20 Best Places to Visit in January in India

If you wish to start the New Year on a fresh note, you can plan to go on a short trip to rejuvenate yourself. There are abundant places across India where you can travel to take a break from work pressure and the stress of daily life. Visiting popular tourist places during the cold and misty weather of January can be a great idea for both families and groups of friends.

If you are searching for memorable travel destinations to visit during winter, here some of the top 20 best places to visit in January in India.

Take a look at the following detailed list:

1. Zanskar valley, Ladakh

A thrilling trek on the beautiful snow-capped mountains of Zanskar will bring out the adventurer inside you. The valley has multiple sparkling water bodies that are surrounded by a lush landscape. During the winter months, Zanskar valley gets covered with snow and has pleasant weather, making it one of the best places to go in January in India. 

• Things to Do: Paragliding, trekking, river rafting and rock climbing.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Phuktal monastery, Patnitop, Panikhar, Drang Drung glacier, and Zongkhul.
• Average Temperature: The average temperature in January ranges between -2°C and 30°C in Zanskar. 
• Places to Stay: Hotel Rigyal, Omatila Hotel, Zanskar, Zaltak Guest Lodge
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹15,000 and ₹18,000 per person.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

2. Auli, Uttarakhand

The Auli hill station offers an astonishing view of the Nanda Devi range, the pristine rivers around the hills and lush greenery. Undoubtedly, Auli is a wonderful place to visit in North India in January, and there are plenty of fascinating things to do. You can choose to participate in winter sports or go sightseeing to have the adventure of a lifetime. 

• Things to Do: Trekking, riding a cable to catch the 180-degree view of the Nanda Devi range.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Chenab Lake, Kwani Bugyal, Rudraprayag, Joshimath
• Average Temperature: The average temperature in January ranges between 10°C and 20°C. 
• Places to Stay: Kanasar Ecolodge, Dwarika, the Maple Leaf
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹8,000 and ₹13,000 per person.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

3. Delhi

There is hardly any place that can match the charm of Delhi in January. Its people, festivals, and the New Year celebrations are alluring for many tourists across the country. Further, Delhi is popular due to its historical architecture, which includes India Gate, Red Fort, Qutab Minar, and Jama Masjid. This makes the Indian capital one of the best places to visit in January in India.

Things to Do: Watch the Republic Day parade, go shopping at Sarojini Nagar, Karol Bagh and explore the Tibetan monastery at Majnu Ka Tila.

• Top Tourist Attractions: India Gate, Red Fort, Qutab Minar, Lotus temple, Jantar-Mantar and more.
• Average Temperature: Average temperature of Delhi in January ranges from 8°C and 20°C. 
• Places to Stay: De Pavillion, Ibis New Delhi, Hotel Imperial, Eros Hotel, Hotel Star Paradise
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹15000 and ₹20000 per person.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

4. Goa

The scenic state of Goa has coastlines extending along the Arabian Sea. If you are a beach lover, this place is perfect for you to visit, especially in January, when you will get a pleasant climate that is neither too hot nor too cold. Goa is famous for its Portuguese architecture, pristine beaches, and fascinating surroundings.

• Things to Do: Do beach camping, explore Margao and Vasco Da Gama, explore Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Fort Aguada, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Dudhsagar Falls, and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
• Average Temperature: The average temperature in January ranges between 23°C and 33°C. 
• Places to Stay: Blue Corner Beach Huts & Restaurant, Vivanta Goa, Dom’s Inn, Yahvi the Boutique Hotel, Nomad Residency
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹7,000 and ₹11,000 per person.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

5. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are two dreamy destinations for people who love beaches and nature. They attract countless people not just from India but also around the world. The romantic getaways on the islands are especially preferred by couples. Additionally, the attractive beaches, along with their wonderful beauty, make Andaman and Nicobar Islands one of the best tourist places in India in January.

• Things to Do: Enjoying at Full Moon Cafe, Scuba diving in Andaman, snorkelling
• Top Tourist Attractions: Neil, Radhanagar, Venom Bar, Elephant and Kalapathar beach, Cellular jail.
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 23°C and 29°C. 
• Places to Stay: Hotel GKM Grand, Eco Villa Palm Beach Resort, Sea Shell Havelock, Sandyy Wavess Beach Resort
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹10,000 and ₹18,000 per person.
• How to Reach: By air or water.

6. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, holds a royal aura due to its historical monuments and architecture. The Pink City becomes even more fascinating during New Year celebrations, making it one of the best places to visit in January in India. 

Also, you will get the chance to see the famous Jaipur Literature Festival in January. The city is well-known for its palaces and forts that enhance the royalty of this place. 

