Cost of Destination Weddings: Your Budget Checklist for 2025

Avoid Surprises. Get the real cost of destination weddings with our complete budget checklist—flights, venues, vendors, and hidden fees included.

Planning a destination wedding is exciting—until you see the price tag. Did you know the average destination wedding in India can cost anywhere from ₹25 lakhs to ₹1.2 crores in 2025? Yep, that's a real statistic (and no, it's not a typo!).

The estimated cost for a destination wedding in India can vary widely, generally ranging from INR 15 lakh to several crores. In India, a destination wedding can range from INR 20 lakhs to several crores, depending on the scale and luxury desired. But don't worry, we've got you covered.

This guide walks you through exactly what goes into that hefty total—venues, flights, catering, even hidden charges your planner conveniently forgets to mention. Stick around and you'll have all the insider tips to keep your budget sane without sacrificing your dream day.

What’s Included in the Destination Wedding Cost?

If you're planning a destination wedding, you’re probably wondering—what exactly are you paying for? Let’s break it down simply. A typical destination wedding in India can cost anywhere from ₹25 lakhs to ₹70 lakhs, depending on location and guest count.

The average destination wedding cost in India can range from Rs. 15 lakh to Rs. 50 lakh or more, including expenses for venue, accommodation, catering, and decor. In Goa, destination wedding costs can range between INR 15,00,000 and INR 70,00,000. Here’s where that money goes:

Top Destination Wedding Cost Factors You Should Know

1. Guest Count Changes Everything

The number of guests matters more than you think. More guests = more rooms, more food, more logistics.

• For example, hosting 100 people instead of 50 could increase your total wedding cost by ₹10–15 lakhs.

• You’ll need extra space at the wedding venue, more chairs, more return gifts, and longer buffets.

• Managing a big guest list also means spending more on guests travel, pickups, and welcome kits.

2. Venue Location and Popularity

Where you host your destination wedding in India makes a big difference. Goa is one of the best places in India for destination weddings.

• Places like Udaipur and Jaipur are in high demand. A heritage hotel here could cost 3x more than a resort in a hill station like Mussoorie.

• In Udaipur, destination wedding costs can range from INR 20,00,000 to INR 1 crore. Udaipur is known for its royal ambience and is a favored location for weddings in India.

• Jaipur is a popular destination for destination weddings in India, with costs varying from less than INR 10 lakhs to INR 90,00,000, depending on the scale of the celebration.

• Some venues include packages, while others charge for everything—from flowers to lighting.

• Booking in the off season (like June or September) can lower rates by up to 25%.

3. Catering Per Plate Costs Add Up

Let’s be honest—Indian weddings are all about the food. But it’s also a major cost area.

• Most destination wedding packages price food per plate, ranging from ₹1,200 to ₹3,000 depending on the menu and location.

• Multiply that by your guest count, and you’re looking at ₹2.5–5 lakhs for food alone.

• Don’t forget to factor in high-tea, welcome snacks, and post-event breakfast.

4. Décor and Theming Expenses Vary Wildly

Décor brings your wedding vision to life. But it also takes a big bite out of your wedding budget.

• Whether you're going for a royal wedding vibe, a minimal look, or a beach wedding, the cost depends on location, size, and taste.

• Simple marigold and drape setups may cost ₹3–5 lakhs. But if you want designer floral arrangements, custom stages, or props, it can cross ₹15–20 lakhs.

• Décor rates also vary by wedding venue and whether you’re bringing in local vendors or hiring out-of-town teams.

5. Photography and Videography

No wedding is complete without memories. But capturing them professionally can be expensive.

• A good team with candid photography, traditional shots, and cinematic reels may cost ₹1.5–5 lakhs or more for a 2–3 day destination wedding.

• Drone shots, pre-wedding shoots, and highlight reels are popular, but they add to your overall cost.

• Some destination wedding packages include basic coverage. But if photos matter to you, check the fine print.

6. Travel and Logistics for Guests

This part gets overlooked—until the final bill. Travel and accommodation costs are mandatory for destination weddings.

• Think flights, buses, guests travel from different cities, airport pickups, and local transport between events.

• If you're hosting in a remote hill station or exotic location, logistics get tricky—and pricey.

• Some couples also cover partial travel for close family or international guests, which can increase your total wedding cost by ₹2–5 lakhs.

7. Entertainment: DJ, Band, or Fire Dancers?

Entertainment makes your wedding unforgettable. But it can get expensive quickly. Entertainment options can add flair to destination weddings and should be budgeted around 5-10%.

• A professional DJ for a night can cost between ₹50,000–₹2 lakhs.

• If you’re hiring live singers or folk artists, it can go up to ₹5 lakhs.

