With inter-state travel restrictions getting lifted, the process of unlocking is gaining momentum. But with the pandemic still strong, there’s time before we start travelling with a free mind. However, those of you planning your wedding in advance, if you have always long-cherished the dream of a destination wedding, we bring you a quick dekko of some scenic locations.
The bride’s dazzling ghagra-choli is all set to be neatly folded into her suitcase; so is the shimmering sherwani-churidar and pagdi of the groom. The baaratis’ luggage seems to be outnumbering that of the bride and groom (they’re gearing up for 1001 selifes, you see)! Now that everything is packed and ready, jet set go?! Where? To the wedding venue, all set in an out-of-the-world location!
That’s the big fat Indian ‘destination’ wedding for you. Wedding is a lifetime celebration, and Indian weddings are becoming larger than life. From business tycoons and Bollywood celebrities to IT professionals and all those who are willing to spend to make their wedding a memorable experience — destination wedding is the in thing to do. So, live life king size as you say ‘I do’ a la the prince and princess of the yore or make the best of nature’s splendour as you take your wedding vows by sea/lake. We bring you a lineup of some jaw-dropping palaces/forts and beaches/backwaters across India for your D-day.
Udaipur, Rajasthan – The fascinating City of Lakes
Think of Rajasthan and the most striking imagery that comes to your mind is a vast dessert. However, Udaipur, the City of Lakes holds more than a handful of surprises for those who think so. With its picturesque lakes, scenic hills and breath-taking palace hotels, Udaipur is a perfect setting for your sangeet/mehendi, wedding, reception and cocktails.
Venue options: Taj Lake Palace, Oberoi Udaivilas, Jag Mandir Island Palace, Jagat Niwas Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace and Shiv Niwas Palace.
Pre-n-post wedding bonanza: Sightseeing – City Palace, Shilpgram, Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Sajjan Garh, Jagmandir Island. Shopping – Hathi Pol, Chetak Circle, Bada Bazaar and Palace Road
Jaipur, Rajasthan – The Majestic Capital City
Also known as The Pink City – Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan has been one of the most fascinating destinations for the big fat Indian weddings. The regal city is a prominent tourist destination included in the Golden Triangle circuit, along with Delhi and Agra. With its rich cultural tapestry and majestic aura, Jaipur is for those who dream of fairy tale weddings.
Venue options: Rambagh Palace, Jai Mahal Palace, Rajvilas Palace and Samode Haveli
Pre-n-post wedding bonanza: Sightseeing – Amer Palace, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Royal Albert Hall. Shopping – Johri Bazar, Hawa Mahal market, Bapu Bazar, Chaura Rasta and Gopalji ka Rasta.
Kumarakom, Kerala – Of pristine backwaters & greenscapes
In the recent past, the God’s Own Country is emerging as one of the most hot-n-happening destinations for weddings. Vast greenscapes, scenic backwaters and home to a wide variety of flora and fauna… nature’s bounty is what you will love the most about Kumarakom. Located near Kottayam, Kumarakom is well known for a wide variety of houseboats. So, how about cocktails on houseboats?!
Pre-n-post wedding bonanza: Sightseeing – Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Backwaters, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Beach. Shopping – Kumarakom market
Venue options: The Zuri Kumarakom, Kumarakom Lake Resort.
Hyderabad, Telangana – Charming City of Nizams
Call it the City of Pearls or the City of Nizams… Hyderabad is a perfect pick for a complete destination wedding experience. You can taste a slice of history besides the salivating nawabi cuisine, some vibrant shopping and much more. Getting married in the majestic Falaknuma Palace, for instance, is gonna be every couple’s dream come true. Remember Falaknuma? Well, it’s the same palace where Salman Khan hosted his sister Arpita’s wedding.
Venue options: Taj Falaknuma Palace, Chowmallah Palace.
Pre-n-post wedding bonanza: Sightseeing – Golkonda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, Charminar, Buddha Statue, Chowmahalla Palace, Ramoji Film City, Birla Mandir, Mecca Masjid. Shopping – Shilparamam, Laad Bazaar, Abids
Goa – Vibrance of Coastal Culture
When talking of destination weddings, can Goa stay far behind? Known for its splendid beaches, picturesque churches and spectacular Portuguese architecture, Goa is for those of you who love to enjoy sea food, drinks and a lovely sea view. Spanning across a 125-km stretch, its coastline is divided into North and South Goa.
Venue options: Bogmallo Beach Resort, Zuri White Sands Resort, Prainha Beach Resort, Zeebop by the Sea, Reis Magos Fort
Pre-n-post wedding bonanza: Sightseeing – Paloleum Beach, Agonda Beach, Cavelossim Beach, Benaulim Beach, Baga Beach. Shopping – Flea market at Anjuna Beach, Mapusa market, Calangute Market Square
Andaman and Nicobar Islands – In the lap of serene nature
Yes, you got it right, a destination wedding in the Islands! For Andaman and Nicobar Islands to feature in the honeymoon itinerary itself was once considered too farfetched. But with couples looking for escape from the hustle-bustle of city life, the Islands are emerging as a new getaway for taking vows. Tranquil beauty, pristine beaches and awe-inspiring sights will make for a ‘wow’ wedding experience.
Venue options: The Munjoh Ocean Resort and Silver Sand Beach Resort in the Havelock Island; Peerless Resort and Fortune Resort Bay Island in the capital city of Port Blair.
Pre-n-post wedding bonanza: Sightseeing – Havelock Island, Port Blair, Scuba & Snorkelling, Cellular Jail. Shopping – Emporiums and markets in Port Blair
Things to remember when planning a Destination Wedding
- Budget of hosts and guests
- Weather updates and research of the destination
- Connectivity to the destination
- Know your destination
- Identifying native vendors for wedding arrangements
