30 Best Places to Visit in January India: Discover the Winter Paradise

What better way to celebrate the beginning of a brand-new year than to explore the vibrant landscapes and the most beautiful places in India? 

Here are the 30 best places to visit in January India that are among the most vibrant and culturally rich places offering diverse destinations and catering to the needs of all kinds of travelers. 

Whether you are a mountain person, a beach person, or anything in between, India has everything from historical expeditions and chilling on the beach to enchanting treks and snow-capped mountains. 

So bring out your road trip playlist, embark on an exhilarating journey, and discover all the best places to visit in January in India. 

Leh is the capital of Ladakh, also known as the land of high passes and the biker’s paradise. Nestled in the Himalayas, Leh is one of the best places to visit in January in India and mostly captivates the hearts of bikers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts. It is mostly famous for its cultural riches, breathtaking landscapes, and charming monasteries. Leh is also famous for some of the most adventurous treks in India. 

Places to visit — Shanti Stupa, Theksey Monastery, Khardung La, Leh Palace, Nubra Valley.

Ideal duration — 3 to 4 days 

Things to do — Trekking, river rafting, Jeep safari, paragliding, ride to Khardung La pass, taking pictures in the Leh palace, handicraft, and Pashmina shawl shopping.  

Affordable stay — Zostel, Leh

What to eat —Chutagi, Skyu, Tapu, Saag, and Chhurpi

Budget —  15k to 20k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Kushok Bakula Rimpochee
• By Train — Jammu Tawi Railway Station
• By Road — Srinagar-Leh highway or Leh Manali highway

Kashmir Valley has much more to offer than you can think! Sonmarg is nestled in the heart of Kashmir and translates to Meadow of Gold. Located at an elevation of 2,730 meters, the lush green meadows are surrounded by snow-capped peaks. 

Places to visit — Thajiwas Park, Thajiwas Glacier, Krishna Ganga River, Gadsar Pass, Nichnai Lake.. 

Ideal duration — 5 to 6 days 

Things to do — Trekking in Sonamarg, sightseeing at Satsar lake, white water rafting, Camping under the starry sky, and fishing in the Krishna Ganga river. 

Affordable stay — Hotel The Kashmir

What to eat — Syoon Olav (Meat with Potatoes cooked in spicy gravy), Muj Gaad (Fish with Radish), Nadir-Haak/Gogji/Monji (lotus stems cooked with Spinach or Radish), Marcha-Wangan korma, Kaanti (lamb pieces in red hot gravy, etc. 

Budget — 20K to 25K per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Srinagar airport,
• By Train — Srinagar railway station
• By Road — Drive from Srinagar on the Jammu-Srinagar highway

Auli is the ultimate destination to visit with your partner this year. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, this is India’s skiing destination, which remains operational for 365 days and is one of the best places to visit in December and January. 

Places to visit — Kwani Bugyal, Trishul Peak, Rudraprayag, Joshimath, Chenab Lake, and Nanda Devi Range.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Trekking, stargazing, camping, zipline, etc. 

Affordable stay — Hotel Orchid Saffron 

What to eat — Kachmauli, Singhori, and Bal Mithai

Budget — 6k to 10k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Jolly Grant Airport 
• By Train — Rishikesh Railway Station 
• By Road — Take up the Rishikesh-Joshimath-Auli route 

Manali is one of the most popular and developed hill stations catering to thousands of visitors every year. It is also the best place to visit in January since you can witness snowfall, leaving behind the New Year traffic. 

Places to visit — Hadimba Devi Temple, Great Himalayan National Park, Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Monastery, Desi Swaad, Van Vihar National Park, Naggar Castle, Hampta Pass.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Paragliding, river rafting, Yak ride, Skiing, cafe hopping, etc. 

Affordable stay — Snow Palm Resort

What to eat — Khatta, Siddu, Babru, AktoriTrout, Chha Gosht, Chana Madra, Tudkiya Bhat

Budget — 9K to 15k per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Kullu Bhuntar airport
• By Train — Joginder Nagar Railway Station
• By Road — Direct bus connectivity from Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, and Ambala

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is a full package of charm and beauty, including the tea gardens, the toy train, and the panoramic views of Kanchenjunga. So if you’re planning a visit, Darjeeling is one of the best places to visit in India in January. 

