“Destination weddings are no longer limited to metros or select palaces. Families now look for unique, immersive experiences that combine luxury, convenience, and cultural appeal,” says Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
He adds that this demand has made destination weddings a key revenue driver for hotels and resorts.
Why the trend is growing
Several factors are contributing to the rise: rising disposable incomes, social media influence, and the appeal of curated experiences.
Resorts like Karma Lakelands report that multi-day wedding celebrations encourage guests to extend their stay, boosting occupancy even in traditionally off-peak periods.
“Weddings have become a strategic tool to stabilise revenue across the year,” says Akash Roy Saigal, General Manager, Karma Lakelands.
EkoStay observes that luxury villas with private pools are in demand for pre-wedding shoots, welcome dinners, and post-event recovery.
“Wedding tourism is evolving rapidly with a clear shift toward curated, multi-day experiences rather than single-day events,” says Varun Arora, CEO & Co-Founder, EkoStay.
Impact on hospitality and local economy
Experts highlight the broader economic ripple effect.
Roop Partap Choudhary, Executive Director at Noormahal Group, notes, “Destination weddings contribute nearly 50% of our annual revenue. They support ancillary services like catering, décor, transport, and leisure activities, creating employment and boosting local businesses.”
At Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur, Mahesh Singh Jasrotia, Vice President, explains, “Guests often combine weddings with sightseeing, spa treatments, and cultural activities. This extended engagement increases revenue streams while enhancing the overall guest experience.”
Insurance: Mitigating the risks of lavish celebrations
While the scale and grandeur of destination weddings are rising, so are the associated financial and logistical risks.
Travel disruptions, weather events, or vendor cancellations can lead to significant losses.
Experts recommend insurance as a practical safeguard.
“Tailored insurance policies now cover travel delays, weather-related interruptions, and even event cancellations,” says Gaurav Arora, Chief Underwriting, Claims, Property & Casualty at ICICI Lombard.
Insurance protects both families and resorts, ensuring that unforeseen events don’t compromise celebrations or financial plans.
Looking ahead
As destination weddings become sophisticated, resorts and planners are adapting by offering customisable packages and encouraging insurance adoption.
Experts suggest that a combination of careful planning, expert management, and risk coverage is essential for memorable, secure celebrations.
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