enjoy a camel safari on the unique double-humped Bactrian camels.

Day 4: Explore Nubra Valley

• Visit Turtuk, one of the northernmost villages in India, known for its unique culture and stunning landscapes.
• In the afternoon, return to Hunder or Diskit, and if you haven’t already, try a Bactrian camel safari.
• Spend the evening stargazing, a common highlight for many travelers in Nubra Valley.

Day 5: Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso

• Depart for Pangong Tso Lake. The journey itself is an experience, with stunning landscapes and the chance to cross Chang La pass.
• Arrive at Pangong Tso and admire the lake’s changing colors.
• Relax by the lake and stay overnight in a camp or guesthouse, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Day 6: Pangong Tso to Leh

• Spend more time at the lake. Early mornings offer a serene and beautiful view, perfect for photography.
• In the afternoon, begin your journey back to Leh. Stop at the Hemis Monastery if time permits, one of the largest and wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh.
• Arrive in Leh and relax.

Day 7: Departure from Leh

• Depending on your flight time, you might have a few more hours to enjoy Leh. Visit any sites you may have missed or do some last-minute shopping for local handicrafts.
• Head to the airport for your flight back.

Travel Tips for Ladakh:

If you opt for this itinerary, there are some extra things to keep in mind for these high altitude destinations:

• Altitude Sickness: Be mindful of the altitude. Acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.
• Travel Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits for Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso.
• Connectivity: Mobile connectivity can be spotty. Tell family and friends about your plans and check-in when you can.
• Clothing: Dress in layers. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
• Responsible Travel: As always, be respectful of the local culture and environment. Take your trash with you and support local businesses.

4. Central India Itinerary: Madhya Pradesh

Overview: Delhi → Khajuraho → Panna National Park

If you’re keen to explore the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh offers an exquisite blend of historical grandeur, wildlife abundance, and natural beauty. This itinerary takes you from the bustling streets of Delhi to the ancient temples of Khajuraho and the wild trails of Panna National Park.

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

• Arrive in Delhi, India’s captial city with historical landmarks to see and amazing food to eat.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Explore the vibrant markets of Delhi, like Chandni Chowk or Connaught Place, for an introduction to Indian cuisine and culture.

Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing

• First thing in the morning, visit the majestic Red Fort, followed by the historic Jama Masjid, two of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks.
• Savor some local street food in Old Delhi.
• In the afternoon, head to India Gate and the Parliament House for a glimpse of India’s political heart.
• Explore the Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3: Delhi to Khajuraho

• Take a flight or train from Delhi to Khajuraho, known for its UNESCO-listed temple complex.
• Check into your hotel and rest.

Day 4: Exploring Khajuraho

• Explore the Western Group of Temples, marveling at their intricate carvings and architectural beauty.
• Option: You can head to Panna in the afternoon after spending the morning at the Western Temples. Or you can stay and also visit the Eastern and Southern Group of Temples and/the Archaeological Museum.

Day 5: Khajuraho to Panna National Park

• If you opted to stay in Khajuraho on Day 4, and haven’t yet made the short drive to Panna National Park, you’ll do that this morning.
• Check into a jungle lodge or resort. I highly recommend Taj Pashan Garh.
• If you have time, go for an afternoon safari. Panna is known for its tigers, leopards, and a variety of other wildlife.

Day 6: Wildlife Exploration in Panna

• Embark on an early morning safari. In the morning, your chances of spotting wildlife are higher because animals are more active during the cooler hours.
• Enjoy another safari or nature walk in the evening, followed by a tranquil dinner.

Day 7: Panna to Delhi and Departure

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge
• Depart for Khajuraho and take a flight or train back to Delhi, where you can connect to your onward flight.

5. Western India Itinerary: Gujarat

Overview: Ahmedabad → Bhuj → Rann of Kutch → Gir National Park

This itinerary will guide you through the cultural richness of Ahmedabad, the desert beauty of Bhuj and the Rann of Kutch, and the wildlife sanctuary of Gir National Park.

Day 1: Dive into Ahmedabad’s Heritage

• Start your day at the Sabarmati Ashram, Mahatma Gandhi’s former headquarters, to soak in some history.
• Explore the intricacies of the Adalaj Stepwell, followed by a visit to the Calico Museum of Textiles, showcasing Gujarat’s textile heritage.
• Stroll through the Law Garden Night Market for some local shopping and street food. Don’t miss out on trying local Gujarati snacks like Dhokla, Khandvi, and Fafda.

Day 2: Architectural and Culinary Exploration

• Visit the Swaminarayan Temple in the old city, followed by a walk through the Pols to observe the traditional houses.
• Head to the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, famous for its intricate lattice work, then enjoy a traditional Gujarati thali for lunch.
• Wrap up with a visit to Kankaria Lake, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or partake in the activities available.

Day 3: Journey to Bhuj

• Travel from Ahmedabad to Bhuj, which can be a long drive or a short flight.
• Once in Bhuj, visit the Bhujodi Village, a hub for local artisans. Here you can see and purchase traditional Kutchi handicrafts.
• Explore the local markets in Bhuj, savoring some local delicacies.

Day 4: Discover the White Desert

• Head out early to the White Rann of Kutch, a vast salt marsh, and witness the surreal beauty of the white salt desert.
• Visit the Kala Dungar (Black Hill), the highest point in Kutch, offering panoramic views of the Great Rann.
• Enjoy a cultural performance or a camel ride in the desert, followed by a traditional Kutchi dinner.

