You know it’s February 14 when your Instagram feed is filled with people celebrating Valentine’s Day. But do you know what’s common in these hashtags and reels? I mean, apart from the ever-lamenting singles wallowing in their singledom (hehe… sorry, not sorry!), it’s the best romantic destinations for Valentine’s Day trending on top!
Yes, there’s no better way to celebrate love than by planning a romantic getaway. India offers stunning natural beauty, awe-inspiring architecture, and a vibrant culture perfect for a memorable couples vacation. From the majestic Taj Mahal to the pristine Kerala backwaters, here are some of the best romantic destinations in India for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience.
And since love is in the air and we’re feeling super lovey-dovey, there are handy tips to navigate your way in planning the perfect romantic holiday further down the article. Read on to learn helpful phrases in the Hindi language to make things easier for yourself!
Table of Contents
Best Romantic Places In North India
The most common question during the Valentine’s Day week is, “Where is the best place to vacation as a couple?”
Well, North India entices couples with its imperial palaces tucked amidst rugged mountains and sprawling deserts. The old-world charm of heritage resorts and chaotic bazaars set the stage for an exotic romantic escape.
Agra – Home Of The Iconic Taj Mahal
No trip to India is complete without visiting the Taj Mahal, the 17th-century marble monument built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz. This eighth wonder of the world is hailed as “an ode of love by an emperor to his queen.”
Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, though not romantic spots, are also great marvels of the grand Mughal architecture.
Shimla – Colonial Hill Station In The Himalayas
The former summer capital of British India, Shimla is a popular honeymoon destination. In my opinion, it’s one of the most “love-soaked” places in the world!
You can make the most of your romantic stay here by going for romantic strolls along the pedestrian Mall Road, surrounded by Himalayan peaks. Ride the toy train for panoramic views of the mountains as you share the same cuppa!
Rajasthan – Lavish Palaces And Desert Romance
You’d do so well to plan a romantic escapade in one of the many luxury resorts amidst an actual desert region! Don’t miss the chance to discover royal romances in the princely state of Rajasthan.
Explore formidable forts and opulent palaces in the romantic city of Jaipur, also called the Pink City. Or you can opt for camel rides against the golden sand dunes of Jaisalmer. Or you can ask yourself. “Where is the Love City in India?” And then land in Udaipur for a romantic boat ride on Lake Pichola. It’s not for nothing that Udaipur is also called the City of Lakes.
You see, you’re absolutely spoilt for choices when it comes to Rajasthan!
Best Romantic Destinations In South India
South India is blessed with serene backwaters, lush hills, and golden beaches – perfect for a romantic stroll alongside the Indian Ocean.
Kerala – God’s Own Country
Do you know what heaven on earth feels like? It’s cruising the palm-fringed backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat, enjoying fresh seafood and relaxing with Ayurvedic massages. Sometimes, it’s these three all together!
Or, you can also let the scenic tea plantations of Munnar rejuvenate you while you cuddle in a single blanket, experiencing the misty morning. It’s one of the most romantic destinations in South India.
In fact, I have been to both of these places and believe me; words don’t do justice to their scenic beauty! Once you spend some time with your sweetheart on pristine beaches lined with swaying coconut and palm trees, you’ll remember these moments lifelong.
Goa – Sand, Surf, And Susegad
The word “susegad” is derived from the Portuguese “sossegado” which means a relaxed, laid-back attitude towards life. If you would like to experience something similar, then why not lose yourself in the tropical paradise of Goa?
Take long romantic strolls on crescent-shaped beaches beneath a starry sky as you mutter sweet nothings into each other’s ear. Explore Portuguese colonial architecture in Old Goa while also enjoying fresh seafood by the sea. And if you and your bae are the adventurous type, there are so many water sports to choose from!
Coorg – Scotland Of India
With its rolling hills, lush forests, and sprawling coffee plantations, Coorg lives up to its nickname, the Scotland of India. It’s one of the most romantic places to spend Valentine’s Day with your partner.
Stay in a romantic plantation bungalow, trek through verdant jungles, and enjoy the laid-back cafes of Madikeri. And don’t forget to buy handcrafted chocolates in every flavor possible from home-run businesses. They make for some of the best romantic gifts.
Top Romantic Getaways Near Major Cities
Yes, India is a huge country, and traveling to these places will take time and money – more than usual. But you can still plan a sweet and special getaway for your soulmate by planning a short day trip or an overnight trip to nearby destinations.
You don’t need to travel too far from India’s bustling cities to enjoy a romantic escape. There are several options for a quick romantic getaway near major metropolitan hubs.
