Republic Day 2026 Travel Trends: Goa Dominates Domestic, Thailand Leads Abroad

As Republic Day 2026 approaches, travelers are eager to take advantage of the long weekend. Goa has emerged as the most popular domestic getaway, while Thailand remains the top choice for international travelers.

According to a report from MakeMyTrip, the timing of the Republic Day holiday—occurring on a Monday this year—has significantly boosted travel plans compared to last year, when it fell on a Sunday. The travel surge begins on January 23, reaching its peak on January 24.

Goa continues to be the preferred domestic destination, known for its beautiful beaches, boutique accommodations, and vibrant culture. Following Goa, Jaipur ranks second for its royal charm, with Udaipur in third place due to its picturesque scenery. Manali attracts those seeking snow, placing fourth, while Pondicherry's serene atmosphere rounds out the top five.

Last year, the list featured Goa, Udaipur, Jaipur, Manali, and Munnar as the most sought-after locations.

On the international front, Thailand has solidified its status as the leading destination. The UAE follows closely, appealing to travelers with its luxury offerings. Vietnam’s growing popularity has propelled it to third place, while Malaysia and Singapore round out the list, providing enticing experiences for visitors.

Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, commented on the ongoing appetite for weekend travel, highlighting that the extended Republic Day weekend presents a prime opportunity for exploration. He noted that travelers prefer nearby destinations, with Goa firmly at the top. Additionally, easy-visa countries are trending, with Thailand and Vietnam seeing significant interest.

This year, Vietnam has notably advanced from the 10th to the 3rd most booked destination for the Republic Day long weekend.