A wedding is not just an event—it’s a celebration of love, family, and lifelong memories. And a guide make it what better way to make it unforgettable than by choosing a destination wedding? India, with its royal palaces, golden deserts, scenic beaches, and serene backwaters, offers endless options to make your big day magical.
Planning a destination wedding, however, requires careful thought and preparation. At DreamVow, we’ve created this complete guide to help you plan a stress-free, picture-perfect destination wedding in India.
Step 1: Choose the Perfect Destination
The first and most important step is deciding where you want to tie the knot. Your destination sets the tone for the entire celebration.
Royal Vibes: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur for palaces and forts
Beach Charm: Goa, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Kerala
Mountain Romance: Mussoorie, Shimla, Rishikesh
Cultural Heritage: Varanasi, Agra, Khajuraho
Think about your theme—do you want a royal affair, a relaxed beach vibe, or a spiritual riverside ceremony? Your answer will guide your choice.
Step 2: Planning the Budget
Destination weddings can range from ₹15 lakhs to several crores, depending on scale and luxury. To avoid surprises, break your budget into categories:
Venue & Accommodation (40%)
Décor & Theme (20%)
Food & Beverages (20%)
Photography & Entertainment (10%)
Miscellaneous (10%)
Pro tip: Choose off-season dates (like April–September) for lower costs and better deals.
Step 3: Pick the Right Time of Year
Weather plays a big role in destination weddings. India’s diverse climate means you should do planning carefully:
October–March: Best for Rajasthan, Delhi NCR, and heritage locations.
November–February: Ideal for beach weddings in Goa or Kerala.
March–June: Perfect for hill stations like Mussoorie and Shimla.
April–September: Budget-friendly, but check for monsoons in coastal areas.
Step 4: Planning the Guest List
Destination weddings are usually more intimate, with 100–200 guests on average. Create two lists:
Close circle (family & best friends) – for the main events.
Extended circle (colleagues, acquaintances) – invite them for the reception in your hometown later.
This makes it easier to manage costs and logistics while keeping the celebrations personal.
Step 5: Book the Venue & Vendors Early
Once the destination is finalized, lock in your venue at least 8–12 months in advance, especially in popular wedding cities. At DreamVow, we recommend also booking:
Photographer & Videographer – for those Insta-worthy moments.
Makeup Artist – destination weddings may have limited availability.
Entertainment – DJs, live bands, or folk dancers.
Travel & Logistics – guest transport and airport pickups.
Step 6: Planning the Décor & Theme
Your décor should complement the destination:
Palaces: Royal, vintage, and regal themes.
Beaches: Tropical, boho, and minimalist setups.
Mountains: Rustic, floral, and cozy vibes.
Backwaters: Traditional, nature-inspired themes.
Add local cultural elements—like Rajasthani folk dancers in Jaipur or classical Kathakali shows in Kerala—to give guests a memorable experience.
Step 7: Curate the Menu
Food is the heart of any Indian wedding. Choose a menu that balances local specialties with popular favorites. For example:
Goa: Seafood & cocktails.
Rajasthan: Dal Baati Churma & royal thalis.
Kerala: Sadya on banana leaves.
Delhi NCR: Global fusion cuisines.
Don’t forget to include interactive food counters and midnight snack bars to wow your guests.
Step 8: Add Personal Touches
Make your wedding truly yours by:
Writing personalized vows.
Creating welcome hampers with local goodies.
Hosting fun pre-wedding activities like yacht parties in Goa or mehndi by the lake in Udaipur.
Designing a custom hashtag for social media memories.
Step 9: Hire a Wedding Planner
A destination wedding comes with logistical challenges. From vendor coordination to guest management, a professional planner ensures everything runs smoothly. At DreamVow, we specialize in curating weddings that blend tradition, creativity, and flawless execution—so you can focus on celebrating.
Step 10: Enjoy the Journey
The most important step? Relax and soak in every moment. Your destination wedding is not just about the big day—it’s about the laughter, bonding, and joy shared with your loved ones throughout the journey.
Final Thoughts
Planning a destination wedding in India may seem overwhelming, but with the right planning and professional guidance, it becomes an exciting adventure. From palaces and beaches to hills and backwaters, India has something for every couple.