Best Places to Visit in January in South India

Known For : Periyar National Park Periyar Tiger Trail Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady

Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is a great destination in January when the weather is cool and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The dense forests and grasslands are vibrant and alive, offering a beautiful backdrop for boat rides on the Periyar Lake. The cool temperatures make it an ideal time for nature walks, bamboo rafting, and spice plantation tours. January is also a good time to experience the unique cultural performances like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu that are held regularly in the area.

Best Time: Throughout the year

24 Thekkady Attractions

Known For : Vellore Fort Jalakandeswarar Temple St. John's Church

Vellore, a historical city in Tamil Nadu, is best visited in January when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring its many attractions. The cool climate makes it an ideal time to visit the Vellore Fort, known for its unique architecture and sprawling grounds. It's also a great time to see the beautiful Golden Temple, which shines brightly under the clear winter skies. Vellore's rich history and cultural heritage, combined with its scenic surroundings, make it a fascinating destination during this time of year.

Best Time: October - March

17 Vellore Attractions

Nagarhole National Park, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is a prime wildlife destination in January when the weather is cool and conducive for safaris. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. The dry season makes it easier to spot animals near water sources, and the lush green surroundings provide a beautiful backdrop for wildlife photography. January is also a good time for exploring the park's many trails and experiencing the thrill of being in the wild.

Best Time: October to May

7 Nagarhole Attractions

Known For : Jungle Safari, Kabini Boating in Kabini

Kabini, located on the banks of the Kabini River, is a fantastic wildlife destination to visit in January when the weather is cool and dry. The forests of Nagarhole National Park are lush and green, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. The cool mornings and evenings are perfect for boat safaris and nature walks, while the pleasant daytime temperatures make for comfortable jeep safaris. Kabini's rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes make it a great winter escape for nature enthusiasts.

Best Time: Throughout the year

5 Kabini Attractions

Known For : Kanyakumari Beach Vivekananda Rock Memorial Thanumalayan Temple - Sthanumalayan Kovil

Kanyakumari, located at the southernmost tip of India, is a unique destination to visit in January when the weather is mild and the seas are calm. This is the perfect time to witness the stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, and Arabian Sea. The cool breeze and clear skies make it an ideal time to visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue. January also offers a great opportunity to explore the coastal town's temples and beaches without the scorching summer heat.

Best Time: October to February

28 Kanyakumari Attractions

Known For : Vadakummnathan temple Paramekavu Bhagavathy Temple Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores

Thrissur, known as the cultural capital of Kerala, is a vibrant city that comes alive in January with its pleasant weather and festive atmosphere. The cool, dry climate is perfect for exploring the city's famous temples, including the Vadakkunnathan Temple and the Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple. It's also a great time to enjoy the Thrissur Pooram, a grand temple festival that takes place in the heart of the city. The city's rich cultural heritage and beautiful surroundings make it a delightful destination during this time of year.

Best Time: October - February; April, May

50 Thrissur Attractions

Known For : Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal Vaigai Dam

Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India, is best visited in January when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. The Meenakshi Amman Temple, with its impressive gopurams and intricate carvings, looks especially beautiful in the soft winter light. The city's bustling markets and historical landmarks, such as the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, can be explored at a leisurely pace. January is also a great time to experience the vibrant local culture and festivals that are celebrated in Madurai.

Best Time: October to March

20 Madurai Attractions

Known For : Rameshwaram Temple Dhanushkodi Temple and Beach Jatayu Tirtham

Rameshwaram, a significant pilgrimage site, is particularly pleasant to visit in January when the weather is cool and dry. The month offers an ideal climate for exploring the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple and the beautiful Pamban Bridge. The island's pristine beaches and calm seas are perfect for water activities and relaxing by the shore. January also provides a good opportunity to visit the nearby Dhanushkodi, known for its stunning landscapes and historical ruins.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Rameswaram Attractions

Known For : Bekal Fort Bekal Beach Kappil Beach

Bekal, located on the Malabar Coast, is famous for its stunning beaches and the historic Bekal Fort. In January, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the fort and enjoy the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The sandy beaches are perfect for leisurely strolls, and the calm seas are ideal for swimming. Bekal's scenic beauty and historical significance make it a great destination for a relaxing winter vacation.

