In January, winter fully embraces India, turning it into a haven for cold-weather enthusiasts. The country’s diverse terrain offers endless possibilities, from the snow-covered peaks of Tawang Monastery and Zanskar to the historic charm of Jagannath and Hadimba temples. Whether you’re chasing adventure, exploring history, or simply looking to unwind, India’s winter destinations have something unique to offer.
Here, we’ll explore the 20 best places to visit in January in India. As we delve deeper into these destinations, you’ll discover the myriad of experiences that make it a captivating place for adventurous treks, peaceful retreats, and more.
1. Chadar Trek, Zanskar Valley
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The Chadar Trek in Zanskar Valley is one of the best places in India to visit in January, offering a truly unique experience. It takes you across the frozen Zanskar River, which transforms into a thick sheet of ice, or “chadar,” during winter. Spanning about 105 kilometers, the frozen river trail winds through a breathtaking landscape of towering cliffs and pristine Himalayan vistas.
With temperatures plunging as low as -25°C, the trek is a test of endurance and resilience for seasoned adventure enthusiasts. January is the best time to embark on this journey, as the ice is most stable for safer passage. Beyond the adventure, the trek offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditions of Zanskari villagers, who have relied on this frozen highway for centuries.
2. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the “Golden Fort” or “Sonar Quila,” is one of the best places to go in January. The pleasant winter weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C, provides the perfect setting for visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort’s golden sandstone walls gleam in the sunlight, offering stunning views of the Thar Desert.
As one of the world’s few “living forts,” it is home to a quarter of Jaisalmer’s population and features shops, hotels, and historic havelis. January’s clear skies further elevate the experience for visitors to enjoy panoramic views from the fort’s ramparts. The comfortable weather also makes it ideal for exploring the fort’s intricate architecture, Jain temples, and the royal palace.
For an added adventure, January is an excellent time to experience thrilling camel safaris in the nearby sand dunes.
3. Naini Lake, Nainital
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Naini Lake in Nainital is one of the best places to go in January. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland. Its serene waters reflect the surrounding hills, creating mesmerizing views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
January’s chilly temperatures often dip below freezing, with mist delicately hovering over the lake’s surface. You can enjoy boat rides, take leisurely walks along the scenic promenade, or simply soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Additionally, you can enjoy winter activities like ice skating and snowball fighting.
The nearby Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Naina Devi, adds cultural and spiritual importance to the lake.
4. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India, dates back to the 7th century and is known for its impressive Dravidian architecture. The temple’s 50-meter high gopuram dominates Hampi’s skyline, while intricate carvings and detailed artwork adorn its walls. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Virupaksha Temple attracts pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
In January, the temple’s tranquil atmosphere and cooler temperatures provide an ideal setting for reflection and prayer. Clear skies and pleasant weather allow you to appreciate the temple’s architectural beauty and spiritual significance fully.
5. Solang Valley, Manali
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As one of the best places to visit in January, Solang Valley in Manali is an 8,500 ft. valley covered in snow. Skiing is especially popular, with training institutes and instructors like Adventure Nation and Thrillophilia available for all skill levels.
The variety of snow activities in Solang Valley makes it unique. You can enjoy snowboarding, snow scooter rides, skiing, and even the Winter Skiing Festival, held annually from January 11 to 24. For thrill-seekers, there are also options like paragliding and zorbing.
For those looking to relax, the snow-covered scenery in Solang Valley and nearby areas like Old Manali and Mall Road provide a magical atmosphere with traditional wooden houses, lush pine forests, and festive decorations rare to find elsewhere in India during this time of year.
6. Tawang Monastery, Tawang
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Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh is the largest Buddhist monastery in India. In winter, it becomes a wonderland, with snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes providing a stunning backdrop for photography.
January also brings the lively Torgya Festival, which runs from January 27 to 29, 2025. This three-day cultural event features colorful Cham dances performed by monks. The festival is held to drive out evil spirits and bring prosperity and happiness.
Perched at 10,000 feet, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the Tawang River valley with small villages scattered across the region. Despite the cold temperatures, its serene atmosphere makes it perfect for relaxation and self-reflection.
7. City Palace, Udaipur
City Palace in Udaipur perfectly blends history, architecture, and natural beauty. The pleasant weather during this month makes it ideal for exploring the vast palace complex. The palace’s fusion of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles showcases intricate carvings, beautiful frescoes, and mesmerizing mirror work.
January’s clear skies provide breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the Aravalli hills from the palace’s vantage points. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., you can also enjoy boat rides on Lake Pichola.
After soaking in the stunning lake views, you can experience royal fine dining after booking at the entrance counter. Then, visit the Crystal Gallery, where you’ll find an impressive collection of crystal artifacts. Maharana Sajjan Singh originally commissioned many of these exquisite pieces in 1877. The gallery showcases beautifully crafted crystal items, including chandeliers, tables, mirrors, and even a crystal bed, adding to the palace’s allure.
8. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
Junagarh Fort in Bikaner is one of India’s best places to visit in January. Unlike other Rajasthani forts, Junagarh is built at ground level, which is easily accessible. Its architecture blends Rajput, Gujarati, and Mughal styles with intricate red and gold sandstone carvings. One of the highlights from January 10 to 12, 2025, is the Camel Festival, a vibrant celebration with camel race events, safaris, and various games.
The fort complex includes several stunning palaces, such as the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace)
and Karan Mahal, and the temple of Karni Mata. It also houses a museum that showcases Bikaner’s royal history and artifacts. With its seven impressive gates, including the Suraj Pol that shines in the morning sun. Each gate has its own story and significance, symbolizing Bikaner’s strength and heritage.
9. Gulmarg Gondola, Gulmarg
Gulmarg Gondola is Asia’s highest and longest cable car ride. It provides breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks and the Kashmir valley.
The gondola ascends to an altitude of 4,200 meters, making it a gateway to world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The peak snowfall in January creates ideal conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. The two-phase ride offers different experiences, with the first phase suitable for beginners and the second catering to advanced skiers.
Beyond skiing, you can enjoy snowboarding, sledding, and building snowmen in the pristine snow-covered landscape. The gondola’s proximity to attractions like the frozen Alpather Lake and St. Mary’s Church adds to its appeal, making it one of the best places to visit in January in India.
10. Dubare Elephant Camp, Coorg
Dubare Elephant Camp in Coorg offers a unique wildlife interaction with many trained elephants. The camp’s location on the banks of the Kaveri River provides a picturesque setting. January stands out as one of the best months to visit, particularly during the October-to-March travel season. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities and unique experiences like elephant interactions.
Here, you can observe and interact with elephants in their natural habitat. You can participate in activities such as bathing, feeding, and even riding these majestic creatures under expert guidance. The camp also serves as a conservation and educational center, raising awareness about elephant welfare and wildlife preservation.
Beyond elephant interactions, the camp offers adventure activities like river rafting, boating, and nature walks. The surrounding area boasts lush forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic beauty, where nature enthusiasts and families can have a memorable wildlife experience.
11. Jagannath Temple, Puri
Jagannath Temple in Puri is a must-visit destination in January. The pleasant winter weather, around 26°C, makes it ideal for exploring the temple and its surroundings. Makar Sankranti is celebrated on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. This festival fills the temple with colorful decorations, traditional music, and devotion, making it an even more vibrant time to visit.
The temple’s stunning architecture, showcasing intricate Kalinga-style craftsmanship, is awe-inspiring. You can witness daily rituals, including preparing and distributing Mahaprasad, the sacred food offering. The annual Uttarayana Yatra procession further enriches the spiritual atmosphere.
Starting January 1, 2025, the newly introduced Dhadi Darshan system will make visiting smoother. This new queue system will organize the flow of devotees to reduce congestion and create a better experience.
12. Mall Road, Shimla
Mall Road in Shimla is one of the best places to go in January in India, with the main street filled with restaurants, clubs, banks, shops, post offices, and tourist offices. The stores on Mall Road are famous for their woolen clothes and exclusively handcrafted works. Also, don’t forget to shop for exquisite wooden articles and antiques at wooden furniture shops.
People-watching is a great activity in January, as Mall Road comes alive with locals and tourists. You can also enjoy delicious local cuisine at various cafes and restaurants, like Diamond Bakery Sweets & Restaurants and Indian Coffee House, to warm up with hot drinks, pizza, and cakes while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Nearby attractions, such as Christ Church, a prominent landmark with stunning neo-Gothic architecture, Scandal Point, a historical meeting spot, and the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, a hub for local arts and performances, make it not only a shopping and leisure destination but also a cultural and historical one. There are no vehicles, so you can fully enjoy the charm of this hill station.
13. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Agra is one of the best places to visit in India in January for couples. The Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love, is most breathtaking during this time, with misty mornings providing an ethereal backdrop for unforgettable photographs. Romantic experiences abound, from watching the sunset at Mehtab Bagh with views of the Taj Mahal to taking a boat ride on the Yamuna River. Like Anguri Bagh, the Mughal gardens offer serene spaces for couples to stroll hand-in-hand.
Additionally, the winter season brings vibrant markets and bazaars to life, perfect for couples to explore and immerse themselves in the local culture. Some of the best shopping places in Agra include Kinari Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, Subhash Bazaar, Raja Ki Mandi, Shah Market, Shilpgram, Marble Cottage, and TDI Mall.
