6 Romantic Hotels and Honeymoon Places in India

Introduction to Honeymoon Places

India is an exotic honeymoon destination, and there are some really romantic hotels and honeymoon places in India to make your trip a memorable one.

Tranquil mountain hideaways, fairy tale desert settings, relaxing beaches, and exhilarating jungles -- here are some of the highlights that India has to offer that won't fail to leave a lasting impression. You'll also find hotels just as stunning as the places they're located in.

Romantic Kerala

One of India's most beautiful regions is the Kerala backwaters. This maze of inland narrow canals, wide rivers, and vast expanses of water stretches all the way from Kochi in the north to Trivandrum in the south.

Time seems to stand still along the tranquil, palm fringed backwaters. Occasionally, you'll get a glimpse of the rural Kerala lifestyle, set against a fertile green landscape of paddy fields, mangrove forests, and thick clusters of coconut palms.

Where to Stay

One of the most romantic ways to experience Kerala is by hiring a traditional houseboat, meandering along the backwaters, and sleeping out in the middle of a lake. It's so quiet, you'll feel like you're the only people on earth. The houseboats are very comfortable, and come complete with well furnished bedroom, bathroom, deck, driver, and personal chef. The more luxurious models even have air conditioners. Romance abounds at night under the stars when you can dine, bathed in warm lantern light, on delicious freshly prepared south Indian cuisine.

If a stay on land is more preferable, there are some luxurious resorts along the backwaters, particularly on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom. Many have villas with their own private plunge pools. Take a look at these 10 Relaxing Kumarakom Hotels and Resorts. You'll find that most of the resorts have their own houseboats (some with a Jacuzzi on board), so you can combine your stay with a cruise.

Another intimate alternative is a homestay on the backwaters around Alleppey, such as the wonderfully secluded Kurialacherry House. It has a cottage with a private garden overlooking a lotus pond. Candlelight dinners with accompanying music are arranged.

Alternatively, check out these 10 Secluded India Beach Stays for All Budgets. Many are in Kerala.

Romantic Udiapur

Udaipur could possibly be the most romantic city in India. It's an enchanting place full of old mansions, beautiful gardens, intricate temples, and grand palaces overlooking expansive shimmering lakes.

The City Palace, which stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, leaves visitors spellbound. The way it's been constructed is exquisite, with Rajput military architecture and Mughal style decorative techniques both combined together (and the royal family still lives in a portion of it). For an added touch of romance, there are captivating views of the lake and city below from its many balconies, courtyards, and towers. Don't miss having a romantic dinner at the Sunset Terrace of the Fateh Prakash Palace hotel, which is part of the City Palace Complex. It offers a spectacular view of the Taj Lake Palace hotel.

Where to Stay

Since Udaipur is a city of palaces, it's only natural that you'd want to stay in one on your India honeymoon! Not only is this possible but there are many options on offer. You'll find a wide range of authentic palace hotels in Udaipur to suit every taste and requirement.

If money isn't a concern, the best choice would have to be the Taj Lake Palace. Often referred to as one of the world's most romantic hotels, it's a magical 250 year old white marble and mosaic summer palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola. It seems to miraculously float on the lake, but is actually built on a natural foundation of four acres of rock. As if this doesn't make the hotel special enough, the level of service there is quite like no other. With a 350 employees for 83 rooms, the staff-to-guest ratio is particularly high. Each room even has its own butler! A real treat is the royal spa boat, which will take you on a romantic escapade while you soak in the hot tub with a glass of fine wine or champagne.

For somewhere a bit cheaper but still high on regal charm, stay at the Shiv Niwas Palace hotel or Fateh Prakash Palace hotel in the City Palace Complex.

Romantic Shimla

Surrounded by the Himalaya mountains, Shimla used to be the summer capital of the British Raj when they ruled India. Now it's the state capital of Himachal Pradesh.

This wonderfully cool and charming town sprawls along a mountain ridge, enveloped in oak, pine and rhododendron forests. It's quite famous for its colonial Tudor and Neo-Gothic style buildings, and historic railway.

The Kalka-Shimla toy train is a picture of romance as it slowly winds its way through the misty mountains and thick pine forests. If possible, try and book one of the special Shivalik Queen compartments for honeymooners. The fresh, crisp air is so invigorating and enlivening, while the scenery will transport you to a world far away from urban tensions, where romance comes naturally.

Where to Stay

The Oberoi's luxurious and award winning Wildflower Hall hotel is the perfect place for an India honeymoon. Its location, a 45 minute picturesque drive from Shimla, is serenely isolated and affords spectacular views over the cedar forests and snow capped peaks. The hotel was once the residence of Lord Kitchener during the reign of the Raj, and a great deal of effort has been put into restoring it. The hotel's luxury spa is a particular delight for honeymoon couples, with its private suite and of course views. Couples can also enjoy relaxing together in the outdoor Jacuzzi, and take romantic walks though the fragrant forest accompanied by a gourmet picnic hamper. For those who like adventure and adrenaline, there are also plenty of activities such as white water rafting, horse riding, and ice skating on offer. Rooms cost from $450 a double, and its worth paying the little bit extra for a Premier Mountain View room.

