In the realm of wedding dreams, every couple seeks to script their perfect love story in a unique and untold way. The allure of the unconventional, therefore, beckons with promises of luxury, opulence, and a regal touch. As traditional wedding destinations increasingly tread the path of cliché, modern brides and grooms are embarking on a quest for novel locales that resonate with their unique love story.
While Rajasthan’s regal charm continues to captivate couples, as does Italy, there’s a burgeoning trend to explore destinations that transcend the ordinary. As Devika Narain, the founder of Devika Narain Company, advises, “Consider Portugal, South Africa,” signaling a departure from the conventional in favour of the extraordinary. Ms. Narain has been a part of organizing high-profile weddings such as that of actors Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal, and Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha.
We delve into the allure of unconventional wedding destinations, both within the vibrant tapestry of India and across the vast expanse of the globe. From the sun-kissed shores of Kovalam to the wild savannahs of South Africa, each destination offers its own distinctive charm and allure, promising couples a wedding celebration that is nothing short of magical. To uncover these hidden gems, we asked multiple wedding experts to share their top locations for unusual wedding destinations. Here’s what they had to say.
1. Morocco
Nestled at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, Morocco presents an exciting blend of cultural richness and natural splendour. Its bustling markets and sweeping desert make for an evocative backdrop for a wedding that is as timeless as it is unforgettable.
Morocco transport you to another time and place, enveloping you in a tapestry of vibrant colors, tantalizing scents, and mesmerizing sights. Further, it is a land of contrasts, where the ancient and the modern coexist in perfect harmony.
Rich in culture, history, and exotic landscapes, Morocco offers a magical setting for a truly unique wedding experience, believe Tina Tharwani and Saurabh Malhotra, co-founders of Shaadi Squad. “Imagine exchanging vows in a traditional riad adorned with intricate Moroccan décor, or amid the golden sands of the Sahara Desert with a backdrop of starlit skies. With its vibrant colors, tantalizing cuisine, and warm hospitality, Morocco promises a wedding celebration like no other. We’d love to plan a wedding here,” say the excited duo, who have clients such as Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar, Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal, and Athiya Shetty and KL Rahul.
2. South Africa
This destination is a photographer’s dream, and quite frankly so picturesque that it looks like a painting. Few destinations rival the beauty and diversity of South Africa. From the rugged coastline of the Western Cape to the beauty of the wild at Kruger National Park, this land of contrasts offers a wedding experience that is as diverse as it is unforgettable. “South Africa is a stunning country with a vast variety of the most incredible scenery, cuisine, wine, and adventure,” said event and wedding planner Colin Cowie. The country’s stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for couples looking to capture their special day in all its glory.
For couples who crave adventure, South Africa’s abundance of outdoor activities ensure that their wedding celebration is nothing short of exhilarating. Talking about the activities, Mr. Cowie, who can count Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Nicole Kidman and Demi Moore as clients, says, “Within a short trip in South Africa, you can treat your guests to a Safari (often a once in a lifetime experience), a beachside paradise and stunning rolling hills and some of the best vineyards in the world. The country is often overlooked, but offers a completely unique and varied experience for a multi-day affair.”
3. Almaty, Kazakhstan
When it comes to hidden gems and unusual destinations, Almaty in Kazakhstan surely sets the tone. Tucked away in the heart of Central Asia, Almaty is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Tien Shan Mountains and provides a breathtaking backdrop for couples seeking a wedding that is both intimate and grand. As a city, it can be best described as a blend of Eastern and Western influences. Almaty is almost reminiscent of Europe with its tree-lined streets, modern shopping centers, and vibrant nightlife. Meanwhile, the capital Nur-Sultan, situated on the windswept northern steppe, showcases bold futuristic architecture, transforming it into a 21st-century marvel. Beyond the urban centers, Kazakhstan boasts an array of natural wonders, from towering mountains and verdant valleys in the Tian Shan range to stunning lakes and contrasting western deserts.
Kazakhstan has emerged as a premier destination for weddings, with a rising number of couples selecting it as the backdrop for their nuptials. “As an emerging destination that’s only a couple of hours away from India, Almaty offers rolling hills and expansive banquets,” believes Mehak Sagar, Co-founder of WedMeGood – an online marketplace of all vendors wedding-related. The influx of Indian tourists to the country has surged rapidly, reflecting the growing popularity of Kazakhstan as a wedding destination. You can opt to exchange vows in a traditional Kazakh yurt or celebrate with a lavish banquet in one of the city’s luxury hotels.
4. Kovalam, India
Situated along the sun-kissed shores of Kerala, Kovalam is a haven of tranquility, nature and romance. Its pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters create a magical setting for couples to exchange their vows and begin their journey together.
What distinguishes Kovalam as an unparalleled wedding destination is its rich cultural heritage, which imbues celebrations with a distinctive charm. Couples have the opportunity to infuse their ceremonies with the vibrant traditions of Kerala, including indigenous music and dance performances, authentic cuisine, and customary rituals, opines Himish Agarwal, CEO and Creative Director of Konark Events in Jaipur. He further says, “Couples can choose from a variety of stunning venues in Kovalam, ranging from beachfront resorts to luxurious hotels overlooking the sea…Whether you’re exchanging vows at sunset on the beach or dancing the night away under the stars, Kovalam is an ideal place for unique weddings.” Konark Events had approximately 17.4k followers on Instagram at the time of writing this article.
Concurrently, Parthip Thyagarajan, Co-Founder & CEO of WeddingSutra.com – a wedding media brand, notes that “while Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu maintains its popularity, Kovalam, along with Kochi and Bekal, continue to be the hotspots in Kerala.”
5. Khajuraho, India
Khajuraho and love are almost synonymous, and a wedding here offers a unique blend of romance, history, and culture amidst India’s breathtaking architectural marvels. Renowned for its stunning temples adorned with intricate sculptures, all of which were mostly built between 885 CE to 1125 CE, Khajuraho provides an enchanting backdrop for marriage ceremonies.
“If you want an old-world charm, with rustic temples, then Khajuraho is the best bet,” states Ms. Sagar of WedMeGood. Its captivating beauty, renowned erotic rock carvings (which are only 10% of the entire temple complex), and vast expanse make it one of the most sought-after destinations for weddings, not only for Indian couples, but for any couple worldwide. Drawing visitors from across the globe, Khajuraho, the mystical land of the Kamasutra in Madhya Pradesh, has charmed tourists for centuries.
With a myriad of beautiful locations to choose from, ranging from opulent resorts to historic residences, couples can pledge their love amidst the enduring grandeur of the city’s architectural treasures.
6. Andaman Islands, India
Image courtesy: Shaadi Squad.
If a beach wedding is what you are after, but Goa seems too commercial, head to the white sands of Andaman Islands, advises Ms. Sagar. Tucked away in the azure waters of the Bay of Bengal, Andaman Islands offer a wedding experience that is nothing short of paradise.
With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, the Andaman Islands offer a picturesque backdrop for a unique and intimate beach wedding. “Imagine exchanging vows with the sound of waves as your background music and the sunset painting the sky in breathtaking hues. More adventurous in nature as opposed to another destination, the charm of Andamans lies in its nicheness; lending itself beautifully to a warm intimate celebration,” say the duo at Shaadi Squad. “We did execute a wedding at Andaman Islands last year and it was beautiful!” they added optimistically.
Image courtesy: Shaadi Squad.
From mountains and lush nature to desert and temples, this list covers a wide landscape of accessible beauties. Choosing a wedding destination shouldn’t be an excruciating decision now!