Making the decision to have your wedding in India is truly wonderful, considering its culturally rich and vibrant ambiance. Subsequently, planning a wedding here promises an experience like no other, with its colorful traditions, picturesque venues, and captivating beauty customs. If you’re thinking of tying the knot in the this beautiful side of the world, then you’re in luck! This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know when planning your dream destination wedding in India.

Everything You Need to Know When Planning a Wedding in India

1. Why consider India for your destination wedding?

India, with its diverse landscapes, ancient palaces, and warm hospitality, offers a captivating backdrop for your wedding celebrations. From the majestic forts of Rajasthan to the serene beaches of Goa and the lush tea gardens of Kerala, India provides a myriad of stunning locations to choose from. You can embrace the rich cultural tapestry and create memories that will last a lifetime amidst the vibrant colors and traditions of this enchanting country.

2. How to plan a destination wedding in India if you’re overseas

Photo by ​​The House On The Clouds

Planning a destination wedding from afar can be daunting, but with proper guidance, it becomes an exciting and smooth process. We’ll provide you with essential tips and steps to ensure your overseas planning experience is stress-free and enjoyable.

• Research and Choose Your Ideal Location: Begin by exploring different regions of India to find the perfect location that matches your vision and preferences for the wedding. Consider factors like climate, accessibility, and local attractions.
• Find the Perfect Venue: Once you’ve selected the location, research and shortlist venues that align with your wedding theme, guest capacity, and budget. Reach out to them for availability and detailed information.
• Choose the Ideal Season: India experiences diverse weather patterns, so selecting the right season is crucial. Avoid extreme temperatures or monsoon seasons, and opt for a time when the weather is pleasant.
• Set a Realistic Budget: Determine your budget early on and allocate funds for various aspects of the wedding, such as venue, decor, attire, and other expenses, to ensure a well-planned and financially viable event.
• Hire a Wedding Planner: Enlist the expertise of a reputable wedding planner in India who specializes in destination weddings. Their local knowledge and experience will ease the planning process and ensure a seamless celebration.
• Understand Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the legal formalities and requirements for getting married in India as a foreigner. This may involve obtaining specific documents and completing necessary paperwork.
• Plan Well in Advance: Destination weddings require meticulous planning. Start early and create a detailed timeline, allowing ample time to handle logistics and any unexpected challenges that may arise.
• Communicate with Vendors: Effective communication with vendors, such as caterers, decorators, and photographers, is essential. Utilize digital tools and video calls to maintain constant contact and convey your preferences.
• Cultural Sensitivity and Incorporating Indian Cuisine, Culture, and Tradition: Embrace the richness of Indian culture by incorporating elements like traditional attire, customs, and delectable Indian cuisine to create an authentic and immersive experience for you and your guests.
• Plan Guest Accommodations and Travel: Assist your guests with travel arrangements, visa information, and accommodation options, ensuring their comfort and convenience during their stay for the wedding.
• Plan Activities and Excursions: Make the most of your guests’ visit by organizing pre or post-wedding excursions and activities, allowing them to explore the beauty and culture of India while celebrating your special day.

READ MORE: How to Plan a Destination Wedding in India if You’re Overseas

3. Choose among the many vibrant venues in India for your destination wedding

Photo from tajfalaknuma

Here are 10 handpicked venues that exude charm and elegance. Whether you envision a royal palace, a luxurious resort, or a romantic beachfront, these venues will leave you and your guests mesmerized.

1. Neemrana Fort Palace, Rajasthan
2. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
3. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad, Telangana
4. Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, Rajasthan
5. Zuri White Sands Resort, Goa 
6. The Leela Palace, New Delhi
7. Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kerala
8. City Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan
9. Taj Exotica, Andaman Islands
10. Nalagarh Heritage Resort, Himachal Pradesh

READ MORE: 10 Vibrant Venues in India to Consider for Your Destination Wedding 

4. Consider incorporating some of the most fascinating wedding traditions in India in your nuptials  

Photo by Loie Photography

Indian weddings are steeped in ancient customs and rituals, each holding a unique significance. From the vibrant mehndi ceremony to the sacred mangalsutra, delve into the enchanting traditions that make Indian weddings so special.

1. Haldi Ceremony: The Glow of Turmeric
2. Mehndi Ceremony: Artistry on Palms
3. Baraat: The Groom’s Grand Arrival
4. Var Mala: Exchanging Floral Garlands
5. Saptapadi: The Seven Sacred Steps
6. Sindoor: The Mark of a Married Woman
7. Kanyadaan: The Sacred Gift of a Daughter
8. Vidaai: Bittersweet Farewell
9. Joota Chupai: Hiding the Groom’s Shoes
10. Post-Wedding Games: Uniting Through Play

READ MORE: 10 of the Most Fascinating Wedding Traditions in India 

5. Opt for cultural wedding attires for your wedding in India

Choosing the perfect wedding attire is a delightful experience in itself. Explore a diverse array of traditional Indian outfits, including the resplendent saree, the majestic sherwani, and other regional attire options that will make you feel like royalty on your big day.

