Each couple has their own expectations regarding their honeymoon. Some want to celebrate their love by going on an adventure. Others want to lay back and rejuvenate their senses. Many also prefer to be dazzled by the wonders of art, architecture, and culture. Honeymooners will surely find their dream destination from the diverse range of locales India has to offer.
1) Srinagar
Where better to make your honeymoon memorable than Srinagar which is considered as a heavenly abode on earth. King Pravarasena II had founded the capital of Jammu and Kashmir about 2000 years ago. It is surrounded by lush greenery and gorgeous snow-capped peaks, also it lies on the banks of the Jhelum River which keeps its weather pleasant throughout the year.
Once at Srinagar you must visit the Dal Lake and couples can take a romantic ride on a Shikara. You will be able to spot the floating vegetable market, the community of Mir Bahris, Bathing Boats, the Kabutar Khana, the Char Chinar Islands and the floating gardens. Visitors can often be found kayaking and skiing along the lake.
Visitors could visit a range of mesmerizing Mughal Gardens, which include the Nishat Garden, Shalimar Bagh, and the Chashma Shahi Garden. Apart from the Mughal gardens, one could also visit the Indira Gandhi Tulip Memorial Garden, the Nehru Garden, and the Badamwari Garden. The Pari Mahal also has an enchanting garden.
Other places to sightsee in and around Srinagar include Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, the Shankaracharya Temple, Thajiwas glacier, Wullar Lake, Challi Point, and Kathi Darwaza.
2) Leh
Leh is a district nestled amongst the hills of Ladakh which is adorned with stupas, white-washed houses, patches of greenery, barley fields and gushing streams. It is perfect for couples who are looking for a place which radiates natural beauty where they can spend some time alone.
The Stok Palace is visited by hordes of tourists to get an insight into the history of Leh. The palace falls under the birthright of the descendants of King Sengge Namgyal. General Zorawar Fort is another historical monument which can be visited by couples.
The Sankar Gompa, the Central Asian Museum, LAMO, the Old Town of Leh, Tsemo Fort, Spituk Gompa, Jama Masjid, Shanti Stupa, Thikshey Monastery, and the Matho Monastery are some places to you must visit while you are in Leh.
Adventure sports like mountain biking, trekking and many other activities can also be enjoyed in Leh.
3) Manali
Manali is one of the best destinations in India for honeymoons and romantic getaways. Found in Himachal Pradesh the hill station is filled with museums, temples, eateries, markets, trekking trails and monasteries. Situated near the Beas river, Manali is filled with lush forest, green meadows, and freshwater streams.
In Manali adventure lovers can indulge in sports like zorbing, horse riding, paragliding, mountain biking, and skiing at popular spots such as the Solang Valley and the Rohtang Pass. One could also trek to Beas Kund, Chandratal Baralacha, Hampta Pass and Nehru Kund, Chandrakhani Pass, and the Parvati Valley.
To experience some history, couples could also head to the town of Naggar and explore the Naggar Palace which was once occupied by Raja Sindh Singh. Manali also has many picnic spots such as the Jana Falls and Arjun Gufa. The Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, the Hadimba Temple, the Manu Temple, and the Gauri Shankar Temple are some of the holy spots located in Manali.
Other spots that can be seen in and around Manali include the Vashisht Baths, Manali Sanctuary, Gulaba, Keylong, and Rozy Waterfalls.
4) Mussoorie
Found amidst the Gharwal Hills of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is said to be the 'Queen of Hills', where one can find a piece of heaven on earth. It was the Britishers who had turned Mussoorie into a tourist hotspot. The colonial essence is still visible in the build of houses, roads and lamp posts. Once here tourists love to visit the Mall Road which consists of a diverse collection of shops, video game parlors, eateries, skating rinks and other places to hang out.
