Long weekends serve as a welcome respite from our hectic work routines, offering a breath of fresh air to rejuvenate. For some, it’s an opportunity to unwind at home, while others seize the chance to plan short yet invigorating trips. The year 2024 presents an ideal opportunity to turn dream getaways into reality, boasting approximately 15 long weekends, with Republic Day marking the first one.
Republic Day falls on January 26, a Friday in the current year, making it conducive to extending the weekend into a three-day holiday by combining it with adjacent days.
Selecting the perfect destination for a brief retreat can be challenging, especially when not traveling alone. Agoda’s survey, led by Krishna Rathi, Country Director for India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives, indicates diverse interests among Indians, focusing on destinations that offer a blend of cultural, culinary, and local experiences.
Here’s a glimpse of the top 10 destinations capturing the Indian traveler’s interest this Republic Day:
Goa: Renowned as India’s favorite party hub, Goa tops the charts as the most searched destination for the Republic Day weekend, according to Agoda’s survey. With its vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, historic forts, and local delicacies, Goa caters to both those seeking relaxation in South Goa and party enthusiasts in North Goa.
Puducherry: Claiming the second spot in both Google trends and Agoda’s searches, Puducherry, a coastal haven, experiences notable growth in demand. From the spiritual enclave of Auroville to scenic walks on Paradise Beach and adventurous scuba diving opportunities, Puducherry offers a diverse range of tourist activities.
Jaipur: Known as the pink city, Jaipur secures the third position on Agoda’s list. Notably, a higher percentage of reservations to Jaipur originate from travelers in the western region. Beyond exploring historic palaces, visitors can indulge in lip-smacking street food and satisfy their shopping desires at Bapu Bazaar.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands: While Lakshadweep faces logistical constraints, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands emerge as a sought-after destination, topping Google searches for ‘travel’ and ‘India’ in the past 30 days. These picturesque islands offer diverse attractions, including surfing in Little Andaman and the scenic beauty of Swaraj Dweep.
Puri: Puri in Odisha stands out as a top choice for spiritual tourism, particularly known for the revered Shri Jagannath Temple. Visitors can also enjoy the longest golden beach and explore the historical town of Konark, famous for its 13th-century Sun Temple.
Ooty: Occupying the fourth slot on Agoda’s most searched destinations, Ooty in Tamil Nadu attracts travelers with its scenic beauty. Whether seeking a relaxing getaway or wildlife experiences in Mudumalai National Park and Deer Park, Ooty caters to various preferences.
Mahabaleshwar: A hill station in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar secures a spot on Agoda’s list. Known for strawberry farms and viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head point, the town offers a refreshing retreat. Don’t miss trying the fresh strawberry cream at Mapro garden.
Chandigarh: Popping up in the top 10 Google searches, Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab and Haryana, is celebrated for its open markets and delectable food. A haven for food enthusiasts, the city also features attractions like the rock garden, Sukhna lake, and rose garden.
Ayodhya: Following the historic welcome of Ram Lalla on January 22, Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh gains prominence as a religious destination. Apart from the iconic Ram Mandir, visitors can explore Nageshwar Nath Temple, Ram Ki Paidi, Hanuman Garhi, Saryu river, and Gulab Bari.
Vrindavan: A popular religious destination in Uttar Pradesh, Vrindavan, steeped in mythology as the childhood home of Lord Krishna, offers attractions such as Prem Mandir, Banke Bihari Temple, Radha Damodar Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Radha Kund.
As the Republic Day weekend approaches, these diverse destinations cater to varied preferences, providing an array of experiences for travelers. Where are you planning to venture this Republic Day weekend?
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