Indian Couples’ Honeymoon Trends
A honeymoon is one of the most exciting and memorable trips a couple will ever take. It marks the beginning of their journey together as newlyweds and is an opportunity to create lasting memories. For Indian couples, the honeymoon is more than just a vacation—it’s a deeply personal experience. Whether they seek relaxation on a serene beach, adventure in a hill station, or indulgence in luxury, their honeymoon preferences are as diverse as the country itself.
But where are Indian couples headed for their honeymoons, and what are they looking for in their ideal getaway? According to the latest report by MakeMyTrip, “How India Travels for Honeymoon,” insights into the booking data from October 2023 to September 2024 reveal fascinating trends and evolving travel preferences.
1. Top Destinations for Indian Honeymooners
Indian couples are drawn to both domestic and international destinations for their honeymoon. While Thailand has taken the lead in international bookings, Indian destinations like Andaman and Nicobar Islands have made a significant rise in popularity.
International Destinations:
- Thailand has emerged as the most popular honeymoon destination for Indian couples, surpassing the Maldives, which led the previous year. Thailand saw an impressive 5.2% year-on-year increase in bookings.
- Indonesia, Mauritius, and Vietnam are also growing favorites, alongside Thailand, indicating a rising demand for diverse international getaways.
Domestic Destinations:
- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have replaced Kerala as the top honeymoon destination in India, with a 6.9% increase in bookings.
- Kashmir continues to be a sought-after destination, gaining 3.6% in bookings.
- Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra also attract significant numbers of honeymooners, offering scenic beauty and adventure for newlyweds.
2. Exploration of New and Exotic Destinations
Indian honeymooners are not just sticking to popular locations but are venturing into unexplored territories. Short-haul and long-haul destinations are both seeing growth. Countries like Bhutan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and the Seychelles have witnessed significant increases in honeymoon bookings.
Moreover, long-haul destinations like Japan, which saw a massive 388% YoY growth, and countries like Scandinavia, South Africa, and New Zealand are becoming increasingly popular among honeymooners. These far-flung destinations offer unique experiences, making them an attractive choice for couples looking for something different.
3. Luxury and Multi-City Honeymoons on the Rise
Indian couples are increasingly willing to splurge on their honeymoon, opting for luxury and indulgence. The average spending per couple has increased by 13% year on year. Notably, 68% of honeymooners stayed in four- or five-star properties, with 20% opting for five-star accommodations, marking a 10% growth from the previous year.
Another notable trend is the growing preference for multi-city trips. More and more couples are exploring multiple destinations within the same honeymoon. The percentage of domestic honeymooners visiting four or more cities increased from 35% in 2022–23 to 39% in 2023–24. Internationally, 47% of couples now opt for two or more cities, up from 32% last year.
4. Curated Experiences: Personalized and Romantic
Today’s honeymooners want more than just a trip; they seek curated, romantic experiences that reflect their unique personalities and preferences. In 2023-24, more than 95% of honeymoon bookings included curated experiences such as couples’ photoshoots, romantic dinners, sunset cruises, and spa sessions.
Premium romantic experiences saw a 56% growth in bookings, showing a strong demand for activities that allow couples to bond in a beautiful, intimate setting.
5. The Shift Towards Longer Honeymoons
Honeymoon durations are also shifting. While 78% of domestic honeymooners prefer packages lasting up to five days, international couples are extending their stays. The number of couples booking international honeymoons longer than five days has increased from 34% in 2022–23 to 42% in 2023–24, reflecting a trend toward longer, more leisurely honeymoons.
6. Last-Minute Bookings: A Common Trend
Indian honeymooners continue to book their trips closer to the departure date. According to the report, 56% of domestic packages and 38% of international packages were booked within 30 days of travel. However, a significant 31% of international honeymooners booked their trips more than two months in advance, indicating that some couples plan their dream honeymoon well in advance.
7. Premium Honeymoon Packages Driving Demand
Metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru lead the demand for premium honeymoon packages. These cities contribute to more than two-thirds of all honeymoon bookings, with a notable shift towards premium travel also observed in cities such as Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Pune.
8. Insights from the Survey: Post-Wedding Travel Choices
MakeMyTrip’s survey of over 200 individuals revealed that 70% of couples embark on their honeymoon within 10 days of their wedding. Around 10% delay their trip for 10 days to a month, while 20% take their honeymoon more than a month after the wedding.
Conclusion: The Evolving Honeymoon Landscape in India
The honeymoon travel landscape in India has evolved significantly, with couples seeking more personalized, luxurious, and adventurous experiences. Whether it’s exploring exotic destinations, indulging in premium stays, or enjoying romantic curated experiences, honeymooners are making choices that reflect their desire for both comfort and adventure. As these trends continue to evolve, the travel industry is poised to offer even more tailored experiences, ensuring that Indian couples can create the honeymoon of their dreams.
As the wedding season approaches, one thing is clear: Indian honeymooners are not just looking for a vacation; they are seeking a journey that marks the beginning of their life together in the most special way possible.
