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Imagine: As the calendar turns to January, India awakens from its slumber to welcome visitors with a wonderful embrace of experiences that will make your heart skip a beat. It's almost as if the country is shouting, "Come on, let's make memories together!" With the winter chill in the air, India's travel locations in January are a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
India offers it all, from the sun-soaked beaches of Goa, where the party never stops, to the towering forts of Rajasthan, which whisper tales of monarchy, and the calm backwaters of Kerala, which call with their serene beauty. We're not simply talking about travel in this article; we're embarking on an adventure, a whirlwind romance with India in January. Whether you're someone looking for alpine highs, a beach bum looking for sandy coasts, or a culture vulture looking for unparalleled immersion, we have you covered. Read on for a ready-to-embark-on travel itinerary and guide for your 20-day long winter escape :)
Here are the top 3 places you can enjoy your January at!
GOA
A 20-day trip to Goa in January allows plenty of time to enjoy the beaches, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty of this renowned Indian tourist destination. Here's a thorough travel itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:
Days 1-3: Goa Arrival
Arrive at Dabolim Airport or Madgaon Railway Station in Goa.
Make your way to a beachfront town like Calangute, Baga, or Anjuna.
Spend the first several days lounging on the beach, getting to know the locals, and enjoying the lively nightlife.
Days 4-6: North Goa
Visit North Goa's beaches, such as Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, and Vagator.
Take a look at the historic Aguada Fort and Aguada Lighthouse.
Take part in water sports such as paragliding and jet skiing.
On Wednesdays, visit the Anjuna Flea Market for shopping and local crafts.
Find top North Goa hotels where you can enjoy a luxurious and comfortable stay here!
Days 7-9: Central Goa
Relocate to a more central area, such as Panaji, Goa's capital.
Visit the St. Augustine Tower and the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Fontainhas' Latin Quarter.
Spend a day in Old Goa, where you may visit the Se Cathedral, the Church of St. Cajetan, and the Archaeological Museum.
In the evening, take a river boat on the Mandovi River.
You can find more plans to add to your travel itinerary by reading this blog.
Days 10-12: Relaxation in South Goa
Visit South Goa's quieter beaches, such as Palolem, Agonda, and Colva.
Go to the Cabo de Rama Fort for stunning views of the coastline.
Visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary to see the native flora and fauna.
Days 13-15: Nature and Adventure
Travel to the Western Ghats to see the Dudhsagar Waterfalls. To get to the falls, you can take a walk, a vehicle safari, or a rail ride.
Pay a visit to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mollem National Park.
Discover the Tambdi Surla Temple, a 12th-century wonder tucked away in the jungle.
Days 16-18: Beach Relaxation and Water Sports
Return to your favourite beach in North Goa or discover new ones.
Visit quieter beaches such as Ashwem, Morjim, and Arambol.
Go on a dolphin-watching, snorkelling, or scuba diving cruise.
Looking for in-depth details about the water sports offered in Goa? Get adventure-ready by reading more about them here!
Day 19-20: Shopping and Culinary Delights
Sample Goan cuisine at nearby restaurants, including vindaloo, xacuti, and bebinca.
Look for souvenirs and handicrafts in the local marketplaces.
Take in your final sunset in Goa and reminisce on your unforgettable journey.
In a nutshell, Goa is a sliver of paradise that begs to be explored. Consider renting a scooter or car for easy transit throughout your vacation, and book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you're travelling in January, which is peak tourist season.
RAJASTHAN
A 20-day journey to Rajasthan in January allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and different landscapes of this enthralling Indian state. Here's a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your Rajasthan adventure:
Day 1-3: Jaipur Arrival
Arrive at the Sanganer International Airport or the Jaipur Junction Railway Station in Jaipur.
Check into your hotel in the Pink City.
Explore Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar, among other prominent Jaipur attractions.
Bonus! - 7 day trip to Rajasthan: Tips and travel plan
Day 4-6: Jaipur and the Surrounding Areas
Visit Nahargarh Fort for panoramic views of the city.
Explore the markets of Jaipur for authentic Rajasthani crafts and textiles.
Take a day excursion to Amer and visit Jaigarh Fort.
Visit the Albert Hall Museum and lunch at a typical Rajasthani restaurant.
Day 7-9: Pushkar
Drive to Pushkar, a holy town famous for its sacred lake and Brahma Temple.
Visit the Pushkar Camel Fairground if your trip coincides with the fair (which is normally held in November).
Explore the town's lively streets and markets.
Day 10-12: Jodhpur
Travel to the "Blue City" of Jodhpur.
Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, and Umaid Bhawan Palace are all worth seeing.
Discover the busy markets surrounding the Clock Tower and Sardar Market.
Day 13-15: Udaipur
Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," is a short drive away.
City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Saheliyon Ki Bari are all worth seeing.
Take a boat trip on Lake Pichola and see the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir from the water.
Day 16-18: Rajasthan in the countryside
Stay at a vintage hotel or homestay in rural Rajasthan.
Discover the culture, traditions, and food of the area.
Visit villages, meet residents, and take part in cultural events.
You can even explore an offbeat village in Rajasthan, of which more details can be found by clicking here!
Day 19-20: Jaisalmer
Travel to the "Golden City" of Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake are all worth seeing.
Enjoy a camel safari in the Sam Sand Dunes and watch the desert sunset.
Also, plan for comfortable transit between cities, whether by hiring a driver or taking domestic flights or trains. Rajasthan is known for its dramatic weather, so expect cool evenings and warm days in January. Enjoy your 20-day vacation through Rajasthan's regal state!
KERALA
A 20-day journey to Kerala in January allows you to enjoy the state's lush green landscapes, tranquil backwaters, magnificent beaches, and rich culture. Here's a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your Kerala adventure:
Day 1-3: Kochi Arrival
Fly into Cochin International Airport.
Check into a hotel in Fort Kochi or another section of the city.
Explore the historic Fort Kochi neighbourhood, which includes the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, and the Chinese Fishing Nets.
Day 4-6: Munnar
Drive to Munnar, a tea plantation-filled hill station.
Explore tea gardens, the Tea Museum, and picturesque walks.
Explore Eravikulam National Park in search of Nilgiri tahr.
Day 7-9: Thekkady
Travel to Thekkady, which is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to see the wildlife.
Trek through the verdant forests or visit a spice plantation.
Day 10-12: Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Drive to Alleppey, which is famous for its backwaters.
Cruise across the tranquil backwaters in a traditional houseboat.
Enjoy freshly cooked Kerala cuisine while experiencing the distinct backwater lifestyle.
Day 13-15: Kovalam and Varkala
Visit Kovalam or Varkala, two beach towns.
Relax on the gorgeous beaches and enjoy the stunning coastline views.
Explore Kovalam's Lighthouse Beach or Varkala's beautiful cliffs.
Day 16-18: Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)
Visit Trivandrum, Kerala's capital.
Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Napier Museum, and the Kuthira Malika Palace.
Relax in the lovely gardens of Kanakakunnu Palace.
Day 19-20: Wayanad
Drive to Wayanad, which is famous for its lush woods and wildlife.
Visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and the Edakkal Caves.
Enjoy a natural walk or a hill trip.
In January, Kerala is recognized for its nice weather, making it a perfect time to visit. Hire a local guide to improve your trip and immerse yourself in Kerala's distinct culture and natural beauty. Have a wonderful 20-day trip in "God's Own Country," Kerala!