January is one of the most ideal times for travelers in India. The sunshine during the winter months brings warm weather across the entire country, while colorful cultural festivals paint cities in all their glory.
International travelers can experience everything that India has to offer in an authentic way in January while avoiding both the summer heat and the rainy season (monsoons).
This blog will highlight some of the best places to visit in India in January, from beaches along the tropical coast to deserts in western India. Let’s explore these beautiful places!
1. Rajasthan
Jaipur – The Pink City
Jaipur is one of the best places in India to visit in January for international tourists who want to experience India’s rich royal history.
Key Attractions:
- Amber Fort, which has mirror-studded rooms
- Hawa Mahal, with its incredible honeycomb design
- City Palace, a very large complex that showcases many different styles of Rajput architecture
- Jantar Mantar, where you can see many ancient astronomical instruments
Jaisalmer – The Golden City
Jaisalmer is one of the best places to visit during January in India, and the city exemplifies this perfectly. Jaisalmer features stunning golden sandstone architecture that appears especially spectacular in the January sunlight.
Key Attractions:
- The Desert Festival, which takes place in mid-January (camel racing, folk music, and dances)
- Desert camel rides are available at night (after dinner), when temperatures are cooler. It gives a great opportunity to photograph the stars and the desert
- Sunset photography at Sam Sand Dunes
Be prepared to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop to around 7°C at night. Tour operators also offer custom bus tours from Jaipur to Jaisalmer. It allows travelers to see the countryside of Rajasthan in comfort.
Udaipur – The City of Lakes
Udaipur’s romantic lakeside setting makes it one of the best places to visit in India during January. It is perfect for relaxed boat rides and palace explorations.
Key Attractions:
- Sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola
- Museum and architecture at the City Palace
- Gardens (Saheliyon Ki Bari)
- Evening cultural show at Bagore Ki Haveli
International travelers appreciate the cafes surrounding Lake Pichola, which feel like a comfortable extension of home.
2. Kerala
Kerala is home to beautiful backwaters, beaches, and hill stations, which is why it continues to be one of the best places to visit in India in January. During this time of year, you can enjoy mild temperatures (22°C to 32°C), and very little rain falls. Two must visit places in Kerala:
Alleppey (Alappuzha) – The Venice of the East
Alleppey is known for its serene backwaters, which make it one of the best places to visit in India during January. The traditional Kerala kettuvallams (houseboats) provide a unique way to learn about rural life in Kerala.
Backwater Experience:
- Staying overnight on a houseboat with fresh Kerala food
- Visiting villages along the canals
- Watching birds in the wetlands
- Learning how to tap toddy (palm wine) through a demonstration
This experience allows international visitors a personal view of the agricultural aspects of life in Kerala.
Munnar – Hill Station Paradise
Munnar, located at 1,600 m above sea level, has beautiful green hillsides created by its tea plantations. January morning weather is ideal for hiking, as it can be chilly and misty (10°C to 25°C), making the trails easier to hike.
Places to see:
- A tour of the tea plantations that includes a tasting session
- Eravikulam National Park to see the Nilgiri Tahr (the mountain goat)
- Mattupetty Dam and the valleys around it
- Anamudi Peak, which is the highest peak in South India
More and more international cyclists are taking advantage of custom cycling tours that pass through Munnar’s tea plantations. These tours offer scenic roads and varying degrees of difficulty, creating enjoyable rides for all skill levels.
Book Now:- Exotic Kerala Tour
3. Goa
When thinking of a summer destination for a beach holiday, many people think of Goa. In reality, it is one of the best places to visit in January in India. The climate is perfect for visiting (21°C to 32°C), the sea is calm, and the party season has reached its peak.
North Goa vs. South Goa
North Goa is the preferred destination for international partygoers due to its lively nightlife. There is always a vibrant atmosphere on Anjuna, Baga, and Calangute beaches.
