Best Places to Visit in January in India in 2023
January is more than just the start of a new year. It is a time of new hopes, expectations, and resolutions. Moreover, the festivals and celebrations of this month add more vibrance to life. The chilly winter and bright skies of January are ideal for a weeklong trip to the hill stations and beaches of India.
So, if you have been planning a family trip for a long time, don’t miss this time of the year. Looking for the best places to visit in January in India with your family or friends? Scroll down to choose your perfect vacation destination!
20 Best Places to Visit in January in India 2023
Here is a list of the 20 best places that you can explore in January. Moreover, you can get an idea about how long it could take to visit a location and what things you can do there. This chart is a brief guideline to plan your itineraries for the best places to visit in January.
| Places to Visit | Ideal Duration | Things to Do |
| Agra | 2 -3 days | Visit the Taj Mahal, enjoy the Light and Sound Show, etc. |
| Goa | 3-7 days | Beach camping, water activities, etc. |
| Jaipur | 2-3 days | Camel fair at Bikaner, local shopping, etc. |
| Andaman and Nicobar | 4-6 days | Scuba diving, snorkelling, etc. |
| Jaisalmer | 2-3 days | Desert Safari, camel ride, etc. |
| Khajuraho | 1-2 days | Pilgrimage tour, sightseeing, etc. |
| Udaipur | 2-3 days | Boat riding, sightseeing, etc. |
| Sundarbans | 2-3 days | Boat rides, exploring mangrove forests, etc. |
| Mount Abu | 3-4 days | Boal riding in Nakki Lake, exploring the wildlife at Mount Abu sanctuary, etc. |
| Jim Corbett | 1-2 days | Forest camping, Jeep Safari, etc. |
| Kanyakumari | 2-3 days | Holy dip in Triveni Sangam, sightseeing, etc. |
| Puri | 1-2 days | Lake cruising, bird watching, etc. |
| Hyderabad | 2-5 days | Heritage tour, take a tour of Salar Jung museum, Char Minar, etc. |
| Alibaug | 1-2 days | Water sports, sunbath, etc. |
| Ooty | 2-3 days | Trekking, boat riding, sightseeing, etc. |
| Coorg | 2-3 days | Camping, picnics, sightseeing, etc. |
| Varanasi | 2-3 days | Ganga Arti, boating, temple visiting, etc. |
| Delhi | 3-5 days | Republic day parade, shopping, sightseeing, etc. |
| Auli | 2-3 days | Attend the National Skiing championship, trekking, etc. |
| Lakshadweep | 4-5 days | Deep sea fishing, windsurfing, scuba diving, etc. |
A Detailed Overview of the Places to Visit in India in January
1. Agra
Embedded with splendid historical buildings and monuments, Agra tops the list of India’s most-visited places. Though, Taj Mahal is the centre of attraction, this city has a lot more to captivate your soul. If visited in January, you can attend Pongal, the harvest festival which is celebrated to thank the Sun God.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Akbar’s Tomb, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb, etc.
- Things to Do: Visit the Taj Mahal, enjoy the Light and Sound Show in Agra Fort, explore, Mehtab Bagh, etc.
- How to Reach: Take flights to Kheria airport and then hire a taxi to reach Agra. You can also take trains from Delhi to Agra or choose road transport like bus or private vehicles.
- Where to Stay: The Taj Homes, JPS Yoga Homestay, Taj Nice Point, etc.
2. Goa
Whether you are on a bachelor’s trip or a family vacation, Goa is always an ideal holiday escape for all. Moreover, if this vacation is planned for January, you can attend loads of fun activities and exciting events. You can explore various popular festivals and events like Goa Lokotsav, India Yoga Festival, etc. at this time of the year.
- Ideal Duration: 3-7 days
- Attractions: Dudhsagar Falls, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
- Fort Aguada, etc.
- Things to Do: Visit Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Margao and Vasco Da Gama, and enjoy beach camping, water sports, etc.
- How to Reach: Take a flight to Dabolim Airport or a train to Thivim or Madgaon railway station. Bus services like MSRTC, KTC, and KSRTC are also viable road transport options.
