Top 23 Destinations to Explore in January Across India

If you are planning a trip in January, you are in luck! January offers pleasant weather in most parts of the country, making it a perfect time to explore. But with so many incredible places to visit in India, choosing where to go can be overwhelming. We have listed the top 23 destinations to visit in January. Read on!

Top 23 Must-see Places to Visit in January

Here is the list of 23 best places to visit in January in India:

1. Alleppey-Munnar-Wayanad, Kerala

Kerala, known for its lush green forests and misty hills, could be the best travel destination for you this January. Its natural scenic beauty allows you to soak your mind with spiritual blissfulness. You can stay in boathouses and visit tea estates.

Places to Visit: Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Mattupetty Dam, Lock Heart Gap, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chembra Peak.

Things to Do: Try Kayaking, explore beaches, zip lining, visiting Kuruva Island, camping, trekking, a tea estate tour, a tree house stay, shopping for spices, and enjoying majestic elephant rides.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Take a flight to Thiruvananthapuram.
• By Train: Cochin, Alleppey, and Kottayam railway stations are well connected to reach this destination.
• By Road: Munnar, Alleppey, and Wayanad are well connected with other prominent South Indian cities by road.

2. Zanskar, Jammu and Kashmir

Zanskar is known for its scenic beauty and thick white snow. You can go on the Chadar trek, the most challenging trek in the Himalayas. Because of its difficulty level and the excitement of walking on snow, it's one of the top choices for the greatest locations to visit in India in January.

Places to Visit: Patnitop, Phuktal monastery, Drang Drung glacier, Panikhar, and Zongkhul.

Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, paragliding, and river rafting.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Reach the Leh airport.
• By Train: Banihal railway station is 167 km from Zanskar.
• By Road: You can take regular buses from north Indian cities to Zanskar.

3. Jaipur-Udaipur-Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaipur has prospered for decades, and its glorious stucco buildings along the wide streets are a testament to this. Visit the colourful bazaars and pick camel leather slippers, bangles, and puppets as gifts for your friends, colleagues, and family members.

Places to Visit: Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Choki Dhani, Birla Mandir, and Amer Fort.

Things to Do: Visit the Bikaner camel fair and explore Hawa Mahal, Amber, and Jaigarh Fort.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Reach Jaipur airport, 12 km away from the city.
• By Train: Reach Jaipur railway station.
• By Road: Rajasthan state road transport connects with Delhi and other major states. 

4. Kutch, Gujarat

Kutch is known for its white salt dessert. Several historical forts and buildings also pique the interest of adventure seekers. Its vibrant culture and exotic charm will leave you spellbound.

Places to Visit: Rann of Kutch, Darbargadh, Kachchh Museum, Aaina Mahal, and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Things to Do: Attend Rann Utsav, Kite festival, Dhordo and Hokda – a Village popular for handicrafts.

 How to Reach:

• By Air: Take a flight to Bhuj airport.
• By Train: Kutch railway station.
• By Road: Bus services from major and nearby cities of Gujarat.

5. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Considered one of the best January holiday destinations, Andaman has beautiful beaches and interesting marine life. Havelock Island offers peace and retreat and is a must-visit this year in January.

Places to Visit: Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail, Elephant Beach, Ross Beach, Jolly Buoy Island, Limestone Cave, and Kalapani Museum.

Things to Do: Enjoy light and sound shows in Cellular Jail, go scuba diving and snorkelling, and explore cafes.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Take a flight to Port Blair from Chennai or Kolkata.
• By Water: Ship or cruise service is available from Chennai, Visakhapatnam, and Kolkata.

6. Dawki-Mawsynram, Meghalaya

Shillon beholds various places that are worth exploring. Two of them are Dawki and Mawsynram, nestled with beautiful crystal-clear water and forests.

Places to Visit: Barapani, Cherrapunji, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Krem Dam, Lym Simper and Mawjymbuin Caves.

Things to Do: Walk through Living Root Bridge, visit Kamakhya Temple, and go for a boat ride, camping, and trekking.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Take a flight to Umroi Airport Shillong.
• By Train: Guwahati railway station is the nearest railway station for both locations.
• By Road: Taxis and buses are well connected from Guwahati to Shillong and the other cities.

7. Varkala, Kerala

Varkala is popular for its hippie culture, delicious seafood, and global music. It is also famous for the Jardana temple, popularly known as Dakshin Kashi.

