Jaisalmar
India is a land endowed with sheer diversity, and hence, is an enchanting destination to visit during any part of the year. But there is something exciting about traveling to India in January. After the peak New Year festivities and exasperating touristic rush, the most popular spots in India become more pleasant this month, allowing for a leisurely holiday. Whether looking to head to a magical winter spot, a warm destination, or anywhere in between, plan your perfect trip to India with this exclusive guide.

1. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg Jammu and Kashmir

Want to escape to a snowy wonderland on your India trip? Gulmarg should occupy a top spot on your travel bucket list. Its unequaled landscape, covered with thick layers of snow, makes it one of the unmissable places to visit in January for winter sports enthusiasts.

Weather: -10 to -3.5 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Kongdori Gulmarg Gondola Ride, Bird Watching at Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Skiing at Apharwat Peak, and Apather Lake

Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport, approximately 55 kilometers away.

2. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh Uttarakhand

It’s a pilgrim spot year-round, with some of India’s most sanctified temples. But, visiting this picturesque town in the mighty Himalayan foothills in January allows you to admire its mythical charm in all its splendor. It is a haven for adventurists and nature lovers and is especially known for its magnificent shrines, mainly Bhootnath Temple and Trayambakeshwar Temple, enshrining one of Lord Shiva’s Jyotirlingas. Check out our guide to 12 Jyotirlingas in India to add more spiritual places to your to-do list.

Weather: 6 to 15 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Body Surfing, Flying Fox Experience, Bungee Jumping, Parasailing, Yoga Session, Mountain Biking, and Waterfall Trekking

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 20 kilometers away.

3. Jim Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park

It is the foremost of choices for those seeking a wildlife-themed holiday in India, being one of Asia’s biggest and oldest national parks. If you are among them, there is no better time to visit this thrilling destination than in January. It is during this month when several unique bird species flock here and all the park’s safari zones are open. Prepare to meet its residents as majestic and distinct as the Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, chitals, Asian black bears, and sambhar.

Weather: 6 to 19 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Jeep Safari, Camping in the Park, Elephant Safari, Bird Watching, Rock Climbing, Fishing, River Rafting, and Trekking

Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport, approximately 80 kilometers away

4. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

 Jaisalmar Rajasthan

It’s fittingly called the Golden City. It is counted among the best places to visit in Rajasthan for its location in the iconic Thar Desert, yellow-stone architectural wonders, venerated Jain temples, and enlightening museums, among others. An added perk of traveling to Jaisalmer in January is the pleasant weather, which allows you to discover its unparalleled desert landscape at its best on a thrilling camel safari and other exciting activities.

Weather: 8 to 20 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, Dune Bashing across Thar Desert, Tanot Mata Temple, Puppet Show, Desert Jeep Safari, and Paramotoring

Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer Airport, approximately 15 kilometers away

5. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Khajjiar

People often count on the places to visit in Manali or Shimla when planning a Himachal Pradesh trip. But the beauty of the quaint town of Khajjiar is rightly dubbed India’s Mini Switzerland. This place, especially in January, is nothing short of heaven on our planet, with its awe-inspiring landscape comprising dense deodar forests, serene lakes, exotic flora and fauna, and beautiful shrines.

Weather: -2 to 10 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Khajjiar Lake, Dal Lake, Panch Pandav Tree, Khajji Nag Temple, Tibetan Handicrafts Centre, and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (120 kilometers away)

6. New Delhi

New Delhi

Take any list of the best holiday locations in India; New Delhi secures a surefire spot. It is a union territory and, mostly, the country’s capital, with the most prestigious monuments and historical attractions to its credit, like India Gate, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, and the Red Fort. Travel to Delhi in January to attend the legendary Republic Day Parade and make the most of this time to take a heritage walk in Old Delhi, discover the compelling food scene, and more.

Weather: 6 to 22 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: The Red Fort, Old Delhi, Lodi Garden, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Changing of the Guard, Shopping Tour, and Food Tour

Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport

7. Goa

Goa

Goa, hands down, is India’s ultimate beach and party destination. January is an ideal time to tour this charming state after the hectic season of Christmas and New Year festivities. With the pleasant, perfect weather, you can relax at the beach, indulge in exhilarating water sports, and attend exciting festivals like the Kite Festival, the Feast of the Three Kings, and the Tribal Festival, among other things to do in Goa.

