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With winter in full swing, January is a great time to explore North India’s diverse landscapes, cultural festivals and outdoor activities. Places to visit in January in North India offer a trip filled with history, adventure and moments worth remembering. The cool weather enhances the sightseeing experience, making it more enjoyable. Skiing in Auli, walking through Jaipur’s historic forts, and seeing the vast white stretch of the Rann of Kutch are just a few highlights of the season.
10 Best Places To Visit In January In North India
Here is the handpicked list of places to visit in January in North India, offering diverse experiences ranging from snow-covered landscapes to cultural festivals:
1. Auli, Uttarakhand
Photo: Aniket Mandish / Unsplash
Auli is a great destination for those who enjoy adventure, especially skiing. Covered in snow during January, its slopes attract both beginners and experienced skiers. The town is surrounded by towering peaks like Nanda Devi, adding to the experience. Visitors can take a cable car ride for wide-ranging views or trek to nearby spots like Gorson Bugyal. The fresh snowfall, open landscapes, and well-maintained ski routes make Auli an exciting place to visit during the winter months.
Must Have Experiences: Riding the Auli Ropeway
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (286 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Railway Station (273 km)
2. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Photo: Ravi Shekhar / Unsplash
Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” is filled with history, culture, and lively markets. The city’s royal palaces, grand forts, and traditional bazaars offer plenty to explore. January is a great time to visit, with the Jaipur Literature Festival drawing writers and book lovers from around the world. Visitors can browse local handicrafts, experience traditional music and dance here. They can also enjoy flavourful Rajasthani dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Must Have Experiences: Exploring Amer Fort
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jaipur Junction Railway Stationy
3. Kutch, Gujarat
Photo: Hari Nandakumar / Unsplash
Kutch is one of the best places to visit in January in North India. The white salt desert of Kutch becomes a lively cultural hub during the Rann Utsav, held from November to February. This festival highlights traditional dance, music, and handcrafted goods, all set against the backdrop of the full moon. Visitors can explore nearby villages, ride camels across the vast salt flats, and visit Kalo Dungar (Black Hill) for wide-ranging views of the landscape.
Must Have Experiences: Exploring the White Rann
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuj Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Bhuj Railway Station
4. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Tushar Sharma / Unsplash
Shimla’s colonial architecture, snow-covered streets, and winter activities make it a popular place to visit in January in North India. The Ridge and Mall Road are great for long walks, with local shops and charming cafés lining the way. A short drive leads to Kufri, where visitors can try snow sports and enjoy the open landscapes. The Kalka-Shimla toy train, a UNESCO-listed experience, offers wide-ranging views of the mountains. With fresh snowfall covering the town, Shimla in winter is ideal for those looking to enjoy the season’s quiet beauty.
Must Have Experiences: Walking on the Mall Road and enjoying a toy train ride
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport (115 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (96 km)
5. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Photo: Anubhav Rana / Unsplash
Set around the calm waters of Naini Lake, Nainital is a well-known hill station with colonial-era buildings and winding roads. A visit to Snow Viewpoint offers wide views of the Himalayas. Mall Road is lined with shops selling local crafts and winter snacks. The quiet atmosphere and fresh mountain air make Nainital one of the most famous places to visit in January in north India.
Must Have Experiences: Boating on Naini Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (65 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (34 km)
6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Photo: NARINDER PAL / Unsplash
Rishikesh, often called the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is one of the most peaceful places to visit in January in North India. The cooler weather is ideal for practicing yoga and meditating by the Ganges. Moreover, you can also indulge in adventure activities like river rafting and trekking. Visitors can explore spiritual sites such as Parmarth Niketan and Triveni Ghat. This makes it a perfect retreat for both adventure seekers and peace lovers.
Must Have Experiences: Try river rafting in the Ganges and meditate at an ashram
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (35 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
7. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Photo: Aman Krishna / Unsplash
Gulmarg, a paradise for winter sports lovers, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in January in North India. The town turns into a snow-covered wonderland, attracting skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. January is the peak time for snowfall, making it a dream destination for winter lovers.
Must Have Experiences: Enjoy skiing and ride the Gulmarg Gondola for panoramic Himalayan views.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (56 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (290 km)
8. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Photo: AussieActive / Unsplash
Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, is among the top places to visit in January in North India. The cool weather enhances the experience of exploring the Mughal marvels like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri without the exhaustion of summer heat. The Taj Mahal, enveloped in morning mist, looks even more enchanting during this time of the year. This makes it a perfect destination for history lovers and photographers.
Must Have Experiences: Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal and explore Agra Fort
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Agra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Agra Cantt Railway Station
9. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Priyesh Vishwakarma / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dharamshala, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is a serene and spiritual destination to visit in January. Home to the Dalai Lama, this town is a hub for Tibetan culture and offers breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains. Visitors can explore McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Namgyal Monastery while enjoying the crisp mountain air. January snowfall enhances the charm, making it one of the best winter getaways in North India.
Must Have Experiences: Visit Namgyal Monastery and take a winter trek to Triund
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (15 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station (90 km)
10. Amritsar, Punjab
Photo: NARINDER PAL / Unsplash
Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple, is a must-visit destination in January. The city’s spiritual significance, along with its rich Punjabi heritage, makes it an unforgettable experience. The weather is pleasant for visiting sites like Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah Border. The warm hospitality and delicious Punjabi cuisine, including Amritsari kulcha and lassi, make the trip even more delightful. The cheerful atmosphere of this city is loved by tourists altogether.
Must Have Experiences: Visit the Golden Temple and witness the Wagah Border ceremony
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Amritsar Junction Railway Station
Places to visit in January in North India offer a mix of snow-covered landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. The crisp winter air makes sightseeing more enjoyable, whether gliding down Auli’s slopes, walking through Jaipur’s historical palaces, or unwinding by Nainital’s lake. Plan your ideal winter getaway with TripXL and discover the best destinations in January, making the most of the season’s charm and experiences.
Cover Photo: Satyam Bhardwaj / Unsplash
