The Best Things to Do in India in January

Discover India in January: Best Things to Do in India in January

January in India is a kaleidoscope of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and many experiences waiting to be discovered. As the winter chill mildly blankets the diverse terrain, from the snowy Himalayas to the balmy coasts of the South, the entire country buzzes with a unique blend of festivities, adventure, and serenity. Being a festive and climatically pleasant period, this month is an ideal time for travelers to explore the rich tapestry of Indian traditions, natural beauty, and culinary delights.

The onset of the New Year in India is marked by resolutions and celebrations and various cultural and religious festivals reflecting the country’s diverse heritage. Each region offers something unique during this time, whether the harvest festivals in the South, like Pongal, or the colorful kite-flying ceremonies in the West. The cooler weather also opens up many options for nature and adventure enthusiasts. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities, from the snow-covered slopes in the north offering skiing and snowboarding adventures to the serene beaches in the south ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

In this article, “The Best Things to Do in India in January,” we will dive deep into the heart of India’s January offerings. We’ll explore the country’s vibrant festivals, scenic destinations, thrilling adventure activities, and delectable culinary experiences, ensuring that your January visit to India is unforgettable.

Table of Contents

Festivals and Cultural Events in India in January

January in India starts a new year and a time of jubilant celebrations and cultural vitality. The country’s diversity is beautifully mirrored in the various festivals and events that take place during this month.

1. Lohri – The Winter Bonfire Festival of Punjab

Celebrated predominantly in the northern state of Punjab, Lohri is a festival that marks the end of winter and welcomes the sun’s journey to the northern hemisphere. The festival is characterized by the lighting of huge bonfires, around which people gather to sing, dance, and enjoy the warmth. It’s a social event that brings families and communities together, celebrating the harvest of winter crops. Traditional foods like gajak, sarson da saag (mustard greens curry), and makki di roti (cornbread) are savored, and there’s a particular focus on sweets made from jaggery and sesame seeds.

Trip Plan: Combine a visit to Lohri with a tour of Amritsar to see the Golden Temple and explore the lively city of Chandigarh over a 3-4 day trip.
Trip Budget: Estimated at $200-$300, covering accommodation, local travel, and meals. Additional costs may include shopping and festival-related expenses.
Festival Date: Held annually on January 13th, with spectacular evening celebrations.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Participate in traditional dances like Bhangra and Gidda, enjoy folk songs around the bonfire, and taste regional favorites such as Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag.
Nearest Airports: Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) and Amritsar’s International Airport.
Transports to Use: Local buses, taxis, and car rentals are recommended to navigate Punjab easily.
Tourist Attractions: Visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the historic Jallianwala Bagh, and the Rock Garden in Chandigarh.
Best Foods to Eat: Try local dishes like Butter Chicken, Amritsari Kulcha, Chole Bhature, and the sweet Gajak.
Best Places to Stay: Accommodation options range from budget (e.g., Hotel Cabbana) to luxury (e.g., Taj Chandigarh).
Travel Tips: Wear warm clothing for the cold evenings and respect local traditions during the festival.

2. Pongal – The Harvest Festival of Tamil Nadu

Down south, Pongal is a four-day harvest festival in Tamil Nadu, celebrated with equal enthusiasm. It falls in mid-January, which is a time to give thanks to nature for bountiful crops. Each day of Pongal has its own significance, with the first day dedicated to burning old belongings and welcoming new possessions. Homes are decorated with banana and mango leaves, and colorful patterns called kolams are drawn on the ground. The highlight is the boiling over of milk in a clay pot, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.

Trip Plan: A visit during Pongal can be paired with exploring Chennai’s cultural landmarks and the coastal town of Mahabalipuram. Allocate 4-5 days for a comprehensive experience.
Trip Budget: Approximately $250-$350, including accommodations, local travel, and festival participation. Additional expenses may involve cultural tours and souvenirs.
Festival Date: Pongal usually occurs from January 14th to 17th, with unique daily traditions and activities.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Witness the ritual of boiling milk in clay pots, taste traditional Pongal dishes, and enjoy folk performances. Don’t miss the Jallikattu (bull-taming) events in certain regions.
Nearest Airports: Chennai International Airport is the closest major airport.
Transports to Use: Taxis, local buses, and auto-rickshaws are convenient for getting around Tamil Nadu.
Tourist Attractions: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mahabalipuram, the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and Marina Beach in Chennai.
Best Foods to Eat: Savory and sweet versions of Pongal (rice dish), dosas, and fish curry are must-tries.
Best Places to Stay: From budget-friendly hotels like Hotel Pandian in Chennai to luxury resorts in Mahabalipuram.
Travel Tips: Dress conservatively while visiting temples and be prepared for crowded public places during festival times.

