1. Dubai – The City of Gold
‘Walk, run, shop, relax, surf, drink… repeat!’ This is exactly the motto of visiting Dubai. A favorite, Dubai is the perfect destination to visit in January. The sparkling skyline and ultra-modern city vibes are perfect for spending time with your family.
Adults and children are guaranteed a wonderful time in this luxurious place. Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s star attractions from where you can get spectacular views of the entire city. And if you are an adventurous family, Dubai is the perfect place to be and enjoy a number of recreational activities. Where else would you enjoy skating on the snow in the middle of the barren desert?
Why in January?
Dubai in January is perfect for taking a break from the heat and enjoying the pleasant weather. Skydiving, zip lining and hot air balloon rides are some of the most exciting experiences in Dubai in January. Also, it is the best time for shopping as it is the month of the Dubai Shopping Festival. The city has amazing live entertainment like Cirque du Soleil and events like Quoz Festival of the Arts to give your family a taste of Dubai culture and arts.
Places to visit in Dubai
Get spectacular views of the city of Dubai from the Burj Khalifa.
Experience exciting skydiving on the Palm Jumeirah.
Enjoy an evening stroll around the lake at the Dubai Fountain.
Visit the largest shopping mall in the world, the Dubai Mall.
Make your evening extra special on the Dubai Creek Dinner Cruise.
Explore Al Fahidi Fort at the Dubai Museum.
Go on a Dubai Desert Safari with a BBQ dinner.
Enjoy skiing at Dubai’s indoor ski resort: Ski Dubai.
Admire one of Dubai’s five-star luxury hotels: Burj Al Arab.
Enjoy the interior of Ferrari World Dubai.
2. Thailand – Bliss Amidst Nature
Looking for a family vacation in the comfort of nature? Then visit Thailand in January for the perfect combination of serenity and adventure. This country is blessed with pristine beaches and peaceful landscapes that will leave you spellbound.
Building a sandcastle on the beach and participating in activities will make your family even closer. As some may think, Thailand is a land of adults, but it has something to offer both children and adults.
Thailand can be visited throughout the year but the weather in January is unbeatable. Take an offbeat trail, camp together or dive into the depths of the oceans, Thailand is the ideal place to reconnect with loved ones and share special moments with them.
Why in January?
Planning a family trip to Thailand in January is the best idea. The temperature is between the high/low average of 22°C and 32°C. The humidity also varies depending on whether it is a humid day or not.
Chinese Lunar New Year is celebrated in many areas of Thailand, particularly Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Bo Sang Umbrella and San Kamphaeng Handicrafts Festival are also held in Chiang Mai during the third week of January.
Places to visit in Thailand
Explore the magnificent Grand Palace.
Interact with the elephants at the Elephant Nature Park.
Go from island to island.
Meet the hill tribes of northern Thailand.
Visit the floating market at Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi.
Take a ferry trip to James Bond Island in Phuket.
See your favorite actors at Madame Tussauds in Bangkok.
Visit Tuxedo Illusion Hall in Pattaya.
Take a day trip to Ayutthaya.
Have fun at the Sriracha Tiger Zoo.
Receive a Thai massage.
3. Singapore – Blend of Adventure and Serenity
Infused with ultra-modern technologies, Singapore is one of the best countries to visit with the family in January. Have you heard about the famous Sentosa Island, Universal Studios and the Singapore Zoo? These are attractions that should be on your “family must-see” list.
Singapore is a land of futuristic wonders, buildings that touch the sky, and a lavish nightlife that you can’t miss. From offbeat trails to adventure sports to luxury accommodations, this city will never leave you disappointed.
The most important thing to remember is that Singapore is a great place to visit with children as it offers various children special activities that will keep them entertained. Don’t forget to go shopping extravagant in this sovereign city-state.
Why in January?
Visiting Singapore in January is a great idea if you like rain and wind. January is quite wet and windy, but considering the attractions and exciting adventures the city has to offer, the weather is perfect.
Also, Singapore celebrates the Hindu festival, Thaipusam in January.
Places to visit in Singapore
Admire the beauty of Gardens by the Bay.
Visit Skyline Luge Sentosa.
Take a ride on a Singapore cable car.
Enjoy the Singapore Night Safari.
See beautiful birds at Jurong Bird Park.
Opt for a river safari.
Click on the Trick Eye Museum.
Watch the fascinating aquatic spectacle: Wings of Time.
Get the view of the city from Singapore Flyer.
See your favorite actors at Madame Tussauds.
Visit the Butterfly Park and the Insect Kingdom.
Enjoy on the observation deck of the Marina Bay Sands Skypark.
4. Nepal – Home to Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga
India’s neighbor Nepal is one of the best places to visit as a family in January. Home to two of the highest peaks in the world, Nepal offers mesmerizing views of towering peaks and breathtaking valleys.
Whatever you are looking for, calm or adventure, this country is ready to offer you with a warm heart. Due to its abundant trekking trails, adventure sports, picturesque landscapes, and beautiful attractions, Nepal is one of the ideal winter vacations outside of India.
