Goa, Jaipur rule Republic Day weekend travel destinations this year

Republic Day, January 26, is a Friday this year, and clubbing it with everyone’s favourite days of the week will give you a chance to go on a three-day holiday.

Now, picking the right destination for a short trip is no cakewalk. Things get even more complicated if you are not going solo.

So, what destinations are on top of Indians’ minds this Republic Day?

Krishna Rathi, country director India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives at Agoda, says that the digital travel platform’s search data highlights an interest in diverse destinations that offer a mix of cultural, culinary, and local experiences.

Here are the top 10 destinations Indians are travelling to this Republic Day.

1. Goa

India’s favourite party hub, Goa has emerged as the most searched destination for Republic Day weekend in a survey done by Agoda.

Rajesh Magow, co-founder and group CEO of MakeMyTrip, also feels that Goa remains the leading choice for getaways for the upcoming long weekend.

Apart from its vibrant nightlife, Goa is known for its pristine beaches, alluring forts, and local delicacies. If you are in the mood for a relaxing vacation, head to South Goa and enjoy the sun, sand, and serenity with a glass of your favourite drink in your hand. But if you are a party animal, then North Goa is the place for you.

You can also experience water sports here and try your luck at the casinos. The historic churches in Goa are also a must-visit.

2. Puducherry

The last 30 days’ Google trends for the search term ‘travel’ show Puducherry bagging the second spot.

This coastal haven is also number two on Agoda’s most searched destinations list.

Rajesh Magow also feels that Puducherry is experiencing a remarkable growth in demand.

Puducherry has a lot to offer to travellers. From visiting Auroville to taking a long walk on Paradise beach to saluting soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War at the French War Memorial, you can do all things touristy here. And those who love adventure can also try scuba diving in Puducherry.

3. Jaipur

Jaipur, also known as the pink city, has claimed the third spot on Agoda’s list.

Meanwhile, Rajesh Magow reveals that a higher percentage of the reservations to Jaipur are being made by travellers residing in the western region instead of the north.

Apart from exploring the many historic palaces in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and trying the lip-smacking street food, you can also satisfy your inner shopaholic here by visiting the Bapu Bazaar.

4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

While Lakshadweep is a little out of reach right now due to heavy demand and logistical constraints, people are actually searching for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as per Google trends.

This destination is on top of the list for search terms ‘travel’ and ‘India’ (past 30 days).

There are many picturesque islands here. The Little Andaman island is known to be the best surfing destination in India. Swaraj Dweep island (earlier known as Havelock island), on the other hand, is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, rich coral reefs and lush green forest.

Other popular islands here are Shaheed Dweep (earlier known as Neil Island), Baratang island, Rangat, Mayabunder, Ross Island (officially known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose island) and Great Nicobar.

5. Puri

Rajesh Magow shares that the interest in spiritual tourism has sustained from the long weekend getaway point of view as well. He adds that Puri in Odisha stands out as one of the top choices for religious destinations.

This destination is famous for the Shri Jagannath Temple, which is one of the four dhams. When in Puri, you can also visit the longest golden beach.

Konark, which is a small town in Puri, is quite popular with tourists. It is known for the 13th-century Sun Temple, which is a World Heritage site.

6. Ooty

On Agoda’s most searched destinations list, Ooty in Tamil Nadu takes the fourth slot. The travel company feels that scenic beauty is an important driver for travel preferences this Republic Day weekend.

This resort town is perfect for a relaxing getaway. But if you are in the mood to experience wildlife, Ooty has that to offer as well, with Mudumalai National Park and Deer Park. And we must tell you, Ooty’s rose garden is a sight for sore eyes.

While Ooty’s coffee plantations are quite famous, the Nilgiri tea manufactured here is popular across the country.

7. Mahabaleshwar

This is another hill station that has made it to Agoda’s list. Mahabaleshwar, a small town in Maharashtra, is known for its strawberry farms and view points such as Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head point.

And when in Mahabaleshwar, don’t forget to try the fresh strawberry cream at the Mapro garden.

8. Chandigarh

Chandigarh pops up in the top 10 Google searches for the terms ‘travel’ and ‘travel in India’.

This city, capital of both Punjab and Haryana, is known for its open markets and amazing food. If you are a foodie at heart, you should definitely visit Chandigarh. It is also a good place to shop. You can also visit the rock garden, Sukhna lake and rose garden here.

9. Ayodhya

The whole country came together to welcome Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, on January 22. It is being said that this destination is estimated to draw up to 100 million tourists a year, according to Jefferies analysts. As per MakeMyTrip, Ayodhya is one of the top religious destinations after Puri.

Apart from visiting the Ram Mandir, there is a lot more that you can do in Ayodhya.

When in Ayodhya, you can put Nageshwar Nath Temple, Ram Ki Paidi, Hanuman Garhi, Saryu river and Gulab Bari on your to-visit list.

10. Vrindavan

Uttar Pradesh’s Vrindavan is also a popular religious destination and is MMT-approved. It is believed that Lord Krishna spent his childhood here. Some of the top attractions here are: Prem Mandir, Banke Bihari Temple, Radha Damodar Temple, ISKCON Temple and Radha Kund.

While visiting Vrindavan, keep your belongings close to you as monkeys here are very notorious.

So, where are you planning to travel this Republic Day weekend?