3. International Kite Festival – The Sky Spectacle of Gujarat

The skies over Gujarat become a canvas of color as the International Kite Festival takes off in mid-January. The festival, known locally as Uttarayan, is a visual spectacle, with kites of all shapes and sizes flown from rooftops and open fields. It’s a competitive yet joyous affair where kite flyers worldwide participate.

Trip Plan: Extend your visit to explore the historic city of Ahmedabad and the white desert of Kutch. A 5-6 day itinerary is recommended.
Trip Budget: Expect to spend around $300-$400, covering festival participation, accommodations, and local tours.
Festival Date: The kite festival usually takes place from January 14th to 15th, with the main events in Ahmedabad.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Participate in kite flying, watch expert kite battles, and explore the Kite Museum. The festival’s energy is contagious and offers a unique cultural experience.
Nearest Airports: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad.
Transports to Use: Auto-rickshaws, local buses, and taxis are the most convenient options for travel within Gujarat.
Tourist Attractions: Visit the Sabarmati Ashram and the ancient stepwells, and take a trip to the Rann of Kutch.
Best Foods to Eat: Gujarat is famous for its vegetarian cuisine, so try Dhokla, Thepla, and Khandvi. Jalebi and Fafda are popular snacks during the festival.
Best Places to Stay: Accommodations range from budget hotels to luxurious stays like the House of MG in Ahmedabad.
Travel Tips: Be mindful of the crowds and ensure safety while participating in kite flying. Exploring local markets for unique kites is a must.

4. Bikaner Camel Festival – A Unique Celebration in Rajasthan

In the desert state of Rajasthan, the Bikaner Camel Festival, usually held in January, is a unique celebration dedicated to the ‘ship of the desert,’ the camel. This festival includes camel races, camel dances, and even a camel beauty pageant.

Trip Plan: Combine the festival with a visit to Jaipur’s historic forts and Udaipur’s scenic lakes. A 6-7 day itinerary would be ideal.
Trip Budget: Around $350-$450, considering festival activities, accommodations, and sightseeing tours in Rajasthan.
Festival Date: The festival usually occurs in the second week of January. The camel parade on the first day is a highlight.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Enjoy camel rides, watch folk performances, and explore the Junagarh Fort. The camel beauty contest is a unique attraction.
Nearest Airports: Jodhpur Airport is the closest, with Bikaner accessible from Jaipur International Airport.
Transports to Use: Local trains, buses, and taxis are the best ways to travel around Rajasthan.
Tourist Attractions: Explore Jaipur’s palaces, Udaipur’s lakes, and Jaisalmer’s desert city.
Best Foods to Eat: Don’t miss Rajasthani dishes like Dal Bati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Bikaneri Bhujia.
Best Places to Stay: Options range from heritage hotels like Laxmi Niwas Palace to budget accommodations.
Travel Tips: Carry warm clothes for cold desert nights and be prepared for a rustic desert experience.

5. Mamallapuram Indian Dance Festival – A Cultural Retreat in Tamil Nadu

Held in the ancient town of Mamallapuram in Tamil Nadu, this month-long festival is a tribute to India’s classical dance forms. Set against the backdrop of Pallava rock sculptures, it’s a mesmerizing experience to witness the best of Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, and other dance styles.

Trip Plan: Include visits to Chennai’s cultural spots and the seaside town of Puducherry. A 5-day trip is recommended for a relaxed experience.
Trip Budget: Approximately $300-$400, covering festival attendance, accommodations, and additional sightseeing.
Festival Date: The dance festival is held from late December to late January. Evening performances offer a magical experience.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Watch mesmerizing dance performances, explore the Shore Temple and Arjuna’s Penance, and enjoy beach activities.
Nearest Airports: Chennai International Airport is the closest major airport.
Transports to Use: Local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental vehicles are advisable for convenient travel in Tamil Nadu.
Tourist Attractions: Visit the French colonial town of Puducherry, Mahabalipuram’s heritage sites, and Chennai’s cultural landmarks.
Best Foods to Eat: Local specialties include seafood dishes, Pongal (rice dish), and filter coffee.
Best Places to Stay: Stay in beach resorts in Mahabalipuram or heritage hotels in Puducherry and Chennai.
Travel Tips: Carry comfortable clothing for warm weather and respect local customs at cultural sites.

