Soon as the new year dawns upon us, we get busy streamlining our resolutions and traveling mostly features at the top of the bucket list. Helping you further with the wish list, here are a few places to visit in January in India that get better as the winter season peaks.
The lush green environs breathe life around, and the chill in the air infuses positivity, which makes India an ideal destination to explore in the month of January. Be it walking the frozen lake in Zanskar, or beholding the magnificent Republic Day parade in Delhi; sailing over the turquoise water in Dawki or attending the coveted Jaipur Literature Festival; India presents the best of the best in January.
With this list of 15 best places to visit in India in January, you’ll have your priorities sorted and you’ll be able to close the destination you wish the conquer next.
1. Zanskar, Jammu & Kashmir: Walking the frozen lake
This January, catch the nature at its fluffiest as you walk the thick sheet of snow, endure the piercing wind, and contain the elusive. Chadar Trek- the most daunting trek in the Himalayas will test your agility to the core. The trek located in the Zanskar range is a living legend made up of breathtaking trails coated with thick snow sheets on the frozen lake.
Winter is the time when the entire valley and the Himalayan range is engulfed by a pristine white sheet clearly making it one of the places to go in January in India. The difficulty level, along with the thrill of walking on the snow, makes it one of the top contenders among the best places to visit in India in January.
Places to visit in Zanskar: Patnitop, Phuktal monastery, Drang Drung glacier, Panikhar, and Zongkhul
Things to do in Zanskar: Trekking, paragliding, river rafting, and rock climbing
How to reach Zanskar
By air: Leh is the nearest airport
By train: Banihal railhead is 167 km from Zanskar
By road: Regular buses run from major North Indian cities to Zanskar
Must Read: Chadar Trek: A Complete Guide For That Walk Of Life
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2. Auli, Uttarakhand: When life gives you snow, float on it
Also known as the skiing destination of India, Auli wears almost all shades of nature to become one of the favorite tourist places in India in January. The hill station – adorned with snow and ladened with adventure – has everything awesome about it that makes people drool over the idea of exploring it.
Apart from skiing, Auli also offers the raw view of Nanda Devi range and other fine architecture of nature that includes pristine rivers and lush greenery. Auli is certainly the place to visit in North India in January. Choose from a range of Uttarakhand tour packages that are completely customisable as per your requirement.
Places to visit in Auli: Kwani Bugyal, Trishul peak, Rudraprayag, Joshimath, and Chenab lake
Things to do in Auli: Skiing, trekking, riding a cable, catch the 180-degree view of Nanda Devi range.
How to reach Auli
By air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport
By train: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh
By road: State transport buses from Haridwar and Rishikesh are available
Don’t forget to attend the national skiing championship in the month of January
Suggested Read: 25 Places To Visit In Winter In India That Will Ensure You Give Your Quilt A Miss
3. Delhi: Of the past, present, and the vibrant!
Nothing beats the charm of Delhi in the month of January. Beautiful people, vibrant festivals, and one national carnival – the capital city of India charm its visitors in more than one ways, every winter. It is this charm that puts Delhi in the bracket of the best destinations in India in January.
While the Mughlai delicacies of Old Delhi tickles the taste buds, the fine ancient architecture of medieval era leaves you in awe. But if I had to underline one thing that compels anyone to visit the city in January, it has to be the Republic Day parade. The parade exhibits numerous elements of India and grapples the onlookers with its sheer excellence and fine execution. India Art Fair is another awaited event for art enthusiasts that catches their fancy. And the Delhi winter is to die for!
Places to visit in Delhi: Historical monuments, architecture, and Baoli in Mehrauli, Akshardham Mandir, Jama Masjid, Iskcon temple near East of Kailash, Lotus temple, and Lutyens Delhi
Things to do in Delhi: Watch the Republic Day parade at India Gate, go shopping at Karol Bagh, Sarojini Nagar, try Mughlai delicacies in Old Delhi, and explore the Tibetan settlement at Majnu Ka Tila
How to reach Delhi
By air: Indira Gandhi International Airport connects Delhi with other major cities across India and world
By train: New Delhi Railway Station is an important junction, which is well connected to different part of the country
By road: Delhi roadways buses cover most of the important cities across the North and Central India
Suggested Read: 20 Tourist Places In Delhi That Everyone Must Visit
4. Jaipur, Rajasthan: A darker shade of pink
The capital city of Rajasthan evokes an aura of nonchalant charm and imperial regalia, something that the royal state has thrived on since ages. The pink city wears an even darker shade in the month of January, which makes it one of the favorite tourist places to visit in India in January.
Jaipur Literature Festival is a huge confluence of literature enthusiasts and book snobs that take place in the month of January. Besides, Jaipur boasts of imposing forts and palaces that make the sparkling grandeur of the city. Go on, book your Rajasthan tour package, and take a dip in the royal madness and live the excellence!
