20 Best Places to Visit in January 2023

The New Year is always about penning down resolutions, planning parties with friends and family and creating a fresh travel bucket list. Although you might already have a few places in mind, we have handpicked some of the best places to visit in January 2023, and we recommend you add them to your list as well! From picturesque hill stations with lush green forests, beautiful beaches to witness the best sunrise and sunset to the cities with palaces and temples, we bring you a list of 20 places with the best tourist attractions to visit in January 2023. 

Whether you’re looking to lose yourself amidst the snow-capped mountains, relax by the beaches or be a part of the Jaipur Literature Festival 2023, sit back and scroll through our list and take note of those that you’d love to go in January 2023!

1. Alleppey – Cruise Through the Rustic Backwaters

Does a boat ride through the rustic Kerala backwaters sound exciting? Then plan your vacation to the mesmerizing Alleppey or Alappuzha in Kerala. Sitting in a cosy boathouse and cruising through the calm waters is sheer bliss and you can enjoy the picturesque view of the palm groves. The lush greenery coupled with pleasant weather surely makes Alleppey one of the best places to go in January 2023.

Things to do in Alleppey:  Boat cruise, enjoy the local street food in Alleppey, shop for spices.

You can book budget hotels in Alleppey and enjoy your stay!

 2. Madurai – Admire the architecture of Meenakshi Temple

If you are planning your vacation and wish to head to warm places in January, Madurai is a great choice! For the love of temples, prashad and some classic history of the Pandya Dynasty, Madurai is a perfect place to visit in January 2023. Along with visiting the world-famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, you can also be a part of the Float Festival, a 12-day festival celebrated on the night of the full moon day between mid-Jan and mid-Feb here.

Things to do Madurai:  Visit Meenakshi Temple, relish the delicious prashad served in the temples, shop in the local markets 

Book a stay with hotels in Madurai.

You may also like to read more about 25 places to visit in Madurai at night.

3. Pelling – An abode to beautiful monasteries and waterfalls 

A beautiful town located in West Sikkim, Pelling is one of the best places to go in January 2023. The snow-covered conifers, the mesmerizing view of the Kanchenjunga peak drenched in the golden sun rays, the lush green valleys and frozen lakes give you ample reason to pack your bags to Pelling and enjoy its captivating scenery. Along with this, you can also visit a few famous monasteries in Pelling to learn a bit about Buddhist culture.

Things to do in Pelling: Enjoy the panoramic view of Mt Kanchenjunga, indulge in some adventure sports like rope sliding or go for a trek.

Book your stay at hotels in Pelling to enjoy a cosy vacation.

Read more about 18 magnificent places to visit in Pelling. 

4. Tawang – Challenge yourself to some adventure

Do you love to do the impossible and challenge yourself often? Well, a trip to Tawang is sure to give you an adrenaline rush that you’ve never imagined! With temperatures dipping below 5°C, the entire place gets covered in thick snow and Tawang turns as white as a sheet of paper. You can go to the Tawang Monastery and other places, and if you are lucky, you can also visit the high-altitude Sela Pass as well. Be prepared for uninformed snowfall and landslides while heading to Tawang, which is definitely one of the most adventurous places to visit in January 2023.

Things to do in Tawang:  Visit the various Buddhist monasteries and meditate there, interact with the locals and get to know their culture

Stay at hotels in Tawang while planning a trip to this pristine locale.

You can read more about the best places to visit in Tawang and plan your trip accordingly.

5. Auli – Ski on the snow-covered mountains

Auli, India’s most popular skiing destination, gets ready to receive the snow lovers in the month of January. The hill station covered in layers of white snow allows the skiers to ski to their heart’s content and enjoy their time here. Apart from skiing, you can also witness the panoramic view of Nanda Devi ranges here and enjoy the pristine lakes and greenery around. All these make Auli one of the best places to go in January 2023.

Things to do in Auli: Ski and trek on the hills; enjoy the beautiful view of the surroundings and of Nanda Devi ranges; 

6. Coorg – Scotland of India

This beautiful hill station located in Karnataka is famous for its scenic beauty and coffee plantations. Located amidst the misty mountains and surrounded by lush green valleys and streams cutting through them, Coorg is a haven for those who love to escape to the hills from the hustle of the city. Kodavas, the local clan in Kodagu (the official name of Coorg), are agriculturalists who also specialise in martial arts and are known for their hospitality. Apart from coffee, Coorg is also famous for a variety of spices that are grown here. A short getaway from Bangalore, Coorg is a great choice to commence your travel spree and visit in January 2023.

Things to do in Coorg: Shop for the best spices, chocolates and coffee, interact with the friendly local inhabitants and learn about their culture, try the local cuisine and indulge in some activity like river rafting.

Book comfortable hotels in Coorg while you visit this misty haven for a trip.

