Republic Day 2026 weekend getaways: From snowy Auli to wild Ranthambore, best travel plans from Delhi-NCR, places to go and a complete itinerary

Republic Day weekend travel ideas: Are you planning to travel on this weekend and you stay in Delhi-NCR? If yes, then this Republic Day weekend is the best time to explore places near to the capital with your friends and family. As Republic Day (January 26) 2026 falls on a Monday, the holiday conveniently falls close to the weekend allowing travel-loving Indians a rare four-to-five-day escape by taking a break from work. The upcoming long weekend on Republic Day 2026 has triggered a surge in holiday planning, with travellers across age groups using the opportunity for short but meaningful breaks.

Moreover, people who live in Delhi-NCR can have a perfect three-day long weekend as most of hill stations are all just six hours or less away. Be it snow-covered landscapes, wildlife safaris, heritage walks, spiritual retreats, or relaxed hill stations, there are numerous destinations within the easy reach of Delhi-NCR that can easily fit into a 2-4 day itinerary. Here are some of the best Republic Day 2026 long weekend travel ideas from Delhi-NCR.

-Mussoorie and Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand: If you are looking for a laid-back mountain escape and don't want to travel much, then Mussoorie and nearby Dhanaulti might work in your favour for Republic Day weekend. January is the perfect time for strolling along Camel’s Back Road at sunset, soaking in panoramic views from Lal Tibba—the highest point in Mussoorie—exploring Dhanaulti’s quiet forests and eco parks, enjoying a heritage walk through Landour, and sipping hot chocolate while gazing at snow-kissed peaks. During winters, these hill towns offer a serene, quiet and old-world charm with fewer crowds.


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-Jaipur and Pushkar: A combined Jaipur–Pushkar trip fits perfectly into a three-day long weekend for your Republic Day. Winter is the ideal time to visit Rajasthan as the dry, pleasant weather makes sightseeing comfortable, while heritage landmarks appear striking under the clear blue skies. You can explore Jaipur’s iconic attractions such as Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal, enjoy jewellery shopping at Johri Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, visit the sacred Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple, experience a camel safari or desert sunset around Pushkar, and savour the rich flavours of traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

-Rishikesh and Haridwar, Uttarakhand: The religious towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh are just 250 km from Delhi-NCR, making them an ideal vacation spot for your Republic Day weekend plan. Rishikesh and Haridwar will offer you adventure, spirituality, and riverside relaxation. In January, the weather in Rishikesh is cool but pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities without the summer rush and stands out as one of the most versatile long-weekend destinations from Delhi-NCR. And in Haridwar, you can enjoy white-water rafting on the Ganges, attend soulful evening Ganga arti at Triveni Ghat or Har Ki Pauri, unwind at riverside cafés and yoga retreats.

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Bharatpur, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri (Road Trip Circuit): If you want to stay close to Delhi-NCR and makethe most of your Republic Day long weekend, then Bharatpur, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri (road trip circuit) is a good idea for travellers. It offers a well-rounded holiday experience for people interested in heritage, birdwatching, and easy road trips. You can visit Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur during peak migratory bird season, explore iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, and stroll through the historic ruins of Fatehpur Sikri.

-Auli, Uttarakhand: If you are a snow lover, then Auli in Uttarakhand ranks among India’s best winter destinations in January and can be a perfect vacation for your Republic Day weekend. The slopes are typically blanketed in fresh snow in January, making it perfect for skiing and other snow sports. While you can try
skiing and snowboarding in Auli, you can also take a ride on the Joshimath–Auli ropeway—one of India’s longest cable cars. Soak and enjoy the view of Nanda Devi and the surrounding Himalayan peaks, experience snow camping with bonfires, and enjoy leisurely walks across snow-covered meadows on clear days.

-Manali and Solang valley, Himachal Pradesh: If you are not running short on time and can afford to spend extra time on the road, you can visit Manali in Himachal Pradesh for a classic winter escape. In Solang Valley, you might experience heavy snowfall in January, transforming the area into a playground for snow lovers. Visitors can enjoy snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling in Solang Valley, explore Manali’s cosy cafés and bustling markets, take peaceful riverside walks along the Beas River, and enjoy their heated stays with stunning mountain views.

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-Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan: January is one of the best months to spot wildlife in Ranthambore, as cooler temperatures mean animals are more active during the day. A long weekend around Republic Day gives you ample time to fit in multiple safaris. While in Ranthambore, head out on morning and afternoon jungle safaris, explore the historic Ranthambore Fort, try your hand at nature photography in the soft golden winter light, and, best of all, stay at a forest lodge for a truly immersive wildlife experience.

(With TOI inputs)