Recommend had the opportunity to meet and chat with Meenakshi Vashist, assistant director, India Tourism, at last month’s Romance Travel Forum in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. We spoke about India as a destination growing in popularity for destination weddings (as well as honeymoons), especially the area of Rajasthan in northern India, specifically Udaipur. After the forum wrapped up, I sent Vashist a few questions via email on this topic:
Paloma Villaverde de Rico (PVR): Why is Udaipur such a popular destination?
Meenakshi Vashist (MV): Suitable climate; palaces; lakes; connectivity; less crowded; and a choice of moderate to luxury venue selection.
PVR: What part of the U.S. do couples come from to have their destination weddings in this destination?
MV: All over.
PVR: Is this strictly for the luxury couple?
MV: In most of the cases, as weddings usually take place in big hotels; palaces; resorts; etc.
PVR: What are some of the more popular hotels that couples are booking?
MV: Taj Lake Palace; Rass Leela Udaipur; Udai Vilas Palace; Leela Palace Udaipur; etc.*
PVR: Is Udaipur a popular destination for honeymoons as well?
MV: Yes. Recently, an acclaimed Bollywood movie was shot here for entire coverage of destination weddings and honeymoons.
PVR: Other key points travel consultants should be aware of?
MV: Seasonality—October to March time frame is ideal for choosing Udaipur as a venue for a destination wedding.
For more information on India, visit incredibleindia.org/en. For specific on destination weddings, contact the various hotel brands Vashist mentions.
Honeymoon in India
Artisans of Leisure offers a 14-day Romantic India that begins in Delhi, India’s over-the-top capital, then hops over to Agra where couples can visit the Taj Mahal and local markets, and stay in the Oberoi Amarvilas in a room with an uninterrupted view of the Taj. Then it’s on to the “Pink City” of Jaipur, where newlyweds can ride an elephant to Amber Fort. From there, it’s off to Udaipur for a 3-night stay at the Oberoi Udaivilas. While in Udaipur, couples can spend the time cruising Lake Pichola and walking through picturesque backstreets, touring the City Palace and browsing the local bazaars. The beaches await, so couples are then whisked off to Goa, known for its beaches and Portuguese history. It’s all topped off with a couple of days in Mumbai, where the romantic duo can ake a private boat ride to the Elephanta Island Caves. Cost is $11,730 pp dbl. For more information, visit artisansofleisure.com.
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