25 Best Places to Visit in January in India for a Family Holiday 2025

January brings the perfect weather, a long Pongal/Sankranti holiday, and an extended weekend, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation in India. From the snow-covered Himalayas to the sunny coastlines, the best places to go in January in India cater to every kind of traveller. Whether it’s beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, or adventure-filled hills, create lifelong memories with your family this January. Plan your getaway with Upar Hotels as we list the 25 best places to visit in January in India, divided into North and South regions, perfect for solo travellers and family trips alike.

Looking for a budget-friendly stay for your solo or family trip in January? Upar Hotels in Chennai, Bangalore, and Bangkok is your go-to option. Book today!

Suggested Read: 55 Game-Changing Travel Hacks to Make Your 2025 Vacation Perfect

25 Best Places to Visit in January in India for a Memorable Vacation

Best Places to Visit in January in North India

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Known for its snowy charm, Shimla is a top pick for places to visit in January in India, offering breathtaking views, ice skating, and cosy spots for relaxation. Perfect for a family getaway!

Top Attractions in Shimla

• The Ridge
• Jakhoo Temple
• Christ Church

How to Reach Shimla?

• By Road: 343 km from Delhi; buses and taxis available.
• By Train: Toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla (UNESCO World Heritage).
• By Air: Flights to Jubbarhatti Airport; taxis available to town.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Perfect for adventure lovers, Manali offers thrilling snow activities like skiing and snowboarding during January. As one of the top places to go in January in India, it's an ideal destination for a winter adventure.

Top Attractions in Manali

• Solang Valley
• Hadimba Temple
• Rohtang Pass

How to Reach Manali?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, around 50 km away from Manali.
• By Train: The nearest major railway station is Joginder Nagar, 167 km away.
• By Road: Manali is well-connected by buses and taxis from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Leh.

3. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Explore the picturesque Naini Lake and the surrounding hills, perfect for a peaceful family holiday. Nainital is one of the best travel destinations in January, offering a tranquil escape with scenic views and pleasant weather.

Top Attractions in Nainital

• Naini Lake
• Naina Devi Temple
• Snow View Point

How to Reach Nainital?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, 65 km away from Nainital.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 34 km from Nainital.
• By Road: Nainital is well-connected by road with major cities like Delhi, Almora, and Haldwani.

4. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh offers a peaceful retreat covered by the majestic Himalayas. Perfect for spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike, Rishikesh is one of the best places to visit in January for a combination of peace and adventure.

Top Attractions in Rishikesh

• Triveni Ghat
• Lakshman Jhula
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

How to Reach Rishikesh?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, located 20 km away from Rishikesh.
• By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station connects to major cities like Delhi and Haridwar.
• By Road: Rishikesh is easily accessible by buses and taxis from major cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Delhi.

5. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

A high-altitude desert paradise, Leh-Ladakh offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant monasteries, and adventure-filled experiences. As one of the most unique places to visit in January, it’s ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat or thrilling winter activities in the snow-capped mountains.

Top Attractions in Leh-Ladakh

• Pangong Lake
• Hemis Monastery
• Nubra Valley

How to Reach Leh-Ladakh?

• By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the nearest airport, with flights from Delhi, Jammu, and Srinagar.
• By Train: The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi, located about 700 km away.
• By Road: Leh is well-connected by road, especially during summer months, but the route remains closed in winter due to heavy snow. The best way to travel is by motorcycle or Jeep via Manali-Leh Highway or Srinagar-Leh Road.

6. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Renowned for the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is a city steeped in history and culture, presenting a perfect mix of architectural marvels and a rich Mughal legacy. As one of the best tourist places in India in January, Agra’s enjoyable winter weather makes it an excellent destination for a cultural getaway.

Top Attractions in Agra

• Taj Mahal
• Agra Fort
• Fatehpur Sikri

How to Reach Agra, Uttar Pradesh?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Agra Airport, with flights from major cities like Delhi and Jaipur.
• By Train: Agra is well-connected by rail, with several trains from Delhi, Jaipur, and other cities. The Agra Cantonment Railway Station is the primary station.
• By Road: Agra is easily accessible via road from Delhi, Jaipur, and Lucknow. It is connected by the Yamuna Expressway, making it a convenient drive from the capital.

7. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a vibrant mix of royal heritage, stunning palaces, and colourful bazaars. It’s one of the best places in India to visit in January, where you can explore the rich history, architecture, and culture against the backdrop of a pleasant winter climate.

Top Attractions in Jaipur

• Amber Fort
• City Palace
• Hawa Mahal

How to Reach Jaipur?

• By Air: Jaipur International Airport connects the city to major destinations within India and abroad.
• By Train: Jaipur Railway Station is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.
• By Road: Jaipur is easily accessible via road from Delhi, Agra, and other cities in Rajasthan, making it a popular stop on the Golden Triangle circuit.

8. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho, known for its beautiful temples and sculptures, offers a captivating blend of history, art, and culture, making it your must-visit tourist place in January in India.

Top Attractions in Khajuraho

• Khajuraho Group of Monuments
• Kandariya Mahadev Temple
• Lakshmana Temple

How to Reach Khajuraho?

• By Air: Khajuraho Airport has direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Mumbai.
• By Train: The Khajuraho Railway Station is well-connected to major cities, including Jhansi and Satna.
• By Road: Khajuraho is accessible via road from nearby cities like Jhansi, Satna, and Orchha, with well-maintained highways.

Best Places to Visit in January in South India

9. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, the "Scotland of India," offers lush coffee plantations, misty landscapes, and a serene aura, making it one of the top January tourist places in India for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions in Coorg

• Abbey Falls
• Dubare Elephant Camp
• Raja’s Seat

How to Reach Coorg?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 160 km away from Coorg.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Mysore, approximately 95 km away.
• By Road: Coorg is well-connected by road, with regular buses and taxis from major cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore.

Suggested Read: 8 Best Places to Stay in Bangalore for a Quick Break ( Hotels & Areas)

10. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Ooty, the "Queen of Hill Stations," offers a cool climate, lush gardens, and scenic landscapes, making it one of the perfect places to visit in south India in January with your family or serene retreats.

Top Attractions in Ooty

• Ooty Lake
• Botanical Gardens
• Doddabetta Peak

How to Reach Ooty?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, located about 90 km away from Ooty.
• By Train: Ooty Railway Station is connected by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The closest major railway station is Coimbatore or Mettupalayam.
• By Road: Ooty is accessible via well-maintained roads from Coimbatore, Mysore, and other southern cities.

11. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal, the "Princess of Hill Stations," offers cool weather, serene lakes, and lush valleys, making it one of the ideal places to go in January for nature lovers. The pleasant weather adds to its charm during the January season.

Top Attractions in Kodaikanal

• Kodaikanal Lake
• Coaker’s Walk
• Bryant Park

How to Reach Kodaikanal?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, about 120 km from Kodaikanal.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kodai Road, located around 80 km away.
• By Road: Kodaikanal is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from cities like Madurai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore.

12. Wayanad, Kerala

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a heaven for nature lovers, offering dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. As one of the top places in India to visit in January, the chilly climate and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect getaway for a serene vacation.

Top Attractions in Wayanad

• Edakkal Caves
• Pookode Lake
• Sultan Bathery

How to Reach Wayanad?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kozhikode International Airport, about 65 km from Wayanad.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode, approximately 65 km away.
• By Road: Wayanad is easily accessible by road, with well-connected buses and taxis from cities like Kozhikode, Bangalore, and Mysore.

13. Alleppey, Kerala

Alleppey, "Venice of the East," is celebrated for serene backwaters, houseboat cruises, and tranquil surroundings, making it your perfect travel in January with pleasant weather.

Top Attractions in Alleppey

• Alleppey Backwaters
• Alappuzha Beach
• Krishnapuram Palace

How to Reach Alleppey?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 75 km away from Alleppey.
• By Train: Alleppey Railway Station connects the town to major cities like Kochi and Trivandrum.
• By Road: Alleppey is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from major cities in Kerala, including Kochi and Kottayam.

14. Pondicherry

Pondicherry, with its French colonial charm, serene shores, and lively streets, offers a tranquil getaway, making it one of the best visiting places in India in January due to its cool, pleasant weather and picturesque beauty.

