Best Honeymoon Places in India

While a wedding is said to be a girl's first day of the rest of her life, a honeymoon is quite simply, a time of many firsts and beginnings that a couple will never forget. Filled with moments of forever after's, promises and unbridled passion, every couple deserves a honeymoon and a marriage that classic romantic literature is made up of. And for an epic honeymoon, finding the perfect place is absolutely essential. Foreign destinations are aplenty, but we also have some really romantic destinations in our own country, which are nothing short of being honeymoon-perfect! Let's look at some great honeymoon places in India, the 11 best on our list.

An absolute delight to all your senses, the Lakshadweep Islands are sure to take your breath away. Take a trip to this famous honeymoon destination and be enchanted by the crystal clear seas, shimmering white sand and the sea-kissed breeze. Not only will couples be afforded a great deal of privacy, which, let's face it, is a must-have whilst honeymooning, but also various water sports and other activities that will make your trip unforgettable. What else, you get a gazillion photo-ops and a rare chance to observe hundreds of thousands of twinkling stars in the night-time Lakshadweep sky. Nothing can be more romantic than this, or can it?

Goa, as a honeymoon destination, can never get old. Speckled with Indian and foreign tourists all through the year, Goa lets you be yourself and enjoy the sun and sea with your beloved. With picture-perfect beaches like Calangute, Anjuna, Vagator and many others, Goa is definitely somewhere you can spend the beginning of your new life with your spouse. Enjoy a night of clubbing, or a quiet candle-lit dinner in one of the many quaint shacks for a brilliant Goan experience.

Coorg or Kodagu in Karnataka is one of the best honeymoon places in India if you and your partner love nature. This place embodies picturesque scenery, woody slopes, dainty villages and rolling landscapes and a chance to spend some quality time with your spouse. With plenty of must-see places, Coorg also offers a variety of outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, boating and rafting that will surely get your adrenaline rushing.

Offering a breathtakingly gorgeous and tranquil time, Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh is everything that the quiet couple would wish for in their honeymoon. This hill station is your best bet if you want to spend some quality time with your beloved, go for long walks and treks, and enjoy serene romantic evenings. With a vintage charm that could leave even the best writers speechless, this destination is perfect for the starry-eyed couple.

Nestled in the Shivalik Hills in West Bengal, Darjeeling is a nature-lovers paradise. With a history and vibe that will humble you to no end, this picturesque little town affords a fantastic view of undulating plains and hills covered with tea plants, lush greenery and untainted, crisp air that can almost be bit into. With various beautiful places to visit and many things to do, you will not be disappointed with Darjeeling. Surround yourself with your partner in the nippy but pleasant atmosphere of Darjeeling and make your trip absolutely memorable.

Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is one of India's finest hill stations. Full of glittering lakes and picture-perfect parks, there is a lot to do in Kodaikanal that is sure to bring you closer to your partner. The best thing you could do in Kodai is walk or cycle around. Explore various hidden spots and romantic points that you would not come across if you are hurrying about here. The shops in Kodai are filled with scrumptious home-made chocolates that will definitely amaze the chocolate fanatics. Experience a honeymoon that has no dearth of loving moments in this delightful hill station.

Instead of picking up one spot in Kerala, we chose the entire state because really, there is so much in Kerala that makes it the perfect honeymoon destination. The sparkling backwaters with their comfy houseboats, the luscious green hill stations, and the old-world culture welcome you and your spouse with open arms and generous warmth. Bathe in the afterglow of the setting sun as you sit on the deck of your houseboat sipping on coconut water, and take in the beauty and elegance that is your partner and Kerala. It is not for nothing that Kerala is called God's Own Country.

What can be better and more fun than honeymooning in the land of sensuality and passion? Khajuraho, in Madhya Pradesh, is world-famous for their gorgeous, erotic rock carvings and serene temples. Perfect for the contemporary, passionate couple, Khajuraho offers an ode to the love and intimacy in the bond of marriage. Bathed in history and spirituality, this destination surely beats many of the most adored honeymoon spots abroad.

Situated in the unspoilt north-eastern state of Meghalaya, Shillong is speckled with waterfalls, lakes, hills, museums and churches. Nestled amidst pine forests and lush green mountains, Shillong will blanket you in its pleasant chill and scenic charm. Best visited during the months of October to December and March to April, Shillong is the place to be if you want to spend quality time with your partner away from the hustle-bustle of city life.

Take in the historically and aesthetically pleasing vibes of this royal city of Rajasthan, and make sweet memories with your partner that you will never forget. Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur is home to the most elegant palaces, imperial forts, and tranquil temples. Jaipur will afford a glimpse into the colourful and lively Rajasthani culture, replete with traditional Rajasthani food, recreational activities like songs, dance and theatre, and not to forget, some amazing shopping opportunities!

