Tired of generic hotel packages? As a recent bride who planned a destination wedding in Rishikesh, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate the details. This blog post is your go-to guide, filled with real-world insights to help you create a truly unforgettable celebration.
Why Choose Rishikesh for the Destination Wedding?
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, offers a unique and enchanting backdrop for a destination wedding.
Here’s why Rishikesh is the best destination wedding spot in India:
Scenic Beauty: The breathtaking views of the Ganges River, lush green hills, and ancient temples create a picturesque backdrop.
Delicious Cuisine: Savor the flavours of authentic Indian cuisine, from spicy curries to sweet desserts.
Adventure Activities: For the adventurous couple, Rishikesh offers thrilling activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking.
Cultural Experiences: You can plan a local trip for your wedding guests to explore ancient temples, ashrams, and local markets to get a glimpse of the culture.
Intimate Setting: Rishikesh offers a more intimate setting compared to large, crowded cities.
Personalised Experience: You can customise your wedding to reflect your unique style and preferences.
Stress-Free Planning: With the help of local wedding planners, you can streamline the planning process and focus on enjoying the experience.
Plan a Perfect Destination Wedding in Rishikesh
We planned a magical, 3-day wedding in Rishikesh, here’s what our wedding requirements were:
Dates: May 8th to 10th, 2023
Guest List: 50 closest friends and family
Budget: ₹10-15 lakhs
Must-Have: A stunning riverside venue
When Rishikesh is your final choice, it is time to consider some major aspects of the city. Below are some of my recommendations when choosing Rishikesh for your destination wedding.
Location: Ditch Main Rishikesh City, Go Along Tributaries
The closer you get to the main Ganges River and popular landmarks like Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, the higher the cost of accommodations tends to be. This is due to increased demand and the premium associated with prime riverfront locations.
Looking for accommodations along the tributaries of the Ganges River can be a great strategy to find more affordable options without compromising on the serene river views. These tributaries often offer quieter and more picturesque settings, perfect for a peaceful and budget-friendly wedding in Rishikesh.
Venue: Book Your Venue Away From the Main City
The whole charm and vibe of the destination wedding in Rishikesh is the backdrop and the riverside wedding or engagement. You get enough if you head away from the city.
Here are some Rishikesh wedding venues you can explore:
Riverside Resorts and Camps:
- Pros: Stunning river views, serene ambience, and opportunities for outdoor activities like rafting and camping.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially during peak seasons.
Farmhouses and Villas:
- Pros: Privacy, flexibility, and the ability to customise your event.
- Cons: Might require more effort in terms of logistics and catering arrangements.
Heritage Hotels:
- Pros: Unique architecture, rich history, and a luxurious experience.
- Cons: Limited availability and higher costs.
Eco-Lodges and Retreat Centers:
- Pros: Sustainable practices, serene surroundings, and opportunities for wellness activities like yoga and meditation.
- Cons: Might have fewer amenities and be more remote.
Season: Plan a Destination Wedding in Rishikesh during the Off-Season
Rishikesh, with its serene beauty, is a popular destination wedding choice. While the ideal time for a wedding often depends on your preferred weather and crowd levels, we had to stick to a May date.
Fortunately, our early November 2023 booking at the right venue allowed us to lock in favourable rates that remained unchanged. So, start scouting as early as possible and book the dates well in advance.
Be prepared for Rishikesh’s fickle weather, which can bring unexpected rain showers, even during the dry season. While we found beauty in the rain-kissed ceremony, if you envision a grand outdoor event, it’s wise to discuss rainproofing options with your venue to ensure a seamless celebration, regardless of the weather.
Here’s a breakdown of the right season to get married in Rishikesh:
Peak Months (October, November, December, March, May, June)
Pros: Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor ceremonies and activities.
Cons: Higher rates, increased tourist crowds, and potential booking challenges.
Off-Season (July-September):
Pros: Lower rates, fewer crowds, and opportunities for unique experiences.
Cons: Unpredictable weather, especially during the monsoon season (July-September).
Ideal Months:
October-November: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant festivals.
February-March: Comfortable temperatures, perfect for outdoor events, and a festive atmosphere.
Key Considerations:
Monsoon Season (July-September): While it’s not ideal for outdoor events, it offers lush greenery and fewer crowds. Consider indoor venues or postpone outdoor activities.