Top Attractions in Pondicherry

• Promenade Beach
• Auroville
• Sri Aurobindo Ashram

How to Reach Pondicherry?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Puducherry Airport, with limited domestic flights. Alternatively, Chennai International Airport is about 135 km away.
• By Train: Pondicherry Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in South India, including Chennai and Bangalore.
• By Road: Pondicherry is easily accessible by road, with buses, taxis, and private vehicles connecting it to cities like Chennai and Bangalore.

15. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram, known for its spiritual significance and scenic beaches, is one of the must-know January visiting places in India for spiritual seekers and nature aficionados, offering peaceful reflection and rich history.

Top Attractions in Rameswaram

• Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Pamban Bridge
• Dhanushkodi

How to Reach Rameswaram?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai International Airport, about 170 km away from Rameswaram.
• By Train: Rameswaram Railway Station is well-connected by trains from major cities like Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
• By Road: Rameswaram is easily accessible by road, with buses and taxis available from major cities like Madurai, Trichy, and Chennai.

16. Hampi, Karnataka

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is known for its ancient ruins, temples, and breathtaking landscapes. This historical town offers a perfect combination of culture and adventure, making it one of the best places to visit in South India in January, with its pleasing weather and serene atmosphere.

Top Attractions in Hampi, Karnataka

• Virupaksha Temple
• Vijaya Vittala Temple
• Hampi Bazaar

How to Reach Hampi?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Hubli Airport, about 160 km away from Hampi, with limited domestic flights.
• By Train: Hospet Railway Station is the closest station, approximately 13 km from Hampi, well-connected to major cities in Karnataka.
• By Road: Hampi is easily accessible by road, with buses, taxis, and private vehicles connecting it to cities like Bangalore, Hubli, and Goa.

17. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Known as the "Coffee Land of Karnataka," Chikmagalur is a serene hill station with foggy hills and coffee plantations, making it one of the best places to visit in India during January for nature lovers.

Top Attractions in Chikmagalur, Karnataka

• Mullayanagiri Peak
• Baba Budangiri
• Hebbe Falls

How to Reach Chikmagalur, Karnataka?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 150 km away.
• By Train: Kadur Railway Station, located 40 km away, is the closest railhead connecting to major cities.
• By Road: Chikmagalur is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore.

18. Varkala, Kerala

Varkala, with its stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, squeaky-clean beaches, spiritual ambience, and natural springs, is among the best places to visit in January in India with family, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences for a memorable coastal getaway.

Top Attractions in Varkala

• Varkala Beach
• Janardhana Swamy Temple
• Varkala Cliff

How to Reach Varkala, Kerala?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 40 km away.
• By Train: Varkala Railway Station connects the town to major cities like Trivandrum and Kochi.
• By Road: Varkala is well-connected by road, with regular buses and taxis from cities like Trivandrum and Kollam.

19. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

Situated at India’s southernmost tip, Kanyakumari offers stunning sunrise and sunset views over the intersection of three seas. With friendly weather, it’s one of the best places to travel in January for an unforgettable coastal escape, incorporating natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and calm beaches.

Top Attractions in Kanyakumari

• Vivekananda Rock Memorial
• Thiruvalluvar Statue
• Kanyakumari Beach

How to Reach Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 90 km away.
• By Train: Kanyakumari Railway Station connects the town to major cities in India.
• By Road: Kanyakumari is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from cities like Trivandrum and Madurai.

20. Thekkady, Kerala

Noted for lush greenery, wildlife, and spice plantations, Thekkady is a nature lover's heaven. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it’s among the best places to visit in India during January, offering relaxed weather, scenic geographies, and exhilarating adventures like wildlife safaris and trekking.

Top Attractions in Thekkady

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Periyar Lake
• Spice Plantations

How to Reach Thekkady, Kerala?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai International Airport, about 140 km away. Cochin International Airport is approximately 190 km away.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kottayam, around 114 km from Thekkady.
• By Road: Thekkady is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from nearby cities like Kochi and Madurai.

21. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its age-old rock-cut temples and coastal magnificence. As one of the best places to travel in January in India, its pleasant winter weather makes it perfect for exploring rich heritage and serene beaches.

Top Attractions in Mahabalipuram

• Shore Temple
• Arjuna’s Penance
• Pancha Rathas

How to Reach Mahabalipuram?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 60 km from Mahabalipuram.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, approximately 30 km away.
• By Road: Mahabalipuram is easily accessible by road from Chennai, with a well-maintained highway connecting the two cities.