Mussoorie provides many picnic spots such as Mist Lake, Kempty Falls, Mossy Falls, Bhatta Falls, Jharipani Falls and so on. One could also visit the Gun Hill which is the second highest point in Mussoorie. Those interested in viewing iconic sunsets or sunrises can also trek up to Camels back. One could also visit Lal Tibba, Clouds End, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Company Gardens, Ruskin Bond and George Everest’s House.
One could also indulge their adventurous side through activities like rock climbing, rappelling and river rafting in and around Mussoorie.
5) Auli
Nestled in the Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand, Auli is a snow-capped paradise on earth for skiing enthusiasts. According to mythological legends, Shankaracharya had first set foot on this hill station dotted with apple, oak and pine trees. One can visit the peaks of Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamat Kamet from here. Auli provides newly wed couples with the opportunity to go on short trekking and skiing excursions.
The trekking excursions cover various peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri, and Joshimath. Tourists could be taken for excursions to places like the Valley of Flowers, Nanda Devi Sanctuary, Gurso Bugyal, Kwani Bugyal, and the Trishul Peak. Nature enthusiasts could also visit the Chenab River, Rudraprayag, and Nandaprayag.
People can also travel to Joshimath from Auli which consists of a collection of temples and is considered to be an important pilgrimage according to most Hindus.
6) Dalhousie
Located in Himachal Pradesh Dalhousie is a hill station with a hill station which exhibits a Victorian charm. The hill station is named after the former Viceroy of India, Lord Dalhousie. The Chamba rulers had conquered the Bakrota, Terah, Patreyn, Kathlog, and Balun Hills. Dalhousie is spread throughout these five hills. It was the Britishers who had popularised Dalhousie as a tourist destination.
Once at Dalhousie you can admire some majestic peaks, waterfalls, and rivers which include Daikund Peak, Satdhara Falls, Panchpula, the River Ravi, and the River Saal. One can enjoy river rafting along the Ravi and Saal Rivers.
Dalhousie also houses the Subhash Baoli which is natural spring whose waters possess medicinal properties. The freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose had visited the springs when he had been suffering from ill-health.
7) Udaipur
Udaipur is a slice of beauty amongst the desert terrain of Rajasthan. Its beauty has been enhanced by its collection of majestic lakes. Honeymooners will have a great time at this place which is known as the 'Venice of the East'. Udaipur is dotted with architectural wonders and as also known as the 'Jewel of Mewar'.
Lake Pichola is one of Udaipur’s Natural Jewels and it is composed of four islands which include the Jag Niwas, the Jag Mandir, the Mohan Mandir, and the Arsi Vilas. At the Pichola Lake the Jag Mandir Palace, the Lake Palace, and the Arsi Vilas Bird Sanctuary can be found. The Bagore Haveli is also located in close proximity. The Udai Sagar Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the Jaisamand Lake are also some of the other natural wonders that can be found in Udaipur.
The City Palace, The Sajjangarh Palace, Bada Mahal, and the Taj Lake Palace are some of the numerous historically significant buildings that can be found at Udaipur. The Vintage Car Museum, the Eklingji Temple, the Kumbhalgarh Fort, the Doodh Talai Musical Garden, Bada Bazar, and Saheliyon Ki Bari are some of the places one must visit while in Udaipur.
8) Goa
Goa is perfect for honeymooners as it has it all, whether its beaches, nightlife, churches, resorts, forts, hotels, restaurants or charming little villages. The state is also known as the ‘Rome of the East’ and it is visited by a diverse range of people every year. The Indian scriptures state that this sun-soaked state had been brought to life by Parashurama the sixth reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. A rich Portuguese essence can be found lingering throughout Goa.
The Agonda Beach, the Baga Beach, the Candolim Beach, Calangute Beach are some of Goa’s finest jewels. A range of water sports can be enjoyed in Goa like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and water rafting. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Casino, Donna Paula, Fort Aguada, Church of Our Lady, Dudhsagar Falls, the Butterfly Conservatory, Chapora Fort, the Goa Chitra Museum, and the Shri Mahalaxmi Temple are many of the places that tourists can visit in Goa.