Places to Visit: Varkala Cliff, Varkala Beach, Kappil Lake, Ponnumthuruthu Island, and Agnihotra Yoga Retreat.

Things to Do: Try water sports, enjoy sunrise and sunset from Varkala cliff, shop for souvenirs, and explore the south and delicacies.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Take a flight to Trivandrum and then travel to Varkala.
• By Train: Varkala Sivagiri railway station is the nearest railway station to your vacation destination.
• By Road: Varkala is well connected from Kochi to Trivandrum. You can travel by taxi or state bus.

8. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

With its pristine slopes blanketed in snow, Gulmarg is a haven for skiing enthusiasts. You can also snowboard, snowshoe, and ride the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world.

Places to Visit: Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Outer Circle Walk, and Alpather Lake.

Things to Do: Go for a Gondola ride for panoramic views, try snowshoeing and snowmobiling, and try skiing and snowboarding,

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Srinagar, from where Gulmarg is around 50 km away.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in Jammu Tawi. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gulmarg.
• By Road: Gulmarg is well-connected by road to Srinagar and other major cities in Jammu and Kashmir.

9. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is a popular hill station renowned for its scenic beauty and adventure sports. During the winter, it transforms into a winter paradise, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and exploring the nearby Solang Valley.

Places to Visit: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, and Old Manali.

Things to Do: Ski and snowboard in Solang Valley, try adventure sports like paragliding and zorbing, visit hot water springs in Vashisht, and explore Tibetan monasteries in the region.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Reach Bhunta airport and hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in Joginder Nagar.
• By Road: Manali is well-connected by road to Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major cities in Himachal Pradesh.

10. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla exudes colonial charm with its heritage buildings and scenic landscapes. In January, you can witness the town draped in snow, enjoy horse riding on the Ridge, and explore nearby attractions like Kufri and Narkanda.

Places to Visit: Mall Road, the Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, Christ Church

Things to Do: Enjoy a toy train ride on the Kalka-Shimla Railway, visit colonial-era buildings and museums, and go for trekking and nature walks in nearby forests.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Jubbarhatti. From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Shimla.
• By Train: Shimla is well-connected by a narrow-gauge railway to Kalka, which is connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
• By Road: Shimla is accessible by road from major cities in North India, including Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali.

11. Chamba, Himachal Pradesh

Chamba is a serene town known for its ancient temples, picturesque views, and vibrant festivals. The town is one of the best places to visit in January for its tranquil ambience. You can explore its architectural marvels and gaze at mesmerising snow-clad mountains.

Places to Visit: Akhand Chandi Palace, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Bhuri Singh Museum, Chamunda Devi Temple, and Khajjiar (Mini Switzerland of India).

Things to Do: Explore the ancient temples and architecture, enjoy boating at Chamera Lake, trek along the surrounding hills and set a picnic amidst the green meadows of Khajjiar.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Pathankot, Punjab, about 120 km from Chamba. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chamba.
• By Train: Pathankot is also the nearest railway station. From Pathankot, you can take a taxi or bus to Chamba.
• By Road: Chamba is well-connected by road to major cities like Pathankot, Delhi, and Chandigarh.

13. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Nainital is a charming hill station, perfect for a getaway in January. Known for being the ‘Lake District’, you can enjoy boating on Naini Lake, explore scenic viewpoints like Snow View and Naina Peak, and indulge in shopping at Mall Road.

Places to Visit: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Snow Viewpoint, Tiffin Top, and Eco Cave Gardens.

Things to Do: Go boating and yachting on Naini Lake, take a cable car ride to Snow View Point, trek to nearby peaks like Naina Peak and Tiffin Top, and shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs on Mall Road

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Pantnagar, about 65 km from Nainital. From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nainital.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in Kathgodam, around 34 km from Nainital. Kathgodam is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Kolkata.
• By Road: Nainital is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Lucknow.

14. Aizawl, Mizoram

Aizawl is known for its vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality. In January, you can explore the town's cultural heritage, attend traditional festivals like Chapchar Kut, and trek to scenic spots like Durtlang Hills and Reiek Peak.