• Want to impress your guests with something unique like fire dancers? That can add another ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh.

8. Accommodation for 2–3 Nights

If your guests are staying for 2–3 days, lodging costs grow fast—especially in a luxury destination wedding setup.

• A wedding venue at a resort can charge ₹8,000–₹25,000 per night per room.

• Multiply that by 40–60 rooms and the total wedding cost increases by ₹15–30 lakhs.

• Some all inclusive resorts offer better deals when you book in bulk. Always ask what’s included: breakfast, Wi-Fi, airport pickup?

9. Wedding Season and Date Flexibility

Peak season = peak pricing. Most Indian weddings happen between November and February.

• During this time, wedding costs are usually 20–30% higher across venues, decorators, and vendors.

• If you're flexible, consider a weekday or off season date like June or early September.

• Venues at hill station locations or near beaches often lower rates during non-peak months.

Being smart with your dates lets you get better value, especially when managing a realistic budget.

10. Hidden Costs: Licenses, Tips, and Last-Minute Add-Ons

Some costs don’t show up until it’s too late—and they can mess with your realistic budget.

• Marriage license fees: Depending on your destination wedding location, legal paperwork can cost between ₹1,000–₹10,000.

• Tips for local vendors: Photographers, drivers, hotel staff, and decorators expect gratuity. You might spend an extra ₹30,000–₹50,000 across a 2-day event.

• Emergency changes: Forgot floral centerpieces? Need last-minute lighting? These rush charges sneak up fast.

11. Outfits for Bride, Groom, and Guests

Outfits aren’t just personal—they’re a major part of the wedding costs. Allocating 5-8% for a wedding planner's fee is suggested for destination weddings.

• A luxury destination wedding often includes multiple events. You’ll need different outfits for the wedding ceremony, Haldi, Mehendi, and reception.

• Designer lehengas range from ₹1–₹10 lakhs. Sherwanis and tuxedos for the groom start at ₹25,000.

• Coordinated outfits for siblings, bridesmaids, and extended family? That can push your destination wedding budget even higher.

Some families even sponsor attire for out-of-town guests, especially at heritage hotels or royal wedding venues. Add accessories, styling, makeup, and travel wear, and you’re looking at another ₹2–5 lakhs easily.

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Estimated Cost Breakdown of Destination Wedding in India

Average Destination Wedding Cost Breakdown in India (2025)

 

💬 Note: These are 2025 estimates for 100–150 guest weddings in India. Actual costs may vary based on location, guest count, and customization levels.

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Destination Wedding Budget Planning: Start with a Realistic Budget

You may start with a number in your head, but without a realistic budget, things can spiral fast. A couple in Mumbai thought ₹15 lakhs would cover their beach wedding in Goa. But once they added outfits, stay, travel costs, and wedding planner fees, their budget shot past ₹28 lakhs.

• Start with a cost breakdown: Make a list of everything—from hotel stays and decorators to smaller things like tips and transport.

• Add hidden extras: Include buffer for last-minute costs like changes in decor, late night snacks, or emergency bookings.

• Factor in guest travel: If you’re covering guests travel or booking group tickets, this can easily be ₹3–5 lakhs.

• Plan early: Start your planning process at least 6–8 months before your chosen wedding day. Early booking saves money.

For more information and expert strategies on wedding budget planning, visit this page.

Do Guest Count and Guest Travel Impact Wedding Costs

Yes—guest count and guest travel can change the entire cost of destination weddings. Unlike a traditional wedding held locally, destination weddings come with added travel and coordination needs. Destination weddings often involve shorter guest lists, which can lower overall costs.

A few extra people might not seem like much, but when you're paying for travel, stay, food, and favors, it adds up fast.

The more guests attending, the more you spend. Period.

• Food and drink: Caterers charge per plate. So 100 guests instead of 80? That’s 20 extra plates at ₹2,000 each = ₹40,000 added instantly.

• Rooms: If you’re covering stay for relatives or close friends, extra rooms increase the total wedding cost by ₹3,000–₹10,000 per room per night.

• Transport: Even short transfers between wedding venue and hotels or airports can rack up bills if you need big vehicles or multiple trips.

Guests Travel = Big Budget Shifts

Destination weddings usually mean guests travel long distances—by flight, train, or road. And guess who often foots the bill?

• Domestic travel for 50 people = ₹2–3 lakhs minimum

• International travel for NRI guests = ₹1 lakh per person including flights and stay

• You’ll also need welcome kits, snacks, and emergency help for guests who arrive late or lose baggage

Tips to Manage Guest-Related Costs

• Make a strict guest list and stick to it

• Communicate clearly—who’s paying for what (you or the guests?)

