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Where to go in January: the best places to visit In January, it’s safe to say that many of us are daydreaming about our next holiday. Christmas is over, the decorations are coming down, and the UK is firmly in its cold, dark season. Look beyond Europe, and January offers plenty of travel possibilities. You could be swimming in the Indian Ocean, exploring ancient temples in Cambodia, watching wildlife in Ecuador or trekking through the mountains of Chile. And importantly, January doesn't have to be about finding somewhere hot. The best destination depends on what you actually want from your holiday, whether that’s wildlife, beaches, culture, adventure or a combination of all four. Our experts know these destinations inside out, having returned to them countless times, year on year. So, rather than simply telling you where the weather is good, here are the places we think are particularly worth considering in January, and why. These are our top picks on where to go in January Cambodia: temples, countryside and island January is firmly within Cambodia's dry season, making it an excellent month for exploring. Around Siem Reap, cooler, drier conditions make visiting Angkor's temples considerably more comfortable than later in the year. Our Cambodia expert, Fenton, recently explored everything from the famous sights of Angkor Wat to the quieter beaches of Koh Rong island, and everything in between, with his wife and two young children. He says that January is a particularly good time to combine the two sides of Cambodia: a few days exploring its history and culture before heading south for some sunshine. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Cambodia is a great standalone destination, often demoted to a ‘city break’ to tag on to a trip to a neighbouring country. Spend a bit of extra time here, and you will be rewarded with wildlife encounters, unforgettable scenery, delicious food, and the smiles of a nation. [name] => Fenton [location] => HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Cambodia is a great standalone destination, often demoted to a ‘city break’ to tag on to a trip to a neighbouring country. Spend a bit of extra time here, and you will be rewarded with wildlife encounters, unforgettable scenery, delicious food, and the smiles of a nation. Fenton HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. ” And don't overlook the food. Cambodian cuisine is still strangely underrated, despite being every bit as interesting as its better-known neighbours. Our expert's personal verdict is Fish Amok for seafood lovers, or Beef Lok Lak if you're after something richer and peppery. Taken by HA Cambodia specialist Lisa during the Angkor Cycling Tour. Sri Lanka: January sunshine on the south and west coasts If you're searching for where to go in January, Sri Lanka will probably come up near the top of the list, and for good reason. January brings some of the best weather to the island's south and west, with warm, sunny days that make it a brilliant time for beaches, wildlife, tea country, and cultural sightseeing. But there's something you won't always read in a generic “best time to visit Sri Lanka” guide: January will also be exceptionally busy. Our specialist Rebecca said that It's not just the beaches that feel it. The national parks, tea plantations and cultural sites can all be busy, and in some of Sri Lanka's smaller hill towns and national parks, there are only a handful of places to stay. Once those rooms are gone, there's very little flexibility. That's especially true if you're after the smaller, characterful hotels we love recommending. The difference between finding the right place to stay and having to compromise can come down to when you book and, sometimes, which month you choose. (Pst, we have just written about some of our favourite Sri Lankan hotels if you fancy taking a peek: "The best sustainable hotels in Sri Lanka".) So, would we rule out January? Absolutely not. Sri Lanka is still a wonderful choice, and we'd happily recommend it for 2028. But if you're flexible on dates, we'd probably point you towards this March instead. You'll still get excellent conditions across the south and west, but with a little more breathing room. And that can make a real difference when you're travelling around an island where some of the most special experiences and places to stay are deliberately small-scale. It's a good example of why we don't think there is a single answer to “When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?” The best month depends on what you want to do, where you want to go and how you want to travel. So, if you've got Sri Lanka on your January shortlist, talk to our experts. They can look at your dates, the experiences you're after, and the types of places you would like to stay in, and tell you honestly whether January is right for you or whether shifting the trip by a few weeks could give you a better experience. Views of KK Beach, Galle, taken by HA's Head of Marketing, Gabs. The Maldives: a proper winter escape January is peak season in the Maldives, with the warmest and driest weather, which is why the price point tends to be much higher. The northeast monsoon generally brings the dry-season conditions that people picture when they imagine the Maldives: sunshine, warm temperatures and beautifully clear water. It's a particularly good time for snorkelling, diving and getting out on the water. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => There is nothing better than finishing a Sri Lankan adventure with a few nights on a tiny island. [name] => Gabrielle Morley-Ham [location] => HA Head of Marketing [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ There is nothing better than finishing a Sri Lankan adventure with a few nights on a tiny island. Gabrielle Morley-Ham HA Head of Marketing ” On her most recent research trip with our specialist Rebecca, she said, “After the amazing rush of temples, wildlife and road journeys. Then being able to move on to nothing more complicated than a stroll along the beach or enjoying a glass of wine in the jacuzzi. It feels like mental preparation before having to head home to face the post-holiday blues!” January is one of the most popular times to travel to the Maldives, particularly around New Year, so keep in mind that the best resorts and room categories can disappear quite quickly. HA's Gabs watching the sunset from the jacuzzi in the Maldives. India: the classics and wildlife According to India specialist Clare, January has a classic North India itinerary written all over it. The monsoon has long gone, and the worst of the summer heat is still a long way off, making places such as Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur far more comfortable to explore. But January isn't simply about pleasant temperatures; you can actually enjoy the places you're travelling so far to see. You can spend more time wandering through Rajasthan's forts and markets, explore the Taj Mahal without the oppressive summer heat, and make time for the smaller experiences that can get lost when you're rushing between major sights. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Take a guided walk through the town at the right time of the day; the scene is something else. The farmers have returned from the fields, women are busy in their homes, and the shopkeepers have opened their doors. Production has started in the cotton mills, and the cows are returning home in the evening from their day of grazing. [name] => Clare Burkey [location] => HA Destination Manager, India. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Take a guided walk through the town at the right time of the day; the scene is something else. The farmers have returned from the fields, women are busy in their homes, and the shopkeepers have opened their doors. Production has started in the cotton mills, and the cows are returning home in the evening from their day of grazing. Clare Burkey HA Destination Manager, India. ” And this is where our specialists' first-hand knowledge really comes into play… Clare returned from her most recent trip and makes a brilliant point about slowing down rather than trying to cover the whole country. India is enormous, and she recommends spending at least two nights in each location because journeys often take longer than expected. Her newest article focuses entirely on how to begin mapping out a trip to Rajasthan. She highlights the hidden gems she likes to sprinkle into an itinerary after locking in the major cities, such as her visit to Ramathra Fort, which she describes as “pretty unique, totally unexpected, off the beaten track, and preserved from development.” Read the blog here: "Where to go in Rajasthan" Taken by HA's specialist, Clare, of her son meeting the elephants at Dera Amer. Tanzania: calving season, green landscapes and quieter safaris Tanzania in January can be overlooked in favour of the famous June–September safari season, but our Tanzania specialist, Cat, has a very good reason to put it on your radar. Calving season begins in January. Across the Serengeti, zebras, wildebeest and antelope begin giving birth, making it one of the most fascinating times of year to be on safari! And, naturally, where there are thousands of newborn animals, predators aren't far away… Another little extra that January brings is the occasional shower that keeps the landscape green and clears the dust from the air, resulting in beautifully crisp conditions for photography. Temperatures are also pleasant, and compared with the huge rush of June to September, January can feel considerably more relaxed. So while the Great Migration's dramatic river crossings get most of the attention, in January you can witness new life arriving across the plains, green landscapes, and predators keeping a close eye on the herds. For keen wildlife photographers in particular, this is a month worth talking to our Tanzania specialists about. And if you're considering a Tanzania safari followed by some winter sun with time on the beach, January also works beautifully for combining the Serengeti with Zanzibar. Cat's January tip: “Don't overlook the quieter dry season. The migration is a year-round phenomenon, and January gives you a very different and incredibly rewarding perspective on it.” A little zebra foal in Tanzania. Chile: summer in Patagonia January is peak summer in Chile , and if Patagonia is high on your list, this is one of the months when conditions are most convenient. By this, we mean longer days give you more time outside, trails are open, and it is the season for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the dramatic landscapes of the south. But there is a catch: January is busy. Chile's most famous areas, particularly Patagonia and Torres del Paine, can be considerably more expensive and harder to book during their summer months. So if space and quieter trails matter to you, we'd look at the shoulder seasons instead, which are just as fulfilling. If you do travel in January, planning ahead is essential, but it really is an excellent time to travel. You can combine the south with the Atacama Desert, Santiago, wine country or even Easter Island, creating a trip that feels completely different from beginning to end. On Louise’s most recent trip, she spent three weeks exploring Chile from top to bottom. Visiting coastal towns, wineries, and trendy neighbourhoods in the capital. She travelled solo through the scenic Lake District, passing volcanoes, araucaria forests, and islands. Then went far south to Torres del Paine, seeing wildlife, glaciers, granite peaks, and ranches. Finishing in the Atacama Desert, admiring lunar landscapes, more volcanoes, salt flats, and flamingo-dotted lakes. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => High summer is December- February, which is peak holiday season for locals; the capital city and desert are very hot. Although you absolutely have to expect four seasons in a day in Patagonia – at any time of year! [name] => Louise Mumford [location] => HA Destination Manager. