Top 15 Best Destination Wedding Cities-States in India

Introduction:

Planning a wedding is one of life’s most exciting and cherished moments. And destination weddings in India have taken the spotlight when it comes to creating unforgettable memories. India's cultural diversity, majestic landscapes, and stunning architecture make it a dream destination for couples across the globe. If you're looking for the perfect city or state for your big day, you're in the right place. This guide takes you through the top 15 cities and states for destination weddings in India, complete with details about their beauty, charm, and practical aspects like costs and the best season to tie the knot.

The Rise of Destination Weddings in India

Destination weddings have become a trend globally, with India emerging as one of the most sought-after wedding destinations. Couples are drawn to iconic heritage locations, serene beaches, picturesque hills, and grand palaces that offer a perfect blend of romance and tradition. From lavish 5-star resorts to unique boutique venues, India caters to every taste and budget. Here’s a well-curated list of its 15 top wedding cities and states that stand out for their beauty and exceptional wedding experiences.

Top 15 Cities/States for Destination Weddings in India

1. Udaipur, Rajasthan – The City of Lakes

• (Source: Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur)
• 1. Description: Known as the 'Venice of the East,' Udaipur boasts stunning palaces, serene lakes, and luxurious resorts. Venues like the Taj Lake Palace and Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa exude regal charm.
• 2. The Average Cost: ₹40-90 lakhs for a two-night wedding, which includes only food and Accommodation. However, the rates of high-end venues like the Taj Lake Palace and Radisson Blu Palace are far higher 
• 3. Best Season: October to March
• 4. Tips: Book your venue 6-9 months in advance to secure prime locations, such as Palaces in Udaipur City. These are known to be wedding hotspots and usually sell out much quicker than in other cities.

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan – The Pink City

• (Source: Raffles, Jaipur)
• 1. Description: Jaipur offers splendid palaces like the Rambagh Palace and Amber Fort for an opulent wedding experience. Known for its great connectivity for people traveling from let's say by road for people from Delhi and to the Jaipur Airport for people traveling from far away, it's the original hotspot for weddings 
• 2. Average Cost: The average cost for people looking to hold their wedding in Jaipur is lower to say a Udaipur venue but higher compared to a Jodhpur Venue. The usual range is around ₹35-75 lakhs for 2 Nights Food and Stay
• 3. Best Season: November to February. Offseason dates are also useful as Jaipur venues tend to have bigger ballrooms
• 4. Tips: Leverage local artisans for vibrant Rajasthani décor to enhance your theme.

3. Goa – The Beach Paradise

(Source: ITC Grand, Goa)

• 1. Description: Ah, the Famous land for beach weddings! Goa is the biggest spot for beach weddings in India. Guests can choose from a range of properties, from a Baywatch Resort to a Novotel Dona Sylvia to an ITC Grand Goa. Surely, you can have your pick. Just be cautioned if you have Muhurat Dates, as there is a real war for those dates. 
• 2. Average Cost: The range for Goan venues exceeds that of other cities as the venues are spread out across different tiers of properties. The usual range for food and stay at a good property starts from ₹30 lakhs and ranges up to - ₹1 crore
• 3. Best Season: November to March. It has a shorter season compared to other cities.
• 4. Tips: Opt for sunset ceremonies for breathtaking views and stunning photos.

4. Kerala – God’s Own Country

(Source: Mountain Shadow Resort, Thrissur)

• 1. Description: Ideal for serene backwater or beach weddings. Alleppey and Kumarakom offer exclusive houseboat experiences for intimate ceremonies. The ceremonies in these cities are more peaceful and low-key compared to other loud states. 
• 2. Average Cost: The cost of a beach wedding in Kerala would be lower to say a Goan destination wedding. The range starts from ₹20 lakhs and can go higher as the tier of the property increases. Our pick, if you have a great budget, do check out The Leela Kovalam.
• 3. Best Season: September to May. 
• 4. Tips: Incorporate local elements like Kathakali performances for a unique touch. Add a riverside touch to your wedding if possible.

5. Jodhpur, Rajasthan – The Blue City

(Source: Radisson, Jodhpur)

• 1. Description: Jodhpur has a smaller quantity of venues for destination weddings compared to other Rajasthani cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, etc. But don't create a misconception of the venues being less meaning it has a being a lower experience offering. The likes of Umaid Bhawan Palace and Taj Hari Mahal are perfect for fairy-tale weddings.
• 2. Average Cost: The average cost of a wedding starts from ₹15 lakhs and ranges to ₹60 lakhs for food and stay for 2 nights at say a Radisson Jodhpur. 
• 3. Best Season: October to March
• 4. Tips: Take advantage of the open gardens. Jodhpur has more open area and people who want to have an expansive wedding at a lower cost can consider this city.

6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – A Spiritual Haven

(Source: Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa, Rishikesh)

• 1. Description: Exchange your vows alongside the serene Ganges and the Himalayas as your backdrop. Rishikesh is a place for intimate weddings with not many resorts having that high of inventory compared to a normal metropolitan city. However, the same is made up of the tranquil experience it offers
• 2. Average Cost: The range is somewhere starting from ₹20 lakhs while for Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa, the food and accommodation for 2 Nights can also go more than ₹1 crore
• 3. Best Season: September to November, February to April
• 4. Tips: Incorporate a traditional wedding ceremony with a Ganga Aarti. Be sure to pack a lot of warmness in the attires that you choose for your wedding 

7. Agra, Uttar Pradesh – Home of the Taj Mahal

(Source: The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra)

• 1. Description: Agra is known for its historic culture and timeless romance. The Taj Mahal a unique part of Indian history known for such significance can be your wedding's backdrop as and when you plan to begin your special story. 
• 2. Average Cost: The ideal cost of a wedding in Agra with food and stay for 2 nights can cost from ₹15 lakhs and can go up to ₹60 lakhs in a property like Courtyard Marriott Agra. Certain exceptions include the Oberoi Amarvilas and other high-end properties.
• 3. Best Season: November to February.  
• 4. Tips: Choose a sunset wedding to capture the Taj Mahal’s beauty in your photos.

8. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand – The Queen of the Hills

(Source: Ramada by Wyndham, Mussoorie)

• 1. Description: Mussoorie offers breathtaking mountain views, with venues like JW Marriott Walnut Grove.
• 2. Average Cost: ₹30 – 65 lakhs. The mountain views don't come cheap.
• 3. Best Season: April to June. The only city wherein rains during the wedding creates a very good vibe.
• 4. Tips: Opt for a floral theme to complement the natural beauty of the hills.

9. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan – The Golden City

(Source: Taj Gorbandh Palace, Jaisalmer)

• 1. Description: Known for its desert charm, host your wedding in sand dunes or the Suryagarh Palace.
• 2. Average Cost: ₹30–50 lakhs
• 3. Best Season: November to February
• 4. Tips: Include cultural performances like the Kalbelia dance for a magical evening.

10. Hyderabad, Telangana – The City of Pearls

(Source: Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad)

• 1. Description: The City of Pearls. Weddings in Hyderabad are known as an alternative to Rajasthan. This city contains famous palaces like the Taj Falaknuma Palace and Chowmahalla Palace perfect for a wedding venue with a historic blend. 
• 2. Average Cost: ₹25 lakhs to ₹1 crores
• 3. Best Season: October to March
• 4. Tips: Serve Hyderabad's culinary delights like biryani and kebabs for an unforgettable feast. Expect a royal treatment from the hospitality services and go for famous brands.

11. Andaman & Nicobar Islands – A Tropical Retreat

(Source: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andaman)

• 1. Description: Pristine beaches and islands like Havelock make it a private paradise for beach weddings. This island is one of the loveliest places in the country and getting married here is the dream of every lovebird. 
• 2. Average Cost: ₹40 lakhs – ₹80 lakhs
• 3. Best Season: December to April, September-October
• 4. Tips: Keep the guest list short for a more personalized experience. The serene beaches here are more cleaner compared to Goa Beaches.

12. Chandigarh – The City Beautiful

(Source: Noormahal Palace)

• 1. Description: Create lifelong memories in the "City Beautiful," where every detail is crafted to perfection. A balanced blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. It is quite a known place for people traveling from different northern states.
• 2. Average Cost: ₹15 – 40 lakhs for food and stay for 2 nights.
• 3. Best Season: October to March
• 4. Tips: Host your reception outdoors to enjoy the city’s scenic landscapes. 

13. Lonavala-Karjat-Khopoli – Serene Valleys and Hill Station Feels

(Source: Radisson Resort and Spa, Lonavala)

• 1. Description: Perfect for couples seeking a hill station, nature-infused wedding vibe amidst lush green hills. Convenient for people traveling from Pune and Mumbai, it's a household area for destination weddings.
• 2. Average Cost: The food and stay for 2 Nights here starts from ₹25 lakhs and properties like Ikshana and Radisson Resort and Spa are in a different tier as they offer an experience like none other.
• 3. Best Season: April and May, November to February.
• 4. Tips: Plan an outdoor ceremony especially a sundowner wedding to get the most out of the breathtaking Sahyadri landscapes.

14. Igatpuri-Nashik – A Retreat Among Vineyards & Nature

(Source: Aria Resort and Spa, Nashik)

• 1. Description: Celebrate your big day in the lap of nature with sprawling vineyards, misty hills, and serene resorts. Take full advantage of the mountain view and vineyards for a destination wedding in the Igatpuri-Nashik Belt.
• 2. Average Cost: The average cost of food and stay for 2 Nights in this belt ranges between ₹20–40 lakhs for maximum properties. Certain exceptions like Grape County, Sula Vineyards, and Taj Ambad do exist.
• 3. Best Season: November to March. The scorching heat in April and May may limit your options with venues with good banquet halls.
• 4. Tips: Opt for a vineyard-themed wedding to add a unique charm to your ceremony, coupled with curated wine tastings.

15. Kashmir – The Paradise of Romance

(Source: Taj Dal View, Srinagar)

• 1. Description: Known as "Paradise on Earth," Kashmir is an enchanting destination that offers snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and unparalleled scenic beauty, making it a magical setting for your wedding.
• 2. Average Cost: ₹15–25 lakhs
• 3. Best Season: April to October
• 4. Tips: Opt for venues like houseboats and gardens, and incorporate traditional Kashmiri music and cuisine to create an unforgettable experience.

Tips for Destination Wedding Planning

• 1. Consult Local Vendors: Their expertise will ensure authenticity and seamless execution.
• 2. Visit the Destination: Visiting the venue beforehand will help in planning décor and arrangements.
• 3. Consider Guest Comfort: Provide personalized itineraries and local recommendations.
• 4. Plan Well in Advance: Destination weddings require early booking to secure the best venues and deals.

Make Your Dream Wedding a Reality

India’s diversity in culture, landscapes, and traditions makes it one of the world’s most enchanting destinations for weddings. Whether you're dreaming of a royal celebration or a beachfront affair, the options are endless. To make your wedding planning stress-free and enjoyable, get in touch with us. Our expert wedding planners can help you create unforgettable moments and turn your dream wedding into a reality. Contact us today!

Your perfect celebration is just a call away. Start your destination wedding planning now!