1. Saree: The quintessential Indian attire, a saree is a six to nine yards of elegance and grace. Available in various fabrics, colors, and intricate designs, draping a saree is an art that adds a touch of sophistication to any bride.
2. Lehenga Choli: A popular choice among brides, the lehenga choli comprises a flared skirt (lehenga) paired with a fitted blouse (choli) and a dupatta. With exquisite embroidery and embellishments, this ensemble epitomizes opulence.
3. Sherwani: The sherwani is a regal outfit worn by Indian grooms. It is a long coat-like garment adorned with intricate embroidery and often paired with churidar pants and a matching turban.
4. Anarkali Suit: The Anarkali suit features a flowing, floor-length kurta with a fitted bodice and flared skirt. This elegant outfit is a favorite among bridesmaids and family members.
5. Gharara: A gharara consists of a flared, wide-legged trouser paired with a short kurti and a dupatta. This traditional outfit adds a vintage charm to the bride’s look.
6. Bandhgala Suit: Ideal for grooms who prefer a fusion of traditional and modern styles, the bandhgala suit is a tailored, high-collared jacket paired with trousers.
7. Banarasi Sari: For a touch of timeless allure, the Banarasi saree is a perfect choice. Known for its rich silk fabric and intricate gold or silver brocade work, it exudes grandeur.
8. Achkan: The achkan is a formal, knee-length jacket adorned with elaborate embroidery, often paired with churidar pants. This outfit exudes sophistication and charm.
9. Sharara: Similar to a gharara, a sharara features flared pants, but the difference lies in the shape of the pants. Sharara pants are wider and have a flowing silhouette.
10. Dhoti Pants with Crop Top: A contemporary twist to traditional attire, dhoti pants paired with a crop top offer a chic and comfortable look for modern brides.

6. Tap these Indian wedding dress designers for a gorgeous bridal look 

Photo from sabyasachiofficial

For those seeking bespoke wedding attire, we’ve curated a list of talented Indian designers renowned for their creativity and craftsmanship. These designers will help you bring your wedding outfit visions to life.

1. Sabyasachi Mukherjee
2. Manish Malhotra
3. Tarun Tahiliani
4. Anita Dongre
5. Neeta Lulla
6. Falguni Shane Peacock
7. Gaurav Gupta
8. Ritu Kumar
9. Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla
10. Anamika Khanna

READ MORE: 10 Indian Wedding Dress Designers Every Bride Should Keep On Her Radar

7. Incorporate these beauty traditions when getting married in India

Embrace the age-old beauty customs and rituals that Indian brides follow to radiate elegance on their wedding day. From turmeric rituals to floral adornments, experience the essence of Indian beauty traditions.

1. Haldi Ceremony: A pre-wedding ritual where a paste of turmeric, sandalwood, and other natural ingredients is applied to the bride’s and groom’s skin, imparting a radiant glow.
2. Mehndi Application: Intricate henna designs are applied to the bride’s hands and feet during the Mehndi ceremony, symbolizing love, beauty, and auspiciousness.
3. Kohl Application: A traditional belief of applying kohl or kajal to the bride’s eyes to ward off evil spirits and enhance her beauty.
4. Hairstyling with Flowers: Fresh flowers like jasmine and roses are woven into the bride’s hair, exuding a fragrant and enchanting aura.
5. Saat Phere Saree Color: During the Saat Phere (seven vows) of the wedding ceremony, the bride traditionally wears sarees of different colors, signifying the seven promises made to her partner.
6. Red Sindoor: After the wedding, the bride applies red sindoor (vermilion) in the parting of her hair, symbolizing her marital status and eternal love.
7. Bridal Jewelry: Adorning the bride with intricate jewelry sets, such as mangalsutra (sacred necklace) and bangles, signifying her married status and prosperity.
8. Kesariya Balm: Application of kesariya balm (saffron paste) on the bride’s face and body, enhancing her complexion and adding a natural radiance.
9. Boroline Application: A common tradition where Boroline, an antiseptic cream, is applied to the bride’s lips and cheeks to maintain softness and retain a natural blush.
10. Red and White Bindi: The bride wears a red or white bindi on her forehead, symbolizing her married life and spiritual awakening.

8. Stay in India for your honeymoon

Extend your stay in India and embark on an unforgettable honeymoon. Experience the captivating allure of the country and create cherished memories as you begin your journey as a married couple.