Places to visit in Jaipur: Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort religious, Jantar Mantar, Chokhi Dhani, and Birla Mandir are among the most popular tourist places in Jaipur.
Things to do in Jaipur:
Attend Bikaner camel fair in Bikaner located at a distance of 335 km. Time taken to reach Bikaner from Jaipur by road is 5 hours.
Kumbhalgarh festival, experience the tranquility of Ram Nivas Garden and enjoy a hot air balloon ride. Other interesting activities are paragliding, camping, and jeep safari. Kumbalgarh is located at a distance of 345 km from Jaipur. Time taken to reach Kumbhalgarh from Jaipur by road is 5.75 hours.
How to reach Jaipur
By air: Jaipur airport is located at a distance 12 km from the heart of the city
By train: Jaipur Railway Station is right in the city which connects Jaipur to other major Indian cities.
By road: Rajasthan state road transport buses operate in tandem with Delhi and other major cities of Rajasthan
Suggested Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In North India In December For A Perfect End To The Year!
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5. Kutch, Gujarat: It’s sand and not snow!
Comprising of the upper half of the westernmost state of India, Kutch is another exciting place to visit in India in January. Apart from white desert which acts as a major source of tourism in the state, there are other forts and historical building that catches the fancy of a travel freak.
Kutch is blessed with rich flora and fauna, and also happens to be one of the favorite residing places for migratory birds who flock to the place especially during winters. Rann Utsav and International Kite Festivals act as the primary allure.
Places to visit in Kutch: White desert/Rann of Kutch, Centre for Desert and Ocean, Darbargadh, Kachchh Museum, Wildlife Sanctuary, Aaina Mahal
Things to do in Kutch: Attend Rann Utsav, International kite festival, watch the beautiful birds walking on the beach in Mandvi, stay in the eco-resorts and homestays, visit- Nirona, Nakhatrana, Khavda, Bhujodi and Ajrakhpur, Dhordo and Hodka- villages popular for handicraft
How to reach Kutch
By air: Bhuj Airport is the nearest flight strip to Kutch
By train: Kutch Railway Station is the nearest railhead
By road: Bus services from nearby and major cities of Gujarat is convenient and simple
Suggested Read: 15 Best Honeymoon Places In World In January 2019 To Embark On A Romantic Sojourn
6. Diu, Daman & Diu: India’s island prodigy
Once a pacifying retreat for the Portuguese, Diu remains a major source of attraction for tourists who look forward to a soothing retreat far away from the madding crowd. The quaint sea beaches, calm environs and placid weather of January set up this place perfectly and puts it on the list of top holiday destinations in India in January.
It’s around the same time of the year that Festa De Diu- Asia’s longest beach festival, takes place and during this time, the whole Diu is adorned like a bride. The picturesque territory and amazing weather call you to Diu.
Places to visit in Diu: Nagoa beach, Shell museum, Jalandhar shrine, Diu Fort, Gangeshwar temple
Things to do in Diu: Bonfire on beach, camping with friends, attend Festa De Diu, boat tour kiosk, party at Casa Luxo bar, go birdwatching, try cave hopping, and indulge in water activities
How to reach Diu
By air: Airport on Diu island makes it easily accessible by air from other major Indian cities
By train: Una is the nearest railways station 12 km from Diu
By road: Ahmedabad is 370 km by road, which is well connected to other important cities of the country
Suggested Read: 9 Hidden, But Beautiful Islands In India For A Memorable Escape to Bliss
7. Goa: Beauty by the beach
India’s most celebrated holiday destination and the fulcrum of bachelors’ most awaited tour plan is at its prime in winters. While vibrant colors of beach fashion essentials adorn the place; palm-fringed beaches make it one of the most favorite places to visit in January in India.
A popular settlement of the Portuguese, Goa has plenty of attractions to offer during the month of January. India Yoga Festival and Goa Lokotsav remain the highlight of popular activities to attend in Goa in January.
Places to visit in Goa: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Dudhsagar Falls, Fort Aguada, and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Things to do in Goa: Beach camping, explore Margao and Vasco Da Gama, explore the diverse flora and fauna of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, visit the Naval Aviation Museum, and watch the dolphin drive
How to reach Goa
By air: Dabolim Airport lies 29 km from the state’s capital
By train: Madgaon and Thivim are the two major railheads of Goa and are well connected by trains from all over the country
By road: KSRTC, MSRTC, and KTC bus services operate from Panaji, Madgaon, and Vasco Da Gama
8. Munnar-Alleppey-Thekkady, Kerala: To the backwaters
How does the idea of floating frivolously on the calm backwaters of Kerala sound like? Exciting ya! There’s more to it. The calm haven of a boathouse, glaze of lighthouse beach, and exciting cruises make Kerala one of the intriguing places to visit in January in India.
