Are you dreaming of a wedding as unique as your love story? It’s time to think outside the box. From magnificent forts and misty hills to serene beaches and lavish backdrops, India has an abundance of picturesque locales perfect for that special ‘I do’ moment. As destination weddings continue to gain popularity in India, Skyscanner’s ‘Destination I Do’ survey* highlights that 83% of Indians are willing to consider alternatives to traditional wedding hotspots. With destinations such as Goa and Udaipur booked months in advance, couples are scouting for lesser-known locations to avoid the crowds, while still having a similar charm and accessibility for their guests.
If you’re looking for a truly unique destination, Skyscanner has just the guide for you. Here are some treasures and insider tips for navigating them, to relish an unparalleled destination wedding experience.
1.Kalimpong, West Bengal
Kalimpong’s stunning mountain vistas and tranquil atmosphere provide a scenic backdrop for a wedding with your close friends and family in attendance. With its rich cultural past and serene landscape, it makes for a one-of-a-kind intimate experience for both the couple and guests.
When planning your trip to Kalimpong, Skyscanner’s ‘Add nearby airports’ option makes finding the closest airport a breeze. Bagdogra is your best option, and from there, you can easily hire a car to complete the journey. Guests may want to take advantage of their extra time by exploring what Bagdogra has to offer – they can visit the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the foothills of the Himalayas between the Mahananda and Teesta rivers, where they can even enjoy thrilling rafting opportunities. Additionally, a tour of the region’s picturesque tea estates offers a peaceful escape amidst lush greenery. With a delightful detour this way, they can experience the charm of two destinations in one trip!
Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to Bagdogra (IXB)
Flight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to Bagdogra (IXB)
Flight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to Bagdogra (IXB)
2. Mandawa, Rajasthan
When you think of a Rajasthani wedding—grand palaces, vibrant traditions, and luxurious decor come to mind—thanks to celebrity weddings (be it Kiara-Sidharth’s lavish wedding affair at Jaisalmer or Katrina-Vicky’s at Barwara) that have embraced this opulence! But for couples looking to offer their guests something a little off the beaten path, more intimate and less touristy – Mandawa is an alternative to these popular cities; a hidden gem in the state that is equally picturesque! With its well-preserved havelis (traditional mansions) adorned with intricate murals, Mandawa is a glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich heritage without the crowds.
A three-hour drive from the Jaipur International Airport, Mandawa is majesty through and through. To ensure you get the best value when sponsoring travel for your guests, you can travel under a single booking. Skyscanner’s search options allow effortless group bookings, you can adjust the ‘number of travellers’ and search for and book the same flight for up to 8 people at once. Airline prices fluctuate with demand, so booking together means everyone gets the same ticket price if you do your research right. With seamless travel planning and savings just a few clicks away, your grand Mandawa wedding will be one to remember!
Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to Jaipur (JAI)
Flight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to Jaipur (JAI)
Flight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to Jaipur (JAI)
3. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Known for its rathas (chariot temples) reflecting the glory of erstwhile kingdoms, splendid beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Mahabalipuram welcomes you with warmth, leaving a lasting impression no matter the number of visits. Home to yet another celeb wedding in Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivan in 2022, this coastal wedding town is the perfect mix of a beach with scenic backdrops, landscape gardens and an inventory of 5-star properties. A scenic one-and-a-half-hour drive along the eastern coast, both the experience to and at the location will leave you awestruck! The journey itself is an experience to treasure, with breathtaking views guiding your way.
And here’s a pro tip: If you are flying to Mahabalipuram, consider mixing and matching your airlines or airports. You can choose to depart with one airline or from one airport and return with another. You might be pleasantly surprised by the savings it offers!
Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to Chennai (MAA)
Flight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to Chennai (MAA)
Flight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to Chennai (MAA)
4. Kukas, Rajasthan
Nestled on the outskirts of Jaipur, Kukas captures the essence of luxury and tranquility. Located just 20km beyond Jaipur, its blissful ambience makes it a miniature replica of Jaipur, comprising premium resorts, boutique hotels, and world-class amenities amidst the Aravalli hills. This perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary indulgence makes Kukas an intriguing destination for an authentic Rajasthani experience, just a stone’s throw away from the ‘Pink City’ (Jaipur).
With Rajasthan becoming an increasingly popular choice for destination weddings, many are looking to book flights to these majestic cities within the state. A simple way to ensure you get the best deal is by setting up a ‘Price Alert’ on Skyscanner. This feature keeps a watch on your chosen flight, notifying you via email or push notification whenever prices fluctuate. By monitoring rates over time, it ensures you lock in the best deal. This works especially well if you have a few weeks or months before finalising your booking.
Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to Jaipur (JAI)
Flight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to Jaipur (JAI)
Flight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to Jaipur (JAI)
5. Gokarna, Karnataka
Often known as the hidden Goa, Gokarna is relatively peaceful and less crowded than its buzzing counterpart. Its pristine beaches, temples, and a laid-back atmosphere offer the right mix of fun, nature, and culture. While Goa may be renowned for its vibrant nightlife and tourism, Gokarna offers a tranquil escape, making it ideal for couples who appreciate a low-key affair. Getting here though, is you whisking the two. Goa’s International Airport, serving as the nearest airport, offers a taste of both, as you gear up for that magical sunset beach vibe on your special day.
Using Skyscanner’s ‘Whole Month’ search tool, you can easily find the most cost-effective days to fly closer to the wedding date, thereby saving you from overspending. If you’ve got some extra time at hand before the wedding festivities, you can pamper yourself by indulging in spas or some downtime with loved ones by the beach in Goa, all while enjoying the convenience of seamless travel planning.
Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to Goa (GOI)
Flight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to Goa (GOI)
Flight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to Goa (GOI)
So, why limit yourself to a traditional wedding venue when there are so many incredible destinations waiting to be discovered? From beachfront elegance to regal fortresses, there’s a perfect wedding backdrop for every couple.
*Data comes from the OnePoll survey commissioned by Skyscanner. It took place in July 2024 and involved 2,000 respondents from India.