Shopaholics can also venture out to the numerous flea markets that can be found throughout Goa. Apart from all of this one can also go clubbing at places like Tito’s, Café Mambo, and Club Cabana.
Insider Tip: Most people avoid Goa during monsoon, but few only that Goa has a whole diffrent side to be explore in the monsoon season. Yes days would be hot and humid when it doesnt rain, but evenings and rainy days are pretty nice plus you avoid the crowds. Some shacks on popular beaches like Baga and Calungute do remain open.
9) Kutch
Located in state of Gujarat, Kutch is an erstwhile princely state which spatially resembles a tortoise and a large part of it is made up of salt marshes. This mystery land is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and it’s the largest state in Gujarat. Couples can romance under the moonlight along the white sands of Kutch.
Once at Kutch visitors can visit Bhuj where they can find the Mandvi Beach, Aaina Mahal, Narayan Sarovar, Hamirsar Lake, and the Mata no Madh. To admire the flora and fauna present in Kutch one can head to the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, the Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary, and the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary.
Dholavira, Kutch Museum, Kandla Port, Mudra Port, and the Prag Mahal are some wonders found in Kutch which can be admired by visitors. One must visit the Rann of Kutch especially during the Rann of Kutch Utsav to understand more about the local culture. Here one can take Camel Rides, buy world famous handicrafts, go paramotoring, and enjoy Gujarati delicacies.
10) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The exitance of humans on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands can be traced back to the Palaeolithic age. The Islanders practiced isolation from the very beginning and it was the British colonizers who brought them under the global limelight. The Britishers converted the Andaman and Nicobar Islands into an infamous penal colony, but as time passed their fate started to change. These days they witness a vast variety of tourists who are pulled in by the exoticness it exhibits.
Many visitors initially end up at the Havelock Island where you can find the Radhanagar Beach. Tourists can savor various water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, and sailing in the waters of Havelock Beach. You could also head to Port Blair and visit Corbyn’s Cove and the Ross Islands. The Ross Islands are perfect for couples who want to enjoy some solitude. From Port Blair one can take a day trip to Baratang Island and spot the Jarawa Tribals on the way. One can also visit the Samudrika Marine Museum to admire the local marine life. The limestone caves at the Baratang islands should be added to the tourist itinerary.
A visit to Jolly Buoy Island from Port Blair is also must. One should also visit the Cellular Jail or Kala Pani and tantalize their senses through the light and sound show that takes place there. Travelers could also visit the Parrot Islands, Barren Island, National Memorial Museum, and many more locations.
11) Nainital
Situated in the amidst the Kumaon Hills the geography of the hill station is majorly shaped by the Naini Lake from where it derives its name, Nainital. Apart from the Naini Lake tourists could also wander off to the Bhimtal Lake, Sariyatal Lake or Khurpatal lake. Once at any of the lakes you could boat, picnic or stroll along the shores. Tourists also like to travel to the nearby peaks such as the Naina peak, Tiffin Top and the Snow View Point.
Nanital is also considered to be a religious mecca due to the presence of the Naina Devi Temple and the St. Johns Church. According to mythology, Nainital houses a Shakti Peeth. Visitors can engage themselves in riding the ropeway, paragliding, trekking, water zorbing and so on. Eco cave, Gurney House, Sitabani, High Altitude Zoo, and Neem Karoli Baba Ashram are some more sites to see in and around Nainital.
Nanital can also prove to be a paradise for shopaholics who could let themselves loose at various markets such as the Mall Road, Bara Baazar and the Tibetian Market.
12) Coorg
The lush greenery and hilly surroundings of Coorg create a romantic ambiance which is ideal for couples on their honeymoon. Coorg or Kodagu had been ruled by numerous dynasties like the Cholas, Chalukyas, and the Hoysalas. The gorgeous hill station of Coorg is located in Karnataka and it is often referred to as the 'Scotland of India.' Coorg has been adorned with some of the richest tea and coffee plantations of India.
