Best Honeymoon Destinations in India

Beyond the Taj Majal, find more romantic spots in India

By Rupa Raman

Photo by iStockphoto.com

Renowned for its ancient wisdom, ashrams, Yoga, meditation and rich culture, India may not instantly spring to mind when planning your honeymoon. However, India offers some of the most exotic, world-class honeymoon destinations. It's no surprise that a country bordered by the Himalayas in the north, the Arabian Sea in the west, the Bay of Bengal in the east and the Indian Ocean in the south has much to offer.

Beaches

India's beaches are among the world's most affordable honeymoon destinations. The remnants of Portuguese influence add to Goa's charm. The Andaman and Nicobar islands in the Bay of Bengal include more than 500 islands, only a handful of which are inhabited. The relatively pristine Andamans offer snorkeling, scuba diving, ferry rides between islands and other water activities.

Hill Stations

If hairpin bends and breathtaking views are what you seek, then there's no shortage of high altitude destinations, or hill stations, in India. Popular choices include Darjeeling, known as the Queen of the Hills. Famous for its tea and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is a World Heritage Site, this hill station offers spectacular views and activities ranging from scenic walks to river rafting. Ooty, Kodaikannal, Nainital, Shimla and Mount Abu are other popular honeymoon destinations. Golf courses, lakes, boating, biking, forest hikes and picturesque scenes are among the attractions you will find.

Historical

India offers numerous places of historical importance and architectural grandeur. Perhaps the best known among them is the Taj Mahal in Agra--a monument of love built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a resting place for his queen. Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh is renowned for its archaeological sites, temples and sculptures, the most famous of them are the Kamasutra sculptures. Udaipur, Rajasthan--known as the city of lakes--is another choice with its grand palaces, serene lakes and rich history.

Backwaters

Renting a houseboat in the serene backwaters of Kerala makes a picture-perfect honeymoon destination. Houseboats can be rented from several places such as Alappuzha, Cochin, Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvallam, Kumarakom and Kottayam.