Perhaps the word romantic is not an adjective you would often hear when describing India. In reality India is full of romantic locales with white sand beaches, snow capped mountains, monuments dedicated to a beloved wife, and luxury all-inclusive resorts.
The Taj Mahal is the ultimate romantic location in India if not in the world. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal. We also got engaged there!
When to Go: | How to Get There: Agra can be accessed by air, train, or bus. I highly recommended hiring a car and driver from Delhi and you can be there in less than 3 hours | Where to Stay: Oberoi | What to Do: Take a camel ride to the Taj | What to Eat: Mughlai, Rogan Josh, Biryani
Known as the City of Lakes or the Venice of the East, is located in the western state of Rajasthan. In 2009 Udaipur was voted one of the best cities in the world by Travel + Leisure Magazine. The city is dotted with palaces many now converted into world class hotels.
When to Go: September to March | How to Get There: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport, there are also well established bus and train routes | Where to Stay: Taj Lake Palace | What to Do: Take a romantic cruise on Lake Pichola | What to Eat: Dal-Baati-Churma, Gatte-Ki-Sabzi, Kachori and Mirchi Bada
We had the pleasure of travelling to Coorg on our last visit to India. The area is particularly romantic in the Monsoon season. Coorg is famous for their coffee and spices. Days can be spent lying in bed listening to the rain or touring the numerous plantations.
When to Go: Monsoon season June to September | How to Get There: By Bus from Bangalore it's approximately 4 hours | Where to Stay: Tata Coffee Plantation | What to Do: Enjoy Abbi Falls | What to Eat: Pandhi Curry
Darjeeling is nestled away in the Northeast state of West Bengal between the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous for their tea. Visitors can spend their days and nights in one of the many plantations.
When to Go: April to June | How to Get There: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest Airport which is 96 kms away from Darjeeling. The nearest railway station in Darjeeling is at New Jalpaiguri (62 kms from the main town) which connects major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, visitors will then need to rent a taxi or travel by bus. | Where to Stay: Glenburn Tea Estate | What to Do: | What to Eat: Momos, Alu Dum
Goa is a popular destination for Indian honeymooners and a party haven for tourists. Visitor can enjoy endless beaches, night-long parties, exhilarating water sports, and tranquil resorts. Travellers and Honeymooners can find all-exclusive packages.
When to Go: November to February | How to Get There: Goa is easily accessible by air | Where to Stay: Shanti Morada or Goa Marriott Resort | What to Do: Dudhsagar Falls | What to Eat: Seafood
Andaman & Nicobar Islands is spread out over 600 islands in the Bay of Bengal and 1400km from the mainland of India and 1000kms from Thailand. The islands are known for the white sand beaches and exotic remote locale. The most visited island is Havelock Island with pristine snorkeling and scuba diving. The islands are also home to aboriginal tribes that have has no contact with outsiders.
When to Go: January to May | How to Get There: The capital Port Blair is connected by air | Where to Stay: Barefoot at Havelock | What to Do: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving | What to Eat:
Shimla is a hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Popular in both summer and winter months for Trekking and Skiing. The town was also the summer capital during British rule and is reminiscent of colonial times. Nothing is more romantic than cozying up next to a fireplace on a cold winters night.
When to Go: March to June, October to February | How to Get There: Train, bus, or hire a car | Where to Stay: Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas | What to Do: Skiing, Trekking, Toy Train that slowly goes up the mountains | What to Eat: Patore, Khoru
Neemrana is a perfect location for a romantic weekend getaway from Delhi. The beautiful palace resort was built in the 15th century and spans over seven wings and 14 layers tiered into the hill side. The resort offers guests two pools, spa, camel rides, and India's first zipline!
2 comments
Awesome list Courtney. You probably could have added a beach or two from Kerala. Keep your travels going!
ReplyDeleteYes, Kerala has some great beaches too and house boats! :)
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