Places to visit — Peace Pagoda, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Toy Train, Rangeet Valley Ropeway, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and Yiga Choeling Monastery. 

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Ride the toy train, enjoy ziplining, pick tea leaves in the estate, Enjoy the ropeway, trek through the rock garden, and go monastery hopping. 

Affordable stay — The Heritage 

What to eat — Churpee, Momos, Traditional Nepali Thali, Thukpa, Aloo Dum, etc.

Budget — 20k to 15k per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Bagdogra Airport 
• By Train — New Jalpaiguri Junction 
• By Road — The major access to Darjeeling by road is via Siliguri

Laid in the lap of Parvati Valley, Kasol is the best place if you want to just lay back and enjoy your holiday alongside the Parvati River. This place is a magnet for backpackers and couples to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, cool breezes, and snow-capped peaks. Kasol is one of the best places to visit in October when the Parvati River is in full flow and the waterfalls are alive. 

Places to visit — Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran, Parvati Valley, Chalal Trek trail, Kasol temple, Kasol waterfall, Rasol Pass, etc. 

Ideal duration — 2 days 

Things to do — Paragliding, café hopping, trekking, bath in hot water spring, campfire, etc. 

Affordable stay — The Hosteller 

What to eat — Mutton rice and mutton curry, momos, dumplings stuffed with mixed vegetables

Budget — 10k to 13k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Kullu Bhuntar airport
• By Train — Joginder Nagar Railway Station
• By Road — Reach Kasol through Chandigarh-Kasol Highway and then Trek to Chalal Village. 

This is the ultimate destination if you want to party and relax on the beautiful sand beaches, quietly looking over to the horizon. Goa’s beaches, architecture, cuisines, and festivals attract numerous people from all over the world. 

Places to Visit — Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Aguada Fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Candolim Beach, Harvalem Waterfall, and Arambol Beach.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days

Things to do — Jet ski, boat rides, banana rides, partying at Tito’s street, snorkeling, paragliding, hot air balloon, parasailing, etc.  

Affordable stay — Resort Park Avenue

What to eat — Goan Fish Curry, Bebinca, Chicken Cafreal, Xacuti, Prawn Balchao, Sorpotel.

Budget — 10k to 12k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Goa International Airport
• By Train — Madgaon Junction
• By Road — The road network is well served by cabs and state-operated buses from Maharashtra and Karnataka

Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan and one of the best places to visit in India during January. This pink city is the epitome of Rajput architecture and culture which will swallow you whole and mark my words you’re going to love it! 

Places to visit — Samode, City Palace, Hawa Mehal, Albert Hall Museum, Nahargarh Fort, Pink Pearl Water Park, Jaigarh Fort, Galtaji, Amber Palace, City Park, and Jantar Mantar.

Ideal duration — 2 days 

Things to do — Shop in Babu Bazar, explore the regional food, elephant ride, explore the old pink city. 

Affordable stay — Sureli Haveli

What to eat — Dal Bati Churma, Lal Maans, Ker Sangri, Ghewar, Pyaaz Kachori

Budget — 10k to 13k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Sanganer Airport
• By Train — Jaisalmer Railway Station
• By Road — Direct buses are available from various major cities, Jaipur is also well-connected with NH8, NH11 and NH12. 

Bir Billing is the ultimate paragliding destination in India. Nestled in the Dhauladhar range and the Kangra Valley, the skies of Bir are forever filled with enthusiastic paragliders enjoying the best moments of their life! 

And not just January but this is also the best place to visit in September in India, when the distant mountain peaks are covered in snow and the chilly air thrills your heart! 

Places to visit — Monasteries, Bir-Landing Site, Palpung Sherabling Monastery, Bir Tea Factory, Dharmalaya Institute, Baijnath Temple, Himalayan Film Institute, Gunehar Waterfalls, Chowgan Tea Gardens, and Bir Bazaar.

Ideal duration — 2 days

Things to do — Paragliding, camping, trekking, hang gliding, mountain biking, shopping, traveling by toy train. 

Affordable stay — Vivek Homestay Bir, Gunehar Rd, Bir

What to eat — Siddu, steamed and fried momos, thukpa and devil momos, hot chocolate.

