Goa emerges as top destination for Republic Day weekend

NEW DELHI: As India gears up for the year’s first long weekend, domestic getaways are on the card for travellers. Digital travel platform Agoda reveals the top locales that Indians will be exploring during the upcoming Republic Day weekend. For the second year running, Goa emerged as the most searched destination, followed by Puducherry, Jaipur, Ooty and Mahabaleshwar.

Goa is a traveller’s favourite year-round, and the Republic Day weekend will be no different. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife and is home to pristine beaches, alluring forts, and local delicacies. Coming in second after Goa was Puducherry, another coastal destination, which offers a unique blend of French and Indian cultures. The town is home to mesmerising architecture, and stunning beaches, and is a wellness paradise.

Jaipur, also known as the pink city, claimed the third spot on the list. Jaipur has captured travellers' attention because of its rich heritage and the abundance of sightseeing experiences on offer. With culinary delights, shopping experiences at the local markets, and the chance to explore landmark palaces, Jaipur caters to the varied preferences of any travel enthusiast.

The growing popularity of the other two destinations in the top five - Ooty and Mahabaleshwar - revealed that scenic beauty is an important driver for travel preferences this Republic Day weekend. The two hill stations offer stunning views and unique experiences, from strawberry picking in Mahabaleshwar to exploring the aromatic tea plantations of Ooty. Both cities provide a perfect canvas to travellers seeking a relaxing weekend trip.

Krishna Rathi, Country Director India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives at Agoda said, “As 2024 kicks off, the first long weekend is marked in the calendars of many Indian travellers. Agoda’s booking data highlights an interest in diverse destinations that offer a mix of cultural, culinary, and local experiences. Mirroring the trend in 2023, Goa, Puducherry and Jaipur have yet again emerged as the top choices for a domestic getaway. We expect to see similar excitement for domestic and international trips from Indian travellers and look forward to helping them see the world for less with the great deals on Agoda’s platform.”