Best Places to Visit in January in India, the Roman god of beginning and change, is a month named after Janus; rightly so, for the month straddles the end of one year and the beginning of another. January is typically the height of winter in India and it bears its frozen claws and their relative strength, depending on which part of the world you are in. Although the upper reaches of the Himalayas are beyond freezing, destinations like Delhi in North India are pleasantly cold. It’s getting warmer and more fun coming down south. Delhi, for its grand Republic Day celebrations, Ahmedabad for the kite festival, Kumarakom and other places in South India for their weather, as well as shores such as Diu and Mumbai for some cool beach fun, are some of the best places to visit in India during January. Here is a list of places our January-must-visit will include.
Delhi
In the month of January, nothing beats the beauty of Delhi. Every winter, the capital city of India charms its tourists in more than one way: beautiful people, colourful festivals, and a national carnival. In January, it is this beauty that places Delhi in the bracket of India’s best destinations.
Although the taste buds are tickled by the Mughlai delicacies of Old Delhi, the fine ancient architecture of the mediaeval period leaves you in awe. But if I had to emphasise one thing that in January forces everyone to visit the city, it has to be a parade on Republic Day. The parade shows various elements of India and grapples with its sheer excellence and fine execution with the onlookers. Another anticipated event for art lovers that catches their fancy is the India Art Fair. And winter in Delhi 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
Jaipur
If you are uncertain about where to go in January in India, then in January this royal destination has its hypnotic charisma and imperial regalia. In January, this Pink City will be wearing a little more colour. For all the destinations in Rajasthan, winter is the prime tourism season and Jaipur is no different. Some people choose to take luxury train tours to cover Jaipur along with other important Rajasthan tourist attractions, such as the Maharajas’ Express or Palace on Wheels? January brings bright skies and lower humidity to the fore. Thus, exploring the city to find attractions such as Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Birla Mandir, and others is much easier.
Udaipur
Udaipur is probably the most beautiful destination in the state of Rajasthan, fondly called The Venice of the East. The city appears as a visual delight to tourists, with beautiful lakes, namely Lake Pichola, Fatehsagar Lake, and Lake Badi. It will become the highlight of your trip to partake in a boating experience on these lakes.
Numerous palaces and temples dating back to the days when Udaipur was under the reign of Rajput rulers are adding charm to the air of the region. This former capital of the Kingdom of Mewar is one of the best places to visit in January in India.
Things to Do: Boat Ride, Sightseeing, Trekking, Photography.
Goa
Goa is one of the smallest states to have been visited in significant numbers by visitors. This place draws everyone with its pristine beaches, luscious food and Portuguese heritage. Honeymoon couples are also attracted to the numerous beaches of Goa. When different festivals like Goa Lokotsav and India Yoga Festival are celebrated all over the region, it is the best place to visit in India in January. Visit numerous churches, bungalows in old style, play casino, enjoy beach shacks and taste the excellent seafood in trendy cafes.
Places of Attractions: Calangute beach, Baga beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Aguada Fort, Vagator Beach, Mangeshi Temple, Colva Beach, Se Cathedral, Reis Mogos Fort, River Cruise, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, etc
Kerala
Indeed, Kerela is one of India’s most exquisite places to visit in January. Together, the glittering backwaters, long coastlines, beautiful culture, sprawling tea gardens and colourful dance forms make the state of Kerela beautiful for tourists to visit. This is one of India’s best places to visit in January, where you can bask in the sun, trek to Munnar hill station, go boating and discover the state’s vibrant culture. Indulge in different styles of dance , music and buy attractive crafts. By its existence, the cool green environment would certainly mesmerise you. In the midst of magnificent rivers, lush green spaces and lovely hills, enjoy a visit to this paradise.
Places of Attractions: Thekkady, Kovalam, Allepey, Bekal, Poovar, Ponmudi, Thrissur, Varkala, Idukki, Kasargod, Munroe Island, Guruvayur, beaches, temple, etc.
Auli
Auli, popularly known as India’s skiing paradise, is one of the best places to enjoy real winters. Auli is a hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand, which receives a significant amount of snowfall in the January months. The entire region is shrouded in a blanket of snow, making it look like a winter wonderland.
Auli is the ideal place to enjoy the sport of skiing or just sit back and look at the immense Himalayas. Auli has a range of ski resorts that offer ski suits and also the preparation that the novices need. The entire town of Auli is surrounded by the enormous Nanda Devi Himalayan Peaks and the Badrinath Temple. Auli is among the places you must visit if you want to experience the fresh snowfall in India in January.
Places to visit in Auli: Trishul Peak, Rudraprayag, Joshimath, Badrinath.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is regarded as the ‘Himalayan Queen’. It is one of the best places to visit in northern India during January. Pristine hills and amazing landscapes surround the site. It is in the middle of a green tea plantation at an altitude of 2,050 metres. Tourists are drawn to many locations in Darjeeling. Darjeeling tea is known internationally and is ranked among the world’s most popular black teas. This location always remains for honeymooners in the top romantic destinations. The famous toy train ride is the best thing to do in Darjeeling.
Places to visit in Darjeeling – Singalila National Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Himalayan Tibet museum.
Tamil Nadu
One of the famous Indian states that receive winter rainfall is Tamil Nadu. The ‘Land of Tamils’ clearly becomes quite irresistible during this moment. The state is dotted with stunning buildings, beautiful scenery, scenic beaches, interesting national parks, and so much more. Counted as one of India’s best places to visit in January, the state features natural bounties to be explored at your own pace.
Jaisalmer
Winter is the best season for visiting Rajasthan ‘s golden deserts, so in January you should definitely consider Jaisalmer for an unforgettable dessert experience. Not just visually stunning, Jaisalmer also has a rich culture worth exploring.
The city has some impressive examples of architecture, such as Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, etc., besides the vast deserts with nothing but sand insight where you can experience camel rides and desert camping.
Things to Do: Camel Ride, Sightseeing, Camping.
Shimla
January is the best time to visit Shimla, as visitors throng the place to witness snow and enjoy numerous adventure activities. It is also the best honeymoon spot to visit in India in January as the hill station looks highly attractive in winters. Shimla is snowy-magical in winter and one of India ‘s exquisite places to visit. As the place provides mesmerising views of the snow-covered mountains, tourists like to visit this spot for snowfall. To experience the best of your Shimla journey, visit this place during Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Places of Attractions: Christ Church, Jakhoo Temple, The Ridge, Tatta Pani River Rafting, Mall Road, Shimla Golf Course