35 Best Places to Visit in January in India 2023
One of the best times to take up travelling and visit tourist destinations in India is the month of January. Travel enthusiasts begin to hunt for the nicest vacation spots to visit in January. There is no more nuanced way to experience the onset of winter in India than by exploring gorgeous locations. The hot summers give way to a cool January.
Certain sections of the country are blanketed with glistening snow, the air sends shivers up and down the spine, and the sky is deafeningly still. The animals are in a chilled mood as well and seek refuge, heat, and nourishment. Nature’s happiness infiltrates the whole atmosphere, enticing every existing creature to get out.
Want to have fun this winter? Here we will present to you 35 such places which are worth visiting in the month of January in India.
Some of these might be ideal honeymoon destinations for a newlywed couple, whereas some others may be the perfect getaway for a family trip, while some might be a fun trip with your friends to do trekking or other fun activities.
Whatever the reason may be, these places listed below are sure to make your holiday and trip worth taking!
Zanskar (Ladakh)
Zanskar, located in the Himalayan region, is among India’s most stunning unconventional places. The scenic Zanskar Valley is located in a secluded area of Ladakh, tucked into the Mountains.
Because of excessive snowfall, the facility remains shut off from the mainland for over 9 months. It experiences heavy snowfall in January, which draws adventure enthusiasts to trekking pursuits, notably the well-known Chadar Trek.
It is certainly a front-runner among the greatest destinations in India to visit in January because of the degree of challenges and the excitement of taking a walk in snow.
How to Reach?
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh)
Daily flights to Delhi and weekly flights to Srinagar and Jammu.
Zanskar does not have a railhead
Leh to Padum
Kargil to Parkachik
Parkachik to Padum
Major Attractions:
Things to Do: 
Foods you will Love:
Shopping:Auli (Uttarakhand)
Auli, a lesser-known but renowned skiing resort in Northern India, displays practically all colours of beauty, and as a result, it is becoming the most popular tourist destination in India in January.
Auli is situated on a ridge with far-reaching pastures that are visually appealing. The hill station is known as a site where nature comes to life in all of its majesty and magnificence. It is abundant in ecological treasures and has a breathtaking view of the bordering hillsides.
It is not only India’s highest and longest mountain but also Asia’s, and it provides breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan ranges. Another popular sight is Auli’s artificial lake, which is among the highest artificial lakes worldwide.
How to Reach?
Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun)
The airport is 270 km from Auli and operates daily flights to Delhi
Rishikesh Railway Station (250 km)
Dehradun Railway Station (290 km)
Need to catch a bus to Joshimath. It is well connected to major cities such as
Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun and Delhi
Delhi
Delhi has traditionally been the heart of all activity in India, and this is evident in its tourist industry. It has functioned as a vital geographical and cultural centre of the nation since the time of the Pandavas, and it continues to do so now as an exposition of Post-independence India.
Delhi has a diverse range of travel destinations, including landmarks, museums, temples, and modern-day marketplaces. Experiencing the city is like seeing a little version of India, with Delhi reflecting the country’s rich culture.
After all, who doesn’t want to visit the Sarojini market or experience the charms of Hauz Khas or eat at the legendary Khau Galli of old Delhi!
How to Reach?
Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi)
Main railway stations are New Delhi, Old Delhi, Anand Vihar, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Delhi Sarai Rohilla and Delhi Cantt
Connected to almost all parts of India by National Highways
Jaipur (Rajasthan)
With its easy going appeal and magnificent splendour, Jaipur has represented the princely state of Rajasthan well enough for decades. Because of the richer colour of the city’s pink walls in January, Jaipur has always been among India’s top visited tourist attractions.
The Jaipur Literature Festival, taking place every January, is a major gathering of literature aficionados and book nerds. Aside from its majestic forts and castles, Jaipur is also known for its shimmering beauty, which is further enhanced by the presence of these structures.
How to Reach?
