New Delhi: Republic Day 2026 brings a rare three-day long weekend from January 24 to January 26, making it an ideal time for a short yet refreshing holiday. While many travellers scramble at the last moment, South India offers several destinations that are easy to plan and rewarding even for brief trips. There are many laid-back beaches, hill stations and heritage towns; the region has options for every travel mood.
If you are still deciding where to go this Republic Day long weekend, this curated list focuses on destinations that balance travel time, experiences, and comfort. These places work well for couples, families, and small groups, offering nature, culture, and local experiences without needing long leaves or complex itineraries.
South India spots ideal for Republic Day long weekend travel
1. Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna is a calm coastal destination known for its relaxed beaches and spiritual undertone. It appeals to travellers looking for a quieter alternative to Goa during peak holiday weekends. Beach treks connecting Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Half Moon Beach, and Paradise Beach are among the highlights, offering scenic views and peaceful corners. Visitors can explore the Mahabaleshwar Temple, Mirjan Fort, and nearby waterfalls like Vibhuti Falls. Café dining, boat rides, and early morning yoga by the sea complete the experience.
How to reach Gokarna
Gokarna is well connected by road and rail from major cities in Karnataka and Goa. The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport in Goa, located around 150 km away. Gokarna Road railway station is about 10 km from the town centre. Regular buses and taxis operate from Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Goa.
2. Bekal, Kerala
Bekal stands out for its dramatic coastal fort and less-crowded beaches. Bekal Fort, the largest in Kerala, offers sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and is ideal for photography. The nearby Valiyaparamba backwaters provide a serene boating experience, while Bekal and Kappil beaches are perfect for quiet walks. Cultural spots like Ananthapura Lake Temple and nature escapes such as Ranipuram and Kottancheri Hills add variety to the trip.
How to reach Bekal
Bekal can be reached easily by train, road and air. The nearest airport is Mangaluru, around 50 km away, while Kozhikode International Airport is about 200 km from Bekal. Kasaragod, Kanhangad and Pallikkara are the closest railway stations. Buses from Mangaluru, Bengaluru and Kerala cities stop at Bekal.
3. Yelagiri Hills, Tamil Nadu
Yelagiri Hills is a compact hill station suited for travellers seeking calm weather and simple outdoor activities. Punganoor Lake and Nilavoor Lake are popular for boating, while Jalagamparai Falls offers a refreshing nature break. Adventure activities like trekking to Swamimalai, paragliding, and cycling attract younger travellers. Local markets selling honey and herbal products add a local touch.
How to reach Yelagiri Hills
There is no direct airport or railway station in Yelagiri. The nearest railhead is Jolarpettai Junction, around 21 km away, from where taxis and buses are available. The closest airports are Bengaluru (about 194 km) and Chennai (about 216 km). Yelagiri is well connected by road via Vellore and Tirupattur.
4. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Chikmagalur is known for its lush coffee estates, misty hills, and trekking routes. Plantation walks, waterfall visits, and treks to Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri are major draws. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy camping and river rafting on the Bhadra River during suitable conditions. The town also has ancient temples that add cultural depth to the trip.
How to reach Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is best accessed by road from Bengaluru, Mysuru and Mangaluru. Kadur is the nearest railway station, located around 45 minutes away by road. The closest airports are Mangaluru, Bengaluru and Hubballi, from where buses and taxis are available to reach Chikmagalur.
5. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Araku Valley is a scenic hill destination known for coffee plantations, tribal culture, and waterfalls. The train journey from Visakhapatnam, especially the glass-roofed Vistadome coach, is a major highlight, passing through tunnels and forested hills. Borra Caves, Chaparai Waterfalls, tribal museums, and coffee estates offer a well-rounded travel experience.
How to reach Araku Valley
Araku Valley is accessed via Visakhapatnam. Visakhapatnam Airport offers regular domestic and international flights from major Indian cities. From Vizag, Araku is about 130 km away and can be reached by train, including the scenic Vistadome service, or by road via private cabs and self-drive routes.
South India’s diversity makes it perfect for short holiday planning, especially during long weekends like Republic Day 2026. These destinations allow travellers to unwind, explore, and return refreshed without extensive travel or complicated planning.