So, you’ve finally said I do and you and your partner are both ready to jetset around the world, soaking up some sights and enjoying the benefits of being on honeymoon together (people are much nicer when you say you’re on your honeymoon – try it!) for weeks on end. Wait, scratch that. What’s actually going to happen is that you’re going to be scrambling to get leave from work, counting coins leftover from that big, blown out wedding celebration and trying to figure out which world currency is the cheapest so that you can go on any honeymoon at all! There’s no need to stress about it!

India may not be the cheapest country when it comes to the standard of living and travel fares, but it definitely beats most international destinations clean out of the water, courtesy the falling rupee. And that’s not the only reason to cosy up at one of the hilly or beachy destinations that the country has to offer. India is home to some of the most beautiful places in the world, with spice markets, lush green valleys, waterfalls and sun-kissed beaches at its helm. Take a look at where to head over with your partner for the perfect honeymoon:

JODHPUR

Forget the pink city and get a little blue on your honeymoon – and we mean this in the best way possible. Jaipur is filled with tourists and is a destination that’s been discovered to death, but Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan, is a gem of a city that’s the ideal destination for your honeymoon. Apart from the most gorgeously constructed blue tinted houses dotting the entire city, there’s several ancient structures, palaces and temples to visit along with some great culture to soak up while you’re at it.

Things to do here: You can actually stay at a palace when you’re there, forget just looking at one. Also visit Umaid Bhawan Palace and don’t leave Meherangarh off your list. Catch a village show in the evening and pick up some knick-knacks from the colourful markets while you’re there.

Best time to visit: The area has the same extremes of climate as most of Rajasthan so it really depends on what type of weather you like best. However, October to March are the most common months to visit.

KERALA

There’s a reason that Kerala is known as God’s Own Country and even if you think it’s a little over-hyped, don’t cross it off your list! It’s a gorgeous place for you to re-kindle your love, sniff some exotic spices and take a leisurely trail across some verdant mountains. The best part about Kerala though is that although it isn’t the cheapest place to visit, it’s far from the most expensive. Avoid the larger hotels and stay in one of the smaller, more intimate places to get a little romantic as well as save on costs. And we don’t have to tell you how delicious the food is! From the lazy lagoons at Kumarakom to the backwaters at Vembanad, there’s not much to see and do, but several spaces to soak in some beauty and get in a real romantic mood.

Top things to do here: Visit one of their exotic spa centres, spend a night (or even just the afternoon) on a houseboat and visit Munnar. Don’t forget to visit the Athirapally waterfalls while you’re at it!

Visit here during: If your honeymoon is any time during November, December, January, February or March, this is a great time to visit.

MANALI

Did you know that Kullu Manali was known as the Switzerland of India? Well, it is, and for good reason. The temperature here drops pretty low and if cold is what you’re looking for to escape city heat (we know we would love that!) this is the perfect place for you. Think snow-capped mountains, green, green grass and never ending hills to traverse through. Whether you like hiking, trekking or simply lounging around outdoors, this is one place you really do have to visit.

Top things to do here: Visit the romantic Naggar Castle, experience the hot springs at Vashisht Baths, take a trip to the Tibetan Monastery, and spend a little time relaxing with your loved one at Rahalla Falls.

Visit here during: Between November and February to get the best of the cool weather.

DARJEELING

Hill stations are a popular tourist spot, but that doesn’t mean that Darjeeling doesn’t have some gorgeous hideaways when you’re in a romantic mood. The cold climate is not all that we look forward to over here, there’s also the plethora of natural beauty in its surroundings, with pine trees and mountains to spend your day travelling through. You can also explore several of their really pretty tea gardens (don’t forget to sip on some of the famous Darjeeling tea while you’re there) and spend a little time at one of the local markets in and around the area.

Top things to do here: Visit the Rock Garden and Peace Pagoda, but don’t forget to take a toy-train journey – it’s one of the most famous things to do in Darjeeling. Also visit one of the several beautiful churches and make a trip to Tiger Hill to watch the sun set with your spouse.

Visit here during: Visit Darjeeling throughout the year, but if cool climates are more up your alley, make your trip between September and January, when the weather is at its best.

LAKSHADWEEP

If you’re tired of run-off-the-mill treks and aren’t particularly fond of spices or tea, Lakshadweep offers the perfect getaway for couples in need of some R&R. Lose yourself in the swell of the blue sea and watch the water tickle the rocks and settle on sandy beaches as you watch the sun rise or set in this picturesque location. There’s nothing quite like the calming environment of the island, but if you are looking for a little activity, there’s several water sport activities that will keep you happily entertained through your trip. The best part is that it’s like heading over to a land far removed from city life without burning a hole in your wallet.

Top things to do here: Visit Agatti for the best corel gazing, but if water sports and adventure are more up your alley, visit Kavaratti for some kayaking and Kadmat for some unforgettable scuba diving sessions. You can also spend an evening watching folk dances in any of the areas that you visit here.

Visit here during: Since it’s a beach destination, you don’t need to strike it off your list if you’re visiting during the summer. The best time to visit though is from October to April.

What do you think? India got some pretty awesome places, no?! Which one’s your favourite?

Nicole

A poet with a penchant for prose and the itch to travel, Nicole Reed is an assistant editor and features writer for a daily newspaper, struggling to find a way out of the concrete mess by dreaming of one day living and breathing off words in an idyllic country setting somewhere. Having been editor of her college magazine, written for a number of publications including Shamiana’s short film newsletter and as a current student of Literature from the University of London, Nicole sees writing like travel - an adventure – a journey to find her place, to define and redefine who she is over and over again and to live and learn through the process.