Scenic views of the Western Ghats can be availed from a height of about 1500 meters at the Raja’s seat. You could also enjoy a picnic at the Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls Honnamana Kere Lake, Nilakandi Falls, or at the Mallalli Falls. Travelers could visit a range of sacred places like the Thalacauvery, the Golden Temple, Omkareshwara Temple, and Bhagamandala. Other places to visit include the Barapole River, Nagarhole National Park, Tadianmole Peak, Madikeri Fort, Somwarpet, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Gaddige Rajas Tomb, Kutta, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Kopatty Hills, Nalakund Palace, and Chettali.
In Coorg, adventure seekers could indulge in activities like river rafting, trekking, and rope climbing. Coorg is one of the best places for fishing enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Once here you should also savor delicacies like bamboo shoot curries and the Pandi curry.
13) Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep, which literally refers to a thousand islands is the perfect destination for honeymooners who crave sun, sand, and sea but want to avoid the crowd that comes with most of the well-visited beaches. Lakshadweep sprawls through an area of 32 sq. kilometers and is composed of 36 Islands which contain 12 atolls, 5 submerged banks, and three reefs. To access India’s smallest Union Territory, you need special permits which are available at Kochi.
Some of Lakshadweep’s gems include the Minicoy Island, Aggati Island, Bangaram Island, Kavaretti Island, Kalpeni Island, Kadmat Island, Amindivi Island, and the Andretti Island. Tourists can keep themselves engaged by indulging in activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, yachting, pedal boating, canoeing, and swimming.
14) Araku Valley
If you crave to unveil the unexplored then you should hop on a train from Vishakhapatnam and head to the Araku Valley which is nestled amidst the hills of Andhra Pradesh. The strong aroma of coffee coming from the hill stations coffee plantations lingers throughout the valley.
Once here one has to head to the Borra Caves which are composed of limestone and are about a million years old. To understand the local Tribal culture visitors can explore the Tribal Museum. To enjoy the beauty of nature, travelers can explore Lambasingi, Chaparai, the Katika Waterfalls, Padmapuram Gardens, Anantagiri Waterfalls, Matsyagundam, Duduma Waterfalls, Ranajilleda Waterfalls, Tyda Nature Camp, and the Tatipudi Reservoir.
Visitors can also visit Ananthagiri which is a hill station which falls between Vizag and Araku Valley.
15) Ooty
Ooty is considered to be the Queen Jewel of the crown formed by the Nilgiri Hills. Now also known as Udhagamandalam, the hill station located in Tamil Nadu had once been occupied by tribes like the Toda’s until it fell into the hands of the East India Company.
Tourists could visit numerous places and do a wide range of things in Ooty. They could enjoy camping, trekking or Kayaking at the Avalanche lake or they can admire the sunset from the Doddabetta Peak while enjoying a cup of Ooty’s famous tea. Visitors could take a Safari to the Upper Bhavani Lake or admire the fauna at the Botanical Garden. One could visit sacred spots like the St. Stephens Church and the Murugan Temple. Ooty also houses a diverse range of Museums such as the Doddabetta Tea Museum, the Wax Museum, and the Honey and Bee Museum.
The Rose Garden, Emerald Lake, Pykara Falls, and Wenlock Downs are some of Ooty’s natural wonders. A ride on the toy train can provide travelers with some of the best views of Ooty.
16) Shimla
The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is a historically and culturally rich hill-station which exhibits a certain old-world charm. The name Shimla has been derived from the deity Shyamala Devi. Shimla has a rich colonial history and the British considered the hill station to be their summer capital. The Charleville Mansion placed within the Shimla Viceregal Lodge was where the Viceroy of India use to reside. No one had occupied the Mansion after the Mountbatten Family. The Indian Institute of Advanced Study and the Partition table are also located within the Lodge. To learn more about Shimla’s history tourists could take a heritage walk or visit the Shimla Heritage Museum.
