Our country has no shortage of grand locations to seal the bond of love

Destination weddings kill many birds with one stone – the bride and groom have a beautiful location to say their vows, their respective families get an impromptu but hectic holiday and the guests have a memorable evening, away from work and the bustle of the city. Diverse as India is, it houses destinations far and wide that offer every shaadi experience under the sun, from regal to traditional, from hippie to religious. Here are the top spots to consider for the big day.

Gujarat

The state where our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi hails from is also the land of princes. The rich food and beautiful forts and palaces offer pleasant hospitality. Choose from a variety of experiences across the length and breadth of this thriving state. From Surat to Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar to Baroda, there are venues that are contemporary, traditional, regal and colourful. LVP Banquets and Conventions in Ahmedabad is actually a three-century-old palace. Aam Bagan is in the midst of vast mango orchards. Madhuban Resorts on the outskirts of Anand is a hit with upwardly mobile NRI couples. Narayani Heights in Gandhinagar has a merry spirit.

Jaisalmer

The historic city of Jaisalmer is the perfect spot for a royal wedding with a desi tadka.

Rajasthani singers and heavily decked dancers come with the package at practically every spot. Suryagarh Palace is the ultimate spot in the desert city. The magnificent palace is a fortress of splendour with cobbled pathways lit with candles and glittering mandaps. There is a slew of heritage hotels and havelis where weddings guests are welcomed in the warm Rajasthani tradition. Take your pick from Fort Rajwada, Jawahar Niwaas, Gorband Palace and Narayan Niwas. For a grand reception of international standard, do a recce of Bageecha Lawns, Taal Amphitheatre and Sam Sand Dunes. 

Udaipur

The city of lakes is at once romantic and splendid in its vastness. It is home to a plethora of palace buildings done up in a contemporary design. Indian and foreign couples in the mood to splurge rush to hotels like The Trident, Oberoi Udaivilas, The Leela and The Taj Lake Palace. For something more exotic, there are forts like Manek Chowk, Fateh Garh, and Durbar Hall at Fateh Prakash Palace.

Jaipur

The pink city has been a haunt for wedding ceremonies since decades. The heritage of Jaipur is a big attraction for Hollywood and Indian celebrities who want to make memories on the D-day. The city is kitted out during festivals anyway, and celebrating your shaadi at a spot like Raj Palace, Samode Palace and the obviously titled Gold Palace makes it a royal affair to remember.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are among the world's most beautiful locations for a holiday. Imagine having your mandap right on the white sandy beaches. The climate is romantic and the locals are friendly here. The coconut palm-fronted miles of beaches and the sea will make the entire wedding a sumptuous experience for all the guests. The Havelock Islands and the refurbished ruins called The Ross are picture-perfect venues.

Rishikesh

The holy land of Rishikesh is where couples of two kinds tie the knot – the religious type who want to lend sanctity to their union and those who love culture and travel. Performing the pheras on the banks of the holy Ganga is a memory to cherish forever. Hotel Ganga Kinare organises this experience. It is famous for outdoor ceremonies. Divine Resort has a spectacular view that foreign couples vouch for. Rishikesh is one place that isn't big on luxury resorts and hotels but is rich in experiential travel. What better way to make your vows than in the mountains, under the open skies?

Hyderabad

The city of nizams is famous for its cuisine. Foodies must take note of the elaborate menus they can have their guests feasting on. The city has wedding halls at every corner. Taj Falaknuma Palace is a top spot for weddings and stands close to the iconic Char Minar. Chowmallah Palace is where you can have a lavish nawabi wedding, complete with colourful sights and sounds.

A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Celebrating it in one of these locations will ensure you have nothing to regret for the rest of your life together. Have we missed a great destination in this list?