Plan a romantic trip to the divine Andaman Islands blissfully afloat in the Bay of Bengal. A cluster of several beatific islands, the Andamans are just perfect for the couple who loves sun, surf and sand. Take a trip down the historic and easy-going capital of Port Blair or go snorkelling at Havelock Islands, no matter what you do in the Andamans, you are sure to have the time of your life. With everything from mangrove forests to national parks, and laid-back shimmering beaches to exciting water sports, you will find all that and more in the Andamans. Here, you will fall in love with your partner all over again.

Evidently heaven on earth, Jammu & Kashmir makes for the most beautiful honeymoon destination probably in all of the world. With its lakes and sweeping hills, meadows of grass that lit up like gold in the sunlight and mountain peaks of snow, J&K is, as King Jehangir said, paradise on earth. Most honeymooners choose to divide their time here between Srinagar's Dal Lake and shikara nights, Pahalgam's mountain adventure, Gurez Valley and Sonmarg. The meadows of the latter two make you feel as if you are in a Yash Chopra romance epic. Most romantic tours will definitely include a night over in a shikara, some quiet time in one of the many quaint resorts outside of Srinagar, and sightseeing tours of places like Shalimar Baag and Parimahal.

Home to the greatest monument dedicated to love, Agra attracts honeymooners almost all year round. With the Taj Mahal exuding its majestic charm in waves, and the nearby Fatehpur Sikri fort city narrating the tale of Akbar the Great and his prime queen consort Jodha Bai, young just-married couples can't help but fall in love with each other all over again. With all this history and stories of love simmering in the backdrop, you and your partner are bound to enjoy your time discovering each other as people and life partners. 

The heart of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is home to the great Thar Desert and shows tourists a good time. But that is nothing in comparison to what it does for the honeymooning couples that come into its open arms. With sweeping sand dunes extending into the horizon and tents and campfires isolated from the rest of the world, music and dance and star-gazing in the thick of night; nothing spells romance like Jaisalmer's sands. You can also go along with your beloved to see the palaces, forts, markets and villages around the city and enjoy solitude of a different kind.

Snuggling in the lap of mountains and valleys and waterfalls and foot bridges of the far east is not the worst way to spend your honeymoon! Sikkim makes for a beautiful, romantic getaway for those who are just married and looking for some quiet time with each other. Especially for couples that are fond of nature and quiet and solitude, this is it. You will get unhindered unlimited views of the blue ranges of the Himalayas, get to sit by lakes wrapped in each other, trek and discover new heights together, pray at Buddhist monasteries and enjoy the locals and their culture.

The city of lakes and palaces, Udaipur is a brilliant place to spend your honeymoon. With its alluring set of lake-fronts, ancient palaces and heritage hotels, you have romance in spades. Enjoy a royal boat ride or visit the Lalit, one of the most expensive and luxurious hotels in the world. There is the Leela Palace as well as the Oberoi Udaivillas and Hotel Fatehgarh, the latter two owned by the HRH Group that belongs to the present king of Udaipur H. H. Arvind Singhji Mewar. You can visit Lake Pichola, tour the marble factories and blue pottery workshops or shop from the many local markets for marble statues, traditional Shrinathji picchwai paintings and handicrafts for your new home.

Alleppey is a jewel in Kerala's hat, another paradise down South of India where you will find yourself lost in so many streams, backwaters, boats, houseboats and canoes. For couples in love and those willing to spend their honeymoon, the houseboats are amazing for privacy, romance and an ethereal feel to start your married life. You can chill on beaches, go canoeing through the lush backwaters, book your stay at luxury and five star houseboats and enjoy the delicacies of South India.

A North Indian hill town, Manali is equal parts romantic meadows and adventure tourism, a perfect fit for honeymooners who are adventure enthusiasts at heart. With its wide array of hill terrain and hiking tracks, adventure spots and lakes and peaks, you will not be disappointed. Head over to one of its hippy villages, eat at cool cafes and wrap each other in your arms as the sun goes down behind the distant mountains and a lone fire burns beside you on your camping ground. If you are around at the right time in late winter then you will catch some snow too. Other activities you can indulge in include river rafting, paragliding and sightseeing through the Pir Panjal ranges.

A hill station in Kerala famous for its tea gardens, wildlife and waterfalls, Munnar makes for a perfect romantic getaway or a honeymoon. There are the picturesque Western Ghats winding up to the top, along with green verdant tea plantations rolling on and on. You get to romance in these gardens, pick tea with the workers and taste the different blends. There is a very vintage vibe to this place and for lovers of the yore, Munnar is great. 