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ High summer is December- February, which is peak holiday season for locals; the capital city and desert are very hot. Although you absolutely have to expect four seasons in a day in Patagonia – at any time of year! Louise Mumford HA Destination Manager. ” Lou's advice: if January is your only option, don't let the high season put you off; just get in touch early and secure your Chilean adventure. Ha's Lou in Castro, Chiloé Island. Ecuador & the Galápagos : wildlife above and below the water January is an interesting time to visit Ecuador , particularly if you're planning to combine the mainland with the Galápagos Islands. It's the beginning of the warmer, wetter season in the Galápagos, which can actually make it a particularly interesting time for wildlife lovers. The lovely warm water and calmer seas are perfect for snorkelling and swimming. You can count on eastern and northern routes for the best clarity when snorkelling. Our Galápagos specialist Dawn says it’s the best time to see marine iguanas grazing underwater and Green sea turtles nesting on the warm beaches. On the Ecuadorian mainland, you can combine the Galápagos with Quito, the Andes, or the Amazon, creating a truly varied trip that lets you hop from one environment to another. A useful little timing tip: if you can travel in the second half of January, you're avoiding the Christmas and New Year rush. Visitor numbers begin to ease, and availability can improve, while you still retain the characteristics that make this season so appealing. Aditionally, Galápagos cruises do need to be planned well in advance, particularly if you have a particular boat or cabin in mind. Llama in Equador, taken by HA's specialist, Dawn. Argentina : wildlife, wine and long summer days January is high summer in Argentina, like Chile, making it a particularly good month for exploring Patagonia and getting properly outdoors. Argentina isn't a destination we'd recommend simply because January is warm. In January, you can make the most of the country's huge landscapes. Patagonia is great this time of year for walking and exploring, while around Mendoza, the vineyards are green and the wine valleys come alive in the summer. And there are plenty of ways to make a trip to Argentina feel much more personal than simply ticking off Buenos Aires, Iguazú, and Patagonia. Our specialist Louise, says that La Bamba de Areco, around two hours from Buenos Aires, is a particularly lovely addition. “A relaxed estancia where guests can ride with gauchos at any level. Watch a horse whisperer at work, take cooking classes, swim, walk and experience traditional asado”. Lou recommends two nights here at the end of a trip as a chance to slow down before travelling back home. There's also the atmosphere of Buenos Aires itself. Louise describes it as “a beautiful, clean, laid-back city” that works particularly well on foot, with weekends bringing the parks, Recoleta and La Boca to life. One thing to know: January is a popular time to travel to Argentina, particularly for Patagonia, so the best accommodation and experiences can book up well in advance. HA's Lou horse riding in Argentina. So, where should you go in January? You have so many options for where to go on holiday in January. You could be walking through Rajasthan one week and snorkelling in the Maldives the next, exploring the temples of Cambodia, hiking beneath the mountains of Patagonia or heading over to the Galápagos to see wildlife found nowhere else. The important thing is that January doesn't work equally well everywhere. Some destinations are at their absolute best, some are busy and need planning well ahead, and others become considerably more appealing if you travel later in the month. That's where our specialists come in. They don't just know when a destination can be visited; they know what it actually feels like to be there at that time of year, which places are worth your time, where to slow down, and what is worth booking early. Thinking about getting away in January for some much-needed winter sun? Talk to one of our travel specialists, and we'll help you work out where makes the most sense for you. Holidays at their best this January Need to escape this January? Chat with one of our experts today to start planning your next getaway this January. ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

Stand on the ramparts of Mehrangarh Fort as the sun drops behind Jodhpur's blue-washed rooftops, and Rajasthan stops being a place on a map. It becomes somewhere you'll spend the next few months trying to describe properly to friends and family once you get back home. It's special. That's the trouble with Rajasthan : everyone wants to see all of it, and almost nobody has the time. It's the largest state in India, and a single transfer between two "must-see" cities can swallow most of a day. Which is exactly why, at the start of every planning conversation, I hear the same question: where should I actually go? There's no single right answer. It comes down to how much time you have, and what tempts you: palaces, wildlife, desert silence, or the quieter villages most visitors never reach. Jaswant Thada cenotaph and Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur What I can offer, after years spent building routes through this state and plenty more exploring it for myself, is a proper answer rather than a guidebook shortcut. Because a template can get you to the right cities. It takes someone who has actually stood in them, in the heat, in the low-season quiet, in the thick of a camel fair crowd, to tell you which two nights matter more than three, and which quiet village is worth reshaping a whole route for. That's what you're trusting us with when you book through Holiday Architects: not a 'buy-one-fits-all holiday', but a tailored trip designed by a destination expert who has genuinely been there. If you're considering where to go in Rajasthan, below is where I'd start: the classic circuit that earns its reputation for good reason, followed by the lesser-known stops I love sprinkling in once