22. Kochi, Kerala

Kochi, known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," is one of India's best places to visit in January. With its colonial appeal, rich cultural heritage, and scenic beauty, it offers pleasant weather perfect for exploring historical sites, backwaters, and bustling markets.

Top Attractions in Kochi

• Fort Kochi
• Mattancherry Palace
• Jewish Synagogue

How to Reach Kochi?

• By Air: Kochi International Airport is well-connected to major cities across India and internationally.
• By Train: Kochi has several railway stations, including Ernakulam Junction, which is well-connected to major cities.
• By Road: Kochi is accessible by road from cities like Trivandrum, Coimbatore, and Bangalore, with well-maintained highways and bus services.

23. Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu

Nestled at the base of the holy Annamalai Hills, Tiruvannamalai is a spiritual town known for its sacred importance and peaceful surroundings. As one of the best places in January, the chillier winter months are perfect for discovering its ancient temples and peaceful hills.

Top Attractions in Tiruvannamalai

• Annamalaiyar Temple
• Arunachaleswarar Temple
• Girivalam Path

How to Reach Tiruvannamalai?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 180 km away.
• By Train: The town is well-connected by rail, with the Tiruvannamalai Railway Station offering good connectivity to major cities.
• By Road: Tiruvannamalai is accessible by road, with bus services and taxis available from Chennai, Pondicherry, and Bangalore.

24. Vellore, Tamil Nadu

Vellore, a historical city on the Palar River, is known for its architectural magnificence, religious significance, and natural surroundings. As one of the top January places to visit in India, it offers a pleasant climate and rich history, making it perfect for history and nature aficionados.

Top Attractions in Vellore

• Vellore Fort
• Golden Temple (Sripuram)
• Muthurangam Park

How to Reach Vellore?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 130 km from Vellore.
• By Train: Vellore has its own railway station, Vellore Town Station, which is well connected to other major cities like Chennai and Bangalore.
• By Road: Vellore is easily accessible by road, with bus services and taxis available from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Pondicherry.

25. Visakhapatnam (Vizag)

Visakhapatnam, a coastal gem known for its pristine beaches, historical sites, and lush hills, is among the January best places to visit in India. The cool winter weather makes it perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant attractions, serene coastline, and rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions in Visakhapatnam (Vizag)

• RK Beach
• Kailasagiri Hill
• Submarine Museum

How to Reach Visakhapatnam (Vizag)?

• By Air: Visakhapatnam has its own international airport, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Delhi, and Kolkata.
• By Train: The city’s railway station is well-connected to various parts of India, including major cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata.
• By Road: Visakhapatnam is accessible by road from cities like Hyderabad and Chennai, with buses and taxis offering convenient travel options.

UPAR Hotels: Best Budget Hotels to Stay in India in January

For a hassle-free trip to India in January, picking the right budget hotel is crucial. Without it, you risk turning your dream holiday into an undesirable experience. 

Looking for budget-friendly comfort? Upar Hotels provides modern, spacious rooms at affordable rates across various parts of India, perfect for a relaxing stay. Upar Hotels provides guests with premium amenities such as free Wi-Fi, laundry, luggage storage, non-smoking rooms, a 24-hour front desk, a work desk, wake-up service, a flat-screen TV, wheelchair access, a mini bar, and a resto-bar. 

With locations throughout India, we provide hotels in Chennai’s Nungambakkam, Kodambakkam, Thoraipakkam, OMR, Uthandi, ECR, Ashok Nagar, Medavakkam, and T Nagar, as well as in Bangalore’s Indiranagar and Bagmane Tech Park-Indiranagar, delivering a personalised, home-like stay. 

Enjoy an exclusive 10% discount when you book your stay directly through Upar Hotels. Don’t miss out—book your room now!

Conclusion

We’ve shared the top picks for the best places to visit in January in India, and we hope you find this helpful. Start your year right by discovering the top travel destinations in January, made even better with the bonus of long weekends. For an affordable yet comfortable stay in Chennai or Bangalore, Upar Hotels provides exceptional value for your investment. Pack your bags and embark on an extraordinary journey through India in January—where each moment will leave you longing to return. Looking for more travel tips and hotel insights? Visit our blog section and get inspired!