A hint of the French in South India, Pondicherry is a small Union Territory that was colonised by the French back in the day and later freed. With its two distinct sides - that of Tamil and French speaking colonies, shingle and pebble beaches, bright coloured buildings and quaint cafes, Pondicherry is a charm that never misses its mark. For honeymooners, what's not to like here? The Boho vibes, French and Italian cafes, all-day breakfast bars, lone beaches and loads of old world French charm oozing out of villas and heritage hotels. Enjoy this artsy town and its vibe, and fall in love all over again while meandering its streets.

If nature, wildlife and the wilderness are what appeal to you and your partner, then there is no better honeymoon spot in India than Ranthambore. It is the biggest wildlife sanctuary in the north and is home to the rare tigers that evade human eyes just as easily. You will be in for adventurous wildlife safaris, midnight camps, bonfires, luxury forest hotel stays and romantic quiet times in the wilderness. Couples choose to go up on elephant rides together, enjoy some quiet by hiring tents and taking trekking trips.

A quaint village-like feel, the vibes of Kerala's backwaters and seclusion in houseboats floating down streams fringed by palm trees and fishermen at work - Kumarakom is one of the most stunning places in South India for a honeymoon. You get it all - beauty, privacy and romance. The tenderness of nature around inspires your love and you find yourself relaxing with your partner in lagoon pools, going to bird and wildlife sanctuaries nearby to bathe elephants and eating breakfasts at sunrise in you houseboat.

Nainital, literally, the town of lakes, is North India's pride. A hill station that has been the hot favourite of tourists for years is also a coveted honeymoon destination for its year-round cool weather, hilly terrains, romantic lakes and echoing valleys. Couples enjoy the quaint charm and quiet of the resorts, as well as going up on treks to the peaks around. They sit by the valley and soak in the view of Naini Peak as well as thrill the hell out of each other when boating in the Naini Lake. Summer is a high tourist season here but all other times are awesome too for honeymooning. In fact, the off season will give you much more privacy and peace.

Auli is India's answer to skiing. One of the best skiing slopes in the world, graded by many an international agencies, Auli is perfectly powdered snow and all-year skiing resorts all rolled into one. The adventure and beauty of Auli attracts not only skiing and adventure enthusiasts but honeymooners too. With its hiking routes, cable cars, luxury resorts, ski resorts, spas and scenic snowy slopes, Auli is best visited from December to April. But other months also give you the experience of skiing. So couples who are fond of this sport and hunting where to go honeymooning in India, Auli it is.

Mussoorie, a quaint hillstation in Uttarakhand, among many things, is also home to the celebrated author Ruskin Bond. So all those nerdy, book-worm couples out there who spent their childhood fawning over Tiger in the Tunnel, you may get to meet Ruskin Bond in one of the Mussoorie cafes while on honeymoon! Of course, there is other stuff that might attract you; like the mountains and the valleys, the snowy peaks and waterfalls that are hidden in thickets of forests. Some of it may seem right out of a Ruskin Bond novel as he draws his inspiration from here. You can go boating on lakes and ride on cable cars with your beloved, try a new set of cuisine at a new cafe in the market and drink lots of hot cocoa in the streets of Mussoorie.

Evidently the wettest place on earth, Cherrapunji in the North Eastern part of India is known to receive the highest rainfall in a year. But that also makes it so lush, verdant and picturesque, with its virgin evergreen rainforests and thick jungles, swelling waterfalls and natural footbridges formed out of age old roots and tree barks. It is one of the most exotic places in India for a honeymoon, especially if you are a sucker for all things nature. The tranquility and the silence, broken only by crickets and other birds bring you and your partner closer than you could ever imagine, and the scenic charm of your surroundings orchestrate all the romance you need to start this new part of your life together. 

Rishikesh is the honeymoon destination of adventurers. If you and your better half are prone to living life on the edge then there is no better place than Rishikesh for a honeymoon. With its plethora of activities that include and are not limited to rappelling, river rafting, mountain climbing, bungee jumping and trekking, this place is a delight. You can also visit the many Ashrams, go for couple's yoga and spa sessions, enjoy the town with its food and unique culture as well as chill by the quaint river banks.

Leh and Ladakh, the newest UT in India make for a marvellous and thrilling honeymoon destination. Adventure seekers like to take their bike on a road trip upto Leh from Srinagar; or even a car could do. But what appeals to people about Leh Ladakh is the tranquil charm, the Buddhist monasteries, the monks at training, frozen lake treks and loads of local culture that blends the Tibetan, Kashmiri and the Indian. Chadar Trek, Lamayuru camps, overnight stays in the white deserts of Ladakh and much more await you in this northernmost region of India.