Republic Day 2023: For most Indians January 26 means watching the Republic Day parade on television. However, if you are in the mood to get away on a short trip, then you could turn it into an extended weekend by taking a leave from work on Friday - January 27, as January 26 falls on a Thursday this year. And what could be better than a short-budget trip on an extended weekend? 

With the first long weekend of the year just a day away, here are a few places you can plan a short trip if you are in Delhi, Mumbai or Bangalore —

Republic Day 2023: Weekend Getaways from Delhi-NCR  

Delhi has always been considered the getaway to many north Indian tourist spots. And if you are in and around Delhi, you can undoubtedly explore multiple tourist destinations. You can choose to be in the lap of the Himalayas on snow-clad mountains, or enjoy the sunset in the sand dunes of the Thar desert, or enjoy mesmerizing greenery in Kumaun or Garhwal regions. Here are five-weekend getaways from Delhi:

1.       Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

If you love jungle safari or wish to immerse in lush greenery, then this can be the best place for a weekend trip. It is only a few hours’ away from Delhi.

Located on the banks of the Ramganga Reservoir in Uttarakhand, this national park is rich in flora and fauna. If lucky, then you can also catch a glimpse of tigers, leopards or wild elephants during the early morning forest safari.

2.       Jaisalmer

Owing to its proximity, any city in Rajasthan can be a weekend destination for Delhiites. You can either choose to drive, or take trains to the tourist spots in the desert state. Apart from the beauty of the Thar desert, Rajasthani cuisine and the Jaisalmer fort — popularly known as Golden Fort — can feature on the itinerary as well.

3.       Agra

Only 200 kilometres away from the capital, the beauty of Agra's Taj Mahal attracts tourists over and over again. It is must-visit destination for history and archaeology buffs. Not just for the silver glow of Taj Mahal, the city is also famous for the sandstone walls of Fatehpur Sikri that narrate the episode of Mughal era in India.

4.       Chakrata

A backpacker’s paradise, Chakrata is the favourite tourist destination for those who love rafting and exploring caves. One can trek to the famous Tiger Falls, visit the Budher caves, camp and raft at Kanasar, and finally enjoy a sunset at Chimiri Neck.

Republic Day 2023: Weekend getaways from Mumbai  

If you are in Mumbai, you can surely choose one of the places for a short trip on this long weekend.

1.       Alibaug  

Mumbaikars who love camping on the beach side can go to Alibaug. Just a few hours’ drive from Mumbai, the serenity of Alibaug is a balm for weary city-dwellers. A fort built by the Portuguese on a hill top located a few kilometers away from Alibaug can also be a good place to explore.  

2.       Aurangabad  

The stone carvings of Ajanta and Ellora beckon ancient history buffs. Richly-decorated caves dating from second and first centuries BC are home to masterpieces of religious art. Bibi Ka Maqbara, or the "second Taj Mahal" is also one of the major tourist attractions.

3.       Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a much-loved haunt for Mumbaikars who love mountains. Apart from enjoying the natural beauty from viewing points like Arthur’s Seat, you can also visit centuries-old Pratapgad Fort, situated atop a mountain spur, visit Lingmala Waterfall and enjoy boating at Venna Lake.  

4.       Igatpuri  

Known for its scenic beauty, this hill station attracts a lot of tourists. Moreover, many people who visit Shirdi's famous Sai Baba temple, extend their trips to include Igatpuri in their itinerary.

Republic Day 2023: Weekend Getaways from Bangalore

If you love long drives and are passionate about road trips,  then you can explore several places around Bangalore. 

1.       Hampi  

Hampi is a heaven for history and archaeology buffs. Considered as the world's second-largest medieval-era city after Beijing, it holds rich heritage within its confines. The twon is dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire on the south bank of the River Tungabhadra, and the musical pillars of Vittala Temple are also well-known.  

2.       Ooty and Coorg  

Lush green nature amidst forest and hills welcome tourists in Ooty and Coorg. These hill stations are perfect for long drives. And those lucky can also catch a glimpse of wild animals like bison, wild boar, elephants, and deer.

3.       Mysore  

Its center of attraction includes the opulent Mysore Palace, known for its architecture that blends Hindu, Islamic, Gothic, and Rajput styles. Mysore is also home to the centuries-old Devaraja Market, which is known for the spices, silk, and sandalwood of the best quality.