Republic Day 2026 long weekend travel ideas from Delhi-NCR; places to go, things to do

With Republic Day falling on Monday, January 26, 2026, travellers in Delhi-NCR are looking at a perfect three-day long weekend, four if you take leave on Friday. January is one of the best months to travel in North India, offering crisp winter mornings, pleasant daytime temperatures, snow in the higher Himalayas, peak wildlife sightings, and clear skies for sightseeing. So whether you’re craving snow-covered landscapes, wildlife safaris, heritage walks, spiritual retreats, or relaxed hill stations, there are plenty of destinations within easy reach of Delhi-NCR that fit neatly into a 2–4 day itinerary. From short road trips to quick flights and overnight trains, these destinations combine accessibility with memorable experiences, making them ideal for a quick Republic Day getaway.
Here are some of the best Republic Day 2026 long weekend travel ideas from Delhi-NCR.

The holy towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh are just 250 km away from Delhi-NCR. If you are looking at a holiday which is a beautiful mix of adventure, spirituality and riverside relaxation, Rishikesh and Haridwar are perfect. Rishikesh remains one of the most versatile long-weekend destinations from Delhi-NCR, offering a rare mix of adventure, wellness, and spiritual experiences. January means cool but comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities without the summer crowds. From white-water rafting on the Ganges, to evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat or Har Ki Pauri or spending time at riverside cafés and yoga retreats, there is no dearth of fun and interesting activities.

For those seeking a relaxed mountain getaway without venturing too far, Mussoorie and nearby Dhanaulti make an excellent Republic Day weekend choice. Winter adds a calm, old-world charm to these hill towns, with fewer tourists and misty mountain views. January is the perfect time to walk along Camel’s Back Road for sunset views, visit Lal Tibba to experience the highest viewpoint in Mussoorie, explore the quieter forests and eco parks of Dhanaulti, enjoy a heritage walk through Landour, and sip hot chocolate while overlooking snow-dusted peaks.

If snow is high on your Republic Day wishlist, Auli is one of the best winter destinations in India during January. The slopes are usually covered in fresh snow, making it ideal for skiing and snow sports. When in Auli, try skiing and snowboarding on professionally managed slopes, ride the Joshimath–Auli ropeway, one of India’s longest cable cars, enjoy panoramic views of Nanda Devi and surrounding Himalayan peaks, experience snow camping and bonfires, and walk through snow-covered meadows during clear days.

Winter is the best time to explore Rajasthan, and a combined Jaipur–Pushkar trip works perfectly for a three-day long weekend. The dry weather makes sightseeing comfortable, while heritage sites look especially striking under clear skies. In this trip, you can visit the famous Jaipur destinations such as Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, enjoy jewellery shopping at Johri Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, experience the famous Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple, enjoy a camel safari or desert sunset experience in the surroundings of Pushkar, as well as enjoy the local cuisine of Rajasthan.

The month of January is among the best times to spot wildlife in Ranthambore, when animals are most active in the course of the day when it’s a bit cooler. A long weekend around Republic Day is the best time to pack in all your safari visits. When in Ranthambore, go on morning and afternoon jungle safaris, visit the historic Ranthambore Fort, learn a thing or two about nature photography in golden winter light, and the best of all, stay at a forest lodge for a complete wildlife experience.

This is a little time-taking trip but perfect for those looking for snow. For travellers willing to spend longer on the road, Manali offers a classic winter escape. January usually brings heavy snowfall in Solang Valley, turning the region into a playground for snow lovers. Travellers can enjoy snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling in Solang Valley, explore Manali’s cafés and markets, take riverside walks along the Beas River, and relax in heated stays with mountain views. Sounds perfect, right?

This circuit is perfect for travellers who want to stay closer to Delhi-NCR while still making the most of the long weekend. For those interested in heritage, birding and short road trips, this is a perfect holiday idea. You will be able to visit Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur) during peak migratory bird season, explore the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, and walk through the historic complex of Fatehpur Sikri.