• Things to Do: Attend the famous Camel Fair in Bikaner, visit Amber Fort, do shopping and enjoy Jaipur’s nightlife.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Hawa Mahal, Sawai Man Singh Cricket Stadium, Jantar Mantar, Amer Fort, Birla Mandir and Chokhi Dhani.
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 10°C and 22°C. 
• Places to Stay: The Lalit Jaipur, Radisson Jaipur City Center, Karuna Niwas, Fortune.
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹7000 and ₹15000 per person.
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

7. Hyderabad, Telangana

Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, is also known as the Mecca of India. It is known for its rich history, architecture, culture, and mouth-watering foods. Moreover, it is a hub of biotechnology and Information Technology too. Its mild weather makes it one of the best tourist places to visit in India in January.

• Things to Do: Roaming around the city, street food in Charminar area heritage walks, ferry ride in Hussain Sagar Lake etc.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Hussain Sagar Lake, Ramoji film city, Golconda Fort and more. 
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 15°C and 30°C. 
• Places to Stay: Lemon Tree Hotel, Holiday Inn Express, Aditya Park Hyderabad
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000 per person. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

8. Kolkata, West Bengal

The City of Joy, Kolkata (Calcutta), is one of the best places to travel in India in January. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River and is a hub of architecture, culture, traditional food, temples, theatres and art. It is one of the largest metropolitans and notable ports in India. 

• Things to Do: Explore the flora and fauna of Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary, offer prayers at Adi Brahmo Samaj Prayer Hall, enjoy water activities at Aquatica Water Park.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Nicco Park, Eden Gardens, Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Eco Park
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 13°C and 26°C. 
• Places to Stay: Ethnotel, Radisson Kolkata, Peerless Inn, Holiday Inn 
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹10,000 and ₹15,000 per person.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

9. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Also known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer is also one of the best places to visit in January in India. The place is known for its tourist spots, cultural history, beautiful deserts and exciting camel rides. It also has pleasant weather during January. If you want to enjoy your vacation in a scenic city that still has a royal aura, you can visit Jaiselmer.

• Things to Do: Spend a beautiful night at desert camps, enjoy quad biking at Sam Sand Dunes, camel rides, etc.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Khaba Fort, Gadi Sagar Lake, Patwon ki Haveli Maharaja’s Palace.
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 9°C and 25°C. 
• Places to Stay: Hotel Shahi Palace, Swan Hostel, Moustache Jaisalmer
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹14,000 and ₹19,000 per person.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

10. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Nainital is a mesmerising hill station located in Uttarakhand, which is known for its charming environment and beautiful roaming spots. Also regarded as the Lake City of India, Nainital became famous for the Naini Lake. In January, the temperature of this place remains comfortable and not very cold.

• Things to Do: Boating on the Naini Lake, enjoy a thrilling ropeway ride, paragliding, and excitement-filled trekking at Tiffin’s Top.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Naini Lake, Snow view point, Tiffin Top, Eco Cave Gardens, etc.
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 7°C and 20°C. 
• Places to Stay: Shervani Hilltop Resort, the Lake Resort, the Manu Maharani
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹15,000 and ₹18,000 per person. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

11. Puri, Odisha

One of the most attractive tourist destinations on the east coast of India, Puri is known for its long golden beaches and temples. It is popular all over the world because of the Jagannath temple. The Chilka Lake is another beautiful spot nearby that invites numerous travellers during the months of December and January.

• Things to Do: Visiting the Jagannath temple, birdwatching, fishing etc.  
• Top Tourist Attractions: Puri beach, Chilka Lake, Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary, Lighthouse etc. 
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 18°C and 25°C. 
• Places to Stay: Rishaan Guest House, Hotel Niladri, the Park Hotel, etc. 
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹8,000 to ₹14,000 per person. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

12. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Known as the Queen of Hills, Darjeeling is one of the best places to go in January in India. Here, you can enjoy the panoramic scenery of the Himalayas along with the views of Kanchenjunga. Darjeeling is popular for its tranquil beauty, monasteries, toy trains and tea estates. 

• Things to Do: Sightseeing, Tea Estate visit, Toy Train ride, Sunrise at Tiger Hill. 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Ghum Monastery, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda.
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 1°C and 10°C. 
• Places to Stay: Ramada, Delight Norling Retreat, Hotel Palbheu, etc. 
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹12,000 and ₹18,000. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

13. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur is also known as the Venice of the East. It is popular for its mesmerising beauty, lakes, and historical forts. You will get amazed after exploring the fabulous palaces and remarkable architecture of the city. Lake Fatehsagar and Lake Pichola are magnificent lakes where you can enjoy the sunset at these lakes.

• Things to Do: Boat riding, sightseeing, cycling, photography, etc.
  