Many Pilgrims come to Shimla to visit numerous temples in and around the hill station such as the Jaakh Temple located on the Jaakhu Hill, the Tara Devi Temple, Kali Bari, Shoolini Temple, and the Laxminarayan Temple. One should also ride the toy train and visit places like the Mall Road, the Ridge, Christ Church and Annadale.
Activities like trekking, skiing, horse riding, and paragliding are popular in and around Shimla.
17) Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal can be found amidst the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu and its landscape and surrounding paints such an enchanting picture that its often referred to as the "Princess of Hill stations". Literally known as the gift of the forest, Kodaikanal allures hundreds of honeymooners with its diverse attractions. Although according to historical records Palaiyar tribe had originally inhabited Kodaikanal, it had been whipped into its present form by British Bureaucrats and American Christian Missionaries.
Kodaikanal is dotted with trekking trials such as the Dolphin Nose trek, the Periyakulam Adukkam trek, the and the Vattakanal Trek. The Green Valley View Point, the Pillar Walks View Point, and the Silent Valley View Point offer some of the best scenic images you will ever see. To admire the real beauty of Kodaikanal you must visit the Coakers Walk. Couples could also add the Bear Shola Falls, the Bryant Park, Silver Cascades, Devils Kitchen, Berijam Lake, the Kurinji Andavar Temple, the Shembaganur Museum, and Christ the King Church to their itineraries.
18) Darjeeling
Found in the state of West Bengal, Darjeeling or the ‘Queen of the Himalayas’ is the best place to visit if you want to add some old-world charm to your honeymoon. It is dotted with markets, monasteries, colonial buildings, and viewpoints. Darjeeling or the ‘Land of the Thunderbolt’ had originally been part of Nepal until it was acquired by the East India Company. Darjeeling is a ‘tea heaven’ and the tea leaves produced here are savored throughout the world.
The best view of the Kanchenjunga Peak which is the third highest peak in India can be availed by venturing towards the Tiger Hill. The Ghoom Monastery can be visited by solitude seekers. The Peace Pagoda and the Japanese Temple are some other sacred spots located at the hill station. Lloyds Botanical Garden, Batasia Loop, the Rock Garden, and the Zoological Park are some other places to visit in Darjeeling.
You could jazz up your visit by taking a toy train or cable car ride, visiting the Happy Valley Tea Estate, river rafting at the Teesta River or by shopping at Chowrasta.
19) Shillong
Meghalaya’s capital, Shillong is a hill station which derives its name from the idol of Lei Shyllong and it's filled with a colorful variety of clubs, golf courses, markets, museums, and cafes. The Mawlynnong Village which is popular for being one of Asia’s cleanest villages can be found here.
Those interested in art, culture, or history can visit the Don Bosco Museum, Chrysalis Art Gallery, the Meghalaya State Museum, and the Airforce Museum. The Rhino Museum, the Butterfly Museum, and the Everliving Museum can also be visited by tourists. The Shillong Peak and Viewpoint, the Diengiei Peak, Spread Eagle Falls, Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Nokrek National Park, and the Shillong Baptist Church are some of Shillong’s hottest destinations.
Visitors could also gorge on delicacies at Dylan’s Café, Dejavu, or Breads Café.
20) Munnar
The hill station of Munnar is located in Kerala and is embraced by the beauty of the Western Ghats. Newly wed couples could spend romantic evenings here in the chilly air while drinking some of the best tea in India. It lies on the banks of the Madupetti, Nallathanni and Periavaru rivers which provides an ideal ecosystem for endangered species like the Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji.
