2018 has been a year of weddings! High profile weddings of celebrities like Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas and Isha Amban, have kept everyone on their toes. Vigilant to-be-married-soon couples are busy preparing notes for exotic wedding destinations for the future.
There are many locations that have trended and are the most sought-after places for 2019. From fairy-tale destinations to royal weddings in palaces to beach ones in Goa and then to calmer ones near the Kerala backwaters – wedding planners have busy times ahead.
Here is our pick of the top wedding locations in India and abroad for 2019.
In India –
The lake city of Udaipur –
Thanks to Isha Ambani’s pre-wedding function and a hoard of other weddings that happen each year, Udaipur remains the most sought-after location for in India.
It is a stunning place with lakes all over, like an oasis in the desert. Full of regal palaces, gardens and majestic venues, this place is valued both by Indians and foreigners.
Some of the famous venues in the city are –
Forts like the 18th century Devi Garh, the City Palace and the gorgeous Manek Chowk, the picturesque Shivniwas Palace. Hotels like the Oberoi Udaivilas, Leela Palace, Taj lake palace which is located right in the middle of the lake. The Lalit Laxmi Vilas, atop the Fateh Sagar Lake, Durbar Hall at Fateh Prakash Palace, to name a few. The various lakes especially Lake Pichola forms an elegant backdrop.
Jaipur – the capital of royalty
The pink city of India is another famous destination for weddings. A rich heritage, legacy and countless options, this city is booked months in advance. From palaces to mansions to humongous spread of gardens, Jaipur has a plethora of venues to decide from. The fine Jai Mahal Palace with its lavish Mughal gardens to the royal Rambagh Palace, that breathes charm, mystery and romance in everything that it houses. Other options are the Samode Palace and Nahargarh Fort. The City Palace also gives a part for weddings.
Jodhpur – the Priyanka connection
Jodhpur has always been an exotic location but after the Pri-Nick wedding, it is back in the news. A dream destination, the Umaid Bhawan Palace is magnificent. An architectural marvel, the palace stands royal in all its splendour. With a contemporary touch to its set up, it’s the perfect amalgamation of east meets west.
It is adorned with plush courtyards and exquisite exteriors. Another destination is the Ajit Bhawan, for the royal Rajput charm. Taj Hari Mahal Palace is a splendid palace, adorned with murals and grand interiors that enlighten the excitement of such a location.
Some other palace options across India are – Mysore’s Lalitha Mahal Palace, Jaisalmer’s Suryagarh palace.
Kerala, the calm backwaters –
Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, is ‘God’s Own Country’. Head to Kerala for a romantic wedding. There is Kovalam or the tea estates of Munnar; heritage building of Kochi fort, or the serene Alleppey for an experience of a lifetime.
Hip hop, beaches, grandeur and fun makes Goa an evergreen choice –
Goa is ideal for couples who are looking for that extra oomph and glamour as the quotients for their wedding.
Get the lazy grandeur of the beaches in this divine state. Full of exotic hotels, there is no dearth of locations here. See what suits your pocket. The gentle waves of the Arabian Sea makes for a striking backdrop. Park Hyatt Goa, Taj, Leela and Radisson Resorts are among the most popular wedding venues.
Venues outside of India –
Italy –
Tops the charts this year because of Ranveer-Deepika hangover. Many charming villas adorn Lake Como, that can be breath-taking locations.
Destinations include the Amalfi Coast, Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Chianti, Venice, Italian Riviera, Turin and the Italian Lakes.
Maldives –
Escape into the mystic wonders of this beach country for a wedding to remember. Serene waters and exclusive island options, can be fulfilling.
Thailand –
Koh Samui continues to be a favourite with most to-be-married couples for an out of India destination. A dreamy, secluded beachfront set up is ideal here.
Other popular locations for 2019 will be Bali, Indonesia and Greece.
For the out-of-the-box ideas, head to a wildlife safari wedding in Kenya or the mountainous country of Bhutan.
2019 will be all about quirk, being different and beautiful.