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Culture , Lifestyle
10 great affordable Honeymoon Destinations in India
Embarking on a new journey both literally and metaphorically
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Embarking on a new journey both literally and metaphorically, life takes a new turn after the wedding. And so it gets necessary to shed all the anxiety and fatigue and escape to one of your favorite destinations. It is time for you to connect and know each other better; spend time in intimacy. India has some of the most beautiful places in store for couples like you. From hill stations to beaches, we have got all covered.
GOA: The serene beaches, amazing sunsets, crazy nightlife, rice with fish curry, coconut water, feni, world heritage sites, and the list is endless. Needless to say, Goa is one of the most favorite and affordable honeymoon destinations in India. Saving the best for the last, you can share romantic moments on the beach with a candlelight dinner.
The hotel rate for cheap hotels is around Rs 300, for midrange hotels Rs 500-1000, and Rs 2000 and above for upmarket hotels. For commuting/getting around private and state government transport is most suitable. You can hire taxis(white colored), take an auto or hire a motorbike/moped. Goan food is very famous and doesn't cut a hole in your pocket. You can also enjoy food at shacks and eateries. Not to be missed: Eating at shacks. You are going to love the food at beach shacks, many of them offer live music to add to your romance. Nothing like it if you love seafood.
KERALA: There are mountains and backwaters, beaches and lakes. You will have the best time together in God's own Country. Named one of the paradises of the world, Kerala is pure beauty. You can visit coffee and tea plantations, go house boating at the backwaters, and enjoy looking at the breathtaking waterfalls.
Kerala has all categories of hotels and you can choose whichever suits your pocket. It is advisable to book them online beforehand. To explore the city, you can hire taxis. The standard tariff is Rs 100 for the first 5 km and Rs 11 per km after that. If you hire a taxi for a day it will cost you Rs 1200/1500 per day. You can also rent motorbikes from rental agencies. Although the bus is suitable for those who want to save the travel cost. Food in Kerala is affordable and there is a variety of places you can choose from. Not to be missed: Kerala trademark Meen(fish) Curry.
KASHMIR: Heaven on earth, Kashmir will not only bring you closer but also make it worthwhile. The spectacular snow-clad mountains are a treat to the eyes. Not to forget the famous Dal Lake and strawberry valley in Gulmarg. While you're there, do not forget to sip on some tasty Kashmiri kawa to keep yourself cozy in the chilly weather.
There are budget hotels and guest houses available in Kashmir. Their cost fluctuates between Rs 500 to 6000. Hotels near Dal Lake are costlier. Buses operated by the J & K SRTC are available to get around the city. Jeeps and cars are available for rent but they are costly. You will find amazing food in Srinagar. Both non-veg and veg food is available at a normal price. Punjabi food is also available at dhabas. The Average cost for food for one person per day including everything is Rs 600. Not to be missed: A day at Shikara, Kahava (special Kashmiri tea), and buying a pure Pashmina shawl.
NAINITAL: This hill station is known for its romantic elements and picturesque beauty. Popular for its Naini Lake, it has beautiful scenery and a lot of other tourist places. You can go for a boat ride at the lake, shop stuff at the mall road, and take long nature walks. The weather is like a cherry on the cake and I'm sure you'll love it there.
There are many budget hotels available in Nainital. The cost varies from Rs 400 to Rs 8000.
You can get around the city either on foot or by cycle rickshaws which are quite cheap. Taxis are also available. But the rickshaw service is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. All kinds of affordable food is available around the city.
Naini Lake[/caption] Not to be missed: Jim Corbett Park, Himalayan View, Desi head massage, and Tibetan market. Can't miss Corbett National Park, if you are visiting Nainital. Try your luck viewing Himalayan Peaks from Snow View. You need to take a romantic cable car ride to reach the snow view, a fun park made for you two. No trip can be called successful if you minus shopping. The Tibetan market is a must to visit for those who love shopping and bargaining. Also, get Desi head massage Nainital is famous for.
LAKSHADWEEP: Choose Lakshadweep as your honeymoon destination for the most exotic experience. With the exquisite beaches and white sand, you won't feel like going back. Plus the underwater archipelago regions, coral reefs, and warm waters. But you will need a special permit to visit these 30 islands. And if you love alcohol, you can enjoy it only on Bangaram Island as it is not allowed in others.
There are not many options for staying in Lakshadweep. There is a Government Guest House, Tourist Hut, etc. which are affordable to stay.
You can travel from island to island on a helicopter which costs quite a lot or you can take a ferry/boat. While on the island you can walk on foot or hire a bicycle. Food in Lakshadweep is similar to food in Kerala. Not to be missed: Adventure water sports. If you love or want to experience scuba diving, this is the place for you. Enjoy the romantic ride underwater.