- Where to Stay: Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Goa, Seashore Beach Resort, The Leela Goa Beach Resort, etc.
3. Jaipur, Rajasthan
If you want to fill your January with vibrance and royalty, head towards Jaipur – the pink city. This city of rajputs is one the best places to visit in January , considering the festivals and events celebrated here. From Lohri to Modhera dance festival, Jaipur can mesmerise you with traditional charm and ethnicity.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Birla Mandir, Amer Fort religious, Hawa Mahal, Chokhi Dhani, Jantar Mantar, etc.
- Things to Do: Attend the Jaipur Literature Festival, Bikaner camel fair, etc.
- How to Reach: Jaipur is well-connected through air, rail, and roadways
- Where to Stay: The Lalit Jaipur, Bani Park, Karuna Niwas, etc.
4. Andaman and Nicobar
Planning your Andaman and Nicobar trip in January will not only soak your spirit in serenity but also boost it with festivity. This archipelago celebrates the Island Tourism Festival in January with loads of attractive events. Moreover, the exciting water activities, enthralling coral reefs, calm beaches, etc. turns this spot to one of the best tourist places in India.
- Ideal Duration: 4-6 days
- Attractions: Beaches like Kalapathar, Radhanagar, Neil, etc., Cellular jail, and more
- Things to Do: Light and sound show at cellular jail, snorkelling, scuba diving, etc.
- How to Reach: Port Blair is connected to Kolkata, Chennai, etc., through water and airways. Airways is the most viable and practical option to reach Andaman.
- Where to Stay: Sea Shell Havelock, PEACEBLUE, Eco Villa Palm Beach Resort etc.
5. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
While listing the best places in India to visit in January, no one can skip Jaisalmer, the Golden City. With its spectacular yellow sandstone architecture, royal monuments, pleasant temperature, etc. Jaisamler turns out to be a perfect winter escape for all.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Salam Singh Ki Haweli, Jaisalmer Fort, Gadi Sagar Lake, etc.
- Things to Do: Desert Safari, Dune bashing, Shopping, Camel ride, etc.
- How to Reach: Jaisalmer is well-connected through air, rail, and roadways.
- Where to Stay: Swan Hostel, Hotel Shahi Palace, Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa, etc.
6. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Listed in the UNESCO world heritage site, Khajuraho is famous for its splendid sculptures and ancient temples. Whether a romantic vacation or a family trip Khajuraho can be one the best places to travel in January. Here’s more on it!
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
- Attractions: Lakshmana Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, Devi Jagadambi Temple, etc.
- Things to Do: Temple tour, photography, etc.
- How to Reach: MP tourism buses are available from nearby cities. Train and airway options are also available.
- Where to Stay: Hotel Isabel Palace, The Lalit Traveller Khajuraho, Khajuraho Dreams Homestay, etc.
7. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, the city of lakes is rightly called the Venice of the East. The mesmerising lakes all across this city will steal your heart with their beauty. Nature lovers can plan their visit to this city in January to explore the Bird Festival besides indulging themselves into the scenic beauty of Udaipur.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Fort, City Palace, etc.
- Things to Do: Photography, sightseeing, shopping, boat riding, etc.
- How to Reach: Air, rail, and roadways are the available options
- Where to Stay: Anandam Homestay, Udai Kothi, Madri Haveli, etc.
8. Sundarbans, West Bengal
Sundarbans is broadly known for its natural mangroves and diverse wildlife. Located at the meeting point of Brahmaputra, Meghna, and Padma, this region is popular for the Royal Bengal tigers. Apart from the wide range of flora and fauna, you can also attend the traditional Bonbibi festival when visited in January.
- Ideal Duration: 2-4 days
- Attractions: Sundarbans National Park, Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
- Things to Do: Boat ride, exploring mangrove forest, visit watch tower, Jamtola Beach, etc.
- How to Reach: Rail, road, and waterways are the ideal options for tourists around West Bengal. The Kolkata Airport and Howrah Station is the nearest airport and railway station for travellers visiting from other parts of the country.
