Get swept away on a couple’s trip of a lifetime to these pristine destinations. From sugar white beaches to loll about in, to thick forests to spot the great beasts of the jungle, these pristine destinations will stay in your memories forever.
1. Jaisalmer
The Golden City is the perfect backdrop for romance and adventure. Jaisalmer is perched on a ridge of deep yellow sandstone, dominated by the imposing Jaisalmer Fort and surrounded by golden dunes as far as the eye can see. Relax post your nuptials at the lovely Suryagarh Jaisalmer, checking into the private Thar Haveli that’s spread over 2,750 square feet. Splash in the refreshing plunge pool, with a private butler to cater to every whim. Indulge in their signature sand therapy at the Rait Spa, and end the day with dinner under the stars on the sand dunes. You can also check in at the Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa for a dreamy vacation.
2. Andaman & Nicobar Islands
A stretch of silvery beach, a cluster of palm trees and the ocean surrounding you for miles, we won’t be surprised if you find a pirate’s chest hidden in the sand. This stunning archipelago in the Bay of Bengal leaves you spoilt for choice. Nest in one of the beautiful stilted villas at the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans that’s spread over a sprawling 46 acres on Havelock Island. Or stay at the classic Welcomhotel Bay Island at Port Blair designed by the late Charles Correa. Else, enter the preserve of barefoot luxury at Barefoot at Havelock in a traditional Nicobari-style villa. Go kayaking under the stars, snorkel with the sharks and dive to your heart’s content in the crystal clear waters.
3. Jaipur
Spend your honeymoon like royalty in the glamorous pink city with its stately palaces during the day and enjoy its contemporary, global lifestyle when the sun sets. Check into the suite that played host to Jacqueline Kennedy and King Charles III at the Rambagh Palace, Jaipur. The former residence of the late Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and Maharani Gayatri Devi, enjoy a royal repast at Suvarna Mahal, the glittering 18th-century French-style palace ballroom under the sparkling chandeliers. Overlooking the Aravalli’s, the Fairmont Jaipur resonates with a modern Mughal Palace. Have a languorous couple’s hammam bath, followed by dinner on the Imperial Terrace overlooking the silent hills. Visit the City Palace, have a drink at Bar Palladio and float over the city on a hot air balloon ride.
4. Sawai Madhopur
If you’re looking for an adventurous honeymoon, make your way to Sawai Madhopur. This sleepy town is the gateway to the Ranthambore National Park and home to luxurious outposts that you can relax in, after you spent the wee morning hours tiger spotting. The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, Ranthambhore is an intimate escape with just 25 luxury tents. Get the knots from your safari kneaded away at The Oberoi Spa overlooking a tranquil water body and mango orchards. At the Aman-i-Khas, with just 10 luxurious Mughal-style tents, you can revitalize yourself with Ayurvedic massages and aromatic baths. Sawai Madhopur Lodge - IHCL SeleQtions, a former hunting lodge built in the 1930s for Jaipur’s royal family, is a lovely Art Deco escape. If you have time, explore the Ranthambore Fort, take a romantic boat ride on the Chambal River and end the trip with a hot air balloon ride to discover this magical landscape.
5. Goa
While heading to India’s party capital might not be the intimate escape that you dreamed of, it’s a tempting option with golden beaches, great chow and cocktails, and a chance to shimmy away the night. Stay at The St. Regis Goa Resort located at the pristine Mobor Beach. Check into the John Jacob Astor Villa with a butler service to take care of your needs. Tee off at the golf course, have a meal at Riverside, their restaurant located by the Sal River, and once the sunsets, step out to enjoy Goa’s vibrant nightlife. For a quieter experience is Ahilya by the Sea, tucked in a quiet corner of Dolphin Bay. The Trindade Suite, the original master bedroom of this former mansion, has gorgeous suite views and an ocean-facing step-out balcony for you to enjoy in each other’s company.
6. Udaipur
The most romantic city in India, Udaipur, founded by Maharana Udai Singh II, is known as the city of lakes for the limpid water bodies that dot the city. Visit the breathtaking city palace, take a boat ride around the stunning Lake Pichola and marvel at the spectacular views from the hilltop Monsoon Palace. You can check into the elegant Raffles Udaipur’s charming Flamingo Signature Room which comes with a private pool, cabana and butler service. Wake up to eat a floating breakfast in the pool. The Kohinoor suite at The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur is spread over a sprawling 2,650 square feet and has an infinity pool, a garden terrace and a relaxation pavilion. Sprawl on the daybed enjoying a magnificent view of the City Palace and the quiet lake. Feel like royalty at the Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur that’s played a starring role in films such as The Jewel in the Crown and Octopussy. The floating summer retreat of the royal Mewar Family, this glistening white marble palace with jharokas, fountains, gardens and courtyards makes for a magical stay.
7. Agra
Sometimes, it’s best to go with the clichés. Home to the majestic mausoleum to love, the white marble Taj Mahal, oftentimes overshadows the remaining attractions, such as the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Stay at the ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra and get pampered at Kaya Kalp, their opulent spa. Get a bird’s eye view from The Oberoi Amarvilās, Agra located just 600 meters from the Taj Mahal. Dine under the stars in candlelight on your private balcony on royal thalis gazing upon this ethereal edifice. A night to remember for a lifetime.