January is coming, and so are the amazing long weekends! And we are sure that all the travel enthusiasts are already planning their trips, but not always are the leaves approved, right? But no worries, long weekends are here to your rescue. January has two long weekends, and we think you must make the best out of them. If when they are and where you should go are your concerns, leave it to us. Here are the top 7 Indian destinations that you can easily explore during the upcoming long weekend in January 2026.
Long weekends in India January 2026
January is coming with two long weekends. So make sure you make the best of at least one of them!
New Year
- January 1, Thursday: New Year’s Day
- January 2, Friday: Take one leave
- January 3, Saturday
- January 4, Sunday
Vasant Panchami
- January 23, Friday: Vasant Panchami
- January 24, Saturday
- January 25, Sunday
- January 26, Monday: Republic Day
Best Places To Visit In India In January For Long Weekend
1. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli in Uttarakhand transforms into a beautiful snowy paradise, which is perfect for a long weekend, as you can enjoy snowboarding and skiing amid the Himalayan peaks. The temperatures go as low as -10 degrees Celsius, making it the perfect place to savor hot thukpa and momos in a cozy guesthouse or head out for some fun adventure sports, both! You can hop on a cable ride to witness oak forests dusted in white snow and the beautiful Garhwal views. January means low crowds here, which makes it a peaceful place to be in winter.
Places To Visit: Nanda Devi peak, Gorson Bugyal, Auli artificial lake
2. Badami, Karnataka
If you wish to witness India’s traditions and traditions during the January 2026 long weekend, well, Karnataka’s Badami is the place. The city is known for its ancient rock-cut temples and beautiful caves. It is home to four UNESCO gems from the Badami Chalukya era that overlook the lovely Agastya Lake. The temperatures are generally between 25 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for leisurely walks. Cycle around boulder-strewn landscapes, boat on the lake at dusk, or climb Bhutanatha caves for sunset panoramas. You can also relish the regional cuisine like Bisi Bele Bath and other dishes here.
Places To Visit: Aihole, Pattadakal, Agastya Lake
3. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh in January offers light snow blanketing the Dhauladhar ranges, making it the perfect place for a long weekend retreat. The place is home to the Dalai Lama’s Tibetan government. The place has many monasteries, lovely cafes, and trek spots to explore. You can buy Thangka art and Tibetan carpets from the local markets or simply sit back and sip on butter tea at the cafes with the most mesmerizing views. What better than Himalayan bliss as you escape the city chaos during the long weekend? They also have amazing warm homestays and wooden cabins that will add a warm touch to your stay here.
Places To Visit: McLeod Ganj, HPCA Stadium, Trek Triund
4. Varkala, Kerala
If you wish to witness the beauty of cliffside beaches and the calmness of Ayurveda, then you must visit Varkala in Kerala. It is the perfect spot if you want a nice and relaxed long weekend. The golden sands of the most beautiful Varakala beaches meet dramatic 50-foot red cliffs. The place has many lovely cafes that serve fresh seafood and coconut water. You can surf the lovely waves, practice yoga at shalas, or hike to the hidden springs. They also house beautiful little temples and some amazing bakeries serving the best bakery goods.
Places To Visit: Odayam Beach, Ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple
5. Rann Of Kutch, Gujarat
Rann of Kutch in Gujarat dazzles as a vast white salt desert in January with Rann Utsav. The beautiful full-moon nights illuminate the space, which hosts folk dances, camel safaris, and artisan bazaars under the blue skies. The temperatures go as low as 10 degrees Celsius. You can opt for tent stays at luxury camps with Rajasthani thalis and bonfires. Explore Kutchi embroidery, pottery, and tribal performances amid mirage illusions. Hot air balloon rides offer bird’s-eye views and embrace the beauty of Gujarat.
Places To Visit: Rann Utsav Tent City, Kala Dungar, White Rann
6. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur is known as the ‘City of Lakes ‘ and is the perfect place for a romantic long weekend spot in India. The Lake Pichola’s floating palaces with the backdrop of the majestic Aravalli hills is simply a breathtaking view, especially during evenings or early morning. You can wander around exploring the City’s palace’s mosaic courtyards, explore the lovely colourful market,s and witness the most beautiful sunsets at the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace. You can also opt for a romantic dinner overlooking the illuminated lakes at a rooftop restaurant.
Places To Visit: Sajangarh Monsoon Palace, Jagdish Temple, Lake Pichola
7. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty in Tamil Nadu charms with misty Nilgiri hills in January’s cool 10-20 degrees Celsius is, a nostalgic long weekend for toy train enthusiasts. Ride the UNESCO Nilgiri Mountain Railway through tea estate. Stroll aound in Botanical Gardens’ fossil tree and rose displays. You can also boat across the Ooty Lake. You can also visit the Chocolate Museum, which is known to delight sweet tooths.
Places To Visit: Doddabetta Peak, Government Rose Garden
Summing Up
From the snowy Auli to the calm and peaceful Varkala, or from the romantic Udaipur to the colorful Rann of Kutch, the list has it all! Just check out the list, take leaves and fly down to your dream destination kickstarting Januay in the best way!
