The weather pattern in India varies dramatically from the North to South and from the East to West. So, the weather can really vary depending on which part of India of you are visiting. North India can be fairly cold in January with the temperatures in regions of Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan and central India to dip between 5 to 10 degrees Celsius at night. However, this is the best time to visit North Western India as you do not have to endure the scorching summer heat.

If you are ready to bear the winter chill & wish to see snow-covered mountains and valleys, head to Jammu & Kashmir and the Himalayan region in the North-Eastern India.

January is an ideal month to travel around South India as the weather usually is sunny & warm with minimal rain.

So, aren’t you excited to start the New Year with a wonderful vacation? Here is a list of 10 best places to visit in January to make your new year a memorable one:

1. Ahmedabad, Gujarat – Fly kites at the International Kite festival

Celebrate New Year in Gujarat with some folk culture and festivities. Head to Ahmedabad to celebrate the International Kite Festival to witness millions of colourful kites in all sizes & shapes covering the sky from dusk till dawn. Apart from localites, this event attracts ace kite flyers from national and international grade. In addition to kite flying, there’s aerial acrobats, kite painting competitions, and kite making workshops. Great fun for kids!

Details: www.gujarattourism.com, www.kiteclubindia.in

2. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir – Carpet of snow

For those of you who embrace winter’s icy winds and heavy snowfall, Gulmarg is the perfect getaway. Gulmarg is blessed with wonderful views of snow covered peaks, icy lakes and white meadows. It is rated as one of the best ski destinations in India. Other winter activities to do here are snowboarding, the famous Gondola cable ride and trekking. Also, do not miss the 15-day long snow carnival held in the ski resort of Gulmarg.

Details: www.jktourism.org, www.jktdc.co.in, www.skigulmarg.com

3. Auli, Himachal Pradesh – Skiing paradise

Situated amidst the Himalayan mountain peaks of Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat, this snow-covered mountainous region, attracts thousands of tourists for its pristine natural beauty and world class skiing & snow sports. Apart from adventure sports, the to-do list in Auli includes sight-seeing trip by ropeway, a trip to places like Gurso Bugyal and Lake Chattrakund.

Details: www.euttaranchal.com, www.aulisnowskiing.com

4. Jim Corbett National Park – Heaven of Majestic Tigers

Jim Corbett National Park, which is a part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve, a Project Tiger Reserve lies in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Spanning over a sprawling 520 square kilometers, its whole area comprises of hills, marshy depressions, riverine belts, grasslands and large lakes. Visitors can be part of wildlife safari and can enjoy the intriguing behaviour of the animals with bare eyes at proximity. You can indulge in a variety of activities here like nature watch, jeep safari, elephant safari, bird watching, wildlife viewing etc. Also, remember that the park remains open to public only from November to July.

Details: www.jimcorbettnational-park.com, www.corbettnationalpark.in, www.euttaranchal.com

5. Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh – Explore the land of Marble Rocks

Popularly known as “the land of marble rocks”, Bhedaghat is a small town located in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Marble Rocks and Duandhar Falls are the two major attractions here. Go for a boat ride on the crystal clear water of Narmada river along the tall gorges of Marble rocks on either side. Bollywood buffs will surely rejoice in this location as it has been featured in many popular Bollywood movies.

Details: www.madhyapradeshtourism.com, www.mptourism.com

6. Agatti, Lakshadweep – A romantic island escapade

If you’re dreaming of blue water, cool ocean breeze and long walks along the water, you’re probably craving a romantic beach vacation. Agatti Island is a 7.6 km long island, in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, about 459 km (285 mi) off Kochi in the mainland. Agatti Island is blessed with pristine water, lush greenery and exotic aquatic diversity. If you love water sports & exploring the marine life then Agatti is your paradise. You can indulge in different adventure activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, parasailing, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and water skiing here. Also, keep in mind that all tourists visiting Agatti need to obtain Entry Permit from Lakshadweep Administrator which is issued based on the visitor having a confirmed place to stay.

Details: www.lakshadweeptourism.com, www.lakshadweep.nic.in

7. Dandeli, Karnataka- Enjoy a thrilling White Water River Rafting

If you’re an adventurer looking for a pulse-pounding recreational activity then, then whitewater rafting in Dandeli, Karnataka is perfect for you! Dandeli is a modern town on the river is surrounded by deciduous forests and a renown wildlife habitat where rare animals and birds roam in deep valleys and hilly terrain. The resorts and nature camps here offer a wide range of adventure activities apart from river rafting like nature walks, boating, bird watching, tiger and crocodile spotting and angling, along with picnics, eco-tourism, and trips to nearby caves and temples.

Details: www.dandeli.com

8. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh- Quaint Colonial Town

Located at an elevation of 1,900 meters above sea level, Kasauli is a quaint town and a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh established by the British. The snow-covered mountains, woody forests of pine & cedar trees and beautiful alpine meadows makes it an ideal place to relax and unwind from the bustling city life. British influence can be seen here through the quiet cobbled streets, old churches and lavish Victorian mansions.

Details: www.hptdc.gov.in

9. Munnar, Kerala- Get ready for greenery overdose!

Munnar is a heavenly hill station in the Gods Own Country, Kerala, famous for its tea estates, exotic scenery, the abundance of flora and fauna and craggy peaks. The first sight that greets a visitor in Munnar is the vast expanse of endless tea gardens, flower gardens brimming with vibrant hues, grasslands, towering trees, winding lanes, pristine valleys and verdant mist-clad rolling hills. This petite town is famous for its tea, coffee, cardamom, and other exotic spice & herb plantations. Apart from offering scenic spots, Munnar is also an ideal destination for hiking and exploring wildlife.

Details: www.keralatourism.org, www.munnar.com

10. Gangtok, Sikkim- The North-Eastern Beauty

The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is a hill resort and one of the most popular places to visit in north-east India. It is known for its scenic beauty and striking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. Gangtok is one of those few hill stations that offer a perfect blend of modern life along with an old time charm. Gangtok is surrounded by dense forests which are full of poplar, oak and elm trees. From coniferous green trees of the wet alpine zone to rare orchids and bamboos, this region has it all. Must visit places in and around Gangtok are- MG Marg, Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek monastery, Nathula Pass, Seven Sisters Waterfalls and Himalayan Zoological Park.

Details: www.sikkimtourism.gov.in

So, have you already decided your next getaway?

Pics courtesy – Ravi Kanth, Abhishek, Jassi, Rahul, Rajarshi, Pinaki, Saurabh, Gagandeep, Yadu, Saurabh.

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