1. Romantic Getaways: India offers a myriad of romantic destinations, from the serene backwaters of Kerala to the idyllic hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, perfect for intimate moments with your partner.
2. Luxurious Heritage Hotels: Indulge in opulence by staying in heritage hotels and palaces that boast royal architecture and regal ambiance, making your honeymoon a truly majestic experience.
3. Cultural Diversity: Immerse yourselves in India’s diverse culture, savoring regional cuisines, witnessing traditional dance forms, and exploring ancient landmarks, adding a unique charm to your honeymoon.
4. Exotic Beaches: Discover India’s exotic beaches like Goa, Andaman, and Lakshadweep, where you can relax under swaying palm trees and relish romantic sunsets with the sound of gentle waves.
5. Spa and Wellness Retreats: Rejuvenate and unwind at world-class spa and wellness retreats, offering traditional Ayurvedic therapies and holistic treatments, ensuring complete relaxation for you and your partner.
6. Adventure Escapades: For thrill-seeking couples, India presents thrilling adventures like trekking in the Himalayas, desert safaris in Rajasthan, and water sports in Goa, adding excitement to your honeymoon.
7. Iconic Landmarks: Marvel at India’s iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, and Kerala’s backwaters, offering awe-inspiring backdrops for unforgettable honeymoon pictures.
8. Spiritual Sojourns: Experience a spiritual retreat by visiting sacred places like Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Amritsar, where you can seek blessings and meditate together in tranquil surroundings.
9. Luxury Trains: Embark on a romantic journey aboard luxury trains like the Palace on Wheels and the Maharajas’ Express, where you can witness the country’s scenic beauty in utmost comfort and style.
10. Warm Hospitality: Enjoy the warm hospitality of the Indian people, who go the extra mile to ensure your honeymoon is a cherished and memorable affair, leaving you with a heartwarming experience.

9. How to plan your honeymoon in India

Photo from explorerssaurus_

Planning your honeymoon in India is an exhilarating task. We’ll guide you through the process, offering suggestions for romantic destinations, luxurious accommodations, and unique experiences to make your honeymoon truly special.

1. Choose the Perfect Destination: Explore a myriad of romantic destinations across India, from serene beaches to picturesque hill stations, and find the ideal spot that matches your honeymoon dreams.
2. Determine the Ideal Time to Visit: Consider the weather and local events to select the most suitable time for your honeymoon, ensuring you experience the best of your chosen destination.
3. Set a Realistic Budget: Plan your honeymoon budget wisely, taking into account travel, accommodation, activities, and other expenses, to have a memorable and stress-free trip.
4. Research and Book Accommodation: Research and secure accommodations in advance, opting for luxurious resorts, heritage hotels, or cozy homestays, according to your preferences and budget.
5. Plan Romantic Activities: Create cherished memories with your partner by arranging romantic activities like candlelit dinners, sunset cruises, or exploring famous landmarks hand in hand.
6. Prepare Travel Documents: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, such as passports, visas, and any required permits, well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
7. Find Out the Best Way to Go Around India: Determine the most convenient and efficient mode of transportation within India, whether it’s domestic flights, trains, or private car rentals, to explore different regions smoothly.
8. Pack Accordingly: Pack suitable clothing and essentials based on your chosen destinations and the time of year you’ll be traveling.
9. Embrace Local Customs and Etiquette: Immerse yourselves in India’s rich culture by respecting local customs and etiquette, enhancing your honeymoon experience and fostering connections with the locals.

READ MORE: How to Plan Your Honeymoon in India

10. Be sure to do these activities for culturally rich and vibrant honeymoon in India

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Immerse yourselves in the kaleidoscope of India’s culture and heritage during your honeymoon. Explore 10 enchanting activities and experiences that will make your post-wedding journey even more memorable.

1. Marvel at the Taj Mahal’s Timeless Beauty
2. Take a Romantic Boat Ride on the Backwaters of Kerala
3. Explore the Romantic City of Udaipur
4. Experience Spiritual Serenity in Varanasi
5. Indulge in a Romantic Dinner in the Pink City of Jaipur
6. Discover the Cultural Melting Pot of Delhi
7. Witness the Spectacular Colors of Holi in Mathura
8. Attend a Classical Dance Performance in Chennai
9. Seek Tranquility in the Himalayan Foothills
10. Sample the Exquisite Flavors of Indian Cuisine

READ MORE: 10 Things to Do in India for a Culturally Rich and Vibrant Honeymoon

To explore the latest trends, expert advice, and breathtaking inspiration in the world of weddings, don’t miss out on the Get Wedded in Australia 2023-2024 digital magazine! Whether you’re a bride-to-be or a wedding enthusiast, this magazine is a must-read.

Below, browse and read your free copy of the Get Wedded in Australia 2023-2024 digital magazine today.