“Goa, Thailand Most Popular Picks for Republic Day 2026 Long Weekend”

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

As the Republic Day long weekend approaches, travellers are gearing up to make the most of the first extended holiday of the year. According to MakeMyTrip’s latest travel trends report, Goa emerges as the most popular domestic destination, while Thailand dominates international travel.

Domestic Travel Trends
The January 26 holiday falling on a Monday has boosted travel this year, with bookings spiking from January 23 and peaking on January 24.

Top 5 domestic destinations:

Goa – Beaches, boutique stays, and a relaxed vibe keep it at the top.

Jaipur – Royal charm draws travellers seeking heritage experiences.

Udaipur – Scenic lakes and palaces make it a favourite.

Manali – Snowbound mountains attract northern escapists.

Pondicherry – Coastal calm and French-inspired streets complete the list.

International Travel Trends
On the global front, Thailand remains the most sought-after destination, followed by:

UAE – Luxury and convenience continue to attract Indian travellers.

Vietnam – Culture, cuisine, and affordability fuel its rise.

Malaysia – A laid-back escape for leisure travellers.

Singapore – Cityscapes and cultural experiences maintain appeal.

Expert Insight
Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, noted, “Weekend travel demand remains strong, and the extended Republic Day weekend provides a perfect opportunity. Indian travellers prefer nearby destinations domestically, with Goa retaining its top spot. Internationally, destinations with easy visas and direct connectivity—like Thailand and Vietnam—are leading the way.”