• Top Tourist Attractions: Fatehsagar Lake, City Palace, Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Fort, Aravalli Hills
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 7°C and 20°C. 
• Places to Stay: Panorama Guest House, Madri Haveli, Hotel Magan Palace and more. 
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹14,000 and ₹19,000.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

14. Kutch, Gujarat

Kutch is also one of the best places to visit in January in India due to its pleasant weather, historical significance, magnificent deserts and flora and fauna. Its two major festivals, International Kite Festival and Rann Utsav, play a vital role in attracting tourists across the country.

• Things to Do: Visit International Kite Festival, Rann Utsav, Nirona, Bhojudi, Khavda, stay in eco-resorts, etc.  
• Top Tourist Attractions: Rann of Kutch, Aaina Mahal, Kachchh Museum, Darbargadh, Wildlife Sanctuary and more. 
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 12°C and 25°C. 
• Places to Stay: Royal Guest House, Radisson, Rann Resort Dholavira, etc. 
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹10,000 and ₹15,000 per person. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

15. Daman and Diu

The attractive beaches and Portuguese architecture of Daman and Diu play a vital role in alluring tourists. This place is blessed with pristine beaches, peaceful surroundings and mild weather in January, making Daman and Diu one of the best places to visit in January in India. 

• Things to Do: Camping, bonfires at beaches, birdwatching, boating etc. 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Diu Fort, Nagoa Beach, Jalandhar Shrine etc. 
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 15°C and 27°C. 
• Places to Stay: Hotel Apaar, Dream Vision Guest House, Krishna Beach Resorts
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹20,000 and ₹25000 per person. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

16. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Popular for its splendid sceneries and lustrous green mountains and valleys, Ooty is one of the best places to visit for both families and couples. There are a plethora of tourist destinations you would love to explore in Ooty, making it a perfect getaway during New Year. 

• Things to Do: Ride the toy train, hike to Doddabetta Peak, and attend different festivals.
• Top Tourist Attractions: Ooty Boat House, Botanical Garden, St. Stephen’s Church, Rose Garden
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 8°C and 20°C. 
• Places to Stay: Gem Park Ooty, Hotel Lakeview, Savoy Ooty – IHCL SeleQtions
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹8,000 and ₹13,000 per person.
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

17. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

The holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh is the ideal holiday destination for people who wish to enjoy a much-needed spiritual break. There is a belief that if you take a bath in the holy waters of the Ganges, your past sins will wash away. It is the perfect city for tourists who wish to go on a spiritual journey.  

• Things to Do: Ganga Arti, boating and visiting temples. 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Ramnagar fort, Manikarnika Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Shri Kashi Vishwanath temple
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 9°C and 23°C.
• Places to Stay: Baba Guest House, La Vaca India, Wander Station Varanasi, etc.
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹12,000 and ₹15,000 per person. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

18. Puducherry

The blissful union territory of Puducherry is one of the best places to visit in January in India. The city is also called the ‘French Riviera of the East’. It becomes even more attractive during winter due to its calm atmosphere and pleasant weather. It is also a perfect tourist destination for people who wish to go on a spiritual journey in Auroville. 

• Things to Do: House boat ride, Kayaking, Clay modelling, etc. 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Promenade Beach, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam, Chunnambar Boathouse
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 18°C and 27°C. 
• Places to Stay: LA VILLA, the Promenade, La Maison Radha
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹13,000 to ₹16,000 per person.  
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

19. Alibaug, Maharashtra

Alibaug is the perfect weekend getaway option for those residing around Mumbai and Pune. It has beautiful beaches and a coastal town, perfect for viewing the sea waves. Moreover, Alibaug is popular for forts and historical palaces, making it one of the best places to visit in January in India.

• Things to Do: Relaxing on the beach, taking a sunbath, cruising and more. 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Alibaug beach, Kolaba fort, Varsoli beach and more. 
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 19°C and 30°C. 
• Places to Stay: Iora Cottages, Radisson Blu Resort and Spa, Vamoose Akshay, etc. 
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹12,000 to ₹15,000 per person. 
•  How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

20. Gokarna, Karnataka

Another perfect way of spending your new year is to go for a tour in Gokarna. It is a beautiful beach situated in the coastal region of Karnataka. It has plenty of ancient Hindu temples that people visit throughout the year. 

• Things to Do: Strolling on the beaches, visiting temples, pilgrimage tours. 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple, Paradise beach, Om beach and more. 
• Average Temperature: The average temperature during January ranges between 18°C and 27°C. 
• Places to Stay: Coconut Tree Resort, Namaste Sanjeevini, Gokarna City Stay Rooms and more. 
• Average Budget: The average cost of a trip ranges between ₹10,000 and ₹12,000 per person. 
• How to Reach: By train, road, and air.

These were the 20 best places to visit in January in India. They are different when it comes to their culture, topography, cuisines, festivals, etc., but a glaring similarity between them is that they have a wonderful weather during the month of January. You can choose any one of them to spend a beautiful vacation with your friends or family.