14. Auli Ski Resort, Auli
Known as the “Skiing Capital of India,” Auli transforms into a snow-covered wonderland in January, with temperatures ranging from -8°C to 10°C. The resort boasts well-maintained ski slopes for beginners and experienced skiers.
In January, the resort offers breathtaking panoramic views of prominent Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamet. This month is also the peak skiing season, with slopes covered in a thick 3-meter carpet of snow. January to March are particularly attractive, with skiing festivals and National Championships of Snow Skiing enhancing the experience for visitors. Additionally, Auli’s 4 km ropeway, one of the longest in Asia, provides stunning aerial views of the snow-covered terrain.
15. Kalhatti Falls, Ooty
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Kalhatti Falls in Ooty is one of the best places to visit in January in South India. Its location within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve allows you to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants and deer. The post-monsoon period enhances the area’s natural beauty, with a steady water flow and verdant surroundings. The falls also serve as a gateway to nearby attractions, such as Emerald Lake and Doddabetta Peak.
Emerald Lake, nestled in the Silent Valley, is a serene spot for picnics, photography, and strolls. Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris, offers panoramic views of the valleys below. With clear skies in January, it’s an excellent time for sightseeing and photography. You can also explore the Telescope House at the summit for a closer view of the surrounding hills and forests.
16. Hadimba Temple, Manali
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Hadimba Temple in Manali is a captivating destination to visit in January. Its pagoda-style architecture adorned with intricate wooden carvings is set against snow-covered cedar forests.
The serene surroundings and clear winter skies provide breathtaking views of the Himalayas, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Despite the chilly temperatures, which range from -2°C to 10°C, the peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds offer a more intimate experience. The temple is rich in mythology and dedicated to Hidimba Devi from the Mahabharata. You can also participate in the traditional rituals and prayers at the temple.
17. Sela Pass, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
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At 13,700 feet, Sela Pass in Tawang transforms into a snow-covered paradise, providing panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. The pass is renowned for its serene beauty, with the picturesque Sela Lake often frozen. January’s heavy snowfall blankets the landscape, turning it into a photographer’s dream.
The area holds spiritual significance, with 101 sacred lakes for Buddhists nearby. You can enjoy snow activities like skiing and snowboarding and experience the tranquil atmosphere of the less crowded winter season. The journey to Sela Pass itself is an adventure, offering stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls.
18. Abbey Falls, Coorg
Abbey Falls in Coorg perfectly blends natural beauty and pleasant weather. It cascades from a height of 70 feet and is surrounded by lush coffee and spice plantations. In January, the post-monsoon period ensures abundant water flow, making the falls a spectacular sight. The cool temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, provide comfortable conditions for trekking.
Nearby trails lead through thick forests and plantations, offering glimpses of local wildlife. These short treks suit all fitness levels, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The hanging bridge offers breathtaking views of the falls, allowing you to appreciate their grandeur fully.
19. Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital
Jim Corbett National Park in Nainital offers a perfect blend of wildlife, natural beauty, and pleasant weather. In January, there are higher chances of sighting the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger and other wildlife, such as elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
The park’s diverse ecosystem, including dense forests, grasslands, and rivers, comes alive during this season. You can also enjoy thrilling jeep safaris, elephant rides, and birdwatching opportunities, with over 600 species of birds present in the park.
The pleasant daytime temperatures and clear skies make it perfect for nature walks, photography, and outdoor adventures. Additionally, January falls within the peak tourist season, so all safari zones and activities mentioned above are available.
20. Tiger Hill, Darjeeling
Tiger Hill in Darjeeling is one of the best places to visit in India during January. The hill’s main attraction is its panoramic sunrise view, where visitors can witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Mount Kanchenjunga, and Mount Everest. The clear skies and excellent visibility make it an ideal time to enjoy this awe-inspiring spectacle.
The chilly winter weather adds to the magical atmosphere, with the possibility of snowfall enhancing the region’s scenic beauty. January is also considered off-peak season, offering fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience for visitors.
Additionally, the local Makar Sankranti festival on January 14 is annually celebrated with colorful kites, traditional dances, and feasts, creating a festive and lively atmosphere in Darjeeling. It’s a great opportunity to experience the region’s cultural heritage and engage with the local community.
Takeaway
India has many different places to visit in January, with something for everyone. From the snowy Himalayas to peaceful lakes, hill stations, and green forests, the country becomes a winter paradise with special experiences. Whether you want to relax, explore, or have an adventure, India’s destinations in January offer memories for all kinds of travelers.
Now that you’re dreaming of your next getaway, why not make it a reality without breaking the bank? OneAir is your go-to platform for budget-friendly flights or comfortable hotels. Sign up for OneAir to compare prices easily, book hassle-free, and prepare for your next adventure.
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