Jaipur International Airport
Jaipur Railway Station connected to all cities
RSRTC operates Bus service to all major cities
Gulmarg (Jammu and Kashmir)
Gulmarg, in Jammu and Kashmir, is a great place to visit in January if you’re looking for a snowy getaway. Gulmarg is a well-known ski resort in India, located at a height of 2730 metres in the Pir Panjal Range. With a wide range of adventure activities available, such as skiing, a cable car trip, and more, Gulmarg is a great place to spend your holiday surrounded by snow.
As far as Indian honeymoon spots go, this is up there with the best.
How to Reach?
Srinagar Airport
Direct flights available to Srinagar from Delhi and Mumbai
The nearest railhead to Gulmarg is Jammu Tawi. The distance between Jammu and Gulmarg is 348 km
There are no local bus facilities available in the city. However, buses from various towns of Kashmir are available
Chamba (Himachal Pradesh)
In addition to their natural splendor, several mountain towns are also revered for their historical significance. As you can see, Chamba mixes the two. Dhauladhar and Zanskar ranges meet near Chamba, Himachal Pradesh’s northern district.
It’s a beautiful location with bungalows from the colonial era, wide grassy slopes, and a relaxing ambience. It is among the most beautiful valleys in the region. Travelers will appreciate this location because the weather in January is moderate and not too harsh.
How to Reach?
Gaggal Airport (Dharamsala)
At a distance of 185 km
Pathankot is the nearest railhead at a distance of 118 km. Regular Trains are available.
Regular private and state-owned buses from Bharmour, Khajjiar and Dalhousie ply to Chamba.
Also Read : 20 Best Places to Visit in February in India
Dawki (Meghalaya)
In Meghalaya’s southernmost region, near the borders of India and Bangladesh, there is a small village called Dawki. Located on the banks of the Dawki River, it is a famous spot for those interested in adventurous activities. The Dawki River, also referred to as the Umngot River, is becoming increasingly famous as a swimming destination due to its exceptionally pure water.
For poets, photographers, and hopeless romantics alike, Dawki is a must-see destination. The trip to Dawki from Shillong is all it takes for a honeymooning couple who want to get away from the rush and clamour of regular tourist attractions as well as crowds.
How to Reach?
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati)
At a distance of 195 km
Nearest railhead from Dawki is the Guwahati Railway Station
Public and Private buses available from Shillong and Guwahati
Mawsynram (Meghalaya)
The enchanting town of Mawsynram, located 61 kilometres south of Shillong, is a nature lover’s paradise and an ideal weekend getaway. When it comes to having the wettest climate in India, Mawsynram only edges Cherrapunjee out by a hair. As well as being noted for its rains, Mawsynram is also recognised for its lush greenery, drifting clouds and thundering waterfall.
Mawsynram’s major attractions are Mawlyngbna Village, Mawjymbuin Cave, and Jakrem. Their tourism is also well-known for its secluded caverns and extreme sports.
How to Reach?
Shillong Airport
At a distance of 87 Km
The nearest rail head is the Guwahati Railway Station
At a distance of 151 Km
Regular Buses available from Guwahati and Shillong
Aizawl (Mizoram)
Aizawl sprawls out gracefully on the hills and is certainly one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mizoram due to the sheer variety of things to see and do. A tour of Aizawl involves stops at neighbourhood marketplaces, eateries, shopping malls, resorts, and other attractions, as well as time to enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Tourists choose it as one of the greatest locations to visit in Mizoram because of the variety of things to see and do, including adventure activities and tranquillity.
How to Reach?
Lengpui Airport (Aizawl)
Bairabi Sairang Railway
Privately owned blue-and-white mini buses connected to Silchar, Agartala, Imphal
Gangtok (Sikkim)
This hill station in India’s northeastern state of Sikkim is one of the country’s most visited because of its allure, vivacity, and cloud cover. During the month of January, the region is blanketed in white, making it a wonderful place to visit.