Not only this, but Nepal is also a famous pilgrimage destination that is home to famous Hindu and Buddhist temples across the country. So if you want to spend time with your family, head to Nepal!
Why in January?
January is the coldest month of the year in Nepal and is perfect for witnessing the towering peaks. The Terai plains, the hills of Kathmandu and Pokhara and the snow-capped Himalayas are a sight to behold in January.
Also, Losar is celebrated for three days starting from the day before Tibetan New Year’s Eve. You can see colorfully decorated monasteries in Nepal and be a part of their rituals.
Places to Visit in Nepal
Go sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Explore the cities of Bhaktapur and Patan.
Enjoy adventure activities in Pokhara.
Enjoy a wildlife safari in the Chitwan National Park.
Go on jungle treks and safaris.
Fly in a helicopter over towering hills.
Enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake.
Witness the great Mount Everest from Gokyo Lake.
Try exciting bungee jumps.
Cross the hidden paths of Siddha Gufa.
Stay in a monastery.
5. Bali, Indonesia – Land of the Gods
Relax on a white sand beach while your kids build a sandcastle. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect vacation plan? The land of endless beaches, Bali in Indonesia is exactly the destination you should visit for a family vacation.
This wonderful country boasts a rich heritage and culture and guarantees to give you the best experience. From busy city areas to secluded beaches, you can get the best of both worlds. From adults to children, Bali offers numerous activities. Explore its popular attractions, including rice fields, wildlife reserves, and impressive temples. So if you are looking for solace amidst the luxury of nature, head to Bali with your family.
Why in January?
Bali in January is low season and therefore, you can enjoy with your family without many crowds. The weather is pleasant, but you can expect heavy rain in the mountains and highlands.
Places to Visit in Bali
Visit a coffee farm.
Enjoy water based activities.
Enjoy the delicious Balinese food.
Get a taste of Bali culture in Ubud, Denpasar, and Kuta.
Relax with a spa.
Visit the Ulun Danu temple.
Enjoy the beautiful sunset at the Tanah Lot temple.
Relax in the Yoga Barn.
Explore the Tabanan rice paddies.
Bathe in the sacred waters of Tirta Empul.
Marvel at the Uluwatu Temple.
Enjoy the night life in Kuta.
6. Maldives – Clear Emerald Waters
Floating on the serene waters of the ocean, the Maldives is one of the perfect places to visit outside of India with the family in January. Take your children to this virgin island and play on its white sand beaches and build sand castles.
Stay in luxurious villas and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. The main attraction of the Maldives is its underwater world of coral reefs and manta rays that will leave you fascinated.
There are plenty of fun-filled activities in the Maldives in January that you can enjoy as a family and create unforgettable memories. From snorkeling to catamaran sailing, the Maldives is the best place to enjoy adventures together.
Why in January?
Visit the Maldives in January with the family for a fun-filled vacation together. Maldives in January experiences the most pleasant weather conditions. The temperature reaches a maximum of 29ºC during the day. It is the perfect weather for snorkeling in the Maldives. You will also see some rain.
Places to Visit in Maldives
Hop on a cruise to enjoy the sunset.
Island hopping in the Maldives.
Witness the sparkling waters on the island of Vaadhoo.
Surf on the gigantic waves of the ocean waters.
Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment.
Treat yourself to a stay in an overwater bungalow.
Dine in an underwater restaurant.
Explore the male city.
Witness the beauty of the island on a helicopter tour.
Get involved in snorkeling.
Play with the dolphins during dolphin watching tours.
Enjoy a banana boat ride together.
Practice kayaking in blue waters.
Enjoy a movie night at Jungle Cinema on Gili Lankanfushi.
7. Malaysia – Diversity of Races, Religions, and Cultures
Do you want to experience the best of culture, food, wildlife, marine life and city life? Malaysia is the perfect place to visit as a family in January outside of India. This country offers exciting experiences for families, regardless of their budget or idea of fun.
Malaysia is a cosmopolitan place with places to go shopping, beautiful architectural sites and entertainment for children. What better place to have fun with the family?
Also, the weather in the Maldives in January is pleasant and allows you to explore islands, mountains, caves and countless temples.
You will also have the opportunity to explore the rich flora and fauna of the jungles of Borneo. Soft sandy beaches and luscious coral reefs make Malaysia one of the top destinations to visit outside of India in January.
Why in January?
During the month of January in Malaysia, the east coast is drenched with heavy rain. You can enjoy a holiday on the west coast of Malaysia as it remains dry. Langkawi, Penang and Pangkor are located on the west coast with lots of sunshine and blue skies.
The Thaipoosam festival is also held at the end of January.
Places to Visit in Malaysia
Visit the 88-story Petronas Twin Towers.
Witness dazzling views of the city from the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower.
Enjoy the lively vibes of Chinatown.
Click pictures with colorful birds at the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.
Take a boat ride in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
Ride a cable car to reach the Langkawi Sky Bridge.
Enjoy a tram ride to Penang Hill.
Explore the picturesque hill station, Cameron Highlands.