In South Goa, you will find peaceful beaches such as Palolem, Agonda, and Butterfly Beach, which offer a tranquil environment and beautiful natural scenery.
Cultural Experiences:
- UNESCO World Heritage–listed churches in Old Goa
- Visits to spice plantations
- Food with Portuguese influences
- Flea markets held every weekend
4. Varanasi
No trip to India in January would be complete without a visit to Varanasi. It is one of the best places to visit in January in India. It offers international tourists a once-in-a-lifetime and deeply intense spiritual travel experience.
Must-see places in Varanasi:
- Early-morning boat ride on the Ganges to see people praying
- Evening Ganga Aarti prayer ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Walking tour through small streets lined with temples
- Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon
It is also worth noting that many companies now offer customized women group tours to Varanasi. These tours are designed for international female travelers who want a safe travel experience in India, along with a female guide who is knowledgeable about the spiritual traditions of the city of Varanasi.
Book Now:- Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi
5. Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan
In terms of spotting tigers at Ranthambore, January is considered one of the best months for wildlife viewing. Because of this, it ranks among the best places to visit in India in January for travelers with a strong interest in wildlife. The dry winter weather makes animals come near water sources.
Safari Experience:
- Early-morning and late-afternoon jeep safaris into Ranthambore National Park
- Ranthambore Fort exists inside the national park boundary
- There are many other wild animals, such as leopards, sloth bears, and approximately 300 different species of birds
- Wildlife experts provide information on animal behavior
It is suggested that you wear warmer clothing for your early-morning safari, as temperatures can drop to around 5°C. It is also recommended to book your safari early, as January is a prime time to see wildlife at Ranthambore.
6. The Taj Mahal in Agra
No journey through India is complete without witnessing the Taj Mahal. January mornings often bring light fog that creates ethereal photographs of the Taj Mahal. Arrive before sunrise to capture this magical atmosphere and avoid crowds.
Other Must-Have Experiences in Agra:
- Agra Fort’s red sandstone palaces
- Mehtab Bagh for sunset views of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River
- Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal city 40km from Agra
Many international travelers choose Custom Tours India to combine Agra with Delhi and Jaipur as part of the famous “Golden Triangle” circuit. Our team arranges comfortable transportation and provides knowledgeable local guides throughout the journey.
Book Now:- A Day in Agra
7. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman Islands represent one of the best places to visit during January in India. This archipelago in the Bay of Bengal offers pristine waters, coral reefs, and fascinating history. You can experience the following:
Water Activities:
- Scuba diving and snorkeling at Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
- Glass-bottom boat rides over coral gardens
- Sea walking for non-divers
- Kayaking through mangrove creeks
Historical Sites:
- Cellular Jail, the notorious colonial-era prison
- Ross Island’s atmospheric ruins
- Light and sound show depicting India’s freedom struggle
8. Rishikesh and Haridwar
The Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand host two spiritual centers that feature prominently among the best places in India to visit in January. While January can be chilly (6°C to 20°C), the crisp mountain air and clear skies create perfect conditions for adventure and spiritual pursuits.
Activities for International Travelers:
- Yoga and meditation retreats (many with month-long courses starting in January)
- White-water rafting on the Ganges (January offers challenging rapids)
- Bungee jumping at India’s highest fixed platform
- Beatles Ashram exploring 1960s counterculture history
- Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat
Just 23 km from Rishikesh, Haridwar presents a more traditional Hindu pilgrimage experience. The evening Ganga Aarti here is one of India’s most spectacular religious ceremonies, with hundreds of lamps floating on the river.
END NOTE
The best places to visit in India in January aren’t just about weather and accessibility. They’re about experiencing a civilization’s worth of history, spirituality, cuisine, and human connection.
Let Custom Tours India help turn your Indian dreams into reality. With decades of experience crafting personalized journeys for international travelers, we don’t just plan trips; we create life-changing experiences. Our expert guides and thoughtful itineraries ensure you experience India’s soul.
Namaste, and happy travels!
