Where Indians Are Travelling On The Independence Day Long Weekend: Data Reveals Top Picks

Independence Day is marked by patriotic spirit, celebration, get-togethers and even short-and-sweet travel plans, especially with the 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025, falling on a Friday. Finding an opportunity for the perfect long weekend, Indians with a travel bug are not letting this weekend go to waste, with travel destination searches and bookings already in full swing. According to recent data shared by online travel platform Booking.com, there is a clear surge in last-minute travel planning, with a strong focus on short domestic getaways and easy international breaks across Asia-Pacific.

Top Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities Are Trending

Over 58 per cent of Indian travellers are choosing destinations closer to home this year, according to the data. Places just a few hours' drive from major cities are leading the trend. Weekend favourites like Alibaug, Karjat and Igatpuri near Mumbai, and Rishikesh and Mussoorie near Delhi, have seen up to an 80 per cent rise in search interest compared to last year. Popular spots like Lonavala, Jaipur, Mahabaleshwar and Chikmagalur also continue to draw crowds looking for a quick breather from city life.

Also Read: 44% Of Indian Travellers Admit Taking Hotel Toiletries, Survey Reveals Quirky Travel Habits

Searches Spike For Quiet Coastal Holidays

Alongside hill stations, beach towns are holding strong appeal this long weekend. Less-crowded coastal spots like Varkala and Gokarna are seeing renewed interest, while Goa remains a top favourite. Searches for these destinations have increased by 10 to 40 per cent, reflecting a growing desire for short, breezy beach breaks without the hassle of long travel hours.

International Travel Picks Up Pace Across Asia-Pacific

Indians are not limiting their plans to domestic destinations. The Independence Day long weekend is seeing a spike in interest for international holidays, particularly across Asia-Pacific. Thailand stands out, with Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya each witnessing over 60 per cent growth in search interest. These destinations appeal due to their balance of beachside relaxation, vibrant nightlife and flavourful food - all without the complications of long-haul travel.

Top 10 Searched Domestic Destinations (14-17 August 2025):

1. Udaipur
2. Lonavala
3. Jaipur
4. Puducherry
5. Mumbai
6. Bengaluru
7. Ooty
8. Munnar
9. Kodaikanal
10. New Delhi

Top 10 Searched International Destinations (14-17 August 2025):

1. Dubai
2. Singapore
3. Bangkok
4. London
5. Phuket
6. Kuala Lumpur
7. Bali
8. Abu Dhabi
9. Pattaya
10. Hong Kong

If you are going to Abu Dhabi this long weekend, the freedom to play, explore, and make memories is just a boarding pass away with Yas Island. Located on the golden shores of Abu Dhabi - just 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai, Yas Island offers holidaymakers a diverse mix of leisure and entertainment experiences. From award-winning theme parks such as Ferrari World Yas Island, Yas Waterworld Yas Island, and Warner Bros. World Yas Island to the record-breaking CLYMB Yas Island and the thrilling Yas Marina Circuit (home to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix), visitors are bound to discover a world of entertainment options all within the 25 sq. km island.

Travellers Are Choosing Homestays Over Hotels

The type of accommodation Indians are seeking is also evolving. A notable 74 per cent of travellers are opting for homestays, villas and guesthouses rather than traditional hotels. The appeal lies in the comfort, space and local experience these properties offer - especially for families looking to stay together under one roof without compromising on privacy.

According to Santosh Kumar, Regional Manager, South Asia at Booking.com, "Indian travellers are leaning into spontaneous, short-haul travel - both domestic and international. The Independence Day weekend is the perfect moment for these quick resets."

Also Read: From Solo Trips To Big Fat Weddings: How Indian Parents Are Travelling In 2025

Search Insights Based On Real-Time Travel Planning

The data for this report is based on search sessions conducted between June 26 and July 26, 2025, for travel dates between August 14 and 17, 2025. These figures represent search interest patterns and may not directly indicate confirmed bookings.