Cox & Kings Records Nearly 20 Per Cent Rise in Bookings for Republic Day Long Weekend

Short Getaways Drive Demand for Curated Domestic and International Travel

Cox & Kings is witnessing a notable increase in travel demand around the Republic Day long weekend, reflecting how long breaks are increasingly shaping short, experience-led travel among India’s working population.

Based on internal booking data, the company has recorded a nearly twenty per cent rise in bookings for the January 26 long weekend compared to a regular January weekend. Travellers are planning earlier and opting for structured itineraries that fit within limited time off.

“Long weekends like Republic Day have become intentional travel moments rather than impulsive breaks. Travellers today are planning smarter, choosing destinations that allow them to truly switch off, and valuing curated experiences that remove the stress from short holidays,” said Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings.

Domestic travel continues to account for the majority of long-weekend demand, contributing to nearly two-thirds of total bookings. Hill destinations in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, heritage cities such as Jaipur and Udaipur, and wildlife destinations across Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are among the most preferred choices. Travellers are favouring destinations that offer relaxation and cultural engagement within a four- to five-day travel window.

International travel represents close to one-third of Republic Day bookings, with short-haul destinations leading demand. Dubai, Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Singapore are seeing strong interest, supported by flight connectivity, simplified visa processes, and the ability to deliver varied experiences in a short time.

The data also reflects a shift in traveller demographics. Bookings from corporate professionals aged 25 to 45 have increased, alongside growing demand from family and multi-generational travellers. Group tours and customised holidays together account for over sixty per cent of long-weekend bookings, indicating a preference for convenience and end-to-end planning.

Cox & Kings has additionally observed a fifteen to eighteen per cent rise in average spend per booking for long-weekend travel. Travellers are choosing higher-category accommodations, guided experiences and slower-paced itineraries, signalling a move away from cost-led decisions towards experience-led travel.

As work schedules remain tight and flexibility is limited, long weekends are emerging as a consistent driver of travel demand rather than a seasonal spike. With Republic Day setting the tone for the year, Cox & Kings expects short, well-curated domestic and international getaways to remain in focus through 2026.