Republic Day 2026 Long Weekend Travel — Best Places to Enjoy With Friends & Family
The Republic Day long weekend in 2026 (January 24–26, with Monday, January 26, being a holiday) presents the perfect opportunity for a refreshing break with friends and family. Whether you’re craving mountain views, cultural experiences, wildlife adventures, or peaceful beach escapes, the long weekend provides enough time for travel around India without rushing. Here’s a curated list of top travel ideas and destinations to make the most of this extended break.
1. Rishikesh & Haridwar - Nature, Spirituality & Adventure
For travellers from North India, Rishikesh and Haridwar are two classic picks just a few hours from Delhi. Rishikesh blends serene riverfront views with adventure activities like white-water rafting and trekking, while Haridwar welcomes you with a spiritual aura, ghats, and cultural immersion.
Why Go:
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat (Haridwar)
Yoga, meditation, and fitness retreats (Rishikesh)
Camping by the river and adventure activities
2. Uttarakhand & Himachal Hill Stations - Mussoorie, Dhanaulti & Auli
For cool mountain air and scenic panoramas, Mussoorie and Dhanaulti are wonderful winter hill retreats. Auli in Uttarakhand, especially known for snow-covered slopes and skiing, offers a more adventurous vibe - perfect for a family or friend group getaway.
Why Go:
Snow views and chill winter walks
Skiing and snow adventure (Auli)
Peaceful mountain vibes and scenic cafés
3. Wildlife & Heritage - Ranthambore & Jaipur
If your group loves wildlife or history, destinations like Ranthambore National Park are ideal. Winter is the best time for tiger safaris and nature spotting. Nearby Jaipur, the Pink City, adds cultural depth with forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars.
Why Go:
Wildlife safaris and iconic forts
Heritage walks and local shopping
Family-friendly itineraries
4. Beach Escapes - Pondicherry & Gokarna
For a calmer long weekend with sunshine and sea breezes, consider Pondicherry’s French-inspired ambience or Gokarna’s quieter beaches. January’s pleasant weather makes beachside walks, café hopping, and relaxed sightseeing great options for all age groups.
Why Go:
Seaside relaxation and café culture (Pondicherry)
Explore hidden beaches and temples (Gokarna)
Suitable for couples, families, and friend groups
5. Central & East India Gems - Coorg, Wayanad & Pachmarhi
If lush forests, coffee plantations, and quieter nature escapes are your thing, destinations like Coorg and Chikmagalur (Karnataka) and Wayanad (Kerala) offer greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife. Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh, known as the “Queen of Satpura,” brings forest trails and scenic views without the crowds.
Why Go:
Plantation walks and eco-resorts
Wildlife parks and trekking trails
Peaceful family breaks or group retreats
Quick Getaways Near Major Cities
If you want a short travel with lots of fun, here are nearby long-weekend ideas from major metro hubs:
Delhi-NCR: Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Bharatpur–Agra circuit
Mumbai/Pune: Alibaug beaches, Lonavala–Khandala hills, Mahabaleshwar vineyards
Bengaluru/Chennai: Coorg, Wayanad, Pondicherry, Ooty–Coonoor hills
Travel Planning Tips for the Long Weekend
Book early: January long weekends are high-demand times - flights, trains, and hotels sell out fast.
Check weather & permits: Hill stations and wildlife parks may require permits or seasonal restrictions.
Plan group activities: Shared transport and group tours can reduce costs and increase fun.
Balance activities: Mix sightseeing with relaxed moments to avoid travel fatigue.
Why a Republic Day Long Weekend Trip Is Worth It
With January weather ideally cool across much of India, and the long weekend giving you a perfect travel window, this break is an excellent excuse to:
Reconnect with family and friends
Explore diverse landscapes - from mountains and forests to beaches and heritage cities
Make lasting travel memories before the year picks up pace