- Where to Stay: Solitary Nook, Swabhumi Guest House, etc.
9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu, the summer capital of Rajasthan is the only hill station of the state. The lush green Aravallis all around, British-style bungalows, etc. Make this hill station an ideal destination for January trips. Moreover, festivities and celebrations like Kite festivals, Makar Sankranti, etc., are one of the major reasons to visit Mount Abu in January.
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
- Attractions: Dilwara Jain Temple, Nakki Lake, Peace Park, etc.
- Things to Do: Rock climbing, boat riding on Nakki lake, etc.
- How to Reach: Reach Udaipur via flight and hire a taxi to Mount Abu. Avail train to Abu Road railway station or travel via State government buses.
- Where to Stay: Hotel Lake Palace, Hotel Maharaja International, etc.
10. Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand
If you are excited about a jungle safari in January, plan a short trip to Jim Corbett. This wildlife park in Uttarakhand is an abode of several floras and faunas.
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
- Attractions: Bijrani Zone Corbett National Park, Corbett Tiger Reserve, etc.
- Things to Do: Jeep Safari, forest camping, wildlife photography, etc.
- How to Reach: Reach the nearest Pantnagar airport or Ramnagar railway station.
- Where to Stay: Vanghat Jungle Lodge, Tanhau, The Riverview Retreat etc.
11. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
The southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari is located on the conjuncture of the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal. Visit this elegant coastal city in January to soak your mind with spiritual blissfulness and celebrations like Pongal.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Triveni Sangam, Kumari Amman Temple, etc.
- Things to Do: Visit Thiruvalluvar Statue, take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam, etc.
- How to Reach: Railways are the best transportation that you can avail, but you can also reach via air and roadways.
- Where to Stay: New Cape Hotel, KKM International, etc.
12. Puri, Odisha
Puri is a popular tourist spot in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, known for the famous Jagannath Temple. The Puri sea beach is one of the many attractions here. However, planning your trip in January can acquaint you with some colourful festivals like Kalinga Mahotsava, Makar Mela, etc.
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
- Attractions: Konark temple, Puri beach, Chilka Lake, etc.
- Things to Do: Boat riding on Chilka, visiting Jagannath temple, etc.
- How to Reach: Puri is well-connected to other parts of the country by railways. Air and road transportation is also available.
- Where to Stay: Hotel Niladri, Hotel Gandhara, Mayfair, etc.
13. Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
Hyderabad, the city of Nizams, is well-known for its magnificent historical palaces, museums, etc. However, it can also embrace you with warmth and festivities when visited in january. Lohri celebrations, Hyderabad Literary Festival, etc. are among the best events you can attend in Hyderabad in January.
- Ideal Duration: 2-4 days
- Attractions: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Ramoji Film City, etc.
- Things to Do: Ferry ride in Hussain Sagar Lake, heritage walks, etc.
- How to Reach: Hyderabad has excellent connectivity through air, rail, and roadways.
- Where to Stay: Lemon Tree Hotel, Holiday Inn Express, etc.
14. Alibaug, Maharashtra
This is an off-beat coastal destination close to Pune and Mumbai. Known for its 17th-century forts, Alibaug can be an ideal weekend getaway in January.
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
- Attractions: Varsoli Beach, Kolaba fort, etc.
- Things to Do: Water sports, cruising, sunbath, etc.
- How to Reach: Take a boat to Mandwa Jetty from Colaba, south Mumbai.
- Where to Stay: Iora Cottages, Resort U Tropicana, Maple IVY, etc.
15. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
This hill station in Tamil Nadu is not only famous for being a popular Bollywood movies’ shooting spot, it has other attractions as well. Moreover, when you plan your visit to Ooty in January, you can attend the Tea and Tourism Festival and explore exciting activities.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Botanical Garden, St. Stephens Church, Rose Garden, etc.
- Things to Do: Church visits, boat riding, trekking, etc.
- How to Reach: Reach Coimbatore airport or Mettupalayam railway station and hire a cab to Ooty.