Not only this, after the monsoon departs it leaves the place impregnated and ready to exude greenery and divine beauty. But all that gorgeousness is of no use if you aren’t there to praise the beauty. Munnar-Alleppey-Thekkady is the perfect trio calling out for you. And the experience that it would leave you with after you have booked your Kerala package is going to be next to none!
Places to visit in Munnar-Alleppey-Thekkady: Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Mattupetty Dam, Lock Heart Gap, Anamudi Peak, and Alappuzha Lighthouse
Things to do in Munnar-Alleppey-Thekkady: Boat tours, watch Kathakali dance, leisure cruise on the Periyar, enjoy the bullock cart ride, go range hiking, shop for spices, and ride a majestic elephant
How to reach
By air: Airport in Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city and well connected to major airports of India and abroad
By train: Cochin, Alleppey, and Kottayam are the most popular railheads
By road: Munnar, Alleppey, and Thekkady are well connected with other prominent South Indian cities through road
Must Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In South India In December
9. Mamallapuram-Madurai, Tamil Nadu: The charm of down south
January is the time when Tamil Nadu is at its best. The place exhibits a myriad of colors offered by nature. Also, January is the time for Mamallapuram Dance festival, which is an absolute treat for culture lovers. Around the same time, Pongal calls for a statewide celebration, making Madurai and Mamallapuram the best places to visit in South India in January.
Madurai celebrates Float Festival with huge processions that are carried out from Meenakshi temple. While the tempting aroma of crisp vada and dosa permeate the air around; the chanting of mantras cleanse the atmosphere, and to top it all the exciting designs of rangoli adorn the households immaculately.
Places to visit in Mamallapuram-Madurai: Meenakshi Temple, Gandhi Museum, Samanar Hills, Shore temple, Panch Rathas, Descent of the Ganges, and Tiger Caves
Things to do in Mamallapuram-Madurai: Try moving Krishna’s Butterball, go surfing, explore the lighthouse, watch crocodiles move around in their natural habitat at Crocodile Farm, and relax with the Ayurvedic treatment at Sri Durga
How to reach
By air: Chennai International Airport is the easiest way to get to Mamallapuram
By train: Chengalpattu is the nearest railhead at a distance of 29 km
By road: 1.5-hour drive from Chennai
10. Andaman & Nicobar: A honeymooner’s first love!
This out-of-the-world place by far remains the most preferred honeymoon destination for most of the couples worldwide. Turquoise water, silky sand, quaint beaches – the breathtaking spectacle of nature makes Andaman one of the best places to visit in India in December-January with family and loved ones.
Havelock island being the best of them all calls out the seekers of peace and retreat. Unblemished and spotless as it is, the place definitely has plenty of wonderful things to offer. With temperature continuously hovering between 20 and 28 degrees, nothing matches the beauty and charm of Andamans.
Places to visit in Andaman & Nicobar: Radhanagar, Neil, Elephant and Kalapathar beach, Venom Bar, Cellular jail
Things to do in Andaman & Nicobar: Try the lip-smacking delicacies at Full Moon Cafe, snorkeling, Scuba diving, enjoy light and sound show at the Cellular Jail
How to reach Andaman & Nicobar
By air: Port Blair is well connected with Chennai and Kolkata
By water: Ship and cruise services are available from Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam
Suggested Read: 15 Most Amazing Things To Do In Andaman
11. Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh: Mecca of street food!
Holding the prestigious distinction of being home to the Mecca of India, Hyderabad turns into an allure for travelers. The pleasant weather conditions in the month of January, which is neither hot and nor too cold, makes Hyderabad one of the warm places to visit in India in January.
Golconda Fort, Madina, and lip-smacking Mughlai food are key attractions of your holiday to the city of Nizams.
Places to visit in Hyderabad: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Mecca Masjid, Ramoji film city, Hussain Sagar lake
Things to do in Hyderabad: City detours, heritage walks, try street food in Charminar area, take a ferry ride in Hussain Sagar lake, explore Birla Science Centre
How to reach Hyderabad
By air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is located in Begumpet area
By train: Hyderabad Railway Station connects the city with all the major location of the country
By road: Hyderabad has a huge bus terminus which well connected with almost all the neighboring cities and other major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Aurangabad, and Kolkata
Must Read: 10 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit Hyderabad
12. Sirpur, Chhattisgarh: In the lap of nature
The historical town of Sirpur is an amazing blend of nature and monuments. The nonchalant charm of this relatively quiet sojourn makes it an ideal holiday destination in India in January.
Come January, and the Sirpur National Dance and Music Festival enthrall and leave you mesmerized. The place basks in the festivities and the electric atmosphere leaves visitors enchanted.