Budget — 8k to 10k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Gaggal airport
• By Train — Baijnath Paprola Railway Station
• By Road — There are direct buses from Major Cities like Delhi, Chandigarh

This paradise has been in the headlines over the past month and rightfully so! Lakshadweep has one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the world that is going to take your breath away! 

Since the archipelago is not big on tourism, the beaches, and the water are crystal clear! People might get confused about how to reach Lakshadweep, but trust me, it’s super easy! Flights to Lakshadweep only operate from Cochin Airport, so no matter where you are in the world, if you want to visit Lakshadweep by air, you have to come to Cochin Airport. 

Places to visit — Agatti Island, Bangaram Island, Kavaratti Island, Kalpeni Island, Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep Archipelago, 

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, discovering the coral reefs and biodiversity, experiencing local culture, etc. 

Affordable stay — Bangaram Island Resort 

What to eat — Mus Kavaab, Kavaratti Biryani, Lobster Masala, Kadalakka, Tuna Curry

Budget —  ₹23,000 to ₹60,000 per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Agatti airport 
• By Train — Kannur, Kerala (but to reach Lakshadweep you’ll either have to take a flight from Cochin or take a ship from Mumbai/Cochin.)
• By Road — Lakshadweep can’t be reached by road since it’s an Island but once you reach here by air or ferry you can take a cab to roam around the Island. 

The Golden City of Rajasthan is also one of the hottest places in India both in terms of temperature and tourism. Jaisalmer is famous for its yellow sandstone architecture and the Thar Desert safaris. The whole Golden City and the Jaisalmer Fort are well preserved after being labeled as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Places to visit — Tanot Mata Temple, Jaisalmer Fort, Tazia Tower, Desert Festival, Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer War Museum, Kothari’s Patwon Ki Haveli, Amar Sagar Lake, Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer Longewala, Khuri Sand Dunes.

Ideal duration — 2 – 3 days 

Things to do — Camel and Jeep safari, enjoy cultural program, folk dance, and fire show, and visit Longewala war memorial.  

Affordable stay — Moustache Jaisalmer

What to eat — Dal Bati Churma, Gatta Saag, Dal & Pyaaz Kachori, Rabdi Malpua, etc.

Budget — 6k to 15k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Jaisalmer Airport
• By Train — Jaisalmer railway station
• By Road — Jaisalmer is well-concerted by road to major states like Gujarat, Delhi, and Maharashtra. Major Bus terminals are — Golden Bus Terminal and Roadways main bus stand

Coorg is also named Kodagu in India, situated in the state of Karnataka. This place is the coffee heaven! If you’re a nature lover and adventure enthusiast, the lush greenery, mist-covered hills, and rich culture are going to steal your heart away! 

The unique things that you’ll get to experience here are the cultural activities and the heritage of Kodava. 

Places to visit — Brahmagiri Peak, Abbey Falls, Nishani Motte, Madikeri Fort, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Talacauvery, Bhagamandala, Iruppu, Falls, Chettalli, Mandalpatti Viewpoint, Gaddige Raja’s Tomb.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Try rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, skydiving, paragliding, white water rafting, bungee jumping, or zip lining.

Affordable stay — Coorg Green Farm Resort, Kushalnagar, Baichanalli

What to eat — Kadambuttu, Pandi Curry, Paputtu, Noolputtu, Akki Otti, Kakkada Nyend Curry

Budget — 10k to 20k per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Mangalore International Airport (140 km away)
• By Train — Mysore Railway Station (107 km away)
• By Road — Coorg is well-connected with major places like Bangalore (243 km), Mangalore (151 km), and Mysore (107 km).

This metropolitan union territory is one of the oldest exciting cities in India with a rich Mughal history and even richer cuisine. Delhi attracts tourists all year round, be it historical monuments, lush green parks, or huge flea markets, Delhi has something for everyone! 

Places to visit — National Rail Museum, Sunder Nursery, Zoological Park, National Science Center, Museum of Illusions, Bharat Darshan Park, EOD Adventure Park, Garden of Five Senses, and Adventure Islands. You will also love the markets like Lajpat Nagar market, Sarojini Nagar Market, and Dilli Haat INA.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Shop from the most popular markets of Delhi like Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, etc., discover the most famous foods of Old Delhi, and go to a picnic with your family in Lodhi Garden. 

