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Varanasi to Rishikesh: 4 Republic Day getaways under ₹10,000 you can still book from Delhi

Celebrate Republic Day without burning a hole in your pocket.

3 min readNew DelhiJan 23, 2026 06:02 PM IST

A ghat in Varanasi (Photo: Wikipedia)

The Republic Day long weekend is a great chance to visit new places and relax after a busy start to the year. With some planning, you can enjoy beautiful views, lively culture, and memorable experiences, all while keeping your trip under INR 10,000. Here are four trip ideas with practical breakdowns for transport, stay, food, and activities.

1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Why go: Spiritual banks of the Ganga, thrilling river rafting, and scenic bridges make Rishikesh perfect for both adventure seekers and chill travellers.

Budget Breakdown (3 days / 2 nights)

Transport: Train (Sleeper) or bus – ₹1,000–1,500
Stay: Budget hostel/guesthouse – ₹500–800/night → ₹1,000–1,600
Food: Street/local eateries – ₹300/day → ₹900
Activities: Ganga Aarti (free), Laxman/Ram Jhula (free), optional rafting – approximately ₹1,500

Estimated Total: ₹4,000–₹5,700

Tips: Book trains early and stay near Tapovan to save on local travel. Rent a scooter to wander around.

Rishikesh is known for yoga, river rafting, and peaceful Ganga aartis. (Photo: Wikipedia)

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Why go: Rich history, majestic forts, and colourful bazaars in the Pink City. Winter weather in January is perfect for walking and sightseeing.

Budget Breakdown (3 days / 2 nights)

Transport: Train/bus – ₹1,000–1,500
Stay: Budget hotel/hostel – ₹600–900/night → ₹1,200–1,800
Food: Local dhabas/cafes – ₹300/day → ₹900
Sightseeing: Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal & local forts – ₹300–₹600

Estimated Total: ₹4,400–₹7,000

Tips: Walk or use shared autos or local buses to cut local transport costs.

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3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Why go: Sunrise boat ride on the Ganga, historic ghats, and spiritual energy that’s unique to Varanasi.

Budget Breakdown (3 days / 2 nights)

Transport: Train – ₹800–1,200
Stay: Budget guesthouse – ₹400–700/night → ₹800–1,400
Food: Street food – ₹250/day → ₹750
Experiences: Boat ride – ₹500–1,500, temple entries (minimal)

Estimated Total: ₹3,700–₹8,000

Tips: Stay near Assi Ghat for easy access to temples and food.

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Golden Temple, Amritsar (PTI Photo/Shiva Sharma)

4. Amritsar, Punjab

Why go: Perfect for history buffs and food lovers, Amritsar offers spiritual calm with patriotic energy — especially around Republic Day, when the Wagah Border ceremony adds extra zeal.

Budget Breakdown (3 Days / 2 Nights)

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