The Eravikulam National Park and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary house a vast collection of fauna and they are visited by dozens of tourists. You can learn more about tea at the tea Museum or admire the Kathakali and Kalarippayattu art forms at the Punarjani Traditional Village. Visitors can also indulge in some trekking, rock climbing, speed boating, horse riding, and rappelling.
Couples can take romantic walks or enjoy picnics at the Atukkad Waterfalls, Kundala Lake, and the Lakkom Waterfalls. The Echo Point, Top Station and the Photo Point provide beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
21) Alleppy
Located in Kerala, Alleppy with its beaches, coir weaving industry, temples, backwaters, boat races, ayurvedic centers, spa’s, villages and toddy shops will spice up any couple’s honeymoon and at the same time rejuvenate their senses. The history of Alleppy can be traced back to the 1st Century AD when one of Jesus Christs disciples St. Thomas arrived here to spread Christianity. Alleppy provides a wide range of activities to keep couples engaged. You can stay in a houseboat at the ‘Venice of the East’ while cruising through the backwaters. Take a swim at the Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, the Thumploy Beach or the Punnapra Beach. One should visit the Punnamada Lake where the Nehru Trophy boat race can be viewed.
Couples should also head to India’s longest lake known as the Vembanad Lake. Bird watching enthusiasts could explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The Krishnapuram Palace is perfect for those who are interested in the architectural style of Kerala. The Bay Island Driftwood Museum and the Revi Karunakaran Museum house various spectacles of art.
22) Mahabaleshwar
The hill station of Mahabaleshwar is one of the most sacred places that can be found in Maharashtra. The hill station which is the source of the Krishna River had been developed into its modern form by the Bombay Presidency under the colonial rule. The origin of this well-visited tourist spot can be traced to the Malcolm Perth Village, The Old Mahabaleshwar Village and a few parts of the Shindola Village.
The Mahabaleshwar Temple, the Krishnabai Temple, and the Panch Ganga Temple are popular pilgrimage spots. People looking for some thrill can visit the On Wheelz Amusement Park or venture out on trekking trials such as the Pratapgad Fort Trek, the Koyna Valley Trek, and the Arthurs Seat Trek.
Mahabaleshwar’s natural beauty can be enjoyed at places like Elephants Head Point, Chinaman Falls, Dhobi Waterfall, Venna Lake, Wilson Point, Tiger’s Spring and the Lingmala Falls. One could also visit the Marpo Gardens where Mahabaleshwar’s famous strawberries are produced. Many also prefer to head out and explore Panchgani.
23) Coonoor
Coonoor or the Green Valley is on the second position amongst the largest hill stations of Nilgiri due to its enormous size. Tourists flock to Coonor to spend some time amongst the abundant flora and fauna that can be found at the hill station.
The Sims park is a Japanese style wonder located at the hill station which exhibits more than a thousand species of flowers and plants. Dolphin’s Nose and Lamb’s rock provide scenic views of the tea plantations that can be found at the Nilgiris’s. The Laws Fall is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a picnic. One could trek to the Rallia Dam which provides water to the hill station of Coonor.
Couples who desire to visit the unexplored can head to the Hidden Valley.
24) Khajjiar
Situated in Himachal Pradesh, Khajjiar is a ‘Miniature Switzerland’ within India. Khajjiar is situated on a tableland adorned by meadows, forests, and lakes. The Khajjiar lake is a popular tourist spot within the town, where activities like motor boating, speed boating, and paragliding are conducted. Other activities like zorbing, horse-riding, rock climbing, and trekking are also conducted here.
Khajjiar also houses the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, which in earlier days served as hunting grounds for the Chamba rulers. Numerous species like the Barking Goral, the Leopard, and the deer are found here.
Many ancient temples can also be found in Khajjiar such as the Khajji Nag Temple and the Golden Devi temple. The Khajji Nag temple is the most sacred temple located in Khajjiar and it is dedicated to the serpent king. Devotees often prefer to visit Lord Shivas statue situated at the hill station.