The area boasts a thriving cultural scene, with institutions such as the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology offering expert study programmes in Buddhism and Tibetan academics. Gangtok also serves as a starting point for adventurers who plan to travel and camp in the Himalayas.
How to Reach?
Pakyong Airport
New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station (Siliguri)
At a distance of 124 Km
Taxis are the most widely available public transport. Less Buses available
Also Read : 20 Best Places to Visit in March in India
Nainital (Uttarakhand)
The Lake City of India, Nainital, has been a popular vacation spot since British times. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India in January because of its romantic atmosphere and abundance of sites to explore. With magnificent mountains around it, the hill town is a popular destination for boating and day trips around the Naini lake.
How to Reach?
Pantnagar Airport
At a Distance of 71 Km
Closest Railway Station is Kathgodam
Buses are available from Haldwani
Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)
With regard to destinations in India to visit in January, Khajuraho is another excellent option. The town is renowned for its gorgeous, old temples, which feature some of the best examples of temple architecture.
During the month of January, the weather is really good here. It is among India’s most popular heritage locations, with fascinating architectural landmarks and history that contribute to making it one of the greatest places to visit in January for a holiday. So what are you waiting for?
How to Reach?
Khajuraho Airport
Connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Varanasi
Khajuraho Railway Station
Public and Private buses are available to Khajuraho
Jim Corbett (Uttarakhand)
Consider a location where you may see the Royal Bengal Tiger and other dangerous big animals. And say hello to the awe-inspiring floral displays that greet you at every turn. So, if you’re planning a trip in January, Corbett National Park is where you should be.
Jim Corbett is the perfect destination for thrill seekers, nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, anglers, and animal lovers. It’s time to relax in the jungle’s embrace next January.
How to Reach?
Dehradun Airport (Uttrakhand)
Ramnagar Railway Station
Ranikhet Express and Sampark Kranti (most preferred trains)
Buses are available from Delhi, Ramnagar, Dehradun
Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
Now you must visit Varanasi in January if you are interested in spiritual practice. Bathing in the sacred waters of Ganga is supposed to scrub away all of your transgressions. This ancient city has long served as an epicentre of knowledge and culture. And you can dip your toes in this river of spirituality as well!
How to Reach?
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
Varanasi Junction (Popularly known as Varanasi Cantt Railway Station)
Banaras Railway Station
Good connectivity to major cities by National Highways
Also Read : 20 Best Places to Visit in April in India
Chilika (Odisha)
Chilika Lake (Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon) which is spread over Puri, Khurda and Ganjam a popular stop for migrating birds, so if you’re a bird watcher, this is the perfect winter destination for you. Though, you may visit Chilika at any time of year. The lake takes on an entirely new appearance in the winter. Speed boats are available for sailing on Chilka Lake from OTDC as well as other private providers.
How to Reach?
Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar)
Balugaon Railway Station
At a distance of 50 Km
Frequent buses are available from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri
Kolkata (West Bengal)
The capital of West Bengal, Kolkata, is a tourist’s paradise. If you’re looking for a city with architectural magnificence, a bustling cultural scene, rich museums and galleries as well as cultural importance, Kolkata is undoubtedly the place to visit!
How to Reach?
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Dum Dum)
Five Railway Stations
Howrah, Sealdah, Chitpur, Shalimar and Santragachi
Government and Private operated buses are available
Darjeeling (West Bengal)
Darjeeling is a popular destination for tourists looking for a break from the sweltering heat and bustling cities of India during the month of January. Your heart will definitely light up as you gaze at the awe-inspiring Kanchenjunga Mountains and magnificent Buddhist temples. Darjeeling is an ideal honeymoon destination because of its enchanting atmosphere and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Enjoy the breathtaking splendour of this hill resort while riding on the toy train!
How to Reach?
Bagdogra Airport (Siliguri)
At a distance of 90 km
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
At a distance of 88 Km
Bus services are available from nearby cities
Kutch (Gujarat)
When it comes to January travel, Kutch is another must-see location in the country’s western state. The greatest time to visit the Great Rann of Kutch is during the winter months, when the sand has dried and also the Rann Utsav festival has begun.