Affordable stay — The Hosteller Delhi 

What to eat — Enjoy Chandni Chowk’s paranthas, Dolma Aunty’s momos, Chole Bhature, Chole Kulche, etc.

Budget — 6k to 20k per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Indra Gandhi National Airport
• By Train — New Delhi Railway Station
• By Road — Delhi has an excellent network of highways that connects to all the major cities of the country.

Kachchh is a district in the state of Gujarat and is geographically larger than the whole state of Haryana. The white salt desert of the Rann of Kutch is one of the most mesmerizing places you’ll discover in India. This is one of the best places in India to visit in January since you’ll get to witness the very popular Rann Utsav of Kutch. 

Places to visit — The Great Rann of Kutch, Kala Dungar, Ambe Dham Temple, Desh Devi Maa Ashapura.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days  

Things to do — Camel safari, Shop handmade articles, explore the Mandvi Beach, go paramotoring, rifle shooting, star gazing, archery, etc. 

Affordable stay — Resort Farm Villa 

What to eat — Khari Bhaat, kadhi-khichdi, Chakra Pakwan, Dabeli, Bajra and milk, Bajra na rotla with curd. 

Budget — 8k to 12k per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Bhuj Airport (BHU)
• By Train — Bhuj junction
• By Road — You can only reach Kutch by taxi from Bhuj. 

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a stunning archipelago of over 500 islands, located in the Bay of Bengal. They are widely known for their crystal clear water, rich biodiversity, and pristine beaches.  

Places to visit — Corbyn’s Cove Beach, Elephant Beach, Marina Park, Gandhi Park, Saddle Peak National Park, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Naval Marine Museum Samudrika, Forest Museum, Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail, Ross Island, etc.

Ideal duration — 3 to 4 days 

Things to do — Beach Bumming, Water Activities, Havelock Island, Cellular Jail, Coral Reefs, Island Hopping, Museum Trail, mangrove boat rides, and Sea-Walking.

Affordable stay — Hotel Coral Inn

What to eat — Fish Curry, Macher Jhol, Chicken Tikka Masala, Coconut Prawn Curry, Barbeque Food, Tandoori Fish, Grilled Lobsters, Squid Fry, etc. 

Budget — ₹20,000 to ₹45,000 per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Port Blair Airport
• By Train — Chennai Central (After reaching Chennai Central, you can take a flight or ship to reach the Andaman Islands)
• By Road — Andaman and Nicobar Islands can’t be reached by road since it’s an Island but once you reach here by air or ferry you can take up a cab to roam around the Island.

Udaipur is the city of the Royals and one of India’s most beautiful lake cities. This city has always been in the news and highlights for all the lavish Bollywood weddings. This place’s beauty, geography, and culture make it a perfect travel destination if you want to visit here with your family or loved ones. 

Places to visit — City Palace, Lake Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Ahar Museum, Monsoon Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Watch sunsets, click postcard-worthy pictures, take a boat cruise on Lake Pichola, shop to your heart’s content, and explore the authentic cuisine of Rajasthan.  

Affordable stay — The Pichola Home Stay

What to eat —  Mirchi Bada, Ker Sangri, Sev Tamatar, Kadhi Pakoda, Kachori, Dal Bati Churma, Gatta Saag. 

Budget — 8k to 15k per person

How to reach —

• By Air —Maharana Pratap Airport
• By Train — Udaipur City Railway Station
• By Road —  There are regular buses available from Delhi, Jaipur, Indore, and Kota linking Udaipur with these cities.

The history of Agra runs back hundreds of years even before the Mughal rule. The city was adorned by the mesmerizing Taj Mahal in 1632 which later made it place among the 7 wonders and the UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re planning a trip, Agra is one of the best places in India to visit in January. 

Places to visit — Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daula, Tomb of Akbar, Shri Mankameshwar Mandir, Mehtab Bagh, Aram Bagh.

Ideal duration — 1 to 2 days 

Things to do — Roam around the quiet lanes of Agra, explore the regional cuisine, and witness the beauty of Mughal history. 

Affordable stay — Sukoon Home Stay Agra

What to eat —  Bedai, Bhalla, Mughlai Food, Dal Moth, Agra ka Petha, Jalebi

Budget — 8k to 15k per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Agra Airport (AGR)
• By Train — Agra Fort Train Station 
• By Road — Agra is easily accessible by bus from major all cities. 

