After the glitz and glamour of a typical Indian wedding, it’s time for the bride and groom to wind down. Spend some quality time together as they embark on their marital journey. Most conventional tourist places in India are super crowded and don’t really offer the serene environment a newly-wed couple might expect. A couple’s honeymoon is one of the most memorable trips. They will have it for the rest of their life, so the chosen destination should be nothing short of exquisite.
This is precisely why we’ve compiled a list of 8 offbeat honeymoon destinations in India to choose from for all the lovely couples out there.
1. Dalhousie – Little Switzerland of India
One of the most popular hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie promises to make your honeymoon extra special with its picturesque beauty and breathtaking views. Situated at an altitude of 6,460 ft, one can literally enjoy being in the lap of nature. Although it’s a famous tourist spot that experiences a huge influx of tourists during summertime, paying a visit during winter will give an exotic view of the snow-capped mountains, meadows, and dense forest trails. It is an ideal destination for all honeymooners; nature lovers can enjoy the Panjpula and Satdhara waterfalls and take in the beauty of the Himalayas, while adventure freaks can trek up to the Diankund Peak or enjoy paragliding at Khajjiar. It has exciting experiences to offer for all!
2. Daman and Diu
Kickstart your wedding journey in the most vibrant and lively honeymoon spot – Daman and Diu. Whether it’s romance or adventure, there are ample things to do for all honeymooners. Home to some of the most mesmerizing beaches like the Jhampore and Devka beaches in Daman and Nagoa and Ghoghla beaches in Diu, it is certainly a promising destination to make your first memorabilia post-wedding. One can not only take romantic strolls on the beachside and enjoy sunsets but also engage in some water sports like parasailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, and jet skiing. What’s more, couples can also hang out at the island’s forts and churches and witness the remains of Portuguese culture and history. With their enthralling scenic beauty and historical backdrop, Daman and Diu are one of the most picturesque offbeat honeymoon destinations in India.
3. Munnar
Situated in Kerala, this place is ideal for a romantic escapade. Surrounded by lush green valleys and mesmerizing flowing backwaters, one can certainly vouch for having a honeymoon filled with serenity, bliss, and solitude. Go for a boat ride at the Kundala lake, take long romantic walks, marvel at the beauty of western ghats, or even spend a good deal of time appreciating the beauty of Attukad Waterfalls. It’s undoubtedly a paradise for the honeymoon-goers to get to know each other better as they step into this wonderful phase of life. Also known for its exotic flora and fauna, Munnar has to be your preferred destination if you are looking for a honeymoon getaway in God’s own country!
4. Udaipur
If a royal and lavish affair is what you’re looking for, then Udaipur is the place for you! Full of majestic palaces, picturesque lakes, and the finest architecture, visiting couples are bound to be swayed by its charm. Since it’s situated in Rajasthan, the best time to visit here would be during the winter. There’s a lot that can be done in Udaipur, like boating and soaking in the beauty of the Fateh Sagar Lake, enjoying a date night at the Ambrai Ghat, marvelling at the light and sound show at the City Palace, taking a stroll around the Gulab Bagh or a Shikara ride in the mesmerizing Lake Pichola. The foodies can also relish and drool over the delectable Rajasthani cuisine. Also, a cozy ropeway ride would be an excellent opportunity to snuggle with your partner while admiring the city from a bird’s-eye view.
5. Srinagar
Imagine having a candlelight dinner with your partner in a luxurious houseboat or walking hand-in-hand around the captivating Tulip Garden! If this gives you an adrenaline rush, Srinagar has to be your pick for a memorable honeymoon. Indeed a paradise on earth, you will be enthralled by its sublime beauty. Enjoy some sightseeing at the Mughal Gardens, Dal Lake, and Shankaracharya Temple, relish the sumptuous Kashmiri cuisine, and get amazed by the floating flea markets from where locals get their daily supplies. There’s no better place than Srinagar to rejuvenate yourself and have the best time of your life, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
6. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
This Indian archipelago has to be one of the most offbeat honeymoon destinations in India, especially for couples who want to spend their honeymoon in solitude. One will get to witness the most exotic but sparsely populated white sand beaches that offer various water sports activities, such as sea walking, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkelling. Around 1400 kilometres away from the east coast of mainland India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a good option considering their magnificent beauty and colonial past. It houses a Cellular Jail that held India’s freedom fighters. It also has Radhanagar and Elephant beach for beach lovers who wish to spend time gazing at the pristine blue waters.