6. Poush Parbon – The Winter Harvest Festival of West Bengal

Poush Parbon, celebrated in mid-January, coincides with the harvest season in West Bengal. It’s famed for traditional sweets from freshly harvested paddy and date palm syrup.

Trip Plan: Combine the festival with a visit to Kolkata’s historical landmarks and the Sundarbans. A 4-5 day trip will allow you to immerse yourself in the region’s culture and natural beauty.
Trip Budget: Around $250-$350, factoring in festival participation, accommodations, and sightseeing.
Festival Date: Celebrated in mid-January, with specific dates varying slightly each year.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Enjoy preparing and tasting various Bengali sweets like Patishapta and Pitha, and participate in traditional folk music and dance.
Nearest Airports: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
Transports to Use: Taxis, local buses, and the metro are convenient for travel within West Bengal.
Tourist Attractions: Visit the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge, and take a trip to the Sundarbans National Park.
Best Foods to Eat: Must-try delicacies include Bengali fish curry, Rasgulla, and Mishti Doi.
Best Places to Stay: Choose from budget options in the city or riverside resorts near the Sundarbans.
Travel Tips: Dress in layers, as it can be cool in January, and respect local customs and traditions during the festival.

Scenic Destinations in India to Visit in January

1. The Snow-Clad Himalayas – A Winter Wonderland

The Himalayan range in January is a breathtaking winter wonderland, offering snow-capped peaks, serene landscapes, and a peaceful retreat.

Trip Plan: Plan a trip to destinations like Shimla, Manali, or Auli for skiing and snowboarding. A 5-7 day itinerary is ideal for thoroughly enjoying Himalayan beauty.
Trip Budget: Budget around $400-$500 for accommodations, winter sports, and local sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-January to early February for the best snow conditions.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Skiing in Auli, snowboarding in Manali, and enjoying the winter scenery in Shimla. Don’t miss the hot springs in Manikaran.
Nearest Airports: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun for Auli, Kullu Manali Airport for Manali, and Shimla Airport.
Transports to Use: Buses and taxis are the best options for mountain travel. Renting a car is also a good choice for flexibility.
Tourist Attractions: Visit the Mall Road in Shimla, Hadimba Temple in Manali, and the Valley of Flowers near Auli.
Best Foods to Eat: Try local Himalayan dishes like Thukpa, Momos, and Chha Gosht.
Best Places to Stay: Choose from hill resorts, boutique hotels, or homestays for an authentic experience.
Travel Tips: Carry heavy woolens for the cold weather and be mindful of high-altitude precautions.

2. Goa’s Serene Beaches – A Tropical Paradise

Goa in January is perfect with its balmy weather, less crowded beaches, and vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal tropical getaway.

Trip Plan: A 3-4 day trip is sufficient to relax on the beaches, explore Portuguese heritage, and enjoy water sports.
Trip Budget: Around $300-$400, including beachside accommodations, dining, and local travel.
Best Time to Visit: Avoid the New Year rush in early January while enjoying the pleasant weather.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Sunbathing on Calangute Beach, water sports in Baga, and exploring historic churches in Old Goa.
Nearest Airports: Dabolim Airport in Goa.
Transports to Use: Renting scooters or bikes is the most fun way to explore Goa. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available.
Tourist Attractions: Don’t miss the Aguada Fort, the bustling Anjuna Flea Market, and the serene Dudhsagar Falls.
Best Foods to Eat: Seafood and Goan specialties like Bebinca and Xacuti are a must-try.
Best Places to Stay: Options range from beach huts to luxury resorts along the coastline.
Travel Tips: Carry light cotton clothing and sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Respect local culture and environment.

Adventure Activities in India in January

1. Skiing in Gulmarg – A Snow Lover’s Dream

Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir transforms into a ski paradise in January, with its powdery snow and breathtaking landscapes.