If you'd prefer to stay in Shimla town, The Oberoi Cecil is atmospheric luxury hotel with an interesting history in a central location there. Other options include Chapslee and the Honeymoon Inn (do book the honeymoon suite!).

For more mountain honeymoon inspiration in India, take a look at these 15 Boutique Himalayan Getaways Off the Beaten Track and 12 Top Himalayan Spa Resorts.

Romantic Coorg

The Kodagu region of Karnataka, often referred to as Coorg (the English version of its name), is an extremely picturesque and alluring mountainous area in south India. The area is renowned for its coffee plantations. Its stunning scenic beauty is captivating.

Food and coffee lovers will get great pleasure from an India honeymoon in Coorg. Imagine waking up with your loved one each morning to the fragrant aroma of coffee, fresh from the estates, and later in the day feasting on the distinctly spicy cuisine that the region is famous for. What a treat!

The highlight of a visit to Coorg is Abbey Falls, near the main town of Madikeri. The cardamom and coffee plantations that surround the falls really enhance its beauty. It's possible to hike there, as well as enjoy other treks around the area. Head to Raja's Seat for stunning sunsets and panoramic views across the valley, although it's much quieter there in the morning. This garden spot was apparently a favorite of the Kings of Kodagu.

Where to Stay

What's really romantic about Coorg is that it's possible to stay right among the coffee plantations. The Orange Country Resort is an idyllic and isolated property on sprawling plantation grounds. Tours of the plantation are offered, along with nature walks, guided bird watching trips, and excursions to local attractions. Luxurious private pool villas, with their own personal swimming pool, cost from $450 per night.

Some of these other top resorts in Coorg are also high on romance.

For those who prefer something more intimate or less expensive, there are many unique bed & breakfast "homestays" available on coffee plantations throughout Coorg. Take a look at these 12 Top Coorg Homestays for all Budgets.

See the region in this Coorg Photo Gallery.

Romantic Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is often referred to as being straight out of a romantic Arabian Nights fable. It's a cliche, but how better to describe this remarkable sandstone city that rises magically from the sand dunes of the Rajasthan desert?

During medieval times, Jaisalmer was an important part of the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. Its mesmerizing ancient Fort, built in 1156, is perched high on a pedestal overlooking the city. Inside, the fort is alive and spellbinding. It houses five palaces, several temples, and some exquisite havelis (mansions), as well as shops and other residences.

A camel ride into the desert brings the fairy tale to life. Multiple day safaris sleeping out under the stars are popular but even a couple of hours spent in the desert, watching the sunset on the sand dunes with a picnic, is enough to inspire great romance. See these popular places to visit in Jaisalmer.

Where to Stay

Staying inside the Fort can be an amazing experience. However, there is growing concern about the longevity of the Fort, as its foundations are crumbling from poor drainage. As a result, many people now prefer to stay outside the Fort, but still have a romantic fairy tale view of it from their rooms. Two recommended options are First Gate Home Fusion and The Gulaal.

If money isn't a concern, a night or two spent at the luxury Serai Desert Camp and Spa in the Thar Desert will blow your mind. The Royal Tented Suite comes complete with private spa, pool, and dining tent.

Alternatively, Suryagarh is a magnificent luxury boutique hotel in the form of a newly constructed fort. Located out in the desert, around 15 kilometers from Jaisalmer city, its a very romantic escape. The hotel offers a number of bespoke experiences from excursions to neighboring havelis, to high-tea in the sand dunes and customized Rajasthani cooking classes with the chef.

If you're on a tight budget, try one of these 8 Jaisalmer Hotels with Fort Views.

Romantic Goa

When dreaming of a beach honeymoon in India, Goa undoubtedly comes to mind. This well-known beach destination is popular for a chilled-out vacation. The state's coast is lined with beaches, each with a unique atmosphere. This guide to Goa's beaches will help you select the one that's right for you. If you'd like to be in the heart of the action, the Candolim-Baga stretch is the most developed, while south Goa is quiet and uncrowded.

For an unforgettably romantic experience, why not charter a luxury yacht for a dinner cruise around Goa's waterways?

However, there's more to Goa than beaches. Head inland to Chorla Ghat, on the border of Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra, and you'll be secluded amid lush nature.

Where to Stay

One of the best things about Goa is the diversity of accommodations. There really is something for everyone, whether you want to stay in a luxury five star resort or a luxury hut right on the beach.

Other options include boutique hotels, villa hotels, and luxury private villas for couples who to be completely alone.

If the thought of nature appeals, Wildernest Nature Resort is ideal. It has glorious valley views from the rooms and the infinity swimming pool. Bird watching and guided walks are offered.