• Book group travel early to save

• Prioritize close family and friends

• Consider budget destination weddings with better package deals

Choose the Right Destination Wedding Venues

Best Destination Wedding Locations in 2025 for Every Budget

Understanding Destination Wedding Packages & What They Offer

Sample All-Inclusive Wedding Packages (India – 2025)

Using Local Vendors and Wedding Planning Services to Cut Costs

When planning a destination wedding, one smart way to lower the cost of destination weddings is by hiring local vendors. It saves big money—and reduces stress too.

Why Local Vendors Are Cost Effective

Here’s why choosing local vendors makes sense:

• You save on travel costs and accommodation

• Local pros know the area and best prices

• They often have tie-ups with affordable suppliers

• You avoid hidden fees for setup or delays

According to WedMeGood India, hiring a local photography team can cut your total cost by 20–30% compared to flying someone in from another city.

What Wedding Planning Services Actually Do

Good wedding planning services help in more than just booking vendors. They:

• Handle budgeting and give a full cost breakdown

• Suggest cost effective ideas you might not think of

• Coordinate with vendors to avoid last-minute panic

• Manage all the various aspects of your event—from permits to backup plans

“Hiring local and trusting planners saved us ₹4–5 lakhs,” says bride Megha Sinha, who had her wedding in a heritage hotel in Jaipur.

Smart Strategies to Reduce the Total Wedding Cost in 2025

1. Choose Off-Season or Weekday Dates

Vendors and venues charge more during the wedding season and on weekends. Choosing an off-season date or a weekday can cut your total wedding cost by 20–30%. Plus, vendors are more flexible and available. You may even get extra services included for free!

“In Goa, weekday weddings in June can cost 25% less than weekend events in December.” – Local Vendor, Goa

2. Pick Tier-2 Destinations Over Hotspots

Skip the pricey tourist hubs. A hill station like Lonavala or a beautiful location like Udaipur’s outskirts offers charm without the big-city bill. These destinations often have many venues that offer affordable prices and better service.

You’ll also find local talent—photographers, stylists, planners—who charge less and know the area well.

3. Go for All-Inclusive Resort Packages

An all-inclusive resort simplifies everything: food, décor, stay, and venue. Most destination wedding packages include a full team—resort staff, planners, decorators—and sometimes even floral arrangements and DJs.

These packages help control the overall cost and reduce stress.

4. Stick to Local Vendors and Decor Material

Using local vendors and local decor material cuts shipping fees and supports the community. Avoid flying in items or people. For example, instead of renting chandeliers from Delhi, pick handmade lights from a local market in Jaipur.

Also, many destination wedding venues work with locals who offer special deals just for in-house weddings.

5. Limit the Menu to What People Actually Eat

Think of your last wedding—did you try every dish? Probably not. The truth is, most guests stick to 3–4 items. You don’t need 10 fancy appetizers or a buffet that could feed a small country.

• Choose dishes that reflect your culture or story as a couple.

• Focus on local cuisine or seasonal items.

• Skip the seven types of dessert—go for one great option.

This small change helps you manage your estimated cost break up better and makes the food easier to plan. You’ll save on waste and serving costs too.

6. Track Every Expense with a Shared Budget Sheet

A shared sheet is a lifesaver. Whether it’s Google Sheets or a wedding budgeting app, this step helps you: A wedding budget calculator can help couples plan their entire budget in one place.

• See the overall cost in real time.

• Assign tasks among your team (you, your partner, or planner).

• Stay within your agreed budget range.

• See the overall cost in real time.

• Assign tasks among your team (you, your partner, or planner).

• Stay within your agreed budget range.

7. Ditch Physical Invites—Go Digital

In 2025, digital invites are not only normal—they’re expected. Save the paper (and your budget) by switching to e-vites.

• Platforms like Paperless Post or Canva make it easy and elegant.

• You can even track RSVPs and updates in real time.

• Less clutter, more control, and eco-friendly.

8. Host Fewer Events or Combine Functions

Some couples seeking simplicity are skipping the long list of events. Instead of five separate functions, combine your mehendi and welcome dinner. Or cut the number of days to two instead of three.

• Fewer events = fewer vendor costs, less setup, and reduced travel costs.

• Easier on guests, especially for intimate gatherings.

• Helps everyone focus more on quality time and less on a packed schedule.

This approach offers a better balance and still gives you an unforgettable experience without draining your savings.

Planning your dream destination wedding doesn’t have to drain your savings. With the right strategy, local vendors, smart scheduling, and a clear budget, you can create a magical experience without overspending. Choosing all-inclusive packages can save thousands of dollars for destination weddings. Start early, stay organized, and always ask what’s included. The cost of destination weddings may look big at first—but with the tips in this guide, you’re now ready to make every rupee count in 2025.

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