Indian Couples Redefine Luxury as Destination Weddings Become More Affordable

Destination weddings, once considered an extravagant indulgence, are now becoming a preferred and more accessible choice for Indian couples looking to combine celebration with unique experiences.

According to a 2024 survey by WeddingWire India, the average cost of hosting a wedding in India now stands at ₹29.6 lakh, reflecting a shift toward curated, experience-driven celebrations. A significant 85% of Indian respondents expressed a preference for destination weddings, with nearly half (45%) willing to expand their budgets by up to 50% to create a memorable and personalized experience.

While traditional hotspots like Goa, Bali, Dubai and Bangkok continue to draw attention, a growing number of couples, 83%, according to the same report  are now opting for offbeat destinations such as Gokarna and Kalimpong to avoid overcrowding and offer guests something unique.

The trend is also supported by the Indian government’s “Wed in India” initiative, aimed at encouraging domestic destination weddings to retain tourism revenues within the country. This has led to increased interest in culturally rich venues across Rajasthan, Kerala, and Uttarakhand.

Gen Z is playing a major role in shaping this new wave of weddings, prioritizing personalization, guest experiences, and thematic storytelling. Around 50% of couples cite guest experience as a key planning priority, often opting for multi-day celebrations, local entertainment, and immersive activities.

As the Indian wedding industry evolves, destination weddings are emerging as a blend of luxury and practicality, offering modern couples the chance to celebrate in style without compromising on budget or meaning.