The magical allure of Indian weddings has captivated the imagination of countless individuals from distant lands. The kaleidoscope of vibrant hues and the exuberant, festive air make the concept of destination weddings in India an irresistible draw for foreign couples. The glamorous destination wedding of actor Priyanka Chopra and US singer Nick Jonas at Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur captivated the imagination of couples around the world. The prospect of exchanging vows in far-flung and culturally rich settings is undeniably alluring. In 2023, the Ministry of Tourism launched a campaign to harness the country's potential as a global wedding destination. Numerous breathtaking locales across the country beckon, with the states of Goa and Rajasthan standing out as particularly enchanting wedding destinations for international visitors. Here is a rough guide for those considering India as their wedding destination.
The best time to get married in India is between October and February when the weather is typically dry and pleasant. The rest of the time, unless you are in the mountains, Indian cities can be hot or humid or both. However, it's worth noting that weddings in India are also frequently held from September to May. During December and January, venues are in high demand, making it essential to plan well in advance. It is essential that you decide on and secure venues and accommodations ahead of time due to limited availability and higher costs during this sought-after period.
When planning a destination wedding in India, it's crucial to consider the wide-ranging factors that can significantly affect the costs. These include the location, guest count, venue choice, services required, and the duration of the celebration. Keep in mind that in India, a destination wedding can range from INR 2,000,000 to several crores. The final cost is heavily influenced by the level of luxury and the choice of location for the celebration.
"A significant number of our clients are international couples who have chosen India as their wedding destination," shares Darshan Shroff, Partner at Momente Weddings, a luxury wedding planning company. They come from diverse countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Tanzania. They are mainly looking for a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, exotic locations, family connections, and good value for their special day."
People are also looking beyond Rajasthan for wedding venues. There are many places in India that are perfect for a special wedding, from the regal rajbaris of Kolkata to the vineyards in Maharashtra. When asked to recommend some of the best venues in India for destination weddings, Shroff recommends the following:
Udaipur for its palatial venues and lakeside locations make it ideal for a regal, traditional wedding.
With its grand forts and palaces, Jaipur offers a royal wedding experience steeped in history.
Known for versatile venue spaces, Bangalore offers a unique choice from a palace vibe to being close to nature.
Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Goa is perfect for a relaxed, beachside wedding.
For those seeking a tranquil backdrop, the backwaters of Kerala and lush greenery are perfect.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh offers a serene and spiritual setting for a unique wedding experience.
"NRIs from various parts of the world come to India to get married, especially from the US, UK, other European countries, Dubai, and other Middle Eastern countries," said Parthip Thyagarajan, Co-founder, and CEO at WeddingSutra.com, which is India's first wedding portal. "While many may want a royal wedding in Rajasthan, others look forward to beach, hill station weddings—or spiritual locations like Amristar. Factors like the hotel, cost, and service quality are more important than the destination. People from other countries often seek more intimate weddings than Indian residents. Their most important factors are connectivity from international destinations and proximity to the closest airport, typically not more than two hours away. Additionally, a hotel that excels in service and hospitality is crucial."
According to Shroff, the key to planning a successful wedding in India is thorough organisation and attention to detail. This includes choosing the right season, selecting the appropriate venue, understanding local customs, incorporating local traditions into the wedding festivities, and ensuring an enjoyable experience for the guests.
"The most important piece of advice we can give is to start planning early and hire a wedding planner from India," said Rishi Shah and Emilia Lopez-Yañez Shah, who got married in India. "Someone who understands the local culture, vendors, and logistics can make a difference. Having Momente on board was a big win. They handled everything from venue selection to guest accommodations, which took a lot of stress off our shoulders."
Communication is key, they add. Make sure you are in constant touch with your vendors and planners. "We set up regular video calls to stay updated on the progress. This helped us avoid any last-minute surprises and ensured that everything was exactly how we envisioned it."
When choosing a venue and destination, consider the accessibility of your guests, said the couple. And look for a destination that reflects your personality and relationship. "We chose Bangalore because it has childhood memories for Rishi and good international connectivity. We love the weather in Bangalore. It is perfect, with pleasant weather that is ideal for our outdoor ceremonies." Another crucial factor is the accommodation options for your guests. "We wanted our family and friends to have a comfortable stay, so we made sure to select a venue like Amita Rasa and Mulberry Shades, both lending beautiful spaces for all our events."