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There’s more to a destination than meets the eye—and when it comes to picking a venue for your dream nuptials, this couldn’t be more true. Beyond the picture-perfect backdrops, stunning scenery and the prospect of soaking in the culture of a new place with your nearest and dearest, choosing a destination is just as much about channeling your aesthetic as a couple. So, when it comes to picking an exclusive destination or hotel to enjoy your wedding to the fullest, Robb Report India turned to among the top wedding planners in the business for recommendations.
Vedika Mohan, creative director at The Wedding Design Company (which has designed and executed weddings for several Bollywood celebrities and HNIs, including Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh’s elegant nuptials at Lake Como in Italy), believes Jaisalmer’s sandstone hues coupled with its heritage palaces and forts make it an underrated pick in Rajasthan. “I think Jaisalmer’s exclusivity is rooted in its living heritage aesthetic. You’ve got havelis, stepwells, fort ramparts and golden sand dunes, giving it an instantly recognisable, rich backdrop that sets the stage for a royal-inspired wedding,” she shares. Couples are assured of privacy and a sense of drama—a rare combination in today’s over-saturated wedding circuit, she adds. Her pick for an all-encompassing wedding venue is the resplendent Suryagarh, tucked away on the edges of the Thar Desert. “Imagine a sangeet by the lake, pheras at sunset in a classic stepwell, and a farewell dinner staged against the dunes,” she says. Their legendary khatirdari sets the tone; the logistics are quite straightforward for India-based guests (domestic flights and road transfers), and the contrast between a fort-like feel and the open desert lets you build a variety of events in just one destination, she adds.
For a sun-soaked destination wedding that promises discreet luxury away from the crowds, Mohan suggests Phú Quõc—a pristine island gem in Vietnam that is “designed for both intimacy and grandeur.” At the heart of it is New World Phú Quõc Resort, a beachfront haven where modern minimalism meets tropical charm. Think expansive villas, sweeping lawns, and direct access to the beach. “Unlike more saturated Southeast Asian islands, this destination feels refreshingly undiscovered.” Mohan adds, “The island’s coral-rich waters and dramatic sunsets make for ’gram-worthy backdrops, while guests get to indulge in curated experiences, whether it is private yacht or speedboat excursions to hidden coves, cooking classes, farm-to-table feasts, and lantern-making rituals that marry cultural storytelling with a touch of whimsy,” she says.
Tina Tharwani, co-founder of Shaadi Squad, which has pulled off several celebrity weddings, including Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli’s, as well as Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal’s, believes that the secluded but picturesque Finca Cortesin in Málaga, Spain, site is a great choice for an intimate celebration. Spread over 215 hectares, the estate houses a chic hotel, beach club, golf course, shopping areas, and a spa where you can retreat to for some much-needed relaxation post the festivities. “We recently planned a wedding here that clubbed Indian and Western sensibilities with ease,” Tharwani shares. The ceremony was held on the property’s lawns, while the pre-wedding celebrations leaned into a European-chic summer mood. “We curated a sit-down meal with long, candlelit tables paired with chandeliers hanging from olive trees, a high-energy beach club party, and a relaxed poolside brunch,” she shares. Add to that, sweeping views of the Mediterranean from Málaga’s picturesque coastline. “With long summer evenings, flowers in bloom, and fireworks over the Mediterranean sky, the atmosphere here is magical,” Tharwani says.
Just an hour-and-a-half drive from Jaipur lies this tranquil countryside oasis, surrounded by the lush Aravallis and ancient ruins, making it an ideal setting for a luxurious celebration of 100 guests or so. “Unlike the grandeur of some of Rajasthan’s city palaces, Amanbagh is both private and deeply rooted in local culture,” Tharwani shares. Its terracotta-hued courtyards and lush gardens paint a canvas for intimate rituals and dinners, while guests can experience the warmth of the resort’s signature hospitality paired with heritage, music, food and design,” Tharwani explains, referring to the wedding they planned this year for award-winning wedding filmmaker Vishal Punjabi and Nikki Krishan. Here, accommodations range from haveli suites to pool pavilions, and menus feature ingredients sourced from Ayurvedic gardens and organic farms.