Places to visit in Sirpur: Urja park, Iskcon temple, Madku Dweep, Nandanvan garden, Mahant Ghasidas memorial
Things to do in Sirpur: Explore the temples, go for nature walks, go beach camping, and enjoy spectacular nature view at Takmak Tok
How to reach Sirpur
By air: Sonegaon Airport in Nagpur is the nearest airstrip located at a distance of 194 km
By train: There are trains running from other major cities to Sirpur Town Railway Station
By road: Nearest bus stand is Kagaznagar at a distance of 16 km
13. Puri, Bhubaneshwar: Natural habitat of the migratory birds
Popular worldwide for the Jagannath temple, Puri has plenty of treasures that catch the fancy of most of the discerned travelers and puts it on the list of best places to visit in India in December-January. Chilka lake is a popular tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts sees a large number of footfall especially in the month of January. Thanks to the pleasant weather and the birds flocking to the place during winters.
Puri also boasts of plenty of marvel from the medieval era which allows the visitors a surreal view of fine architecture and craftsmanship.
Places to visit in Puri: Puri beach, Konark beach, Chilka lake, Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary,
Things to do in Puri: Bird watching, private tours to sanctuaries and temples, cruising in lake, and fishing
How to reach Puri
By air: Nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport at a distance of 60 km from the city
By train: Puri Railway Station is in the heart of the city
By road: Regular buses from the neighboring city frequent Puri
14. Kolkata, West Bengal: Where joy is eminent in everything
India’s only metro city with a great mix of lifestyle and infrastructure from yesteryears and the current era, Kolkata holds the distinction of being another top-notch place to visit in India in January. It is around this time that colorful Poush Mela is celebrated in Santiniketan.
At Eden Gardens, experience the echo and thrill of numerous chants that still reside in the premises of the 2nd largest cricket stadium in the world, only after Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Places to visit in Kolkata: Nicco Park, Eden Gardens, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Science City, and Howrah Bridge
Things to do in Kolkata: Explore the flora and fauna of Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary, offer prayers at Adi Brahmo Samaj Prayer Hall, lots of water activities at Aquatica Water Park
How to reach Kolkata
By air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport is at a distance of 18 km from the city.
By train: Howrah and Sealdah are the two major railheads that connect most of the Indian cities with Kolkata
By road: The Calcutta State Transport Corporation (CSTC), Calcutta Tramways Company (CTC) and West Bengal Surface Transport Corporation (WBSTC) allows plenty of commuting options from the nearby cities by road
15. Dawki, Shillong: Where beauty hangs by the living root
100 km to the south of Guwahati lies Shillong- the capital city of Meghalaya, nurtured and groomed by the rain Gods. The mild smoky environs sprinkled air carrying beads of mist, fluttering leaves and minimalistic way of life make Dawki a unique place to begin your quest for happiness and life.
Brace yourself for a cozy sojourn as you plan to explore the wide riches of the North East with your perfect travel companion. I’d recommend one because North East is certainly among the warm places to visit in January in India.
Places to visit in Shillong: Barapani, Cherrapunji, Dawki Umngot river, Elephant falls, Nohkalikai falls, Shillong peak
Things to do in Shillong: Walk Living Root Bridge in Mawlynnong and Double Decker Root Bridge entirely made up of tangled roots, offer prayers to the almighty at Kamakhya Temple, boat ride, trekking, and camping
How to reach Shillong
By air: Guwahati Airport is the closest airstrip to Shillong
By train: There’s no railway station in Dawki, the last railhead before Dawki is Guwahati
By road: Buses and taxis operate at regular interval from Guwahati to Shillong
FAQs about places to visit in January in India
Which is the best place to visit in India in January?
All of these places have different specialties that make them awesome in January. Udaipur is your place if your love desert and want to try glamping, visit Munnar if your want to get away from the biting cold weather of north India, go to Andaman if you wish to explore the gorgeous beaches and islands in January.
What countries are best to visit in January?
Italy, France, Czech Republic, Britain, Australia, Spain, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka are incredibly gorgeous during January. Choose any of these countries if you’re planning an international vacation in Jan.
How hot is India in January?
January is among the coldest months in India. The temperature in the extreme northern regions of the country can go as low as -10 to -15 degrees Celsius . Cities in northern India aren’t as cold as the mountainous regions and the temperature can drop down to 4-5 degrees Celsius. The southern part of India doesn’t experience harsh winter. Winter months are the best months to explore and enjoy the beauty of south India. The minimum temperature in south India ranges between 22-30 degrees Celsius.
If you plan to begin the year with some adventure and freshness instilled in the air, I don’t think this list of best places to visit in India in January would ever let you run out of ideas!
Check these related links also:
10 Picturesque Places To Visit In February In India
10 Places To Visit In March In India For A Calming Vacation
Places To Visit In India In April: Beat The Heat This Summer Like A Pro!
Places To Visit In India In May: 15 Ideal Destinations To Explore This Summer!
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