India weather & when to go: January

Kashmir & Himalayas

If you're planning a January trip to Shimla and elsewhere in India’s far north you'll need to pack plenty of warm clothing. High altitude places like Shimla, Dharamsala, Manali and Srinagar will be blanketed in a covering of snow with temperatures below 10°C. Lower altitude spots like Rishikesh are a little warmer, but you'll still need to pack warm clothing.

Kerala, Goa & the South

January is one of the most popular months of the year to visit Kerala, Goa and the rest of southern India. Typically the days are hot without being too hot and there's plenty of sunshine in cloudless skies. Along the many miles of lush coastline, you'll be unlucky if you encounter rain. Temperatures in the hill stations of the Western Ghats are chilly at night so pack a fleece or two if you plan to visit them.

Mumbai & central India

If you're planning a January trip to Mumbai, Nagpur and the rest of central India you should experience pleasantly hot daytime temperatures, perfect for sightseeing. Night times and early mornings in the national parks can be chilly so pack some warm clothing if you’re planning on wildlife spotting. There's no need to take waterproofs - rain in January is very rare indeed.

Rajasthan & the Golden Triangle

If you're planning a trip to Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle sites of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur in January you'll encounter pleasantly warm temperatures in the daytime perfect for sightseeing. Night times and early mornings can be chilly so pack some warm clothing. Chances are you won't need a brolly as rain in the north during January is a rarity.