Lonavala/Khandala – Weekend Retreat Away From Mumbai
Just a few hours from Mumbai, these scenic hill stations offer plenty of nature trails, viewpoints, and waterfalls perfect for unwinding. Why not go camping under starry skies? And if you both have a sweet tooth, enjoy peanut chikki (a kind of fudge) and chai while gazing at mind-blowing mountain views!
Nandi Hills – Day Trip From Bangalore
If you’re stuck in the Silicon Valley of India…err, Bangalore, you can always make a plan to watch the sunrise over the mountains from Nandi Hills. Wouldn’t that be ‘oh so romantic’? Nandi Hill is located 60 km from Bangalore and is easily reachable via a short road trip.
After breakfast at the hilltop dhaba (a small roadside eating place), you can opt to go biking or paragliding together amidst natural beauty.
Jim Corbett National Park – Romance On A Safari
Jim Corbett National Park is located about 260 km northeast of Delhi, which you can reach in six to seven hours via road. If you’re thrill-seekers plus nature lovers, why not plan a wildlife safari?
Inside the park, opt for an authentic jungle stay at one of the forest lodges or luxury resorts and camps. These offer both tents as well as treehouse accommodations with all meals included. So, you can stay in a treehouse resort to be one with nature and enjoy the peaceful ambience on long nature walks. Complete win-win!
Pondicherry – French Riviera Of The East
Pondicherry, one of my most favorite travel destinations, is located just 170 km from Chennai, the most majestic metro city down south. Pondicherry, or Puducherry, still bears the vibe of its French colonial past.
The best thing to do would be to book a sea-facing room in one of the many chic boutique hotels lining the Promenade. Take long morning and evening strolls. During the afternoons, enjoy French cuisine in the White Town. You can also experience the serene beach resorts nearby.
How To Plan A Romantic Itinerary
Careful planning is a must to ensure your romantic getaway goes smoothly. Here are some tips:
1. Best Times To Visit
Avoid the scorching Indian summer from March to June. The monsoon months of July-August bring heavy rains. October to March is ideal weather-wise. And since you are anyway planning a Valentine’s getaway, you are in the perfect weather bracket.
2. Book Flights, Hotels, Activities In Advance
To secure seats on the same flight and your preferred hotel, book tickets and accommodation at the best romantic destinations well ahead of time. Also, reserve activities like couples massages at spas, restaurant tables, etc., so that you get to enjoy all this at a non-surge rate.
3. Pack Wisely
Bring comfortable clothes, toiletries, medications, devices, chargers, and any other essentials you may need. Don’t forget thoughtful Valentine’s Day gifts for your partner!
4. Learn Basic Hindi Phrases
Knowing a few Hindi words and phrases will make your travels easier and more memorable. Learn key greetings and basic phrases to make bookings and order food at restaurants. You can use the Ling app to learn the basic words and phrases.
| English | Hindi | Transliteration |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | नमस्ते | Namaste |
| How are you? | आप कैसे हैं? | Aap kaise hain? |
| I would like to book a table for two | दो लोगों के लिए टेबल बुक करनी है | Do logon ke liye table book karni hai |
| Do you offer Valentine’s Day discount? | क्या आप वैलेंटाइन डे के मौके पर कोई छूट देते हैं? | Kya aap Valentine Day ke mauke par koi chhoot dete hain? |
| Two cups of coffee, please | दो कप कॉफ़ी ले आइये | Do cup coffee le aaiye |
| How much for a red rose stem? | एक लाल गुलाब कितने का है? | Ek laal gulaab kitne ka hai? |
| Do you offer a weekend package? | क्या आप कोई वीकेंड पैकेज देते हैं? | Kya aap koi weekend package dete hain? |
| How much does that cost? | इसकी क़ीमत क्या है? | Iski keemat kya hai? |
5. Experience Local Culture
Immerse yourself in the incredible diversity of Indian culture and traditions for an unforgettable romantic experience.
6. Attend Unique Festivals
Try and time your visit with major festivals like Holi in North India or Onam in Kerala. Absorb the riot of colors, music, dance, and revelry!
7. Savor Regional Cuisine
Indulge your tastebuds in delicious local delicacies like Hyderabadi biryani, Goan seafood curries, Rajasthani laal maas, or Kerala appam with stew.
8. Visit Cultural & Historical Sites
Take in the rich history and heritage by exploring architectural wonders like Krishna temples in South India, Mughal monuments in the North, and British colonial landmarks.
9. Engage With Locals
Talk to locals to gain insights into traditions. Learn about typical Indian customs around love, marriage, family, and Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Wrapping It Up
With its wealth of natural beauty, history, culture, and cuisine, India is a paradise for couples seeking romance. So you’d do better to move beyond your local rose garden and plan a trip to one of these romantic destinations.
These places offer the perfect mix of adventure and intimacy to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day. So, get going and plan an unforgettable romantic getaway at one of these amazing places!