Want a European destination for your nuptials but somewhere that’s not too familiar? Malta is one such offbeat wedding locale, especially the coastal capital and walled city of Valletta. According to Rhea Dewan, founder and director of Serendipity Co—that has designed nuptials for Aaliyah Kashyap and Shane Gregoire, among other noteworthy celebrations— Malta is a serene hideaway for couples dreaming of an intimate destination wedding. “The historic Saluting Battery, with its heritage architecture and stellar views, offers a setting that is unlike others. Then, you also have the country’s warm Mediterranean spirit, cultural touches, and the chance to capture unique moments such as a traditional cannon salute during your vows— it’s pretty much an all-in-one destination,” Dewan says.
In a world where weddings lean heavily on Pinterest moodboards, there is something telling about a destination that holds centuries of cultural significance, Dewan shares. At Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, history, art, and culture converge for a rich backdrop. Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace that is evocative of 14th-century south Indian architecture is a wedding venue that is symbolic of the place’s deep history. The palace hosts stunning spaces such as the Jal Mahal, reminiscent of a water palace. It even has private pool villas and plenty of experiences for guests to indulge in. “The resort gives couples a chance to root their celebrations in heritage,” she says, adding that guests can explore Hampi’s famous ruins through guided heritage walks, enjoy classical music and dance performances, or simply spend an evening watching the sun dip below Matanga Hill.
Another destination that’s up and coming, and trumping several other European counterparts is Georgia. Priti Sidhwani, founder and CEO of DreamzKrraft - The Wedding Company, shares that Georgia stands out as a top pick thanks to its enchanting blend of old-world charm and scenic landscapes. From snow-capped mountains to thick forests, scenic meadows and gushing rivers (depending on which season you choose to get married in), along with landmarks like the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in the town of Mtskheta and the Metekhi Bridge in the capital of Tbilisi, make for a surreal backdrop, she shares. It’s an easy pick as well, given that the visa process is fairly simple. Couple that with a fairytale-like atmosphere that’s reminiscent of European cities and the fact that the destination is relatively unexplored, makes Indian weddings here private, authentic and one-of-a-kind, Sidhwani adds.
Who can resist the glamour of the French Riviera? Cannes is a chic destination with its iconic Croisette or seafront promenade, stunning Mediterranean views and the opportunity to indulge in French art de vivre. Devanshi Patel, founder of Shreem Events, known for planning luxury destination weddings, considers the discreet but opulent Château de la Croix des Gardes in Cannes as a top pick. This private hilltop estate opens up to surreal views of the Riviera and the shimmering Mediterranean. “It is considered one among the most exclusive venues in Cannes, and [it is] well-suited for Indian families who want a sense of privacy with plenty of space to host multi-day events,” explains Patel. She adds that the château itself is impressive, and the staff is well-equipped to host a grand celebration, providing an experience akin to what one would expect back home. Couple this with activities like yacht cruises, wine tours in the Provence region or guided visits to the Riviera for a truly memorable affair.
If adventure appeals to you, how about planning your nuptials in the vast expanse of the desert with all the creature comforts one could possibly need? While the Middle East is a popular choice for Indian weddings, this rustic setting on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, in the world’s largest sand desert, the Rub’ al Khali or Empty Quarter, makes it an offbeat choice for couples, Patel shares. The property works well for weddings thanks to its assortment of large event spaces, and the easy connectivity with India. Experiences like bedouinstyle dining, plush villas, and even the option of a private helipad make this an appealing choice for bespoke weddings. “We once organised a youngsters’ party here when the revelry lasted until the early hours of the morning. This just goes to show how easily the desert atmosphere can turn into a memorable celebration,” Patel adds.
The resort’s pool villas, each with an infinity-edge pool and dedicated butler, promise privacy. Couples can unwind at Anantara Spa, dine under the stars with Designer Dining by Anantara, enjoy floating breakfasts, and immerse in curated experiences around Johar.
When at this colonial-inspired resort, newlyweds can enjoy nature-inspired treatments at The Spa, or avail access to Le Château Golf Course, and La Réserve Golf Links. Take off on excursions into the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, or even opt for sunset catamaran cruises.
Create memories while island hopping or rejoice over a glass of Champagne on a private boat. Take the celebrations up a notch with a romantic getaway aboard Norma, a luxury yacht. Make time for dolphin spotting at sunset while cruising the turquoise waters.