Places to Visit: Mizoram State Museum, Durtlang Hills, Solomon's Temple, and Reiek Tlang (Reiek Peak)

Things to Do: Explore the local markets and taste Mizo cuisine, visit traditional villages and learn about the local culture, enjoy panoramic views of the city from Durtlang Hills, go on treks and nature walks in the surrounding hills.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Lengpui Airport, located about 32 km from Aizawl, is the nearest airport.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in Silchar, Assam, about 180 km from Aizawl. From Silchar, hire a taxi or take a bus to Aizawl.
• By Road: Aizawl is well-connected by road to cities in Assam and other neighbouring states. National Highway 306 connects Aizawl to Silchar in Assam.

14. Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong is a picturesque hill station often referred to as the "Scotland of the East." January offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring attractions like Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and the living root bridges of Cherrapunji.

Places to Visit: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, and Laitlum Canyons.

Things to Do: Try boating and water sports at Umiam Lake, trek to David Scott Trail and Living Root Bridges, visit markets for handicrafts and local produce, and explore the vibrant nightlife at Police Bazar

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Guwahati, Assam, about 120 km away. From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to Shillong.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is also in Guwahati. From there, travel by road to Shillong.
• By Road: Shillong is well-connected by road to Guwahati and other major cities in the Northeast. National Highway 6 connects Shillong to Guwahati.

15. Gangtok, Sikkim

Gangtok is a charming city renowned for Buddhist monasteries, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. You can witness the enchanting Tsomgo Lake frozen under a blanket of snow, explore Rumtek Monastery, and indulge in local cuisine at MG Marg.

Places to Visit: Gurudongmar Lake, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, and Hanuman Tok.

Things to Do: Go on a yak safari ride at Tsomgo Lake, visit the Indo-China border at Nathula Pass, explore the colourful markets of MG Marg, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas from various viewpoints.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Bagdogra, West Bengal. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gangtok.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri (NJP), West Bengal. From NJP, travel by road to Gangtok.
• By Road: Gangtok is well-connected by road to cities in West Bengal and other neighbouring states. National Highway 10 connects Gangtok to Siliguri in West Bengal.

16. Nashik, Maharashtra

Nashik is a cultural hub known for its temples, historic sites, and vibrant festivals. In January, visitors can witness the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela, explore ancient temples like Trimbakeshwar and Kalaram Mandir, and indulge in wine-tasting tours at Sula Vineyards.

Places to Visit: Sula Vineyards, Trimbakeshwar Temple, Panchavati, and Sita Gufa.

Things to Do: Go for Wine tasting and vineyard tours at Sula Vineyards, seek blessings at Trimbakeshwar Temple, explore ancient temples and caves in Panchavati, and boat along the Godavari River.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Mumbai, Maharashtra. From Mumbai, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nashik.
• By Train: Nashik has its own railway station.
• By Road: Nashik is well-connected by road to major cities in Maharashtra and neighbouring states. The 150 km long Mumbai Nashik Expressway connects Nashik to Mumbai.

17. Kalpetta, Kerala

Kalpetta is the gateway to Wayanad's natural treasures, surrounded by lush greenery and mist-clad hills. In January, you can explore attractions like Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, and Banasura Sagar Dam and embark on adventurous treks in the Western Ghats.

Places to Visit: Chembra Peak, Banasura Sagar Dam, Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, and Pookode Lake.

Things to Do: Trek to Chembra Peak, go boating at Pookode Lake, explore the prehistoric Edakkal Caves, and enjoy the panoramic views of Banasura Sagar Dam.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Kozhikode, Kerala. From Kozhikode, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalpetta.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in Kozhikode. From there, travel by road to Kalpetta.
• By Road: Kalpetta is well-connected by road to cities in Kerala and neighbouring states. National Highway 766 connects Kalpetta to Kozhikode.

18. Sirpur, Telangana

Sirpur boasts of magnificent temples, Buddhist viharas, and intricate sculptures dating back to the Mauryan and Satavahana dynasties. It offers pleasant weather for exploring archaeological sites like the Laxman Temple, Gadeshwar Mahadev Temple, and Buddhist monastery ruins.

Places to Visit: Laxman Temple, Gadeshwar Mahadev Temple, Buddha Viharas, Tirthankara Jain Temple, and Surang Tila.

Things to Do: Explore the ancient temples and ruins, attend the annual Sirpur Dance and Music Festival, and visit the archaeological museum.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. From Raipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sirpur.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in Sirpur Town. From Sirpur Town, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sirpur.
• By Road: Sirpur is well-connected by road to cities in Chhattisgarh and neighbouring states. National Highway 53 connects Sirpur to Raipur.

