As the Independence Day long weekend is just around the corner, travellers are gearing up for an exciting holiday. And it seems like many are planning
trips to Goa. This year, August 15 falls on a Friday, prompting a significant increase in air travel bookings. Data from ixigo reveals that flight bookings for Goa have surged by 25–30% year-on-year, reflecting the growing interest in this popular destination. Rajnish Kumar, Group Co-CEO of ixigo, while speaking to media, said, "With August 15th falling on a Friday, numerous travellers are taking Thursday off, leading to an extended four-day weekend. This has resulted in a noticeable uptick in flight bookings, particularly to leisure destinations like Goa." The demand for beach getaways in Goa has led to a dramatic rise in airfares from major cities. For instance, flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Goa have seen prices increase by over 100% week-on-week. Kumar highlighted that while Goa remains the top choice, other scenic locations like Kannur and Coimbatore are also witnessing a rise in travel interest. To illustrate the surge in airfares during the Independence Day long weekend from August 14 to August 17, 2025, comparisons reveal significant increases. The fare from Mumbai to Goa rose from ₹4,995 on August 7 and 8 to ₹12,376 during the holiday weekend. Similarly, the fare from Delhi to Goa jumped from ₹6,512 to ₹13,687. Other routes also experienced price hikes, including Delhi to Port Blair, which increased from ₹9,495 to ₹10,895, and Delhi to Kochi, rising from ₹8,133 to ₹12,091. Interestingly, some routes experienced a decrease in fares. The Mumbai to Amritsar route saw prices drop from ₹8,569 to ₹6,044, while the New Delhi to Coimbatore route fell from ₹9,575 to ₹7,119. In light of rising airfares, many travellers are opting for road trips to nearby destinations. This trend, often referred to as 'drivecations,' is gaining traction, especially among those living in and around Mumbai. Popular short getaway spots include Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, where individuals can enjoy scenic drives without the burden of expensive airfares. As travel sentiment rebounds, the overall enthusiasm for holidaying has increased significantly. Many travellers are booking flights and accommodations well in advance, with a clear preference for curated experiences and organised tours. Kumar remarked, "This trend indicates a shift towards more experiential travel, with people willing to invest in quality accommodations and activities."