7. Jaipur – Be a part of the Jaipur Literature Festival

The Pink City is as famous for its Jaipur Literary Festival as it is for its majestic forts and opulent palaces. It is the biggest Literary Festival organised each year in this beautiful city where the world’s greatest writers, sportsmen, entertainers, thinkers, politicians and literature experts come together under a single roof to discuss ideas, thoughts and trends. In January 2023, this four-day event will be organised in the Diggi Palace where you can get a chance to meet all the top artists and interact with them.

Things to do in Jaipur: Participate in the various contests at the Jaipur Literature Festival, visit the popular places in Jaipur, enjoy the street food and shop till you drop

Book perfect stays with hotels in Jaipur.

8. Diu – Get a Glimpse of Portuguese Architecture

Diu is an island paradise, a beach resort town connected by a creek to the Indian state of Gujarat. This incredible Union Territory boasts of charming sandy beaches and is thronged by tourists and netizens all through the year. The scenic beauty of the frothy blue waters coupled with the resplendent Portuguese architecture that is evident in the monuments and fort makes Diu one of the top tourist attractions to visit in January 2023. If you’ve planned a trip to Diu, rest assured you’re going to have the time of your life.

Things to do in Diu: Enjoy the seafood, beach hopping, visit the maritime memorial of INS Khukri

You can read more about the 15 best places to visit in Diu.

9. Pondicherry – Traverse the French Quarters in this Beach Town

Once a French colony and now an Indian Union Territory, Pondicherry is a laid back beach locale, approximately 170kms from Chennai. It is a hub for beach lovers and tourists who flock here in peak season and otherwise to bask by the beaches. Along with the beaches, the array of splendid French Quarters, amazing cafes and the charm of colonial architecture in Pondicherry makes it one of the spectacular places to visit in winter. Additionally, one can visit Auroville for a peaceful and soothing meditation session that is sure to calm the mind and soul.

Things to do in Pondicherry: One can head out for a houseboat ride, go for kayaking, explore the place or enjoy the best food in Pondicherry.

Planning a trip to Pondy? Book perfect stays with hotels in Pondicherry.

 10. Delhi – Get Set for the 2023 Republic Day

Delhi, the National Capital of India, comes alive in vibrant colours in the month of January owing to the various festivals and most importantly the Republic Day Parade. Lip-smacking street food, mesmerizing architecture and colourful shops are also a reason why Delhi is voted as one of the top places to visit in January. 

Things to do in Delhi: You can enjoy multiple cups of piping hot tea with some drool-worthy snacks, go on a one-day sightseeing spree to check out the best places to visit in Delhi and get passes in advance to witness the scintillating Republic Day Parade.

Book hotels in Delhi for a comfortable stay.

11. Jaisalmer – Wander through the majestic forts and palaces

One of the most popular places in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is a beautiful city that is home to brilliant forts and magnificent palaces. Fondly called the Golden City owing to the beautiful sand dunes and sandstone architecture, Jaisalmer is a great place to visit in winter due to its mildly warm climate since it is located in the Thar Desert. 

Things to do in Jaisalmer: Enjoy camel ride or book a desert safari. You can also shop for traditional Rajasthani antiquities and apparel or gorge on some mouth-watering street food in Jaisalmer.

Enjoy a quality stay with hotels in Jaisalmer while visiting this amazing city.  

12. Hyderabad – Best blend of sightseeing and street food

Once a princely state ruled by the Nizams, Hyderabad is the quintessential travel destination that is as famous for its impressive architecture as it is for its delectable delicacies. Along with this, it is a haven to some of the best pearl, gemstones, gold and diamonds as well. The city perfectly upkeeps its Old World Charm through the multiple architectural wonders, most notable among them being the Charminar, and is also in great sync with the swanky offices, mammoth shopping malls, and glitzy pubs and other hi-tech wonders of the new age. The temperate climate during the winters makes it one of the most sought-after places to visit in January where you can enjoy the best of everything – food, weather and sightseeing.

Things to do in Hyderabad: Enjoy the local dishes, shop from the street side and local markets, take a tour of the city and visit the top tourist places in Hyderabad. 

Book your stays with hotels in Hyderabad for a great stay experience.  

13. Bangalore – Majestic City of Karnataka 

India’s third-largest city, well-known for its amazing climate and beautiful gardens and parks, Bangalore is a charming place to spend the winter season. Although currently reigned by the IT sector, the city still boasts of well-maintained and well-preserved forts, palace and other architectural monuments that are existing evidence of the royal lineage that once ruled the city. If you’ve got travel plans for the upcoming new year, Bangalore can be a great place to visit in January 2023 and be a part of the amazing parties that happen in the city.

Things to do in Bangalore: Visit the famous tourist attractions in Bangalore, enjoy a lip-smacking breakfast in the best cafes in Bangalore, dance till you drop at the top pubs and clubs, be a part of the new year parties in Bangalore.

Book hotels in Bangalore for your upcoming trip to this city.