19. Hyderabad, Telangana

Hyderabad is known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine. In January, you can explore attractions like Charminar, Golconda Fort, and the iconic Chowmahalla Palace. You must savour the city's culinary delights, including Hyderabadi biryani and Irani chai.

Places to Visit: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Hussain Sagar Lake, Ramoji Film City, and Salar Jung Museum.

Things to Do: Explore the bustling markets around Charminar, enjoy a boat ride on Hussain Sagar Lake, check out the iconic Buddha Statue, witness the Sound and Light Show at Golconda Fort, and experience the grandeur of Ramoji Film City.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Reach Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, connected to major cities across India and the world.
• By Train: Hyderabad is a major railway junction with several trains connecting it to all parts of the country.
• By Road: Hyderabad is connected to major cities in India through a network of several national and state highways.

20. Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam is a coastal city renowned for its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and historical landmarks. It is a top January holiday destination where you can relax on beaches like RK Beach and Rishikonda Beach, explore the ancient Buddhist sites of Thotlakonda and Bavikonda, and enjoy a scenic drive along the Araku Valley.

Places to Visit: RK Beach, Kailasagiri Hill Park, INS Kursura Submarine Museum, Araku Valley, and Borra Caves.

Things to Do: Relax on the beaches, enjoy a cable car ride to Kailasagiri Hill, explore the submarine museum, take a scenic train ride to Araku Valley, and explore the coffee plantations and tribal villages.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Reach Visakhapatnam Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India.
• By Train: Visakhapatnam is a major railway junction with several trains connecting it to all parts of the country.
• By Road: Visakhapatnam is well-connected by road to major cities in Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring states. National Highway 16 connects Visakhapatnam to other major cities in India.

21. Goa, Maharashtra

Goa is a perennial favourite among travellers during the winter months. In January, you can enjoy water sports, explore historic churches and forts, and attend vibrant festivals like the Goa Carnival and Sunburn Festival.

Places to Visit: Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Fort Aguada, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral.

Things to Do: Enjoy water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides on the beaches, explore the vibrant nightlife at beach shacks and clubs, visit spice plantations, trek to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, and take a jeep safari through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Reach Goa International Airport (Dabolim), which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad.
• By Train: Goa has two major railway stations, Madgaon and Thivim, which are well-connected to major cities across India.
• By Road: Goa is well-connected by road to major cities in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and other neighbouring states. National Highway 66 connects Goa to Mumbai and Mangalore.

23. Alibaug, Maharashtra

Alibaug is known for its sandy beaches, historic forts, and delicious seafood. Relax on beaches like Alibaug Beach and Kashid Beach, explore old forts like Kolaba Fort and Murud-Janjira Fort, and indulge in water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.

Places to Visit: Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort, Murud-Janjira Fort, Kashid Beach, Akshi Beach

Things to Do: Try water sports like parasailing and banana boat rides, explore the historic forts of Kolaba and Murud-Janjira, and visit Korlai Fort for panoramic views.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Mumbai. From Mumbai, you can hire a taxi or take a bus/ferry to Alibaug.
• By Ferry: Ferries operate from Mumbai to Mandwa, the nearest port to Alibaug. From Mandwa, hire a taxi or take a bus to Alibaug.
• By Road: Alibaug is well-connected by road to Mumbai and other major cities in Maharashtra. State transport buses and private taxis ply regularly between Mumbai and Alibaug.

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24. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is a tranquil hill station known for its natural beauty and wildlife sanctuaries. In January, you can explore attractions like Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Nagarhole National Park and embark on scenic drives through lush landscapes.

Places to Visit: Abbey Falls, Talakaveri, Raja's Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple).

Things to Do: Trek to waterfalls and viewpoints like Mandalpatti, go for coffee plantation tours and tasting sessions, river rafting in Barapole River, bird watching and nature walks in Dubare Reserve Forest

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Mangalore. From Mangalore, hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is in Mysore. From Mysore, hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg.
• By Road: Coorg is well-connected by road to major cities in Karnataka and neighbouring states. State transport buses and private taxis ply regularly between Mysore, Mangalore, and Coorg.

Also Read - Facts You Should Know About Travel Loan in India

To Conclude

January presents an opportune time to embark on a journey and explore India's diverse beauty. From the snow-clad mountains of Ladakh to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, each of these places to visit in January offers a unique experience waiting to be discovered. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these destinations promise unforgettable memories and experiences.

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