the big city stays are booked. The Classic Rajasthan circuit These are the places that turn up on almost every Rajasthan holiday itinerary, and quite rightly so. Each one is more than worth the visit. The tricky bit is knowing how long to give each city, how to piece the route together, and where to build in a quieter breather in between. Jaipur: the Pink City Jaipur is where most Rajasthan itineraries kick off, and it's a strong opener. In 1876, the old city was painted head to toe in a warm terracotta pink to welcome the visiting Prince of Wales, and the colour never really faded, from the walls or from the city's sense of itself. Wander the bazaars around Hawa Mahal, the honeycombed "Palace of Winds" built so the women of the royal household could watch the street below without being seen themselves, and you'll catch that pink turning almost gold as the afternoon light drops. The impressive Amber Fort, Jaipur Amber Fort, on a hilltop just outside the city, is the other unmissable stop: mirrored halls, elephant-lined courtyards and views that roll out over the surrounding hills. Add the City Palace, still home to Jaipur's royal family, and the old city's bazaars for block-printed textiles and jewellery, and two or three days disappear here without you noticing. How much time: two to three days, more if you want to shop properly in the bazaars or add in a block printing workshop or a cooking class with a local family. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => A note from Clare: tackle Amber Fort first thing. You'll get better light for photographs, and you'll have the mirrored Sheesh Mahal largely to yourself before the coach tours arrive mid-morning. [name] => Clare, India Destination Manager [location] => [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ A note from Clare: tackle Amber Fort first thing. You'll get better light for photographs, and you'll have the mirrored Sheesh Mahal largely to yourself before the coach tours arrive mid-morning. Clare, India Destination Manager ” Hawa Mahal, Jaipur Jodhpur: the Blue City The magic of Jodhpur makes itself known before you've even arrived. Mehrangarh Fort rises straight out of solid rock above the old town, and from its ramparts the city below resolves into a sea of blue-washed houses stretching to the horizon, a colour one story ties to the homes of local Brahmin families, though these days it simply is the skyline. View of Mehrangarh Fort, from Old City, taken by Clare The fort itself is one of the best-run and most engaging in Rajasthan, with a genuinely excellent audio guide, beautifully opulent palace rooms and enough walking involved to really earn the rooftop view at the end. Below it, the old city's lanes are built for wandering: spice shops stacked with red chilli and turmeric, textile stalls, and rooftop cafés where the fort seems to follow you from table to table. How much time: two days is enough to do Mehrangarh justice and explore the old city at an easy pace. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to visit in February, you’ll have timed your trip perfectly to witness the yearly Sacred Spirit Festival with its mesmerising backdrop of Mehrangarh Fort. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => A note from Clare: Not to be missed are the quieter villages home to Bisnoi tribals, just 40 minutes away from Jodhpur. Using the city as your base you can explore the edges of the Thar Desert without having to go further west. [name] => Clare, India Destination Manager [location] => [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ A note from Clare: Not to be missed are the quieter villages home to Bisnoi tribals, just 40 minutes away from Jodhpur. Using the city as your base you can explore the edges of the Thar Desert without having to go further west. Clare, India Destination Manager ” Walking tour of Jodhpur, taken by Clare Udaipur: the City of Lakes Udaipur is arguably the most romantic place in Rajasthan, and when you visit you’ll understand why. Lake Pichola sits at the heart of the city, ringed by palaces and havelis, the City Palace rising along one shore and the Lake Palace that almost appears to float on the water itself. It's a city that’s the perfect spot to take a bit of a breather: an evening boat ride as the palaces catch the last of the light, a wander through the old town's narrow lanes, or simply watching the colour drain out of the sky over the water from a rooftop restaurant, in no particular hurry to move on. How much time: two to three days, and it's a lovely place to build in a slower final stretch of a longer trip. Beautiful sunset boatride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan Jaisalmer: the Golden City Jaisalmer sits right at the edge of the Thar Desert, and its fort is what sets it apart from the rest of Rajasthan. Unlike most Indian forts, now empty monuments kept for visitors, Jaisalmer Fort is still lived in, with homes, shops and guesthouses tucked inside its honey-coloured sandstone walls, which is why it's often called India's only "living fort." Cenotaph on Gadsisar lake, Jaisalmer Beyond the fort, Jaisalmer is your gateway to the desert. Dune bashing adventures or a camel safari out on the dunes, ideally timed for sunset, followed by dinner eaten under the enormous sky, is one of the most memorable ways to end a day anywhere in Rajasthan. How much time: two days for the fort and old city, plus a night in the desert if you can fit it in. If you’re visiting in February, don’t miss the Jaisalmer Desert Festival! Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => A note from Clare: the desert camps closest to the main road can get busy and noisy in high season. It's worth asking us which camps sit further out, the difference in atmosphere after dark is enormous. [name] => Clare, India Destination Manager [location] => [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ A note from Clare: the desert camps closest to the main road can get busy and noisy in high season. It's worth asking us which camps sit further out, the difference in atmosphere after dark is enormous. Clare, India Destination Manager ” Clare taking in the sunset at Kuldhara, Jaisalmer Pushkar: the holy town Pushkar is a change of pace again: a small, laid-back town built around a sacred lake, with more than fifty ghats leading down to the water. It's home to one of the few Brahma temples in the world, and pilgrims and travellers mix easily in its lanes of cafés, bangle stalls and rooftop terraces. Once a year, usually in October or November, Pushkar hosts its famous camel fair, when traders bring thousands of camels and cattle into town and the whole place turns into one enormous, dusty celebration. Outside of fair season, it's simply a gentle, easy town to spend a day or two in, all bells and incense drifting up from the ghats at dawn. How much time: one to two days, longer if your trip can be timed to coincide with the fair. Pushkar, Rajasthan, India Nagaur: the fort you can sleep inside Nagaur rarely makes the standard Rajasthan trail, and that's exactly why I love recommending it. Ideally placed between Jaisalmer and Jaipur or Jodhpur, it slots into the classic circuit as a natural overnight stop rather than a detour, and the incredible Ahhichatragarh Fort is reason enough on its own to build a night around it. The fort is a huge complex of courtyards, painted rooms and clever water channels, all lovingly restored by the Mehrangarh Museum Trust. Unlike Rajasthan's more famous forts, you'll likely have entire courtyards to yourself, time to really look at the wall paintings and fountains rather than being swept along in a crowd towards the next room. How much time: one night is enough to explore the fort without rushing, though it might be tempting to stay longer once you see where you're sleeping. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => A note from Clare: I love Nagaur, and the icing on the cake is Ranvas. Ten restored havelis tucked away inside the fort itself, once home to the Ranis of Maharaja Bakht Singh, now a boutique hotel with a courtyard pool and two excellent restaurants. Waking up inside the fort you explored the evening before is a genuinely different kind of morning. [name] => Clare, India Destination Manager [location] => [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ A note from Clare: I love Nagaur, and the icing on the cake is Ranvas. Ten restored havelis tucked away inside the fort itself, once home to the Ranis of Maharaja Bakht Singh, now a boutique hotel with a courtyard pool and two excellent restaurants. Waking up inside the fort you explored the evening before is a genuinely different kind of morning. Clare, India Destination Manager ” Clare, enjoying high tea at Ranvas, Nagaur Fort Ranthambore: tigers in the ruins Ranthambore National Park is Rajasthan's best-known wildlife stop, and one of India's most reliable places to see a wild tiger. The national park was once a royal hunting ground, and the ruins of Ranthambore Fort still stand within its boundaries, lending the safaris here a sense of history most tiger reserves simply don't have. Sightings are never guaranteed; that's the nature of wildlife, but the park's mix of lakes, forest and open grassland makes for a rewarding couple of safaris even on a quieter day, when the tigers stay hidden and the birdlife and ruins do the talking instead. How much time: two nights, giving you two or three safaris to improve your chances. Tiger sighting in Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan Beyond the classic route Once the classic circuit is planned in and we're making sure you're seeing all the 'not-to-miss highlights', this is where I love adding in something quieter and a bit different. These stops don't need much time, but they change the entire feel of a trip. Bundi Journey between Udaipur and Ranthambore, and you’ll find Bundi , Rajasthan's town of stepwells. With more than fifty of them sunk into its streets, and a fort that inspired Rudyard Kipling, it’s really worth a visit. Plus, it gets a fraction of the visitors of Rajasthan's better-known forts, which is exactly why it's worth the detour. Chandelao A short detour from Jodhpur, is where you'll find Sunder Rang, a small crafts centre supporting local women through fair wages and traditional skills. It's a lovely, low-key way to meet people rather than just monuments. Here's Clare meeting the lovely ladies on her most recent trip, read more about what she got up to here. Jojawar Between Jodhpur and Udaipur is one of my own favourite stops: a small town where a late-afternoon village walk gives you a far closer look at everyday Rajasthani life than any of the bigger cities can. This wonderful photo of a local Jojowar lady was taken by Clare on her latest visit, read more here. The Valley Queen Nicknamed the Monkey Train , is a heritage railway that winds through the Aravalli Hills between Marwar Junction and Khamli Ghat. It pairs naturally with a stay in Jojawar, and it's one of the most memorable few hours you can spend on a Rajasthan itinerary. There's me enjoying the ride on the right! Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => A note from Clare: these are the stops that separate a good Rajasthan trip from one you'll talk about for years. None of them are hard to reach, they just need someone who knows they exist and where they fit, which is exactly what a genuine conversation with your destination expert is for. [name] => Clare, India Destination Manager [location] => [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ A note from Clare: these are the stops that separate a good Rajasthan trip from one you'll talk about for years. None of them are hard to reach, they just need someone who knows they exist and where they fit, which is exactly what a genuine conversation with your destination expert is for. Clare, India Destination Manager ” Rajasthan holidays Clare recommends How to build a Rajasthan itinerary A good Rajasthan holiday usually needs ten to fourteen days to cover the classic circuit properly without feeling like you’re rushing through bits, though it can flex shorter