Peak Season: Book well in advance, especially for popular venues and vendors.
Off-Season: Take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds, but be prepared for potential weather disruptions.
Ultimately, the best time to plan your wedding depends on your priorities and preferences. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can choose the ideal season for your dream destination wedding in Rishikesh.
Destination Wedding Cost in Rishikesh
Realistically, it is all in how you plan it and how meticulously you do research. I’m sharing everything I learnt about destination wedding costs in Rishikesh after my six-month research for my wedding.
The cost of a destination wedding in Rishikesh can vary significantly based on several factors, including:
- Number of guests: A larger guest list will naturally increase the overall cost.
- Number of days of celebration: A longer wedding celebration will require more accommodations and event planning.
- Choice of venue: Luxury resorts and riverfront properties will typically have higher costs than more budget-friendly options.
- Choice of Menu: Often overlooked, can significantly impact a budget wedding. The per-plate cost can quickly escalate a modest budget to exorbitant levels.
- Additional services: Hiring a wedding planner, photographer, videographer, and other vendors will incur additional costs.
- Level of customization and decor: Elaborate decorations and personalized touches can add to the expense.
- Catering and beverage choices: The type of cuisine and beverage options will impact the overall cost.
- Makeup Artist: Whether you choose a freelance makeup artist or opt for a professional one, can impact the cost of getting your makeup done.
Let me elaborate on all the above factors and provide a clearer, more detailed perspective.
No. of Guests: The size of the Wedding Party Matters
Here are the challenges we faced when booking hotels and resorts in Rishikesh for our intimate wedding:
- Minimum Room Bookings: Many hotels and resorts require minimum room bookings, especially for weddings, which can inflate costs.
- Requirement to Book Entire Property: Some venues in Rishikesh specifically demand that you book the entire property, making it less suitable for intimate ceremonies.
- Declined Due to Intimate Ceremony Size: Certain venues outright denied bookings for smaller, intimate weddings.
- Difficulty in Finding Suitable Venues: The combination of minimum room requirements and property exclusivity made it challenging to find suitable venues for intimate ceremonies.
Number of days: Book 2 Days for a Budget-Friendly Wedding
- Our Initial Plan: We initially planned for a 4-day destination wedding.
- Resort Recommendation: The resort suggested reducing the duration to 2 days to minimise costs.
- Compromise: To accommodate both engagement and wedding ceremonies, we finalised a 3-day event.
Impact of Duration on Costs:
- Accommodation:
- 2-day booking for 10 rooms at ₹5,000/room = ₹1 lakh
- 3-day booking for 10 rooms at ₹5,000/room = ₹1.5 lakh
- Additional Factors: Other costs (e.g., food, decor, transportation) also increase with longer durations.
By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about your destination wedding duration, balancing their desired experience with budgetary constraints.
Venue: Riverside Wedding in Rishikesh
We were on a mission to find the ideal riverside wedding venue. We’d explored several options, including the renowned Avenue18 Resort, Pacific Inn 360 Degree Resort, Nirvana River Resort, Summit by the Ganges Beach Resort & Spa, and Raga on the Ganges. Then, we stumbled upon Sukham Rasa River Resort. Intrigued, we connected with their sales team and were so impressed that we decided to visit the venue.
Our hearts were set on a riverside engagement, a dream shared by many couples. However, our discussions with the resort revealed a crucial detail: riverside functions aren’t feasible year-round.
During the monsoon season, the rising water levels make riverside events impossible. Additionally, the resort emphasized that unpredictable downpours could lead to sudden water level increases, forcing them to cancel outdoor events.
It’s important to note that riverside setups come with extra costs. The uneven terrain requires additional effort and resources for setup and cleanup.
Furthermore, government regulations are increasingly limiting riverside events in Rishikesh to preserve the environment. Many resorts are now opting out of hosting riverside weddings.
Key Takeaways:
- Seasonal Limitations: Be aware of seasonal restrictions, especially during the monsoon season.
- Unpredictable Weather: Consider contingency plans for sudden weather changes.
- Additional Costs: Factor in extra costs for setup, cleanup, and potential permits.
- Government Regulations: Be mindful of government regulations and their impact on riverside events.