In addition to the region’s white desert, which is a significant draw for tourists, additional forts and ancient structures are also worth visiting if you’re a history buff. When it comes to wildlife, Kutch is an ideal location for migrating birds, who swarm to the area throughout the winter months to feed and rest.
How to Reach?
Bhuj Airport
At a distance of 53 Km
Bhuj Railway Station
At a distance of 80 Km
State and Private buses are available from major nearby cities
Diu (Daman And Diu)
For a truly unique experience in January, you should head to the eastern tip of Diu’s coastline. In fact, the town is much more picturesque in the winter months than it is during other times of the year! Why wait if you’ve been searching for it? Prepare yourself for a trip to Daman – Diu.
Right now, Diu’s idyllic landscape captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and ideal weather, luring them in for a variety of fun activities including bungee jumping, spa treatments, hot air balloon rides, and other educational and entertaining events.
How to Reach?
Diu Airport
Veraval Railway Station
At a distance of 87 Km
Buses run from Porbandar, Junagadh and Veraval
Goa
Who doesn’t love Goa after all? Goa is one of the top destinations to visit in India in January. Formerly a Portuguese colony, the area has since grown into a popular tourist destination, complete with pristine beaches, fascinating historical landmarks, stunning cathedrals, temples, and forts, as well as other attractions.
People who enjoy music, dance, parties, and other forms of art will find it all in Goa. Goa’s North and South shores are very different. While North Goa is a popular nightlife destination, South Goa is known for its opulent resorts and peaceful beach atmosphere.
How to Reach?
Goa International Airport
Madgaon and Vasco-da-gama Railway Station
Private buses and Government run Kadamba buses well connected to nearest cities
Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)
If you are looking for a warm destination to visit in India during January, look no further than this destination. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan’s oldest city, is situated in the Thar Desert. Due to its numerous golden dunes as well as beautiful yellow sandstone buildings, the city has earned the nickname “Golden City.” The month of January is breezy in this stunning desert city, making it an ideal time to pay a visit.
Visit Jaisalmer in January, then you’ll be able to take part in a wide range of exciting activities, such as skydiving, desert safaris and water skiing, quad biking, and camping, market hopping, boating on the Gadisar Lake, and more.
How to Reach?
Jaisalmer Airport
At a distance of 17 Km
Jaisalmer Railway Station
Buses are operated by Rajasthan State Transport Corporation
Udaipur (Rajasthan)
Udaipur, known as the “Venice of the East” and “City of Lakes”, was established by Maharana Udai Singh II. It is bordered by the beautiful vegetation of the Aravali highlands and ringed by a network of lakes. Udaipur, the city of lakes, is gifted with a breathtaking beauty that would leave visitors amazed. Admire the magnificent palaces and their exquisite designs. It is a visual delight to be around the lakes!
How to Reach?
Maharana Pratap Airport
At a distance of 20 Km
Udaipur City Railway Station and Rana Pratap Nagar Railway Station
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation
Bikaner (Rajasthan)
The city of Bikaner, located in Rajasthan’s Thar Desert area, is a great place to visit in January. Bikaner has an exotic beauty that draws visitors from all walks of life to experience the regal hospitality of the city’s rulers.
During your stay in Bikaner, you’ll be able to enjoy a wide variety of activities. Witnessing the famed Camel Festival, shopping for souvenirs at Kote Gate, and getting a tour of the spectacular Junagarh Fort are just some of the exciting and eccentric things you can do while you’re here. Because of its stunning design, it’s considered both a cultural haven and a tourist hotspot.
How to Reach?
Nal Airport
Regular flight from Delhi and Jaipur available
Bikaner Railway Station
Buses are well connected to nearby cities
Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
Kemcho? Majaa ma? Yes. The next place listed here will transport you to the beautiful lanes of Gujarat. Gujarat’s commercial capital is Ahmedabad (also known as Amdavad). However, the city can also brag about being a textile hub, a base for educational tourism, and a tourist attraction, among other things. It’s a city with a blend of old-world charm and new-world convenience.
Ahmedabad is a melting pot of creativity, art, and technology that caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. Sabarmati Ashram, Jama Masjid, Jhulta Minar, are just a few of the city’s historic treasures that may be explored in January.
How to Reach?
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
At a distance of 15 Km
Ahmedabad Railway Station
Ahmedabad BRTS, AMTS are well connected to nearby cities
Andaman And Nicobar
Couples from all over the world choose this exotic location as their honeymoon location of choice every year. You and your dear ones will be wowed by Andaman’s stunning natural beauty in January, making it one among the greatest destinations to visit in India at this time of year.
Tourists come from all over the world, drawn by the tropical rain forests, the shores of the Bay of Bengal, the awe-inspiring natural beauty, the ancient sites, and the sandy beaches.
How to Reach?
Veer Savarkar International Airport (Near Port Blair)
No Train Connectivity to Andaman
Buses are available from Port Blair to travel to different places
Hyderabad (Telangana)
Hyderabad is one of the most enjoyable cities to visit in January because of its mild temperature. With its unequalled combination of history and technology, the Pearl City captivates everyone who steps foot in this majestic Nizami capital. Known as a metropolis with a 400-year legacy, Hyderabad is sure to provide visitors with a memorable and rejuvenating vacation.
This city has everything to keep you enthralled: historical landmarks, scenic retreats, delectable food from around the world, enticing shopping, and exhilarating theme parks.
How to Reach?
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
Nampally and Kachiguda Railway Station
State and privately owned buses are available to major cities
Puducherry
Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is one of the most picturesque Union Territories in the world. The colonial legacy of France lingers strongly in this area. Pondy is sometimes referred to as the “French Riviera of the East” because of its stunning natural beauty.
Scuba diving, water sports, snorkelling and scuba jumping are all popular water sports in this area. You may easily find the peace and quiet you crave in Pondicherry, thanks to the lack of overcrowding on the city’s many beaches. Visitors to Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville come from all over the world to experience its spirituality, serenity and meditation.
Chikmagalur (Karnataka)
Chikmagalur should be on the bucket list of nature enthusiasts and those looking for peace and quiet this January. Chikmagalur’s calm and pleasant environment complements the undulating valleys, which are loaded with delightful coffee gardens, and nearly every visitor who explores this picturesque town falls in love with it.
Many coffee connoisseurs and environment lovers dream of visiting this idyllic town, which previously served as a nexus for people from all over the world. Chikmagalur is a popular tourist destination because of its perpetual beauty, which includes undulating hills, verdant landscapes, glistening rivers, and fragrant coffee estates.
Coorg (Karnataka)
The captivating hill station of Coorg is one of Karnataka’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s noted for its beautiful flora, waterfalls, old temples, as well as other remarkable views.
It’s a cold month in January when you’re at this elevation, which is around 900 metres above sea level. Coorg is a popular tourist destination for a wide range of people, including families, singles, and groups of all types.
Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
This hill station in Tamil Nadu, with its 2,240-metre altitude, is a popular tourist attraction for people from Coimbatore and Chennai who want to see the beauty of the mountains. It’s surrounded by picturesque lakes, lowlands, and mountainous regions covered in lush greenery.
As one of the greatest locations to visit in India in January, Ooty Lake offers a refreshing memorable vacation amidst lush foliage, as well as boating opportunities on the lake itself.
Gokarna (Karnataka)
According to its etymology, Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district includes the city of Gokarna, whose name translates to “cow’s ear.” As per prominent mythical belief, this is the location where Lord Shiva manifested himself in the form of a cow after being incarnated as Mother Earth.
There are several historic temples in and around the area, including Mahabaleshwar Temple, which has been dedicated to Lord Shiva from ancient times. Those seeking adventure as well as those seeking spiritual consolation come to the town in large numbers.