Spend time together in the Kinabalu National Park.
Observe the rich marine life at Tanjung Rhu beach.
Take a hot air balloon ride in Putrajaya to see the extraordinary sunrise.
Visit the Perdana Botanical Garden.
8. Egypt – The Country of the Great Pyramids
Egypt may not be your typical tropical paradise, but it is so much more. It gives children and adults the opportunity to learn more about the ancient Egyptian civilization. Visit top tourist attractions in Egypt, including the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
Places like Sharm el-Sheikh are ideal for water activities and Aswan and Luxor to witness the ancient Egyptian temples. Enjoy desert safaris or scuba dive to see world-class coral reefs. Don’t miss the Nile River cruise that offers magnificent views of the country. The stunning temples and tombs make this land of pharaohs one of the best places to explore outside of India in January with the family.
Why in January?
Egypt in January is one of the best times of the year to visit family. The weather is cool in Cairo and around the Nile Delta region. The country remains pleasantly warm with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 18.9°C.
Also, Coptic Christmas is celebrated on January 7 in Egypt, regardless of faith and religion.
Places to Visit in Egypt
Enjoy a camel ride to the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Nile river cruise with dinner
Get a bird’s eye view from the Cairo Tower.
Spend the day viewing a rare collection of Egyptian art.
Visit the Leaning Pyramid.
Witness the sound and light show at the Luxor Temple.
Take a full-day tour of the Nubian Village.
Visit the Royal Jewelry Museum.
Explore the Great Valley of the Kings.
Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut.
Witness the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel.
Look for blessings at the Mohamed Ali Mosque.
Visit the Hanging Church.
Shop for souvenirs at the Khan El Khalili bazaar.
Enjoy a cup of coffee at El-Fishawy Cafe.
Take a bike tour of the west bank of Luxor.
9. Sri Lanka – The ‘Teardrop of India’
Wondering where to go outside of India with the family in January? Sri Lanka is an ideal option. With so many things for kids and parents to do, Sri Lanka is one of the top family destinations outside of India.
This is the ultimate getaway for the kids, providing you with a bag full of fun and excitement. Sri Lanka has fascinating places for children and also many hotspots for adults, which are perfect for a family adventure.
Monuments, national parks, tea plantations and a rich diversity will leave you spellbound on your journey. Not to mention, Sri Lanka is the only country in the world where you can witness the largest mammal on the planet, the elephant. You can also see the largest marine mammal, the blue whale, just in one day!
Why in January?
The weather in Sri Lanka in January is ideal for planning a trip. The temperature is kept around 20°C to 30°C. The days are dry and sunny with minimal rain. In addition, the Thai Pongal Festival is held on January 14. Special poojas are held to worship the sun god and are celebrated with grandeur.
Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Witness vast ocean views from Dutch Fort/Galle Fort.
Get involved with the elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Enjoy an exciting wildlife safari in the Yala West National Park.
Indulge in a whale watching cruise from Galle to Mirissa.
Witness incredible views on a hot air balloon ride in Kandalama.
Explore the tea trails in Ceylon.
Opt for a tour of the Vedda village.
Spend time at the Sigiriya Fortress.
See the turtles at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery.
Explore the streets of Colombo together.
Enjoy a languid boat ride on Beira Lake.
Have a soulful trip to Dambulla cave temple.
Watch the sunset from the Dondra Head Lighthouse.
Relive the history of Sri Lanka at the Sigiriya Museum.
Enjoy fishing with your family in Mirissa.
10. Bhutan – Where Gross Domestic Happiness Matters
One of the best places to visit outside of India in January with the family, Bhutan will impress you with its natural charm, ancient Bhutanese architecture, picturesque landscape, and lush green valleys. For families who love spending time in nature, Bhutan in January is an ideal choice. The weather is cool and you can enjoy wonderful views of the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas. The country is 72% covered by forests, making it a carbon negative country in the world. Visit forts, monasteries, dzongs and the best cities in Bhutan to make your holiday outside India a memorable one. Bhutan is reputed to be the ultimate Shangri La and is the best place for a family vacation outside of India in January.
Why in January?
Bhutan in January is perfect to visit. The weather is cooler and you will get incredible deals on accommodation. Also, during this month, you can witness clear skies and mountain views.
Places to visit in Bhutan
Explore the ancient Buddhist monasteries in Bumthang.
Visit one of the most revered pilgrimage sites, Taktsang Palphug Monastery.
Witness the beauty around Rinpung Dzong.
Admire the exquisite architecture of the ancient Punakha Dzong.
Enjoy a ride together at Dochula Pass.
Stay in a family home for an authentic experience.
Shop for souvenirs at a local market in Thimphu.
Enjoy a dip in the hot springs also called Tshachus in Thimphu.
Witness a huge bronze statue at Buddha Dordenma.
Explore the Chele La pass
Visit Simply Bhutan for an offbeat experience.
Try camping in Bhutan.
Take in the views as you walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge.
Enjoy horse riding.
Witness the colorful birds on a bird watching tour.