Rishikesh is one of the few places in India which can cater to people of all ages and interests. This small ‘Yoga capital of India’ is soaked in spirituality and the essence of Sanātana culture. Not only that but this is also the land of numerous adventure activities. Enjoy the thrill and the serenity of life in the lap of the Himalayas. 

Places to visit — Lakshman Jhula, Narendra Nagar, Byasi, Gita Bhawan, Shivpuri, Beatles Ashram, Bharat Mandir, and Triveni Ghat. 

Ideal duration — 2 days 

Things to do — River rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, giant swing, attending Ganga Aarti, shopping, etc. 

Affordable stay — Mango Tree Guest House 

What to eat — Rabri, Khadi or jhwāi, Arsa, Gulthiya, Garhwal ka Fannah, Muspani, Rus/Thhatwani, Aloo Tamatar ka Jhol

Budget — 5k to 10k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Jolly Grant Airport 
• By Train — Rishikesh Railway Station
• By Road — Rishikesh bus stand is connected to all major cities via public and private buses

Nestled in the Sahyadri ranges, Lonavala is a breathtaking hill station, located in the Pune district of Maharashtra. This last green heaven is surrounded by the Western Ghat, stunning natural beauty and pleasant weather throughout the year. 

Lonavala is one of the most amazing places to visit in March as you get to see cascading waterfalls, beautiful sunset points, and mysterious caves which date back to the second century BCE. 

Places to Visit — Lonavala Lake, Bushi Dam, Lohagarh Fort, Kune Falls, Tiger’s Leap, and Lonavala Wax Museum.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Sightseeing, trekking, camping at Pawna Lake, Hot Air Balloon Safari, Trek to Canyon Valley, Exploring Bhaja Caves, camping at Aundoli, visiting Valvan Dam, and visiting Kune Waterfalls.

Affordable stay — Ferreira Resort, Rao Colony

What to eat — Eat the famous ‘Chikki’ and ‘Vada Pao’.

Budget — 6k to 9k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Pune International Airport
• By Train — Lonavala Train Station
• By Road — Well connected to Mumbai and Pune by bus networks. 

Mount Abu is one of the most beautiful and the only hill stations in the Aravalli ranges in Rajasthan. Known for its cynic beauty and pleasant climate this place has rich cultural heritage and is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan.

Places to visit — Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, Toad Rock View Point, Dilwara Jain Temple, Mount Abu Sanctuary, Achalgarh Fort

Ideal duration — 1 to 2 days 

Things to do — Enjoy the Sunset view, walk along the valley of Mount Abu, and trek to Guru Shikhar.

Affordable stay — Hotel Mamta Palace

What to eat — Malpua, Chaavadi, Besan chikki, Bali gatte, Laapsi 

Budget — 5k to 8k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Maharana Pratap Airport
• By Train — Abu Road 
• By Road — Well connected to major cities in Rajasthan, Delhi/NCR

As indicated by its name, Nandi Hills is a hill station located in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. Named after the Bull pet of lord Shiva, with its mesmerizing view and beautiful sunsets, this place serves as a weekend getaway for the residents of Bangalore.

Places to Visit — Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Tipu’s Drop, Tipu’s Summer Residence, Amrita Sarovar, Brahmashram, Skandagiri, MuddenaHalli Museum, Grover’s Zampa Vineyard.

Ideal duration — 1 to 2 days 

Things to do — Sightseeing, stargazing, and sunsets

Affordable stay —  Kosh Soul Retreat

What to eat — Rajma Chawal, Dal Chawal, Kadi Chawal, Chole Bhature, and Dosa

Budget — 6k to 10k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Kempegowda International Airport (19 km)
• By Train — Nandi station (60 km)
• By Road — Bangalore to Nandi Hills via Bellary Rd is the shortest, fastest, and the only recommended route. 

This vibrant city is located in the state of Tamil Nadu and is also known as the Manchester of South India. Situated on the banks of Noyyal River, Coimbatore is the industrial and commercial hub and is surrounded by the Western Ghats. 

The lush green forest and the accelerating waterfalls will capture the hearts of nature lovers completely! You can also receive blessings from some must-visit temples of Tamil Nadu.