Nashik (Maharashtra)
Nashik, Maharashtra, is a revered pilgrimage destination for Hindus because of the city’s numerous temples. In Hinduism, this ancient sacred location holds enormous significance. At the same time, it’s one of four venues where the annual Kumbh Mela occurs.
Natural wonders abound in Nasik, and they’ll take your breath away with their magnificence. Beautiful vineyards strewn throughout the hills of Nashik are the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the Sahyadri mountain range. There are temple paths, caverns, waterfalls, and much more to fulfil your bucket list at this sacred site.
Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)
The port City of Visakhapatnam is also known as Vizag. The oldest shipyard on Indian soil is located in the Vizag port. The city attracts a large number of tourists every year because of its appealing environment and picturesque beaches that appear like they came right out of a postcard.
Vizag is a famous tourist destination for those who enjoy a mix of mountain ranges as well as coastline. To get your adrenaline pumping, you may attempt paramotoring, parasailing, diving, as well as speed-boating on the beach.
Havelock Island (Andaman And Nicobar)
Are you planning a trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands? If so, Havelock Island is a must-see. There are magnificent palm palms, silvery beaches, and pure azure waters here, away from the usual tourist commotion.
Adventure sports like jet-skiing, snorkelling, and scuba diving are particularly popular, drawing visitors from all over the world. These islands are also recognised for their vibrant coral reefs.
Munnar (Kerala)
Munnar is among the most enticing tourist spots, nestled above a picturesque landscape of undulating tea fields and spice gardens. Weekenders and recreational tourists alike will enjoy this hill station nestled in the lush landscape of God’s Own Country.
The ideal period to explore Munnar is when the weather is more comfortable during the winter season. The lowest temperature dips to 10 degrees Celsius around this period of the year, making it ideal for a getaway or honeymoon.
January is also a terrific season for thrill-seekers, who may partake in sports ranging from rock climbing to hiking to rappelling. It is highly recommended that you bring warm clothing, as the nights may get rather chilly.
This concludes our list of places that are ideal for you to visit in the month of January. You can have the time of your lives exploring and enjoying these places. So what are you waiting for? Get down and plan for your next trip this January!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best weather in January to vacation?
All of the places mentioned in our list are places with the best weather to take a vacation in January.
Is January a good month to travel?
Yes, January is a very good time to travel in India because of the pleasant weather and cost-effectiveness.
Why do people travel in January?
India being a tropical country experiences warm weather throughout the year mostly. But the weather during the winter months of December and January are very pleasurable as well as travel friendly.
Where is it warm in January?
Places like Goa, Mumbai, Puducherry, Kovalam etc are warm enough in January to have a nice stay.
What country is sunny in January?
Almost anywhere in the southern hemisphere is a fantastic option for January sunbathing. A few of the top holiday destinations are Dubai (UAE), Maldives, Thailand, Dominican Republic, and Barbados.
Which are the famous festivals celebrated in January in India?
Many festivals are celebrated in January but the most famous ones are Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Lohri, Vasant Panchami.
What countries are best to visit in January?
Some of the best places to visit in January are Norway, Maldives, Los Angeles, Slovenia, Barbados, Laos, Nicaragua, Honduras.
What are the places in India to visit in January to see snowfall?
Some of the best places in India to visit in January to see snowfall are Gulmarg, Nainital, Manali, Shimla, Tawang, Auli
What are the places to visit in January in India for a honeymoon?
Gulmarg, Andaman and Nicobar, Goa, Darjeeling, Gangtok are some of the best places to visit in January in India for a honeymoon.
About the Author
A voracious reader and enthusiastic writer, I have a knack for concocting a plethora of creative write-ups. I'm a trend-savvy researcher, always on the hunt for inspiration to create unique and captivating content. I fancy myself a genre chameleon, flitting from intellectually stimulating pieces to captivating works of fiction. Whenever not weaving my thoughts into words, I indulge in my love of painting, cooking, dancing and some good old Netflix binge!