Weather: 20 to 25 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Beaches in North and South Goa, Ancient Forts, the Mummy of Francis Xavier at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Chandreshwar Bhoothnath Temple, and Nightclubs

Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport

8. Lonavala, Maharashtra

Lonavala

It’s one of the regulars on the list of the most exquisite monsoon-season destinations in India. That said, it is also a great place to visit in January, when the weather is refreshing with a gentle, fresh breeze and its landscape is at its best (enriched by breathtaking mountainous views, lush greenery, and marvelous experiences).

Weather: 12 to 28 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Camping, Hot Air Balloon Ride, Paragliding, and Trekking in the Sahyadri Mountains

Nearest Airport: Pune Airport, 55 kilometers away

There are more thrilling trekking spots; take a look at our list of the best treks in India.

9. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman-and-Nicobar

Andaman’s group of more than 300 islands in the Bay of Bengal has long tempted honeymooners, adventurists, history buffs, and sightseers with its coconut-strewn beaches, crystal-clear waters sheltering extraordinary marine life, unspoiled natural beauty, and attractions that once served as the dungeon of torments during the British era. Come here in January; this dreamscape allows for a range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, exploring rain forests, and island hopping.

Weather: 24 to 29 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Barren Island with an active volcano, Chidiya Tapu, Kala Pani (Cellular Jail), Baratang Island’s Limestone Caves, Sea Walking, Snorkeling, and Scuba Diving

Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport

10. Backwaters of Kerala

Kerala

Exploring its backwaters is one of the staples on any list of things to do in Kerala. Stretching for over 900 kilometers from Kochi to Kollam, these surreal waterways indicate a complex network of rivers, lakes, lagoons, and man-made canals. Board a kettuvallom or a classic wooden boat to marvel at the region’s lush tropical scenery and soothing ambiance, with accommodation and dining facilities onboard (depending on your cruise package).

Weather: 23 to 30 degrees Celsius

Must-Experiences: Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kuttanad, and Kollam

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

India Travel Requirements

Nationals of the Maldives can travel to India and stay here up to 90 days without a visa, and nationals of certain countries like Japan, South Korea, and the UAE are eligible for a visa on arrival at some Indian airports. All other nationals (not entitled to any visa exemptions) must apply for an e-Visa or an India tourist visa for a smooth entry into India.


FAQs

Take a look at these FAQs about places to visit in January in India:

1. What are the top places to visit in India in January to experience snow and winter activities?

Gulmarg, Ladakh, Auli, and Srinagar are some of India’s top places to experience snowfall in January.

2. Does India experience extreme cold weather in January?

It depends on where you plan to travel to India in January. India is a land of diversity, which is reflected in its topography as well. It, therefore, goes without saying you can experience icy winter and warm sunny weather on your single visit to India.

3. Where can I travel to India for warm weather?

The Indian states and union territories, like Karnataka, Kerala, Pondicherry, and Rajasthan, are pleasantly warmer in January.

4. Is January a peak season in India?

It is one of the best months to visit India, with plenty of events and festivals. On a positive note, it is not as crowded as the months of November and December. However, it is highly recommended to plan your holiday at least three to four months in advance to avoid paying hefty rates for accommodation and airfare.

Final Thoughts

No matter if you’re seeking solitude, looking to fuel your adventure side, or want to immerse yourself in India’s unspoiled and lush beauty, well-preserved wildlife attractions, ancient cities, or uber-contemporary metropolises, this list of the best places to visit in India in January has something to suit every holidaymaker’s pocket and preference. Take your pick now; they all promise a holiday with the most treasured moments.



Intrigued by the breathtaking beauty and unbelievable diversity around the world, Shambhavi has taken the agenda of inspiring travellers to embark on their new journeys with passion and information. She has a pen in one hand and a camera in the other. She is a food-enamoured introvert who is fond of plants, reads fiction and taps feet to Bollywood music.

  • Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    *
    *

    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Contact Us