Written by Ravi Dash for MonaCorona.com
India may not be on the luxury honeymoon radar like Santorini, Bora Bora, or Maldives, but this aw-inspiring and often over-looked country is considered one of the most romantic places to visit for couples. With its mystical blend of ancient forts, majestic palaces, glistening lakes, gorgeous mountains, green valleys, and exotic beaches, India is a destination for endless romance and truly has it all. Home to numerous 5 star hotels and the world’s leading luxury train, a luxury honeymoon in India is the perfect destination for both the trend-setting and jet-setting couple. Whether you are looking for a unique and non-cliche honeymoon destination or simply want to take a romantic trip with your special someone, here is the list of top ten most romantic and luxurious places in India for couples.
The most beautiful places for a romantic trip or luxury honeymoon in India
1. Leh, Jammu, and Kashmir
The picturesque Leh, is considered one of the best honeymoon destinations in India for couples to spend some quality time with each other. The scenic destination blessed with breezy weather is surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas that are a sight to behold. Be one with nature by planning treks to the valley, mountain biking or undertaking numerous adventurous activities that the destination has to offer. You and your special one can stroll hand in hand through narrow footpaths lined with Ladakhi homes and gushing streams to fall in love all over again.
Places to see: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung La, Tso Moriri Lake, Shanti Stupa, Magnetic Hill, Royal Leh Palace, Zanskar Valley, Rohtang Pass and Dras Valley.
Where to stay: Hotel Shangrila
2. Srinagar, Jammu,and Kashmir
Srinagar is considered one of the most romantic places in India for couples. It is known as “the land of lakes and gardens” or “the Switzerland of India.” The picturesque city is lined with lush mountains, surrounded by the glistening Dal Lake which proudly displays floating boathouses where couples can spend some romantic time with one another. Couples can plan a trip to the luxurious Mughal gardens situated on the lakeshore and soak in the beauty of the city.
Places to see: Dal Lake, Jama Masjid, First row houseboats, Nishat Bagh, ShankaracharyaMandir, Old town, and Nehru garden.
Where to stay: Vivanta Dal View
3. Lakshadweep Islands
Blessed with pristine coral sand, Lakshadweep Islands is bestowed with the most romantic beaches in India. Lakshadweep is a coral atoll lined with palm trees, white sandy beaches and sparkling turquoise waters that make it one of the best places for rest and relaxation in paradise. Moreover, couples can experience scuba diving and snorkelling to catch a glimpse of various marine lives.
Places to see: Kavaratti, Minicoy, Kadmat, Bangaram, and Agatti Islands.
Where to stay: White Pearl Beach
4. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Fondly called as the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur in colorful Rajasthan is flanked by lakes amidst the lush green Aravalli hills. With so much to see and do, Udaipur is home to the famous Lake Palace located in the middle of Lake Pichola. Couples who want to experience luxury can stay in Lake Palace and experience the majestic gardens, fountains, terraces and its courtyards. Couples can also visit the astonishing City Palace and Monsoon Palace to revel in its beauty and grandeur.
Places to see: Jag Mandir, Ahar Museum, Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola, Gulab Bagh, Bagore-ki-Haveli, Jaisamand Lake, Udaipur Biological Park and Crystal gallery.
Where to stay: The Leela Palace Udaipur
5. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
The Taj Mahal of Agra is considered as a ‘Symbol of Love’ and the monument is a great example of Mughal architecture. It was built by the famous Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal. The palace is crafted with precious materials and semi-precious stones built by more than 20,000 men for nearly 20 years. Couples can soak in the love the city has to offer while visiting one of the most famous sites on earth.
Places to see: Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh, Jahangir’s Palace, Khas Mahal, Kinari Bazaar and Akbar’s Mausoleum.
Where to stay: The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
6. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled high in the Himalayas, the picturesque snow-capped town of Himachal is touted as a couple’s only destination in India. Express your adventurous side by indulging in activities such as paragliding, skiing, mountaineering, river rafting, and trekking. Book a riverside cottage in the Solang Valley to experience a beautiful view and spend some cozy time with your loved one.
Places to see: Jogini waterfall, Hadimba Devi temple, Beas River, Vaishno Devi temple, Solang Valley and Manali sanctuary.
Where to stay: The Himalayan
7. Kodagu, Karnataka
Rightly named as ‘Scotland of India’, here, couples can revel in the exotic beauty of lush greenery, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. Couples can experience a laid back vacation by enjoying the scent of freshly brewed coffee, spices, and the surrounding nature. Moreover, you can plan treks with your loved one to catch a glimpse of rare species of birds, wildlife and sandalwood trees.
Places to see: Madikeri Fort, Nagarhole National park, Talakaveri, Brahmagiri Hills, Abbey falls, Irupu falls and Namdroling Monastery.
Where to stay: The Tamara Coorg
8. Pondicherry, Tamilnadu
If you are a couple enthusiastic about colonial India and architecture, you can visit Pondicherry, also known as ‘Little Paris.’ Pondicherry is a coastal city located in Tamilnadu which was heavily influenced by the French rulers. Couples can stroll through the quite streets lined with colonial villas, explore the flea market, practice yoga, take a romantic stroll with your loved one along the beach promenade and spend quality time with your better half.
Places to see: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, The Matrimandir, Promenade Beach, Rock Beach, Pondicherry Museum, Chunnambar Boathouse and Pondicherry Botanical Garden.
Where to stay: La Villa
9. Havelock Islands, Port Blair
Havelock Islands are bestowed with silken beaches, turquoise waters, diving and snorkelling spots. It is dubbed as a lover’s paradise where couples flock to the Island renowned for its exotic and exclusive beaches. Couples can hire a ferry ride to explore the various beaches or a moped to travel around the island.
Places to see: Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Neil Beach, Guitar Island and Long Island Beach.
Where to stay: Taj Exotica Resort and Spa Andamans
10. Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey dubbed as ‘Venice of India’ is a beautiful coastal town with well-connected waterways and houseboats. Couples can plan to stay in this sleepy town while disappearing into a world filled with water villages, canoes, and toddy shops. Here you can gaze over paddy fields, indulge in fishing and stay on a houseboat to revel in the beauty the place has to offer. Alleppey is truly described as one of the most romantic places for couples to visit and have a memorable experience in India.
Places to see: Alleppey lighthouse, Alleppey Beach, Mermaid Statue, RRK Memorial museum and the famous houseboats.
Where to stay: Sterling Lake Resort
So what are you waiting for? An Indian honeymoon is the perfect way begin your new lives together. Plan your romantic vacation in India by choosing any or a combination of the places listed above and make a lifetime full of memories with your special someone.