A Guide To Romantic Honeymoon Destinations In India - Femina
Image: Shutterstock
Are you getting married soon? Beyond the actual wedding festivities, there is another thing you need to pre-plan. Your honeymoon! Get those travel tickets and accommodations booked in time to get good deals. It will also reduce the stress of looking for rooms and tickets closer to the wedding when you have a thousand other things to take care of.
Where to go, though? The current situation with the pandemic has limited our international travels. You don't have to worry over that as we make it easy for you with a list of honeymoon destinations in India. The country is vast and encompasses different types of terrain and destinations. So whatever type of destination you're looking for, India has it!
1. Honeymoon Destinations In India: North India
2. Honeymoon Destinations In India: West India
3. Honeymoon Destinations In India: South India
4. Honeymoon Destinations In India: East India
5. Honeymoon Destinations In India: Central India
6. Honeymoon Destinations In India: FAQs
Honeymoon Destinations In India: North India
The majestic Himalayas are a great backdrop for a vacay. And when it comes to honeymoon, there are many destinations where you can look at, that are ideal for a romantic getaway. Here's a list of options and just why they make for a good honeymoon destination in India.
Image: Shutterstock
Manali
This is amongst the most popular honeymoon destinations in India for many years. The tourist-friendly town has many hotels and resorts to pick from for rooms with picturesque views and top amenities. The best time to visit is between October and June. The winters are snow-bound and beautiful here. There are quite a few sights to take in, in Manali including the Great Himalayan National Park, Hadimba Temple, Rohtang Pass, Vashishth Baths as also adventure sports like skiing, paragliding, zorbing, etc to indulge in.
Tip: The nearest airport is the Kullu Manali Airport at Bhuntar with direct flights from Chandigarh and Delhi.
Image: Shutterstock
Kashmir
Popularly known as 'Heaven on Earth', Kashmir has been amongst the favourite honeymoon destinations in India for honeymooners (rightly so). The place is blessed with breathtaking mountains, impressive lakes, dense forests, grasslands, and activities like trout fishing, rafting, boating, trekking, and snowboarding, etc. Whether you want to experience snow, water, forests, temples, or historical monuments, Kashmir has something for everyone. Gulmarg for skiing in winters, Pahalgam for majestic views of lush greenery and green meadows, Srinagar for a whimsical ride on shikaras on the famous Dal Lake, and Patnitop for adventure sports.
Tip: Srinagar has its own airport.
Image: Shutterstock
Dharamshala
For those who wish to have a laidback honeymoon in the mountains, Dharamshala is the perfect place to go. Dharamshala has various monasteries like Gyuto. For the history buffs, there is the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives which contains scripts and artefacts from the 12th century. For adventure lovers, there is Dharamshala Jungle camping and trekking to Bhagsunag waterfalls. Also, one just cannot miss out on exploring the tea gardens. Although Dharamshala is pretty all year round, the best time to visit is during summer, ie, from March to Mid-July. Some other major tourist attractions are the War Museum, Kangra Valley, Chintpurni, St John In The Wilderness Church, Kareri Lake, Dalai Lama Temple complex, and Triund Hill.
Tip: The Dharamsala-Kangra Airport is located in Dharamshala itself.
Honeymoon Destinations In India: West India
The western part of India has a myriad landscape. From dessert in Rajasthan and Kutch, Gujarat to the Sahyadris to beaches of Goa, you have many options to choose from.
Image: Shutterstock
Udaipur
The extravagant royal palaces, serene lakes, majestic forts, startling architecture are only a few words that describe Udaipur, the City of Lakes. Set amidst the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, Udaipur has five prominent lakes: Lake Pichola, Udai Sagar Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, Rajsamand Lake, and Jaisamand Lake. Other than lakes, couples can explore the City Palace, Lake Palace, Monsoon Palace, Doodh Talai Musical Gardens, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Vintage Car Museum, Under the Sun Aquarium, stroll at the Gulab Bagh, marvel at the light and sound show at Manek Chowk, have a romantic dinner at Ambrai Ghat, seek blessings at Jagdish Temple, and shop local goods at Hathi Pol Bazaar. The best time to visit Udaipur is in winters from October to Mid-March.
