Destination weddings are becoming more and more popular in India. Many couples now prefer to celebrate their special day at beautiful locations like royal palaces, beach resorts, or hill stations, rather than in their hometowns. But one common question many people ask is: Are destination weddings expensive in India?
The answer is not simple. A destination wedding can be expensive, but it can also be affordable—it all depends on how you plan it. Let’s break it down in simple words.
What is a Destination Wedding?
A destination wedding means getting married at a place away from where you live. It usually involves a few days of celebrations like mehendi, sangeet, haldi, the wedding ceremony, and sometimes a reception. Friends and family travel to this place and stay there with the couple. It becomes a fun and memorable mini-vacation for everyone.
Is a Destination Wedding Always Costly?
Not always. The cost of a destination wedding in India depends on many things, such as:
- Location you choose
- Number of guests
- Type of venue
- Time of year
- Food and stay
- Decorations and events
Let’s look at these one by one.
1. Location
Some places are more expensive than others. For example:
- Expensive: Udaipur, Jaipur, Jodhpur (royal palaces and 5-star hotels)
- Medium cost: Goa, Kerala (beach resorts), Shimla (hill stations)
- Budget-friendly: Rishikesh, Jim Corbett, Pushkar, or other lesser-known places
If you choose a lesser-known or offbeat location, your costs can be much lower.
2. Number of Guests
The more guests you invite, the more you’ll spend on rooms, food, and travel. A smaller guest list (around 50 to 100 people) makes it easier to manage costs. In fact, many destination weddings are kept small so the couple can focus on close friends and family.
3. Type of Venue
Royal palaces and 5-star resorts are expensive. But there are many mid-range hotels and boutique resorts that offer great service at a lower cost. Some venues offer full wedding packages that include rooms, meals, and decoration, which can help reduce costs.
4. Time of Year
The wedding season in India usually runs from November to February. During this time, venues and services charge higher prices. If you plan your wedding in the off-season or on weekdays, you can save a lot of money.
5. Stay and Food
Accommodation and meals are a big part of the cost. Most destination weddings include 2 to 3 days of stay and multiple meals for all guests. Choosing a venue that offers complete packages for stay and food is often cheaper than arranging everything separately.
6. Decorations and Events
Some couples want grand decor, flower setups, celebrity singers, DJs, or themed parties. These things cost a lot. But if you keep your decor simple and use the natural beauty of the location, you can save money and still have a lovely celebration.
Read More: How to plan a destination wedding on a budget in 2025
How Much Does a Destination Wedding Cost in India?
Here’s a rough idea of costs:
- Small wedding (50–100 guests): ₹10–20 lakhs
- Medium wedding (100–150 guests): ₹20–40 lakhs
- Luxury wedding (150+ guests): ₹50 lakhs to ₹1 crore or more
These are estimates. The actual cost depends on your choices.
Tips to Save Money on Your Destination Wedding
- Plan early: Book venues and vendors in advance.
- Choose a unique but affordable location: Avoid the most popular (and expensive) places.
- Invite fewer guests: Focus on close family and friends.
- Look for packages: Venues that offer full wedding services can help save time and money.
- Keep things simple: Focus on the experience, not just fancy decorations.
Final Thoughts
So, are destination weddings expensive in India? They can be, but they don’t have to be. You can have a beautiful wedding without spending a fortune. By choosing the right location, keeping the guest list small, and planning smartly, you can enjoy your dream wedding within your budget.
What matters most is the love you celebrate, the memories you make, and the happiness you share. Whether it’s a royal palace or a peaceful beach, a destination wedding in India can be both magical and manageable.