7. Darjeeling
Floating clouds, lush green tea plantations, dazzling sunrises, and sunsets are just a sneak peek into this beautiful spot 6,709 ft from sea level. Every bit of Darjeeling is worth admiring – gazing at the snow-clad Kanchenjunga peak from the Tiger Hills, walking around and soaking in the beauty of the Lamahatta Eco Tourism Park, exploring the cave temple, taking a phenomenal cable ride through the city, falling in love with the lively ambience of the Rock Garden while enjoying its artificial waterfalls, musical fountains, cultural evenings, and exploring the tea estate. There are innumerable sights to see and things to do in Darjeeling. Moreover, one can’t miss paying a visit to the Kanchenjunga National Park. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the national park will surely add a touch of wilderness to your honeymoon.
8. Coorg
Coorg, a gem situated in the western ghats of Karnataka, is very popular among love birds and a great destination to weave some memories worth cherishing. It is known for its pleasant weather, fascinating beauty, and extraordinary views. One can visit the tranquil Namdroling Monastery or ‘Golden temple’ as it is popularly known, trek up the Tadiandamol Peak, which happens to be the highest peak of Karnataka, or even enjoy the exquisite sight that Abbey Falls offers; visiting Coorg will surely not disappoint you and your better half. There’s also an artificial garden called Raja’s Seat (Seat of the Kings) which will give you an insight into the heritage and history of this quaint hill station along with some spectacular light and sound shows.
9. Auli, Uttrakhand
Auli is a hidden beauty in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. This quiet little place is perfect for honeymooners to spend some private time with each other while enjoying the scenic beauty of Auli. It’s an all year round destination while summers are breezy,winters are a bliss with snow capped mountains around. Skiing in Auli is the highlight of the place, you can slo go trekking and local sight seeing. It boasts of a number of adventure activities as well. It is the Switzerland of India and is rightly so with snow laden mountains it’s a beauty to experience. In winters the temperature drops to sub zero temperatures so one should plan and prepare accordingly. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun approx 180 KM from Auli.
Ropeway Ride is another thrilling activity to do in Auli after snow skiing. This is also the second-longest and highest cable car ride in Asia teh first being Gulmarg,Kashmir. This cable car ride from Auli GMVN Clifftop to Joshimath offers amazing views of Nanda Devi peak and Sanjivani Parvat.
The other popular must visit attractions include the scenic Chenab Lake, Auli Artifical Lake and Nanda Devi National Park . While you are in Auli , dont forget to dish into the local cuisine and go local shopping.
10. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
If you both are seeking an adventurous and romantic honeymoon trip then Spiti Valley should be on top of your list. Spiti means middle land , the land between Tibet and India . Nested away from the hustle and bustle of the modern lifestyle this valley in Himachal Pradesh is not only scenic, the entire journey to reach the valley will be an adventure. The trip will need a minimum of 10 days and the journey involves passing through destinations like Shimla, Narkanda, Kinnaur, Manali depending on the route you take. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport and the journey forward can be taken by car or buses. Since it’s at an high altitude you may take some time to acclimatise to the weather. March to June is preferred time to visit if you plan in summers it’s cool and breezy, in winters though October to February it experiences heavy snowfall and it does get extreme.The roads are difficult but you will witness the grandeur of mountains like none other . Your itinerary should include visiting Hatu Peak in Narkanda, Sarahan Temple in Rampur, Sangla, Chitkul you can see the Indo-China border, Nako Lake, Tabo Monastery , Key Monastery in Kaza, Kunzum Pass and Chandratal lake in Spiti. This trip is a full on adventure and definitely most offbeat for honeymooners , so before you head to Spiti do check the travel and weather conditions .
Choosing the right destination for your honeymoon is essential. It is not just another vacation but a time when the memories you make will be etched in your heart forever. So if you’re someone who’s tying the knot anytime soon or planning a remarkable honeymoon for you and your spouse, then any of these offbeat honeymoon destinations in India will work their magic and leave you in complete awe.