Tip: The Maharana Pratap Airport or Dabok airport has one terminal that caters to all flights to Udaipur.
Image: Shutterstock
Goa
Goa, popularly known as the beach and party capital of India has made a name for itself with the sun, sand, and the sea. North Goa hosts some of the most popular beaches like Anjuna, Vagator, Calangute, and Sinquerim. It is also known for its electrifying party and hippie vibes. Whereas, South Goa beaches like Palolem, Morjim, Colva, and Benaulim are known for solitude, tranquillity, and water-sports. Goa has something for everyone; casinos, wildlife sanctuaries, cruise rides, churches, flea markets, waterfalls. The best time to reach Goa is anytime between October to April and the nearest airport is Dabolim International Airport.
Tip: The airport at Dabolim near Panjim is domestic as well as an international airport.
Image: Shutterstock
Kutch
The Kutch region is divided into two sub-regions: Great Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch. Situated about 100km from Bhuj City, the White Salt Desert in Great Rann of Kutch is a majestic place. One can go on camel rides, walk hand-in-hand, and experience the enchanting sunset. Kala Dungar or Black Hill is the highest point of the Kutch region and offers a panoramic view of the whole desert. Established in 1877, the Kutch Museum in Bhuj is the oldest museum in Gujarat and a must-visit for history buffs. Prag Mahal and Aina Mahal at Bhuj encompasses the rich heritage of the Kutch region. Vijay Vilas Palace, Narayan Sarover, Mandvi Beach are other must-visit places. The best time to visit is during winters and also an opportunity to catch the Rann of Kutch festival.
Tip: The Bhuj Airport is around 70 km away from Kutch.
Honeymoon Destinations In India: South India
From picturesque natural beauty to statuesque beauties of the urbanscape, South India has a lot to offer when it comes to honeymoon destinations in India.
Image: Shutterstock
Andaman Islands
The Andaman Islands are a popular choice among newlyweds for their pristine beaches and serene atmosphere. Famous for its dive sites and beaches, Havelock Island is an exquisite island. Couples can delve into adventure activities as well as spend their time in a laid-back manner. Perfect for candlelight dinners at the beach and swimming, Neil Island is an embodiment of scenic beauty. Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, the turtle-nesting ground, is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the Andamans. The best time to visit is between October and April and couples can spot various species of turtles. Another exciting place for marine lovers is the Samudrika Marine Museum.
Tip: The best way to reach the islands is to fly to Port Blair.
Image: Shutterstock
Coorg
Coorg is blessed with some of nature's finest landscapes. With lush green dense hills and vivid blue skies, it is known as the Scotland of India. Couples can bathe elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp, experience Tibetan culture at the Golden temple, click pictures at Abbey Falls, trek on scenic routes, relish the local non-vegetarian delicacies, pick coffee beans at the coffee plantation, go fishing at Kaveri river, hiking at the breathtaking Western Ghats, explore the local heritage of Madikeri Fort, go for a wildlife safari at Nagarhole National Park, spot exotic and local birds at Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. The best time to visit is in the summer months from April to June.
Tip: The airport in Mangalore is the nearest airport to Coorg.
Image: Shutterstock
Puducherry
Popularly known as Pondy or Pondicherry, it is famous for colonial architecture, pebbled beaches, historic sites, and seaside promenades. One of the eight Union Territories, Puducherry was once under the French government and one can still find Indo-French influence there. Unlike other beaches in India, Paradise beach, Auroville beach, Promenade beach, and Serenity beach are clean and dandy. The food is a perfect blend of various cuisines like Indian and French. There are also a lot of magnificent churches and temples like the Gothic Sacred Heart Basilica. Popularly known as the 'White Town', the french quarter is filled with bright mustard and white house, pebbled streets, Instagram-friendly cafes, prestigious museums, etc.
Tip: While there are a few flights directly to the local airport here, the other nearest airport is the Chennai airport.
Honeymoon Destinations In India: East India
East India is not as explored as the other parts of India, and therein lies the beauty. Explore and enjoy the serene nature amidst the Himalayas.