Places to visit — Adiyogi Shiva Statue, Dhyanalinga Temple, Gass Forest Museum, Marudhamalai Hill Temple, Perur Pateeswarar Temple, Arulmigu Eachanari Vinayagar Temple, Siruvani Waterfalls.

Ideal duration — 2 days

Things to do — Walk by the magnificent Adiyogi Shiva Statue, Offer Prayers at the Marudhamalai Hill Temple.

Affordable stay — Sugam Hotel Pvt Ltd, Diwan Bahadur Rd, R.S. Puram

What to eat — Ghee Roast Dosa, Arisi Paruppu Sadam, Pallipalayam Chicken, Elaneer Payasam

Budget — 5k to 8k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Coimbatore International Airport
• By Train — Coimbatore North
• By Road — Coimbatore is well-connected to cities like Trivandrum (380 km), Cochin (190 km) and Chennai (505 km).

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas chapter is also referred to as the mini Switzerland of India due to the stunning natural beauty of snow kept mountains and green meadows of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Chopta is the home to Tungnath Temple, the must-visit Shiva temple in India. 

Places to Visit — Tungnath temple, Madhyamaheshwar Mandir, Chandrashila Trek, Deoria Tal, Kanchula Korak Musk Deer, SanctuaryKalimath, Mountain Delight, Magpie Jungle Camp, Auli, Gopeshwar.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days

Things to do — Trek to Tungnath Temple, bird watching, camping, star gazing, trek to Chandrashila Peak. 

Affordable stay — Hotel Chopta Heavens

What to eat — Tibetan momos and noodles, Lopchu, Bhang Ki Chutney, Bal Mithai, Kandali ka Saag

Budget — 5k to 9k per person 

How to reach —

• By Air — Jolly Grant Airport
• By Train — Haridwar railway station
• By Road — Chopta is well-connected by motorable roads thus taking a taxi or driving your car to the Chopta region is the most suitable one.

Ayodhya has been in the headlines ever since the construction of the Ram Mandir started in late 2022. After the construction of the Temple, the whole city of Ayodhya was decorated and developed, and now it’s one of the main tourist spots in India. 

Places to visit — Hanuman Garhi Mandir, Kanak Bhawan, Mathura and Vrindavan, Mani Parvat, Vidya Kund 

Ideal duration — 2 days 

Things to do — Visit the Ram Mandir, bath in Sarayu river, visit Raj Sadan

Affordable stay — Occazia Paradise Hotel 

What to eat — Veg biryani, Kheer,  Bedami Poori, Aloo Sabzi, Kachori, Samosa, Ladoo, Chaat, Malpua

Budget — 5k to 10k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Faizabad Airport 
• By Train — Faizabad Junction
• By Road — Uttar Pradesh offers many bus and taxi services from all major cities. 

Corbett National Park, established in 1936 is one of India’s oldest and the most renowned national parks. Spanning over an area of 520 square kilometers, this park is rich in biodiversity with a variety of flora and flora. Corbett is one of India’s top 15 jungle safaris and is mostly famous for its dense population of Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Deer and the one bird that you can always see, Owl.   

Places to visit — Corbett museum, Girija Devi Temple, Shri Hanuman Dham, Corbett Falls.

Ideal duration — 1 to 2 days 

Things to do — Go jungle safari, trekking, take a dip in the waterfall 

Affordable stay — Hotel Corbett Deer’s Home

What to eat — North Indian, Chinese, Mughlai, Continental, Kumaoni and local cuisine. Don’t miss the Chicken, Kebab, and other barbecue delicacies here

Budget — 8k to 15k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Pantnagar (PGH) Airport
• By Train — Ramnagar Railway Station
• By Road — Connected to major destinations of Uttarakhand and other states, with frequent buses and taxis.

The city of dreams is not just the capital and house of Bollywood but a culturally vibrant country that will make you feel at home in an instant. 

Personally, one of the greatest things about my Mumbai is the coastal beauty and the thriving nightlife. If you are thinking of visiting Mumbai I would prefer you do it on and around the Ganesh Chaturthi event. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with the city all over again.  