Lakshadweep[/caption]
OOTY: This hill station is one of the most beautiful places in India and will likewise add beauty to your honeymoon. Known for its flowers, Ooty has magnificent gardens and not to forget some pristine lakes. India's biggest garden, The Rose Garden is found there. The highest peak in Nigiri, Dodabetta is also found here. You will have a lovely honeymoon there.
Hotels in Ooty aren't very cheap. The cost varies from Rs 1200 to 10,000 and above.
Taxis, cabs, and auto-rickshaws are easily available. There are no fixed rates but rickshaws charge a minimum of Rs 30. Buses are available for all important destinations and routes. Mostly South Indian food is available but some places do have North Indian food. Not to be missed: Ooty Botanical gardens, doddabetta peak, pykara rivers, and Falls
DARJEELING: Located in West Bengal, this hill station is famous for its cold weather, tea plantations, monasteries, and waterfalls. While you're there to relish the best time of your life, visit the Tiger Hill, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway(Toy Train), Peace Pagoda, Bataria Loop, and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zone. Don't forget to visit the town center- Mall for some shopping and casual sightseeing.
Hotel Rates- Rs 1200-1600 for good hotels and Rs 1600 and above for even better.
You can enjoy the natural beauty by taking walks all around. Taxis are also available. Rs 150/short destination. You can take shared taxis too as they are cheaper. Tibetan, Nepalese, and North Indian food are easily available at normal prices.
Not to be missed: Darjeeling teas, Tiger Hill to view Mt. Everest, Rock Garden, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
ANDAMAN ISLANDS: If you're both beach babies and love blue waters, this destination is definitely for you. Andaman is a host of chaste natural beauty. Port Blair, the largest city has several beaches that will make you go crazy. The sunset at Chidiyatapu Beach is one of the most exotic views ever. Havelock is replete with blue water beaches and the most scenic beauty. This is one place, you should never miss. To top it, Elephanta Beach at Havelock Island has world-class water sports to complete the trip. You will love it thoroughly.
The hotel's rates are 1500 and above. But if you want a better deal then booking online through makemytrip.com is advisable.
Commuting from one island to another can be done by passenger ferries which generally cost Rs 150-200. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available to travel around the island. Scooters and motorbikes are also available in some places. You will love the seafood here, especially in the little shacks which are both affordable and delicious. Food at resorts might be quite costly.
Not to be missed: Cellular Jail (Kaala paani), Limestone caves, Radhanagar beach, Viper Island and the great Nicobar Island.
MCLEOD GANJ: Known for its pleasant atmosphere, and wonderful people, Mcleodganj is beauteous. It is situated in the upper region of Dharamshala and has excellent temples, monasteries, and ancient structures. 9kms from it is the Triund Trek for adventure lovers. If you both love adventure, do not miss it. There is another treat, the Bhagsu Falls, known for its magnanimous beauty.
The hotel accommodation in Mc Leodganj is Rs 900-1200 for good hotels and Rs 1200-4000 for exotic ones.
Walking or going about in your vehicle are the most suitable options here. As far as food is concerned, there are plenty of shacks, eateries, and cafes. Both affordable and costly places are available.
Not to be missed: Eat Momos, go trekking and camping, and picnic at Bhagsu waterfall to boost your companionship.
DAMAN & DIU: Formerly a Portuguese Colony, Daman, and Diu have a Portuguese element in everything. It has lovely beaches- Nagoa Beach, Ghoghla Beach, and so on. You can ride on a camel or pony; enjoy the golden sands and go parasailing and surfing. Other places to see are the Fort of Diu, surrounded by sea on three sides, Diu Fort fixed cannons, Nadia Caves of Diu, The Tower of Silence, and many others.
The hotel rates fluctuate from Rs 500 to 2500.
For commuting, auto-rickshaws, without meter taxis, tongas and local buses are available at affordable prices. Although buses would be the most pocket friendly. Native Portuguese and Gujarati food is available easily at a normal cost. Seafood is also preferred.
Not to be missed: Diu Fort, a serene evening at quite Nagao beach, st pauls church, custom free shops for great deals.
Discover your personalities and talk to each other before you decide upon your honeymoon destination. Give preference to your partner's choice. For example, if your spouse finds it difficult to be in cold weather, you may try a beach location. It's just a way of showing your love.
Happy honeymooning!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ashmita Ahuja
Ashmita Ahuja is a budding writer and a passionate reader. She harbours an infinite love for words. Apart from this, she is a fashion enthusiast, enjoys meeting new people and travelling. But most of all, she yearns to improve and become a better version of herself.
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