Possibly the best phase of one’s married life, an eternal honeymoon is the fantasy for all! Which is why choosing the perfect honeymoon destination is as important as the candles, the rose petals, and the moonlight walk, hand in hand. And no, you don’t have to fly a thousand miles to share those beautiful memories together..
India, being a colourful milieu of multi-cultural nuances, boasts a wide spectrum of maddeningly romantic destinations, each with its own charm and unique character. So here’s a list of places we have put together that have seduced generations of love-struck couples and will surely ‘make your heart go on …’
Goa
For us, Goa is equal to Romance. Period. With its lively culture of sun, sand and surf, miles of captivating scenery, and a galore of fine restaurants churning out delectable seafood, this erstwhile Portuguese settlement makes for a wonderful honeymooning destination. Take your pick of accommodation from amongst the numerous romantic resorts of North Goa or South Goa and dive into some of the best moments of your life.
Kodagu, Coorg
Kodagu’s beauty has earned it the epithet, ‘Scotland of India’ and honeymooning couples flock here by the dozen. Huge rolling plantations of Coffee and Cardamom make for perhaps the most exhilarating views. Tucked away amidst sylvan surrounds, you can simply melt in the arms of your loved one in the Abbey Falls. And if you still have time, spend some at the Nagarahole and Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuaries to make your experience all the more memorable.
Kerala
Affectionately known as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala spells pure bliss for the smitten ones. Grand churches, palm-fringed beaches and of course the meandering network of languid backwaters simply cast a spell upon the ones in love. Make sure that you hire a houseboat for at least a couple of days and discover the joy of gliding from village to village amidst a delightful kaleidoscope of changing sceneries.
Mahabaleshwar
Adorning the Western Ghats, the fabulous destination of Mahabaleshwar holds the distinction of being one of the few sites in the world to be blessed with evergreen forests. Huge tracts of strawberry plantations will make your heart leap with joy, while the revered Mahabaleshwar Temple will prove perfect for seeking blessings. As the sun sets, take a relaxed boat cruise across the Verna Lake.
Mcleodganj
Want to spend your honeymoon in a pious Buddhist milieu within an enviably beautiful place? Look no further than McLeodganj. Located at Upper Dharamsala, this place is the seat of the holy Dalai Lama and peaceful Tibetan culture is deeply entrenched here. The mist of the mountains will give you just the perfect excuse to lose yourself in each other.
Pondicherry
Always fantasized about honeymooning in France? Well, closer home, the next best option is Pondicherry. Steeped in years of French colonial rule, the destination still retains and fiercely guards its old heritage. Some of the popular romantic escapades are to stroll hand in hand down the promenade, laze on the beaches, cycle across the city, dig into some scrumptious French cuisine at romantic restaurants and to check out the numerous old temples and churches.
Leh
If you lovebirds are looking for a destination extraordinaire, plan your honeymoon in Leh. The glory of the mighty Himalayas, captivating ancient structures, old Buddhist monasteries, and an indescribably ruggedly handsome landscape – Leh can prove to be a fantasy come to life.