Your first trip with your partner after tying the knot must be a memory for a lifetime. After all, this is the very beginning of an eternity spent together. Travelling gives a great chance to bond over stories. Away from the mundane daily routine, it allows you to open up with your partner in different ways. The honeymoon period in any relationship is said to be dreamy, giving you all the butterflies. Your honeymoon trip shouldn’t be any less than that!
Keeping in mind the challenges of travel in present times, here’s our wedding gift to you. We have combined a list of offbeat destinations that will live up to your expectations of a fairy tale honeymoon, at the same time keep you far away from the crowds – safe and sound.
1. Lakshadweep
Far away from the noise of the cities, a tropical paradise awaits you. Imagine yourself sitting with your better half under gorgeous palm trees as turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea touch your feet – Lakshadweep is nothing less than a dream!
Lakshadweep has a total of 36 islands. Out of these 17 are uninhabited, 10 inhabited, 4 newly formed islets, and 5 are submerged reef atolls.
The islands look straight out of a dream, and you will have a host of activities to do with your partner. Hold hands while snorkelling at Agatti Island or get lost in the colourful life that lies under the crystal clear waters while scuba diving in Bangaram Island – Lakshadweep is that relaxing vacation you deserve.
If you are seeking the Maldives vibes, head to Minicoy Island. Explore the architectural beauty of this serene land at Kalpeni Island. A 5-6 day stay is ideal for exploring the untouched charm of Lakshadweep islands.
Where to Stay: Minicoy Island Beach Resort, Kasim’s Beach Villa, Bangaram Island Resort
Best time to Visit: October to May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for water sports activities.
How to Reach: Lakshadweep can be reached via boats and flights only. The Union Territory has an airport in Aggati, which is connected to the Kochi Airport only.
[Also Read: Lakshadweep Islands – The Maldives we all deserve]
2. Lepchajagat
Thinking of North Bengal but looking for an offbeat option? Lepchajagat is where you need to be! The name is derived from the Lepcha tribe that live here. Spend your days amidst flowers in full bloom and enjoy quiet nights by the fireplace sipping some delicious Darjeeling tea. Listen to bird songs during the day and rhythmic cricket sounds at night.
Just 14 km from the tea town of Darjeeling, Lepchajagat is concealed in forests of pines, oaks and rhododendrons. Explore the Himalayan range from an altitude of 6959 feet or snuggle in the comfort of the serenity of this hamlet. You will barely find the tourist crowd here.
Start your morning by witnessing the brilliant sunrise from Tiger Hills. On your way back, make a stop at the Ghoom Monastery to experience the Buddhist culture. Take a walk through the conifer forests of Sukhiapokhri and visit a natural lake at Jorepokhari. If you get lucky, you can spot the rare Salamander. Seek blessings at the magnificent Shiva temple nearby. Finally, end your exploration by shopping all things local at Pashupati. A 2-3 days stay is ideal for this place.
Where to Stay: Kanchan Kanya Homestay, Green Valley Homestay, Rainbow Homestay
Best time to Visit: May to October
How to Reach: The nearest airport and railway station to Lepchajagat is in Siliguri. You can then book a reliable Darjeeling car rental to reach your destination.
[Also Read: This travel influencer explored offbeat North Bengal in a ten-day road trip]
3. Araku Valley
Wake up to the aroma of coffee amidst the greenery of Araku Valley. You can get that perfect shot near one of the many pristine waterfalls here. Trek to reach the Katiki and Tatiguda Waterfalls or spend a night camping under the stars at Kollaput Jala Tarangini.
For the explorer in you, visit the Borra Caves. The different formations of stalactites and stalagmites inside the caves can take you through a journey in time. Make your cuppa with one of the world’s most popular coffee – the Araku Valley Coffee. Take a stroll in the Padmapuram Gardens and admire the varieties of trees and flowers grown here.
You will be mesmerized by the beauty of simplicity that exists here. A 3-4 day stay would be ideal for exploring the valley of coffee.