Best Time: October to March

12 Bekal Attractions

Known For : Sim's Park Dolphin's Nose Ketti Valley

Coonoor, a serene hill station in the Nilgiris, is at its best in January with its cool climate and clear skies. The tea gardens are vibrant and the botanical gardens are in full bloom, offering a beautiful setting for leisurely walks. It's a great time for taking the scenic Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Ooty, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. The peaceful atmosphere and charming colonial architecture make Coonoor a perfect winter getaway.

Best Time: October to March

17 Coonoor Attractions

Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Chikmagalur, a picturesque hill station in Karnataka, is known for its coffee plantations and misty mountains. In January, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it an ideal time for exploring the scenic hills and valleys. The month is perfect for trekking to the peaks of Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri, or visiting the numerous waterfalls that dot the region. The lush greenery and crisp mountain air provide a refreshing escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Chikmagalur Attractions

Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud

Yercaud, a quiet hill station in Tamil Nadu, is especially appealing in January with its cool climate and lush green surroundings. The month provides an ideal time for exploring the region's coffee plantations, orange orchards, and scenic viewpoints. It's a great time for trekking in the Shevaroy Hills, boating on the Emerald Lake, and visiting the charming colonial-era bungalows. The serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes make Yercaud a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Best Time: October to June

20 Yercaud Attractions

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best visited in January when the weather is cool and conducive for exploring its ancient rock-cut temples and monuments. The Shore Temple, with its dramatic backdrop of the Bay of Bengal, looks particularly stunning in the soft winter light. This month is perfect for leisurely walks along the beach, visiting the historic Five Rathas, and enjoying the local seafood delicacies. The town's rich history and unique architecture make it a fascinating place to visit during this time.

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat

Coorg, also known as the "Scotland of India," is especially charming in January when the weather is cool and the coffee plantations are lush. The mist-covered hills and pleasant climate make it an ideal time for trekking, bird watching, and exploring the region's natural beauty. With its famous Abbey Falls and the opportunity to experience the unique Kodava culture, Coorg offers a tranquil escape from the city bustle. The fresh coffee aromas and scenic landscapes make January a perfect month to visit this picturesque hill station.

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

Known For : Varkala Cliff Sivagiri Mutt Water Sports in Varkala

Varkala, known for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, is a wonderful place to visit in January. The cool, dry weather makes it ideal for beach activities like sunbathing, swimming, and taking in the breathtaking views from the cliffside promenades. The town is also famous for its natural springs, believed to have therapeutic properties, which are especially refreshing in the cooler weather. The peaceful beaches and laid-back vibe make Varkala a perfect spot for a relaxing winter getaway.

Best Time: October to February

31 Varkala Attractions

Known For : Kovalam Beach Vizhinjam Lighthouse Aazhimala Shiva Temple

Kovalam is a popular beach destination in Kerala, known for its crescent-shaped beaches and vibrant nightlife. In January, the weather is cool and dry, making it the perfect time to relax on the sandy shores or take a swim in the Arabian Sea. The calm seas and gentle breezes are ideal for water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and catamaran rides. Kovalam's lighthouse beach offers stunning sunset views, and the local seafood cuisine is best enjoyed in the open-air restaurants during this pleasant season.

Best Time: September to March

33 Kovalam Attractions

Known For : Houseboats in Alleppey Alappuzha Beach Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple

Alleppey, often referred to as the "Venice of the East," is famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises, which are especially enjoyable in January. The weather during this month is pleasant, with cool breezes and clear skies, perfect for cruising through the network of canals, lagoons, and lakes. The surrounding paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional villages create a picturesque setting for a relaxing getaway. January also coincides with the local harvesting season, providing a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant rural life of Kerala.