- Where to Stay: Wenlock Homes, Ooty White House, etc.
16. Coorg, Karnataka
If you are looking for an ultimate escape to the lush green floras away from the hustle bustle of city life, Coorg can be an ideal pick. The pleasant climate, charming landscapes, majestic waterfalls, etc. captivates tourists.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Omkareshwara temple, Mandalpatti, etc.
- Things to Do: Forest camping, sightseeing, photography, etc.
- How to Reach: Reach Mangalore airport or Mysore railway station and take a cab to Coorg.
- Where to Stay: Sanctum Retreat, The Tamara Coorg, etc.
17. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
The holy Ganges, auspicious temples, and evening Aarti of Varanasi, are enough to captivate your heart and rejuvenate your soul. Moreover, Varanasi can embrace you with traditional festivals like Makar Sankranti, when visited in January. For a spiritual retreat, plan a trip to the holy city of Varanasi.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Manikarnika ghat, Shri Kashi Vishwanath temple, etc.
- Things to Do: Boating, Ganga Aarti, temple visit, etc.
- How to Reach: Varanasi is well-connected via airways and railways with the rest of the country.
- Where to Stay: Stay Inn Heritage, Hog Hostel Varanasi, etc.
18. Delhi
Delhi is one of the best places to visit in January, considering its national carnival, colourful festivals like Lohri, etc. The capital of India offers several attractions, both modern and historical.
- Ideal Duration: 3-5 days
- Attractions: India Gate, Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple, etc.
- Things to Do: Republic Day parade, shopping at Sarojini Nagar, etc.
- How to Reach: Well-connected through the air, rail, and roadways
- Where to Stay: Hotel Imperial, Hotel Star Paradise, etc.
19. Auli, Uttarakhand
Best known as India’s skiing destination, Auli welcomes adventurous tourists from all over. When visited in January, you can attend the National Skiing Championship as well.
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Attractions: Rudraprayag, Chenab Lake, Trishul Park, etc.
- Things to Do: Watch the 180-degree view of Nanda Devi, skiing, trekking, cable ride, etc.
- How to Reach: Reach Jolly Grant airport or Rishikesh railway station and take a private transport to Auli.
- Where to Stay: Apple Farm Stay, Dwarika, etc.
20. Lakshadweep
The moderate temperature all year round, clean beaches, clear blue water make Lakshadweep a tourist haven. This archipelago consists of 36 islands with pristine landscape, peaceful vibes and abundant flora and fauna. Lakshadweep can be an ideal destination for an escape to an exotic land.
- Ideal Duration: 4-5 days
- Attractions: Corals at Agatti, lighthouses at Minicoy, etc.
- Things to Do: Snorkelling, windsurfing, deep sea fishing, etc.
- How to Reach: Take cruises from Kochi or reach Agatti Aerodrome
- Where to Stay: Kasims Beach Villa, Minicoy Island Beach Resort, etc.
Final Word
There’s nothing better than starting the new year with a fun-filled getaway with family and friends. So, pick one of the best places to visit in January in India from this blog. Plan your trip accordingly.
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FAQs
Ans: Vasant Panchami, Republic Day, Lohri Day, Jaipur Literature Festival, Jaisalmer Desert Festival, Bhogali Bihu and Modhera Dance Festival, etc. These festivals are celebrated all over the country across various states with much zest and fervour.
Ans: Gurudongmar Lake, Ladakh, Sela Pass, Gulmarg, Auli, Lachen, etc. are some of the places where you can enjoy the snowfalls in January. If you plan to see or experience snowfall, you can visit any of these places in January.
Ans: Pushkar, in the state of Rajasthan is one of the most affordable destinations to visit in January in India.
Ans: Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Karnataka, Goa, etc. are the best states to explore in January. You can travel to some of the most notable tourist destinations of these states and take part in various festivals celebrated in January here.
Ans: Goa, Pondicherry, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, etc. remain warmer during January in India. If you want to escape the winter of January plan a trip to any of these places.