or longer depending on what else you’d like to see during your time in India. A typical route might run Jaipur to Jodhpur to Udaipur, with Jaisalmer, Pushkar, Bikaner or Ranthambore added depending on how much time you have and whether desert, wildlife or pilgrimage sites interest you most. Weaving in a night in Nagaur, a village stop in Chandelao or two nights in Jojawar breaks up the longer drives and adds real texture between the big-name stops. Because every Holiday Architects itinerary is built around a real conversation about what you actually want from your trip, not a fixed template, there's no single "correct" route. Tell me you'd rather skip the desert and spend longer with the tigers, or that a village stay matters more to you than another fort, and your Rajasthan itinerary will reflect that. Frequently asked questions about Rajasthan holidays How many days do you need in Rajasthan? Ten to fourteen days is enough to cover the classic circuit at a comfortable pace, with time for one or two quieter stops along the way. A shorter trip can still work well if you focus on two or three destinations rather than trying to fit in everything. When is the best time to visit Rajasthan? October to March is generally the most comfortable, with cooler daytime temperatures than the intense summer heat. Winter mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cold, especially in the desert, so it's worth packing layers. Where's the best place to start? Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur, often called the 'golden triangle plus', offer forts, palaces and lakes within a manageable route and work really well as a first trip to the region; the perfect introduction. Can you combine Rajasthan's cities with quieter villages and wildlife? Yes, and it's exactly what I'd recommend. Stops like Nagaur, Chandelao and Jojawar, or a couple of nights at Ranthambore, add real variety to a Rajasthan itinerary without requiring you to give up any of the classic sights. Do I need a guide in Rajasthan? A good local guide makes a real difference, particularly in the forts and at quieter village stops, where a bit of context turns a nice photo into a proper understanding of what you're looking at. We build guides into every Holiday Architects itinerary where they add the most value. Local life in Jodhpur, Rajasthan Fancy exploring Rajasthan for yourself? Choosing where to go in Rajasthan rewards a bit of planning. The classic circuit gives you the forts, palaces and markets that make the state famous, and the quieter stops in between give you the conversation, authentic moments and slower mornings that tend to be what people remember most. Anyone can hand you a list of places to visit. What you're really choosing, when you plan a trip like this, is who you trust to have actually been there: to know which fort to see at dawn, which desert camp to avoid, which village is worth the detour. I’m lucky enough to be able to live and breathe India as Holiday Architects' India Destination Manager every day, and I’d love to use all that passion and knowledge to help design days in Rajasthan that are perfect for you. Why not explore Rajasthan? Contact Clare now if you'd like to chat more about your India holiday ideas. Written by Clare Burkey, HA Destination Manager, India. ZEN_HOLIDAY_PACK_YOUR_BAGS ZEN_HOLIDAY_SPEAK_TO_SPECIALIST ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

For some people it’s about escaping grey skies and finding warmth before winter properly settles in. For others it’s about celebrating Christmas somewhere extraordinary, taking a big family trip, or squeezing in one last adventure before the year disappears. That’s why we don’t think a December holiday should be chosen from a generic “hot places in winter” list. The best trips at this time of year are the ones that feel meaningful, the places that make you pause, look around and think, “I’m really glad we chose this.” Our specialists have been sharing their recent experiences and honest advice, and these are the destinations they’d put at the top of their lists to end the year on a high. These are our top picks on where to go in December Sri Lanka: sunshine, wildlife and a tropical festive season If someone asked us for a single destination that combines beaches, wildlife, culture and excellent December weather, Sri Lanka would be very close to the top of the list. Our Sri Lanka specialist, Rebecca, said that the south and southwest coasts are at their best now, with dry, sunny days and warm seas that make beach stays very tempting. You can spend the morning watching fishermen haul in their catch, spend an afternoon by the pool, and eat traditional curries at dinner as the air cools down for the evening. What makes Sri Lanka so lovely in December is that there is so much to do. A Christmas trip could include tea country, ancient temples, leopard safaris and a few lazy days by the Indian Ocean; Sri Lanka’s your oyster! Dawn, our Sri Lanka specialist, always looks forward to visiting in December. She shared a story from one of her trips that sums up what makes Sri Lanka stand out from other places for winter sun. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => After a few films were watched, a good sleep was had before arriving the next day into a very hot Sri Lanka, leaving the memories of the cold, dark and wet behind me, it was as though I could breathe again, and a huge smile creeped onto my face. [name] => Dawn Smith [location] => HA Destination Manager, Sri Lanka. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ After a few films were watched, a good sleep was had before arriving the next day into a very hot Sri Lanka, leaving the memories of the cold, dark and wet behind me, it was as though I could breathe again, and a huge smile creeped onto my face. Dawn Smith HA Destination Manager, Sri Lanka. ” That sense of surprise is one of Sri Lanka’s most wonderful traits; wildlife encounters often happen when you least expect them, whether it’s elephants crossing a road or monkeys trying to steal your breakfast. Our specialists do give one important piece of advice: book early. December, especially Christmas and New Year, is one of the busiest times of the year in Sri Lanka, and the most characterful hotels fill up quickly. For couples wanting a tad of warmth to break up winter with a little culture, and for families looking for a trip that offers more than just a beach break, Sri Lanka is hard to beat. HA Sri Lanka specialist, Rebecca, with Nadeeka (left), our on-the-ground sales agent, and Hasheema (Right). Cambodia: temples at sunrise and afternoons on the island December is one of the loveliest months to visit Cambodia. The dry season is in full swing, temperatures are warm rather than crippling, and skies are most often beautifully clear. That matters most at Angkor, where early starts are part of the magic. If you wake around 4:30 AM to reach the main reflection ponds by 5:15 AM (We know you’re meant to be on your holidays, but stay with us!), you’ll get to see the iconic lotus towers turn from dark silhouettes to a vibrant red and gold backdrop. Watching the first light spread across the temples is a glorious start to your morning. What many travellers don’t realise is that Cambodia also works brilliantly as a two-centre holiday. After a few days exploring Angkor’s temples, markets and meeting the elephants, you can head to the southern islands for white sand, turquoise water and a bit of downtime. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => The Royal Sands on Koh Rong island is a certified paradise, and no amount of photos can do it justice. White sand, turquoise seas, impeccable service from every lovely, smiling member of staff, and an attention to detail that makes you never want to leave. It’s not the cheapest place to stay on the island, but it is worth every penny. [name] => Fenton [location] => HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ The Royal Sands on Koh Rong island is a certified paradise, and no amount of photos can do it justice. White sand, turquoise seas, impeccable service from every lovely, smiling member of staff, and an attention to detail that makes you never want to leave. It’s not the cheapest place to stay on the island, but it is worth every penny. Fenton HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. ” A heads-up: As with Sri Lanka, December is high season, so the best boutique hotels and island properties are usually booked well in advance. Taken by HA Cambodia specialist, Lisa, whilst relaxing by the pool at the Six Senses Krabey Island. South India: a gentler kind of winter sun If your idea of a December holiday is less about adventure and ticking off sights and more about slowing down and recharging, South India is a wonderful choice. In Kerala, the monsoon has passed, and the weather is drier, warm and settled. There is a leisurely tempo, and the weather makes it glorious to see the houseboats sail through the backwaters beneath coconut palms and to visit the lush, green tea plantations. Our India specialist, Clare, is particularly keen on December for travellers looking for a relaxed yet enjoyable trip. A key takeaway from her last trip, she said: Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Travel around India has become much easier. Flights, trains and roads have improved hugely, making remote areas far more accessible than they used to be. I also saw how changing weather patterns are affecting when and where I’d recommend clients travel. And perhaps most of all, it reinforced that India works best when you slow down – spend less time rushing and more time in each place. [name] => Clare Burkey [location] => HA Destination Manager, India. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Travel around India has become much easier. Flights, trains and roads have improved hugely, making remote areas far more accessible than they used to be. I also saw how changing weather patterns are affecting when and where I’d recommend clients travel. And perhaps most of all, it reinforced that India works best when you slow down – spend less time rushing and more time in each place. Clare Burkey HA Destination Manager, India. ” Clare has just written about the hidden spots that are all too often missed from India holiday itineraries. Finding these secret spots is what made her journey “truly unforgettable”, and we think they might just do the same for yours. Read her most recent blog here: Clare's three weeks in India. Taken by HA specialist, Clare, during her stay at Coconut Lagoon, on the Vembanad Lake. Namibia: a quieter but more adventurous Christmas Yes, it’s very hot, often well into the 30s, and there may be dramatic afternoon showers. But those showers are usually only brief, and the landscape can feel wonderfully alive when it rains. The advantage is that December is low season. Lodges are quieter, availability is often better, and there is a bit more ‘elbow room’ (a silly saying when talking about vast Africa, we know). Still, in high season it can start to feel quite busy, so going when it's a little quieter is a nice way to experience it, almost like you have the safari all to yourself. For travellers who don’t mind the heat, this can make an extraordinary Christmas escape. Imagine waking to vast desert horizons, spending the hottest part of the day by the pool, then heading out in the late afternoon as the light turns golden across the dunes. There’s also a chance of seeing newborn wildlife if the rain comes early, bringing a whole new layer to the safari, as you can't deny that seeing little baby elephants would completely make your holiday! Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Both trips with HA to Namibia have been extremely well organised and matched our requests spot on. The in-country ground agents are also superb, and I thoroughly recommend HA. We are planning our trip back to Namibia again for next year, hopefully with a bit of Botswana added in this time! [name] => HB [location] => Returning HA client. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Both trips with HA to Namibia have been extremely well organised and matched our requests spot on. The in-country ground agents are also superb, and I thoroughly recommend HA. We are planning our trip back to Namibia again for next year, hopefully with a bit of Botswana added in this time! HB Returning HA client. ” Namibia suits travellers who like the idea of doing Christmas a tad differently, a little less tinsel, more stars. HA specialist, Kirsty, with Charlotte, our ground agent in Namibia, at the Fish River Canyon. Morocco: winter sunshine with Christmas-y snow in the Atlas Morocco isn’t beach-hot in December, but it’s often pleasantly mild during the day and can feel wonderfully sunny compared to the cold, dark winters we get here in the UK. One of the things our Morocco specialist, Rebecca, said they love most about Morocco at this time of year is the contrast. You can be wandering through the ochre alleys of Marrakech in a light jacket, then look up and see snow on the Atlas Mountains. It’s a great month for a bit of city exploration, mountain scenery and long, leisurely lunches on sunny terraces. Evenings are cooler, so layers are essential, but that slight crispness makes you feel ​​frosty and cosy when enjoying dinners and hot mint tea on lantern-lit rooftops in the square. Our Trade Sales Manager, Emma, who used to be an HA Morocco specialist up until recently, says, “If you are in Tangier , you must visit La Terrasse Dar El Kasbah . It’s a peaceful rooftop and outdoor terrace spot set near Africa's first telegraph; they serve deliciously authentic, fresh Moroccan dishes. It is just a warm and lovely experience.” For travellers wanting a short-haul escape with culture, colour and a hint of wintriness, Morocco is a strong December contender. Our Morocco specialist, Rebecca, said there feels like a real turning point for Morocco holidays, with the announcement this year of new direct flights to Rabat and Tangier. Read more about why Northern Morocco is looking to be huge this year here. HA Rebecca and HA Kim, with their rep Hamid, during their Fez el-Jadid tour. Jordan: Petra without the hustle and bustle December isn’t the classic Jordan travel brochure month, and our Middle East specialists Cat and Ian are honest about that. Petra is far quieter than in spring and autumn; the desert landscapes are so dramatic beneath the wintry skies, and the whole country is calmer and still. It is especially quiet at the moment; recent news coverage has understandably prompted some questions. The good news is that our specialists, Ian and Cat, have been speaking directly with their partners on the ground, who confirm that life and travel continue as normal. Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Amman remain peaceful, welcoming visitors and operating without disruption. As Cat explains here, now is actually a wonderful time to visit. With fewer visitors than usual, many of Jordan's extraordinary places can be enjoyed at a quieter pace. At the same time, your visit continues to support the local people and communities who make travel here so special. “So go now, before it gets too busy, and everyone jumps back on the Jordan bandwagon.” - Cat. This is the side of Jordan for travellers who want to hear their footsteps echo through dramatic Petra rather than shuffle through a crowd, elbow to elbow. Taken by HA Hels, of the carvings in the sandstone cliffs in Petra. Chile: big landscapes before the year ends December is peak season in Chile, and for good reason. Patagonia is open, daylight stretches long into the evening, and conditions are excellent for exploring the south. It’s also one of the best times to combine Patagonia with Easter Island, creating a trip of a lifetime by pairing the dramatic, raw wilderness of South America's southern peaks and glaciers with the isolation and ancient mystery of Rapa Nui's giant stone statues in a single journey. Visit the breathtaking Torres del Paine, our Chile expert, Lou says: Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Anyone who loves scenery and wildlife, whether that's walking, riding, or just taking in the views of the glaciers and mountains, will be very happy to be here. You don’t need to stay in the park itself, and there are some of my favourite lodges on its outskirts, but you certainly should take some time to hike, ride or join a 4x4 driving safari to see this simply beautiful landscape. The photos will NEVER do justice to this amazing place. [name] => Louise Mumford [location] => HA Destination Manager. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Anyone who loves scenery and wildlife, whether that's walking, riding, or just taking in the views of the glaciers and mountains, will be very happy to be here. You don’t need to stay in the park itself, and there are some of my favourite lodges on its outskirts, but you certainly should take some time to hike, ride or join a 4x4 driving safari to see this simply beautiful landscape. The photos will NEVER do justice to this amazing place. Louise Mumford HA Destination Manager. ” Because it’s such a popular period, our specialists are emphatic about booking early. Flights, lodges and guides in Patagonia can fill up many months in advance. HA Gabs, on the Prat Fjord hike from Remota Lodge, Patagonia. December holidays are important. Maybe because they arrive at the end of the year, and it is your big holiday of the year. Maybe it’s the present of a lifetime that you are gifting your family for Christmas. Maybe it’s because they’re tied to your family's traditions. Whatever the reason, if you’re thinking about a December holiday, choose the place that feels like the right ending to your year. That’s exactly what our specialists are here to help with. Get in touch today to secure your winter getaway. Whether you're sunning it up on the beach or having an adventure through the mountains, we can’t wait to see where you’ll choose. Holidays at their best this December Where are you jetting off to this December? Chat to one of our experts today to design a December holiday, especially made for you. ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS