Why You Should Add Varanasi to Your India Golden Triangle Tour Itinerary
India’s famed Golden Triangle—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—is a well-trodden route offering a perfect introduction to the country’s rich culture, majestic architecture, and deep-rooted traditions. This triangle forms the cultural heart of North India. However, to truly experience India’s spiritual soul, adding Varanasi to this itinerary is an absolute must.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds profound significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. As a sacred city located on the banks of the holy Ganges River, Varanasi provides a unique spiritual and cultural experience that balances perfectly with the grandeur of Delhi, the romance of Agra, and the royal charm of Jaipur.
Below, we explore the many compelling reasons why Varanasi deserves a place in your India Golden Triangle Tour itinerary.
1. Dive Into India's Spiritual Core
While the Golden Triangle introduces travelers to India’s historical and architectural marvels, Varanasi offers something more intangible yet deeply moving—spiritual awakening.
Every day in Varanasi begins and ends with a spectacle of rituals and prayers on the ghats (steps leading down to the river). Pilgrims bathe in the sacred Ganges to wash away sins, while priests perform aarti (prayer rituals) with blazing fire lamps and chants that echo across the riverbank. Experiencing the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is something that stirs the soul, regardless of one’s religious background.
2. Witness the Cycle of Life and Death
One of the most profound aspects of Varanasi is its approach to life and death. The city is believed to be a gateway to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth). As such, many come to Varanasi to spend their final days, and cremation ceremonies are a regular, public sight at ghats like Manikarnika and Harishchandra.
While this may seem morbid at first, the atmosphere is far from depressing. There’s an overwhelming sense of acceptance, peace, and even celebration of life, making it a deeply moving experience for anyone seeking deeper insight into the Indian way of life.
3. Explore a City Steeped in History and Mythology
Varanasi isn’t just about spirituality—it’s a living museum of history. Said to be founded by Lord Shiva himself, the city is over 3,000 years old and has been a hub of education, music, art, and philosophy throughout Indian history.
Stroll through its winding alleys and you’ll find centuries-old temples, crumbling mansions, vibrant bazaars, and hidden shrines. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracts millions of devotees each year.
The city is also mentioned in ancient texts like the Rigveda and holds a unique place in epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
4. Experience Authentic Indian Culture
If you're looking to dive into the real essence of India—beyond the polished tourist sites—Varanasi delivers it in raw, unfiltered form. The city pulses with a mix of age-old traditions and contemporary life. You can witness a traditional sitar performance, attend a Sanskrit lesson, or watch artisans weaving the world-famous Banarasi silk sarees.
The chaos of the streets, the smell of incense, the ringing of temple bells, and the sight of saffron-clad sadhus (holy men) all come together to form a symphony of sensory overload—and pure authenticity.
5. Visit Nearby Attractions
Adding Varanasi to your Golden Triangle itinerary also opens up access to other significant destinations. A short drive away is Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It’s a key pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and home to the impressive Dhamek Stupa and the Ashoka Pillar.
Other nearby attractions include Ramnagar Fort, the Bharat Mata Temple, and the Tulsi Manas Mandir, each offering a different slice of the region’s diverse heritage.
6. Enrich Your Itinerary with Diversity
The traditional Golden Triangle tour showcases political, royal, and architectural India: Delhi’s colonial past and bustling markets, Agra’s Mughal elegance with the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur’s regal forts and palaces. But adding Varanasi introduces an entirely different dimension—India's spiritual and philosophical depth.
This blend of contrasts creates a richer, more holistic travel experience. You see not just the monuments, but also the people, the beliefs, and the intangible elements that form the soul of India.
7. Enjoy a Unique Culinary Experience
Varanasi is also a foodie’s paradise. The city’s street food scene is legendary, offering everything from spicy chaat and kachaudi sabzi to sweet delights like jalebi, rabri, and malaiyyo (a winter delicacy made from milk froth).
And don’t miss out on the famous Banarasi paan—a sweet and aromatic betel leaf preparation that’s an iconic part of Varanasi culture.
Sitting at a riverside café, sipping masala chai while watching life unfold on the ghats, is an experience you’ll treasure long after your trip ends.
8. It’s Well Connected and Easy to Include
Logistically, adding Varanasi to your Golden Triangle tour is simple. The city is well-connected by air, rail, and road to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. You can catch a short flight or overnight train from Delhi or Agra, making it a seamless addition to your travel plan.
Plus, there are well-planned itineraries that combine all four destinations, making it convenient for travelers looking to explore India in depth. For example, the India Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi is a thoughtfully curated package that ensures you experience the best of history, culture, and spirituality in one journey.
Final Thoughts
Adding Varanasi to your India Golden Triangle tour is like adding soul to a beautiful body. The grandeur of forts and palaces in Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur gives you a taste of India’s royal and political history. But it is in Varanasi that you truly feel India—alive, ancient, mysterious, and deeply spiritual.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a curious traveler, Varanasi adds unparalleled depth and authenticity to your journey. It’s not just a destination—it’s a transformative experience.
So, when planning your next trip through India’s cultural triangle, don’t stop at Jaipur. Go further. Go deeper. Go to Varanasi—and discover a part of India that touches the soul.