Day 5: More of Kutch’s Culture

• Visit the ancient ruins of Dholavira, showcasing the Indus Valley Civilization’s grandeur.
• On your way back, stop at the local villages to see the traditional mud houses (Bhungas) and interact with the communities.
• Return to Bhuj in the evening.

Day 6: Travel to Gir

• Depart from Bhuj to Gir National Park, which will take most of the day.
• Check into your resort and relax. If time permits, explore the surroundings or visit the Devalia Safari Park for a quick glimpse into the area’s wildlife.
• Important Note: Ensure you book your Gir safaris in advance, especially during peak season, as slots fill up quickly.

Day 7: Safari Day

• Embark on an early morning safari in Gir National Park, home to the Asiatic lion. Keep an eye out for other wildlife, including leopards, antelopes, and a variety of birds.
• In the afternoon, take another safari or visit the nearby Crocodile Breeding Center.
• Go for an evening nature walk or a tribal village visit to understand the local lifestyle.

Day 8: More Wildlife and Return

• Opt for one last safari in Gir to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings.
• Begin your journey back to Ahmedabad or proceed to your next destination.

6. North India Itinerary: Rajasthan Beyond Jaipur

Overview: Udaipur → Jodhpur → Jaisalmer

This is an easy itinerary to add on in addition to the Golden Triangle. While Jaipur gets much of the attention, Rajasthan has a lot more worth exploring.

From Jaipur you can head to Udaipur, the city of lakes. Then head to Jodhpur, the blue city, where the Mehrangarh Fort looms over a maze of blue houses.

Finally, venture to Jaisalmer, a golden city rising from the desert. The Jaisalmer Fort, a living fort with shops, hotels, and ancient residential quarters, is not to be missed. A desert safari in the Thar Desert is also highly recommended.

Day 1: Arrival in Udaipur

• Arrive in Udaipur.
• Start with the City Palace, a majestic complex offering stunning views of Lake Pichola and the city.
• In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visiting Jag Mandir and the iconic Lake Palace.

Day 2: More of Udaipur

• Visit the Jagdish Temple, followed by the Saheliyon ki Bari, a beautiful garden.
• In the afternoon, explore the Fateh Sagar Lake and the nearby Monsoon Palace for breathtaking sunset views.
• Spend your evening in the bustling markets, shopping for traditional Rajasthani crafts and textiles.

Day 3: Day Trip to Ranakpur

• Take a day trip to Ranakpur to see the stunning Jain Temple, renowned for its intricate marble work.
• Return to Udaipur by evening, and enjoy a rooftop dinner.

Day 4: Travel to Jodhpur

• Journey to Jodhpur, the “Blue City,” known for its blue-painted houses.
• Start with Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s largest forts, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Visit the Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph nearby, and explore the bustling bazaars.

Day 5: Discover Jodhpur’s Heritage

• Explore the Umaid Bhawan Palace, part of which is a hotel and museum.
• In the afternoon, visit the Mandore Gardens and learn about the region’s history and folklore.
• Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal in one of the city’s fine restaurants.

Day 6: Bishnoi Village Safari

• Take a half-day safari to the Bishnoi villages, experiencing the local culture and wildlife.
• Return to Jodhpur and relax, or explore any missed sights.

Day 7: Travel to Jaisalmer

• Head to Jaisalmer, the “Golden City,” famous for its yellow sandstone architecture.
• Start with the Jaisalmer Fort, a living fort with shops, hotels, and homes within its walls.
• Explore the fort’s palaces, temples, and get a glimpse of daily life in this ancient structure.

Day 8: Jaisalmer’s Havelis and Desert Experience

• Visit the Patwon Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
• By afternoon, embark on a desert safari to the Sam Sand Dunes. Enjoy a camel ride and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the dunes.
• Opt for an overnight stay in a desert camp, experiencing Rajasthani hospitality, music, and dance.

Day 9: Kuldhara Village and Return to Jaisalmer

• In the morning, visit the abandoned village of Kuldhara, known for its mysterious history.
• Return to Jaisalmer for any last-minute exploration or shopping.
• In the evening, relax in one of the city’s rooftop restaurants, savoring the views and local cuisine.

India Travel Tips

✅ Local Interaction: Engage with locals to enrich your experience. Local guides can offer insights you won’t find in guidebooks.

✅ Transportation: Consider trains for longer distances to enjoy India’s scenic diversity. For more remote areas, hiring a car with a driver might be more practical.

✅ Cuisine: Each region has its unique cuisine. Don’t miss the local specialties!

✅ Packing: India’s weather can be diverse. Pack accordingly, especially if you’re traveling across different climates.

✅ Sustainable Travel: Respect the local environment and culture.

These are just a few ideas for India Itineraries. If you want more suggestions or a completely customized itinerary, click here to check out my travel planning services.

TL;DR: Beyond the Golden Triangle: Unique India Itineraries

Whether it’s your first time traveling to India or you’ve already done the Golden Triangle and are looking for other places to explore, there is more than enough destinations worth visiting in India. I recommend South India or venturing up to the mountains in Leh, Ledakh if you’re looking for natural beauty. For the most off the beaten path, journey to the Northeast of India.