14 Puri – Meet the Migratory Birds

Apart from the renowned Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dhams in India, Puri is also famous for scenic beaches, marvellous architecture and a moderate climate during the months of December-January. All these facts make Puri one of the top choices for tourists to visit this place in the winter season. Apart from this, one can also watch the wide number of migratory birds that flock the Chilka Lake during winters; indeed it is a spectacle to behold!

 Things to do in Puri: Watch the migratory birds near Chilka Lake, visit the religious sanctuaries, check out the beautiful beaches in Puri

You can book a stay with hotels in Puri as well. 

15. Udaipur – Enjoy a ride through artificial lakes 

An abode to numerous man-made lakes, Udaipur is the dream city in Rajasthan and a spectacular tourist destination to visit in the month of January. The mammoth City Palace overlooking Lake Pichola and the enchanting Lake Palace perched right at the centre of this amazing lake. An evening boat ride gives you an opportunity to witness the most beautiful sunset where the reflection of the sun adds a golden tinge to the otherwise blue waters. Another notable lake is the Fateh Sagar, a sparkling lake surrounded by the mighty Aravalli hills, and a boat ride here lets you enjoy the scenic beauty of the city.

Things to do in Udaipur:  Boating on all famous artificial lakes, visit the opulent palaces and other architectural marvels, enjoy the mouth-watering food in Udaipur

If you are looking for quality stays, book hotels in Udaipur.

You can read more about places to visit in Udaipur in two days: A comprehensive guide  

16. Goa – Party at the beaches till you drop

You don’t need a reason to visit this party hub in December – January. Known for its crazy late-night parties, Goa is undoubtedly one of the best places to be in January. Amazing weather coupled with incredibly beautiful beaches, historic antiquities, forts that offer a scenic view, backpacking to Goa in winters is the best thing you can do.

Things to do in Goa: Be a part of the Sunburn Festival, beach hopping, pub hopping, indulge in adventurous water sports in Goa 

Don’t forget to secure your stays with hotels in Goa

Read about the best nightclubs in Goa to party the night away!

17. Ujjain – Visit the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga

Wish to start the new year on a religious note? We got you covered! A trip to Ujjain is all you need to plan for. A holy city perched on the banks of the Shipra River, Ujjain is a place of high religious value. It is also one of the sites for the Kumbh Mela that where millions of people from all over the country gather here. Ujjain also has a temple housing the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the Jyotirlingas in India. A moderate climate makes Ujjain a must-visit place in January 2023.

Things to do in Ujjain: Visit the various temples in Ujjain, enjoy a boat ride on the Shipra River

18. Manali – India’s favourite honeymoon destination

Snuggled amidst the captivating Dhauladhar ranges and the snow-covered slopes of Pir Panjal, Manali is an incredibly gorgeous hill station in India. Fondly called the Honeymoon capital of India, Manali has attracted millions of honeymooners even in the freezing winter months. If you wish to quench your love for playing in the snow, Manali is one of the best places to visit in December-January.  Soak in the scenic beauty of this pristine place to your heart’s content this winter.

Things to do in Manali: Indulge in some snow scooters rides, try snow tubing, skiing

Book a cosy stay with hotels in Manali and enjoy a chilly vacay!

You may read more about the most intriguing places to visit in Manali.

19. Mumbai – City of Dreams and Iconic Architecture

One of the most glamorous cities in India, Mumbai has rightly been crowned the “City of Dreams” owing to the life-transforming opportunities it presents to all the passionate seekers. A moderate climate, mesmerizing beaches, marvellous architecture, the busy and alluring lifestyle, the rocking pubs and clubs add a unique charm to the city which makes it one of the loved places to visit in winters. What better than welcoming the new year in the spectacular Mumbai this January 2023?

Things to do in Mumbai: Visit the top clubs and pubs in Mumbai to be a part of the new year celebration, enjoy the local lip-smacking street food, check out the popular places to visit in Mumbai

Book hotels in Mumbai for your stay.

20 Kanyakumari – Confluence of two Seas and an Ocean

Previously known as Cape Comorin, Kanyakumari is a coastal town located on the southernmost tip of India. It is also popular for being the lone place in India where one can witness sunrise and sunset on the same beach. Kanyakumari is thronged by tourists all year long and rightly so as it boasts of beautiful seashores, the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar statue built in the Laccadive Sea and is also home to the famous Kanyakumari Bhagavathi Temple. The Triveni Sangam in Kanyakumari is a famous tourist attraction where one can witness the confluence of the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The moderate winters here is the main reason why Kanyakumari is one of the most loved places to visit in January. 

Things to do in Kanyakumari: a boat ride to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, take a tour of the city to visit the main attractions, enjoy the local food here

Book a comfortable stay at hotels in Kanyakumari

Here’s our list of the top 20 places you must visit in January. If you’ve been to any of these places before in winters, do share your experiences in the comment section. We’d love to hear from you! And in case you think we missed any exciting place in this list, mention it on the comments as well, we’ll gladly include them here.