Like that dress you saw online or the restaurants that promised to be the best but did not measure up, sometimes the internet can lead you to disappointing dead-ends. And yes, that applies to our traveling adventures as well. The reasons can vary, whether it’s as simple as a place not being half as pretty in reality or just about a site being too touristy or crowded.
With saturated blue water, trailing dresses, creative angles, and soothing music, travel influencers have the innate talent of making every place a must-visit. While it has attracted many remote locations to its well-deserved spot in the tourism limelight and has rocked the boat when it comes to traveling, it has also astounded many people.
Even if it’s not instant regret on arriving at the destination, there is a sinking feeling of a place not standing up to it being “just as good” and thus facing the negative brunt for no fault of its own. And that, my friend, is a comparison stealing the joy because the actual place is no match to the perfectly shot reel.
Before we go through our list of Insta-famous destinations that you can skip, I do not intend to portray these places in a poor light. Several factors go into making a discerning call and considering the best times and seasons, so feel free to research to make the most of these places if you plan to go there.
So, some of the places that you can press the skip button on are listed below.
Goa Beaches
While Goa is famous for its gorgeous beaches, there’s a side to this tropical paradise that doesn’t always align with its Insta-perfect image. Goa, once known for its pristine beauty, serene atmosphere, and shimmering nightlife, has now staggered under the weight of tourist influx, transforming the place into a chaos of activities.
Palolem, Baga, and Calangute, once endless stretches of golden sand, are now crowded with beach shacks, water sports vendors, and tourists, making it near-impossible to find the solitude that was once synonymous with the place. You can skip this in favor of something more remote and hidden.
Agra
Home to one of the infamous Seven Wonders of the World, the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is undeniably a famous name when it comes to must-visits. However, the city itself might not live up to the hype it has earned. The city navigation is not easy, and the overwhelming hustle and bustle teamed with the heavy tourist inflow, can put off many visitors.
Needless to say, the Taj Mahal is gorgeous in its own right, but the city lacks the serenity and charm that one might hope for. If you have already checked the wonder of the world off your list, it might be a good idea to skip this location and go for a more vast and diverse landscape that India boasts.
Munnar’s Tea Gardens
Tucked away in the picturesque hills of the Western Ghats, Munnar’s Tea Gardens is rightfully lauded as an Instagram-worthy destination, drawing travelers from all over the world for the rolling hillocks of lush green plantations. While the emerald landscapes are idyllic and stunning, it has not proved to be insusceptible to over-tourism and the environmental impact and labor issues it usually entails.
Heavily Instagrammed destinations like Munnar’s tea gardens come with their unique array of ethical crises, and exploring some hidden treasures can provide a more responsible and fulfilling travel experience.
Varanasi Ghats
Varanasi, renowned for its iconic ghats along the sacred Ganges River, has been marked as a spiritual and cultural center in India. However, Varanasi’s ghats may not be everybody’s cup of tea. The bustling and occasionally chaotic atmosphere, combined with the intensity of religious rituals, can be overwhelming for those searching for a tranquil escape.
While the ghats glimpse the eclectic tapestry of Indian traditions and customs, the relentless solicitation and commercialization may not appeal to everyone. If you lean towards quieter, less-explored locations, Varanasi’s ghats may not be the best pick for your next trip.
Kerala Backwaters
While Kerala Backwaters is acclaimed for its breathtaking scenery, the widely famous backwaters might not appeal to everyone. Often illustrated as a peaceful network of canals, lagoons, and lakes, the Kerala Backwaters can conjure an image of utter calmness. In contrast, it’s a bustling tourist hub with houseboats and crowded attractions.
The idyllic charm seen in Instagram photos may not accurately represent the crowded and commercialized experience that visitors may experience. Instead of heading to the backwaters, consider exploring the less-traveled gems that Kerala offers.
Although the allure of Instagram-famous destinations in India is unquestionable, it’s essential to recognize that not every popular spot guarantees a genuinely enriching experience. India, with its extensive and diverse landscape, offers much more beyond the well-known trails of social media fame.
Opting to skip the Instagram-famous destinations enables you to uncover hidden gems, engage in local culture, and establish genuine connections with the people and places you encounter. Embracing the less-traveled routes can lead to unexpected adventures and a deeper appreciation for the unique charm found in every corner of India.
The authentic magic of India may not lie in the social media spotlight but in the quiet, unexplored corners waiting to be discovered by those who are curious and long for authentic exploration.