A wedding is one of the most beautiful milestones in life, and celebrating it at a stunning location makes it even more memorable. Over the past decade, destination weddings in India have become a trend, offering couples the chance to tie the knot in palaces, beaches, hills, or even amidst forests.
But before you dive in, one of the first questions couples ask is: “What is the destination wedding cost in India?” This blog will help you understand cost factors, budgets, popular venues, and practical tips for planning your dream celebration.
Factors Influencing Cost
The average Indian wedding cost depends on several factors, especially when hosted at a destination. Here are the main ones:
1. Guest Count
The number of guests is the biggest cost influencer. A wedding with 100–150 guests will cost far less than one with 400+. More guests mean more expenses on catering, accommodation, and logistics.
2. Location
Destination wedding locations in India vary greatly in cost. For example, a palace wedding in Udaipur will cost significantly more than a beach wedding in Goa or a nature-themed wedding in Jim Corbett.
3. Venue Type
Luxury resorts, heritage palaces, boutique hotels, or outdoor venues—your choice directly impacts the budget. Palaces and five-star resorts are the most expensive, while boutique hotels and mid-range resorts offer cost-effective options.
4. Season
The wedding season in India (November to February) usually comes with higher prices due to demand. Off-season months (April–September) often bring discounts on venues and services.
5. Services & Vendors
Professional services such as photography, videography, décor, entertainment, and wedding planners can add up. Hiring local vendors instead of flying in professionals from metro cities can reduce costs.
6. Accommodation
Destination weddings usually require arranging stays for guests. The type of accommodation—luxury suites vs. standard rooms—can cause a big difference in your budget.
Typical Budget Ranges
Here’s an approximate idea of the destination wedding cost in India, depending on scale:
Budget/Small Wedding
- Guest count: 50–100
- Cost: ₹15–30 Lakhs
- Venue: Mid-range resorts, boutique hotels, or hill stations
- Best for couples who want an intimate and elegant celebration.
Mid-Range/Decent Wedding
- Guest count: 150–200
- Cost: ₹35–70 Lakhs
- Venue: Popular destinations like Goa, Jaipur, or Kerala resorts
- Offers a balance between luxury and affordability.
Grand/Lavish Wedding
- Guest count: 300–500+
- Cost: ₹80 Lakhs – ₹3 Crores+
- Venue: Palaces in Udaipur, Jodhpur, or 5-star resorts in prime locations
- Perfect for couples who want grandeur and royal experiences.
Popular Destination Wedding Locations in India
India offers a wide variety of wedding destinations, each with its own charm.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Known as the city of lakes and palaces, Udaipur is the top choice for royal weddings. Palaces like Oberoi Udaivilas and City Palace provide regal backdrops.
Jaipur, Rajasthan
The Pink City offers heritage hotels, forts, and royal palaces. Jaipur’s vibrant culture and accessibility make it one of the best destination wedding places in India.
Goa
Beach lovers choose Goa for its mix of sandy shores, Portuguese heritage, and party vibe. From luxury resorts to beachside shacks, Goa offers options for all budgets.
Kerala
For couples seeking a calm and natural setting, Kerala offers backwaters, lush greenery, and beaches. Resorts in Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kovalam are popular picks.
Andaman Islands
Perfect for intimate weddings, the Andamans provide pristine beaches and turquoise waters, giving you a tropical paradise vibe without leaving India.
Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Also called the “Blue City,” Jodhpur is home to the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace—ideal for couples looking for a larger-than-life royal wedding.
Hill Stations (Shimla, Mussoorie, Coorg, etc.)
Cool weather, scenic mountains, and charming resorts make hill stations ideal for couples who want a relaxed, romantic setting.
Rishikesh
For spiritual and serene vibes, Rishikesh offers riverside resorts and ashrams along the Ganges, perfect for couples seeking a traditional yet peaceful celebration.
Jim Corbett National Park
If you love nature, Jim Corbett offers forest resorts and open-air venues amidst greenery. It’s budget-friendly and unique.
Cost Breakdown (Example Expenses)
Here’s a simplified breakdown of what you may spend on a destination wedding in India:
- Venue and Catering: 40–50% of budget (₹10–60 Lakhs)
- Decor: 15–20% (₹5–20 Lakhs)
- Accommodation: 15–25% (₹5–25 Lakhs)
- Photography & Videography: 10–15% (₹2–15 Lakhs)
- Entertainment (DJ, artists, dancers): 5–10% (₹2–10 Lakhs)
- Customized Services (gifts, mehendi artists, makeup, transport): 5–10% (₹2–8 Lakhs)
Tips for Budgeting
Planning smartly can help you manage the average Indian wedding cost better.
- Plan Ahead: Book venues and vendors at least 8–12 months in advance to avoid peak season hikes.
- Work with Local Planners: Local wedding planners understand venues, vendors, and costs, which can save time and money.
- Prioritize: Decide what matters most (venue, décor, food, photography) and allocate funds accordingly instead of overspending everywhere.
How to Find and Choose a Package
Most hotels, resorts, and wedding planners now offer destination wedding packages that cover venue, décor, catering, and basic services.
- Compare multiple packages before finalizing.
- Check inclusions like décor themes, room nights, meals, and transport.
- Always read reviews and ask for sample videos/photos of past weddings organized by the venue or planner.
- Customize packages to suit your guest count and budget.
Best Destination Wedding Locations in 2025 for Every Budget
Here’s a quick table of destination wedding locations in India categorized by budget:
| Budget Range | Best Locations | Approx. Cost |
| ₹15–30 Lakhs (Small) | Jim Corbett, Rishikesh, Coorg, Mussoorie | ₹15–30 Lakhs |
| ₹35–70 Lakhs (Mid-Range) | Goa, Jaipur, Kerala resorts, Shimla | ₹35–70 Lakhs |
| ₹80 Lakhs – 3 Crores+ (Luxury) | Udaipur, Jodhpur, Andaman luxury resorts | ₹80 Lakhs – 3 Crores+ |
Final Thoughts
A destination wedding in India is not just about the location—it’s about the memories you create with your loved ones. Whether you choose a palace in Rajasthan, a beach in Goa, or a forest in Jim Corbett, India offers endless possibilities for every budget.
By planning early, working with the right vendors, and setting clear priorities, you can make your dream wedding both magical and cost-effective.
So, start your journey today—because your fairytale wedding deserves the perfect destination.
FAQs
Can a wedding be done in 10 lakhs?
Yes, a simple wedding with 50–80 guests in smaller cities or budget destinations can be done within ₹10 lakhs.
How much does a 100 person destination wedding cost?
A 100-guest destination wedding in India usually costs between ₹20–40 lakhs, depending on location and venue type.
Is 20 lakhs enough for a wedding?
Yes, ₹20 lakhs is enough for a mid-range wedding with 100–150 guests in destinations like Goa, Kerala, or hill stations.
Which is the cheapest destination wedding in India?
Jim Corbett, Rishikesh, and Coorg are among the most affordable destination wedding locations in India.