Where to Stay: Natures Nest Araku, Mythri Inn, Holiday Resorts
Best time to Visit: November to May
How to Reach: The closest airport and railway station is in Visakhapatnam. You can then book a cab in Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley and reach your destination within 2.5-3.5 hours.
4. Malvan
Dotted with tiny fishing villages and swaying coconut trees and enveloped by the lush green Sahyadris, Malvan is for the beach lovers. The pristine beaches and waves crashing against the ruined forts tell the tale of a time long forgotten.
At the beaches of Malvan, you can do scuba diving and snorkelling amongst many other adventure activities. A trek to Devrai, a sacred grove will only make your bond with your partner stronger. Don’t miss the sunset at Kille Nivati Beach. Collect seashells while you are here.
Take a Konkan roadtrip to Parule. Once known as Parulya Gramam, this place is built around a Surya temple. The speciality of the temple is that the rays of the setting sun touch the idol before disappearing over the horizon.
You will meet the friendliest locals and experience village life in all its charm. Sit around with the locals and they will tell you mythical stories and legends. Fall in love with the coastal ruins and a coconut palette.
Where to Stay: Coconut Garden Beach House, Rajahmundry Beach house, Visava Sea View Resort.
Best time to visit: October to February
How to Reach: The nearest airport is in Mumbai. You can now book an intercity cab from Mumbai to Malvan on the go and avail exciting app-only discounts with Savaari’s Android taxi service app.
[Also read: 30 Places to Visit Before You Turn 30]
5. Udaipur
Although not an offbeat destination, a list of honeymoon destinations in India would be incomplete without Udaipur! Udaipur is considered as one of the most romantic cities in the country. Its picturesque beauty is witnessed in the large lakes, forts, amazing palaces, and pleasant gardens.
The City of Lakes is known for its excellent blend of traditions and originality that meets the enthusiasm of tourists. Udaipur is one of the best locations for that royal vacation with your partner. A large number of palaces have been converted into lavish hotels. So, you can pick any of these for your stay!
You will spot many iconic locations here – recreate your Bollywood dream scene! The City Palace is the biggest architectural marvel in Udaipur that offers an impressive sight of the city. Visit the Fateh Sagar Lake which houses three islands and is famous for its peaceful atmosphere. Take a stroll in the lovely garden of Nehru Park. A 3-4 day stay is ideal for exploring Udaipur.
Where to Stay: Trident Hotel, Lalit Laksmi Vilas Palace
Best time to visit: October to February
How to Reach: You can take a flight or train to Udaipur. For hassle-free transport in the city, you can take a reliable taxi service in Udaipur.
[Also Read: The Great Rajasthan Road trip – An 11-Day Itinerary for Offbeat Rajasthan]
6. Ziro
If you want a honeymoon with tranquillity away from the hustle-bustle of the city, then you should explore the beauty of North-East India.
Tucked away in the tranquil mountain-scape of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro is indeed a picturesque paradise. The sprawling rice fields, lush forest, rolling hills, the misty ambience, and the warm local tribal community are what fascinates travellers about Ziro.
Situated at an elevation of 5538 feet to 8000 feet and surrounded by pine-clad hills and lush paddy fields, nature is a way of life here. Go river rafting with your partner in the Kamle and Siang rivers, collect your trip memorabilia from local craftsmen and trek to places like Midey and Dolo Mando. Adventure and peace of mind – in Ziro, you will get the best of both worlds.
Extend your stay by visiting the cleanest river of India in Dawki. 4-6 days itinerary should be sufficient depending on your plans.
Where to Stay: Ziro Palace Inn, KASA Resort, Siiro Resort, Biiri Resort
Best time to visit: October to March
How to Reach: The nearest railway stations for Ziro is Naharalagun and the nearest airport is in Guwahati. You can book a Guwahati airport cab to reach Ziro.
[Also Read: Dawki – A Divine Discovery]
