Dr. Vikram Kamat

The chairman VITSKamats Group

Yes, destination marriages are definitely a trend to stay and grow because a lot of logistical hassle is avoided. All gas stays together and the enjoyment factor is more. Also in many families, certain family members are in different cities so they all get to come together and have fun and meet each other. It’s much easier to have all the required people and all religious functions activities can be done much Easier and in case of any religious functions or traditions even timings can go a little up and down since all are staying together

Satya Roy

Vice President, Ummed Hotels

I believe destination weddings in India are something that has been growing by leaps and bounds in the last few years and shall continue to do so in the near future. With weddings becoming a more intimate affair, guests are looking forth to destinations that can add value to their wedding plans in terms of visual appeal while also offering an escape for their near and dear ones from their schedules and partake in the joyous unions for a couple of days. Rajasthan is the most preferred state for regal weddings owing to its heritage locales, palatial resorts with a touch of the Rajputana grandeur in their architecture and impeccable hospitality standards, there has been a huge influx in terms of couples seeking to plan their regal nuptials in picturesque locales of the blue city of Jodhpur. With a grand architectural heritage that is resplendent of the Marwar splendor and 88 intricately designed and furnished palatial accommodations, more than 10,000 sq. ft. of the finest banqueting and garden spaces that offer modern amenities and lavish interiors, and a plethora of delectable cuisines to add to the glamor of the wedding preparations, The Ummed Jodhpur Palace Resort and Spa is highly sought after by the aspiring couples for their destination wedding plans in the heart of the blue city. The recent wedding celebrations of the renowned performer, Mika Singh at The Ummed Jodhpur, is a testament to impressive celebrations and how Jodhpur provides the perfect backdrop for the same.

Gladvin Rego

Principal, Lexicon Institute of Hotel Management.

Destination Weddings, once considered a bastion of the elite, are a more frequent occurrence with event planners and hospitality partners today. 

The desire of the Bridal Couple to create a unique and memorable experience for their guests has seen an uptrend in the Indian market. From the backwaters of Kerala to the beach paradise of the Andaman Islands, couples flock to offbeat pristine destinations to tie their nuptial knots. The destinations themselves have become a source of joy for the attending guests.

The hospitality industry sensed the enormous potential of this market at least a decade ago when major chains started investing in properties in unique faraway destinations. The wedding party often stays back for a few days to partake in all the traditional activities, including the big day itself. Hotels have conveniently added sightseeing, sports, boat cruises, excursions and other immersive experiences to make the entire stay eventful. As the logistics get further organised around the destination, the costs of the wedding infra become affordable for the discerning couple. So, the wedding costs would be marginally higher than a traditional one but with the added incentives.

Moreover, the destination sets the mood for bonding among friends and family members due to the extended stay. Some members of the wedding party even decide to go on their own mini vacations after the wedding. 

Hotels promote the destination with its unique attractions like the golden sands of Goa, the spirituality of the mountains at Rishikesh or the coral waters of the Andamans. For a country blessed with a huge coastline, mountains galore and a culture that is aeons old, Destination Weddings in India are here to stay and grow.

Shilpa Dubey

Head of Operations, Espire Hospitality Group

Destination weddings are redefining India’s wedding culture, which has been already known for its rich traditions and customs all these years. The destination wedding segment is definitely growing which is primarily because the millennials with an experience-based mind set are the new decision-makers. They are increasingly choosing destination weddings as a way to make their big day a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Destination weddings also offer an opportunity to experiment with the unconventional. Couples can craft the fantasy wedding of their dreams and pull new and exciting elements into their ceremonies. Factors such as the rise of the middle class, a booming economy, and awe-inspiring celebrity weddings – have also contributed to this growth. Destination weddings almost always come with smaller guest lists which helps to increase the quality and individual attention each guest receives. 

Pavan Kumar

Director of Sales and Marketing,Pullman New Delhi Aerocity

Wedding is an occasion that comes once in a lifetime and especially in a country like India, it is a much awaited moment for every family. Through the passage of time, the wedding industry has undergone countless changes and one of such variations is the revolutionary trend of destination weddings. The trend has clearly gained popularity among both – the millennials and Gen-z people. India embodies some of the most exotic locations and rich heritage and for this reason palaces and hotel weddings are the most preferred amongst the people. Hence it is only natural to say that Destination Weddings are here to stay and evolve in the coming years.

Nageshwar Pathak

Associate Director of Events, HYATT REGENCY PUNE HOTEL AND RESIDENCES

• After two years of Covid Lockdown, people want to explore and move out
• Where its seems that a destination wedding will be costing a bomb but if you see now destination wedding are more cost effective than regular ones.