Best Time: June to March

40 Alleppey Attractions

Known For : Om Beach Mahabaleshwara Temple Paradise Beach, Gokarna

Gokarna is a beautiful coastal town in Karnataka, known for its serene beaches and spiritual atmosphere. In January, the weather is perfect for beach activities like sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the rocky cliffs that surround the area. The beaches, such as Om Beach and Kudle Beach, are less crowded compared to the peak season, allowing for a peaceful retreat. This month is also ideal for exploring the town's ancient temples and indulging in fresh seafood at the local beach shacks.

Best Time: Throughout the year

20 Gokarna Attractions

Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo

Mysore, known for its royal heritage and palaces, is particularly inviting in January when the weather is cool and comfortable. This month offers an ideal climate for exploring the majestic Mysore Palace, the bustling Devaraja Market, and the serene Chamundi Hill. The city's many parks and gardens are lush and colorful during this time, providing a beautiful backdrop for leisurely strolls. January is also a good time to enjoy the local cuisine, from Mysore Pak to dosas, in the pleasant outdoor weather.

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Mysore Attractions

Known For : Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Aurobindo Ashram Auroville

Pondicherry, with its French colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches, is a delightful place to visit in January. The weather is perfect for exploring the quaint streets of the French Quarter or relaxing on the sandy shores of Promenade Beach. The cool breeze and moderate temperatures make outdoor activities like cycling or beach hopping very enjoyable. The city's unique blend of French and Indian cultures can be fully appreciated during this pleasant time of year.

Best Time: October to March

48 Pondicherry Attractions

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best visited in January when the temperatures are cooler, making exploration of the ancient ruins more comfortable. The stunning landscape of boulders, temples, and the Tungabhadra River is bathed in golden winter light, adding to its mystical appeal. It's an ideal time for cycling around the historic site, taking in the unique architecture, and exploring the nearby banana plantations. The pleasant weather also allows for a more enjoyable experience while climbing the rocky hills that surround the ruins.

Best Time: October to March

31 Hampi Attractions

Known For : Chembra Peak Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Stay in a Treehouse

Wayanad, with its dense forests, rolling hills, and pleasant weather, is a fantastic destination to visit in January. The cool, crisp air and the mist that settles over the hills provide a refreshing break from the heat of the plains. It's an excellent time for wildlife safaris in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. The region's waterfalls, like Meenmutty and Soochipara, are also at their most impressive, fed by the winter rains.

Best Time: Throughout the year

41 Wayanad Attractions

Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls

Known as the "Princess of Hill Stations," Kodaikanal offers a serene retreat in January, with its cool climate and misty surroundings. The scenic beauty of places like Kodai Lake and Coaker's Walk is enhanced by the crisp air and clear skies of winter. It's a perfect time for nature walks, cycling around the lake, and visiting the nearby pine forests and waterfalls. The absence of heavy tourist crowds in January makes it a peaceful time to explore Kodaikanal's charming streets and natural landscapes.

Best Time: September to May

35 Kodaikanal Attractions

Known For : Pothamedu View Point Eravikulam National Park Rose Garden Munnar

Munnar is a breathtaking destination in January, with its rolling tea plantations, misty valleys, and cool weather. The hill station is at its scenic best during this month, with vibrant green landscapes and a calm atmosphere. It's a great time for outdoor activities like trekking to Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India, or visiting the beautiful waterfalls that are fed by the winter rains. Munnar's unique flora and fauna, including the Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once in twelve years, make it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Best Time: September to May

54 Munnar Attractions

Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty

Ooty, known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," offers a refreshing escape in January with its cool temperatures and clear skies. The lush green landscapes, tea gardens, and serene lakes create a picturesque setting for visitors. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a scenic journey through misty mountains and dense forests. This month is ideal for boating on Ooty Lake or taking a peaceful stroll in the Botanical Gardens.

Best Time: Throughout the year

43 Ooty Attractions