Places to visit — Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Haji Ali Dargah, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Global Vipassana Pagoda, Juhu, Bandra Fort

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Day Out at Juhu Beach, food tours and shopping, pub crawling, and sunbathing

Affordable stay — Hotel Accord, J. Nehru Road

What to eat — Vada Pav, Tamales, Elote, Idli, Misal, Spicedella

Budget — 10k to 12k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
• By Train — Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Bandra Terminus, Mumbai Central and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Railway Station, Kurla.
• By Road — Mumbai-Pune Expressway

If there’s one thing you can’t miss while in Tamil Nadu it’s Hogenakkal Falls. It’s often referred to as the “Niagara Falls of India,” as it is the country’s one of the most stunning waterfalls, attracting tourists from all over the world. 

Places to visit — Sun Set View Point, Crocodile Park, Theerthamalai Temple, Melagiri Hills, Krishnagiri Dam. 

Ideal duration — 1 to 2 days 

Things to do — Boating, diving, Swimming, Trekking, Oil massage, 

Affordable stay — Hogenakkal Forest Department Cottage

What to eat — Homemade Chocolate, Coffee, Vada Curry, Momos, Noodle Soup, etc.

Budget — 7k to 10k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Bangalore International Airport
• By Train — Dharmapuri
• By Road — Take a bus from the Dharmapuri Bus Stand which is situated at a distance of 46.2 km from Hogenakkal via the Dharmapuri-Hogenakkal road.

Mussoorie is often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills,” because of the charming view of the Garhwal Himalaya. The lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and panoramic views have made Mussoorie one of the best places to visit in January, India. 

Places to visit — Lal Tibba Scenic Point, George Everest House, Gun Hill, Christ Church, Company Garden, George Everest House, Bhatta Falls, Mall Road.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Trekking, Hiking, Soak In The View, Rock Climbing, Paragliding, Rafting, Roller Skating, Shopping, Boating, Horse Riding, Zip Swing Adventure, etc.  

Affordable stay — Doon View Home Stay

What to eat — Cream butter tea, Dum aloo, Fried Momos, Thukpa, Rajma.

Budget —  8k to 10k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun 
• By Train — Dehradun Railway Station
• By Road — Mussoorie is well linked by a network of state and private buses to its neighboring cities. 

Srinagar is known as the “Venice of the East”. Nestled in the Kashmir Valley, this summer capital offers breathtaking views with surrounding snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and majestic Mughal gardens. Kashmir is also one of the best places to visit in June when the rest of India is burning hot with summer sun!

Places to visit —  Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Aru Valley, Manasbal Lake Chashma Shahi Garden, Hari Parbat Fort, Asia’s largest Tulip Garden.

Ideal duration — 2 to 3 days 

Things to do — Skiing, sledding, Shikara Ride on Dal Lake, Stay in a Houseboat, Explore Mughal Gardens

Affordable stay — Green resort, Srinagar

What to eat — Kashmiri Rajma, Goshtaba, Rogan Josh, Aab Gosht, Kashmiri pulao, Yakhni, Modur Pulao

Budget — 10k to 20k per person.

How to reach —

• By Air — Sheikh ul Alam Airport 
• By Train — Banihal railway station
• By Road — Buses to Jammu and Kashmir

Kasauli is a place in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Although Kasauli is not such a big place, it’s definitely worth a visit! With lush green meadows and hidden villages, I’m sure you won’t be able to get enough of this heaven in the lap of the Himalayas. 

Places to visit — Sunset Point, Christ Church, Mall Road, Monkey Point, Gilbert Trail, Manki Point, Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji, Baptist Church, Shri Baba Balak Nath Temple, Hanuman Temple.

Ideal duration — 1 to 2 days 

Things to do — Trekking, paragliding, river rafting, bath in the hot spring, stargazing, etc.

Affordable stay —  Kasauli Pinegrooves Inn

What to eat — Band Samosa, Himachali Pulao, Wines, Aloo Triangles

Budget — 7k to 12k per person

How to reach —

• By Air — Chandigarh International Airport (70 km away)
• By Train — Kalka in Haryana (40 km away)
• By Road — Travellers can take state transport buses that connect Kasauli to major neighboring cities and towns of Himachal Pradesh

Conclusion 

From the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India’s diverse landscapes offers numerous possibilities to explore in January. Be it sandy beaches and deserts, or the historical architecture and the snow-capped mountains, India has so much more to offer!