Image: Shutterstock
Sikkim
Admired for its rich culture and biodiversity, Sikkim is the ideal place for an offbeat and laidback honeymoon. Gangtok, its capital is known as the 'Land of Monasteries' is a must-visit place for experiencing mystical aura, to capture mesmerising views of Mt Kanchenjunga, and to relax in the lap of mother nature. Other picturesque cities are Lachung and Lachen in the north, Pelling and Yuksom in the West, Namchi and Ravangla in the South. For adventurous couples, Skiing, River Rafting, Trekking, Hang Gliding, Para Gliding, Mountain Biking, and Yak Safari are some activities to try. The best time to visit Sikkim is either between March and May or October and mid-December.
Tip: Pakyong near Gangtok is where Sikkim's first airport is located. Bagdogra in West Bengal is the other alternative airport.
Image: Shutterstock
Darjeeling
At the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling stands proudly. It only takes one visit to the 'Queen of the Hills' to fall in love! Ghoom Monastery, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling Mall, Chowrasta are some of the must-visit places for honeymooners. Watch the most beautiful sunset of your life atop Tiger hill, take a joy-ride on the famous Toy Train, and tour a tea factory to see how the 'Champagne of Teas' is made. One just cannot go to the North-East and not have authentic momos and thukpas. The best time to visit is during summer, from April to June.
Tip: Bagdogra airport, West Bengal is the nearest airport to Darjeeling.
Image: Shutterstock
Nagaland
Being one of the seven sisters of Northeast India, Nagaland is an alluring sight to behold. Get to know about the tribal lifestyle, the unique style of handicrafts of Nagaland, or try some adrenaline rush activities like mountain biking in Kohima or trekking in Dzoukou Valley Peak. One of the top three Indian states with the highest percentage of forest cover, Nagaland excels in providing a serene atmosphere. The best time to visit is during December when the Hornbill festival is in its full glory. The streets are full of excitement, energy, and local tribal, eastern and western traditions.
Tip: Dimapur Airport is where one can fly to, to visit Nagaland.
Honeymoon Destinations In India: Central India
Again, one might not think of this area as one of the honeymoon destinations in India, but it holds its own share of natural and man-made beauty.
Image: Shutterstock
Khajuraho
Known as the 'Temple Town of India', Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh boasts of its UNESCO world heritage site status for its intricate and medieval erotic sculptures. The temples are divided into clusters or groups—Western, Eastern, and Southern. The Western Group of Temples is the largest, best-preserved, and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also the place you should start your sightseeing with. The sprawling Western Group of Temple complex consists of the most important temples in Khajuraho such as Lakshmana Temple, Viswanath Temple, Devi Jagdambi Temple, Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, and Varaha Mandap. The best time to visit is during winters, from October to February.
Tip: Khajuraho Airport is just a few kilometres away from the town.
Image: Shutterstock
Panchmarhi
Popularly known as the 'Queen of the Satpura', the picturesque town is a part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to leopards and bison. Popular among religious tourists, it is believed that the five sandstone cut caves are where the Pandavas stayed during their exile. Situated at an altitude of 1,067 metres, it is surrounded by magnificent views of the Satpura forest with streams and waterfalls. Since the town was discovered and developed in modern times by Captain James Forsyth of the British Army, it houses charming churches built in colonial-style architecture. Pachmarhi has pleasant weather throughout the year, making it ideal to visit anytime.
Tip: The nearest airports to reach here are Bhopal and Jabalpur airports.
Honeymoon Destinations In India: FAQs
Image: Shutterstock
Q. How to choose a honeymoon destination?
A. Firstly, decide the possible duration and type of destination (mountains, beaches, etc). Keep your budget in mind when deciding upon the mode of travel and accommodation. When putting together the budget, keep accommodation, travel, daily costs and potential shopping costs in mind. With the pandemic still going on, you might want to plan any long-distance travel for later when things normalise.
Q. What is mini-moon?
A. A mini-moon is a small honeymoon which lasts for three to four days. It normally is like a long weekend vacay. These are ideal for those who're planning to have a proper honeymoon much later after the wedding but need a holiday after all the wedding planning and celebrations and want some quality time together.
Comments
Post a Comment