Trip Plan: Include a visit to Srinagar for its beautiful gardens and Dal Lake. A 5-day trip is recommended for skiing and sightseeing.
Trip Budget: Budget approximately $450-$550, including ski equipment rental, lift passes, and accommodations.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-January to February for the best snow conditions.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Skiing, snowboarding, and gondola rides for stunning Himalayan views. A must-try is the Apharwat Peak for experienced skiers.
Nearest Airports: Srinagar Airport.
Transports to Use: Private taxis or rental cars are the best options to reach Gulmarg from Srinagar.
Tourist Attractions: Explore the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar and take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake.
Best Foods to Eat: local delicacies include Kashmiri Wazwan, Rogan Josh, and Kahwa tea.
Best Places to Stay: From luxury resorts like The Khyber Himalayan Resort to budget-friendly hotels in Srinagar.
Travel Tips: Carry heavy woolens and ensure proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

2. Wildlife Safaris in National Parks – A Tryst with Nature

India’s national parks, like Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, and Kaziranga, offer thrilling wildlife safaris in January, with better chances of spotting tigers and other wildlife.

Trip Plan: A 3-4 day safari trip can be combined with visits to nearby cultural sites.
Trip Budget: Around $300-$400, including safari bookings, accommodations, and local transportation.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout January, when the weather is cool and animals are more active.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Jungle safaris to spot tigers, elephants, and birds. Visit the Ranthambore Fort and enjoy nature walks.
Nearest Airports: Jaipur Airport for Ranthambore, Jabalpur Airport for Bandhavgarh, and Guwahati Airport for Kaziranga.
Transports to Use: Booked safari vehicles are the mode of transport within the parks. Taxis and trains are recommended for intercity travel.
Tourist Attractions: Explore the nearby towns of Sawai Madhopur, Umaria, and Tezpur for local culture and heritage.
Best Foods to Eat: Local cuisines vary; try Rajasthani dishes in Ranthambore, Madhya Pradesh delicacies in Bandhavgarh, and Assamese food in Kaziranga.
Best Places to Stay: Jungle lodges, eco-friendly resorts, and forest camps are available near the parks.
Travel Tips: Book safaris in advance, carry binoculars for bird watching, and respect wildlife guidelines.

Culinary Experiences in India in January

Winter in India brings a plethora of regional cuisines and seasonal delicacies, offering a rich gastronomic experience. Each region of India has unique culinary traditions, with January being an ideal time to explore these diverse flavors.

Trip Plan: Include culinary tours in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. A 5-7 day itinerary provides a comprehensive taste of India’s diverse cuisines.
Trip Budget: Around $250-$350, including meals at various eateries, street food tours, and fine dining experiences.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout January, to enjoy winter specialties.
Best Things to Do in India in January: Attend food festivals, participate in cooking classes, and explore local markets for street food.
Nearest Airports: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
Transports to Use: Metro services, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are convenient for city travel.
Tourist Attractions: Explore each city’s historical sites, cultural landmarks, and local bazaars.
Best Foods to Eat: Try Delhi’s Chole Bhature, Mumbai’s Vada Pav, and Kolkata’s Fish Curry and Rice. Don’t miss seasonal sweets like Gajar Ka Halwa and Makki Ki Roti with Sarson Ka Saag.
Best Places to Stay: Options range from boutique hotels to luxury accommodations in these cities.
Travel Tips: Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach, and always drink bottled or purified water.

Conclusion: Discover the Best of India in January

As we wrap up our exploration of the best things to do in India in January, it’s clear that this month offers an unparalleled blend of experiences. In its January splendor, India is a treasure trove of cultural richness, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights. Whether it’s being a part of the lively Lohri celebrations in Punjab, basking in the serene beaches of Goa, or experiencing the adrenaline rush of skiing in Gulmarg, each activity brings a unique flavor to your travel diary.

January is the perfect time to witness India in its most festive mood. The array of festivals, each a vivid display of traditions and joy, invites travelers to immerse themselves in the cultural heartbeat of this diverse country. The cool weather also sets the stage for adventurous pursuits outdoors, from wildlife safaris in lush national parks to tranquil boat rides on Kerala’s backwaters.

And let’s not forget the culinary journey! January is when the local cuisine becomes a heartwarming mix of seasonal specialties, offering a taste of India’s regional diversity. Every meal, every street food stall, is a chance to connect with the local way of life.

As you plan your visit, remember that the best things to do in India in January are not just about the places you visit; they’re about the stories you collect, the people you meet, and the memories you create. India in January is not just a trip – it’s an experience that stays with you long after you return home.