“It’s hard to dethrone Rajasthan as a destination wedding go-to, but couples are now looking beyond the usual suspects like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. They are experimenting with locations like Suryagarh in Jaisalmer and the Six Senses Fort Barwara. The two things that make a destination viable are the offer of a unique experience–culture, local activities, and regional food–and hotel options to host large guest lists.” Kumarakom Lake Resort and The Oberoi Sukhvilas outside Chandigarh are other great options. Europe is back in a big way–choose Portugal for a location that’s still untapped for Indian weddings. Or consider South Africa and Jordan (Amman, Petra, or anything close to the Dead Sea). The landscapes are entirely different, and you can extend the trip into a post- wedding holiday, too.” Devika Narain, founder, Devika Narain & Company
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“While Rajasthan continues to be unwaveringly popular, South India offers some untouched venues and experiences. There are many offbeat hotels and vineyards around Bengaluru, such as the Big Banyan Vineyard & Resort. Coonoor, Coorg, Kumarakom, Bekal, and Wayanad are also good options for smaller weddings, and can be extended into a holiday. Goa may seem overdone, but allows you to mould the experience, look, and feel of your wedding. For a smaller group, consider one of The Postcard Hotels’ properties, Baale Resort Goa, or Ahilya By the Sea. Internationally, look at Vietnam, Doha, Jordan, Morocco, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, southern Italy, and Egypt. They are aesthetically appealing, untapped, and well-connected. Most luxury properties here want to foray into Indian weddings, and offer flexibility in planning.” Tina Tharwani, co-founder, Shaadi Squad