By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions when choosing a riverside wedding venue.
Menu: Buffet, Gala Dinner, Semi-Gala Dinner
We wanted to create a memorable experience for our guests, but we knew we had an intimate gathering. To balance this, we decided to focus on the most impactful meal times: Hi-Tea and Dinner. For breakfast and lunch, we opted for lighter, more practical options.
We pre-planned our menus for each day:
- Breakfast: Light and refreshing choices like paratha, sandwiches, poha, and chola puri.
- Lunch: A balanced mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including rice, bread, salad, and papad.
- Hi-Tea: A more elaborate spread with a variety of finger chips, sandwiches, pakoras, tea and coffee.
- Dinner: The highlight of each day, especially the wedding night dinner, which was a truly extravagant affair with a choice of appetizers, main course, choice of bread, desserts and more.
To accommodate these plans, we had to book three-course meals for all three days. The wedding night dinner, in particular, was a significant expense due to its grandeur.
If you’re planning a budget-friendly destination wedding in Rishikesh, a great strategy is to choose a menu package that suits your needs and avoid overcomplicating your meal options.
Instead of opting for a wide variety of dishes, stick to a few carefully selected items for two meals and a grand dinner. This approach will help you stay within your budget without compromising on quality or taste.
Photography: Wedding Photographer in Rishikesh
A picture speaks a thousand words, capturing the essence of every moment. When we chose Rishikesh as our wedding destination, I began my search for photographers. After contacting several well-known Rishikesh wedding photographers, I was shocked by the exorbitant quotes. Even without a pre-wedding shoot, some were charging a staggering 2-3 lakhs.
This is when I expanded my search to Dehradun and discovered “Nagpal Studio”. Their reasonable rates and willingness to fulfil all our photography needs were impressive. Having them stay with us during our wedding proved to be a blessing in disguise, as they were able to capture even the most spontaneous moments.
Factors that affect the cost of wedding photographer
The cost of a wedding photographer in Rishikesh can vary widely depending on several factors, including:
- Experience and Reputation: Renowned photographers often charge higher fees.
- Package Deals: Some photographers offer package deals that include pre-wedding shoots, albums, and other services.
- Duration of Coverage: The number of hours you require coverage will impact the cost.
- Number of Photographers: Hiring multiple photographers for different angles can increase the cost.
Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Rishikesh Wedding
When selecting a wedding photographer in Rishikesh, consider these tips:
- Portfolio Review: Look for a photographer whose style aligns with your vision.
- Client Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews to gauge their professionalism and quality of work.
- Communication Skills: A good photographer should be able to understand your needs and expectations.
- Pre-Wedding Shoot: Consider a pre-wedding shoot to capture your love story in unique locations around Rishikesh.
- Budget: Set a realistic budget and communicate it clearly with the photographer.
Decor & Wedding Theme: Wedding Decorators in Rishikesh
When planning a wedding, especially in a picturesque location like Rishikesh, the right decor can elevate the experience. We chose Sundaram Events & Wedding Decorators, a well-regarded name in the industry. While our initial interactions were promising, we encountered a minor hiccup that led to unexpected costs.
We were clear about our budget and agreed on a fixed amount of 4 lakhs. The team was initially responsive and enthusiastic, but a key issue arose. The main contact person, who had promised personal oversight, was absent during the event. While the team they sent was skilled and energetic, the lack of direct communication led to some confusion.
A prime example of this was the carnival game setup for the Mehendi ceremony. Despite our initial request, the team on-ground was unaware of this arrangement. While they managed to pull it off last minute, it resulted in an additional cost of 50,000 INR, which hadn’t been discussed beforehand.
While the overall experience was positive and I have no regrets booking them, this miscommunication highlights the importance of clear and consistent communication with your wedding planner, especially when dealing with multiple vendors.
Catering & Beverage: Vegetarian Food Only in the Dry City
While the city is renowned for its vegetarian offerings, finding non-vegetarian options can be challenging. Most wedding hotels in Rishikesh, especially those located near the Ganges, adhere to vegetarian principles.
If you’re planning a non-vegetarian wedding, you’ll need to explore options in areas farther from the main city centre. However, even in these locations, it’s essential to check with the venue beforehand.
Additionally, as Rishikesh is a dry city, consuming alcohol is subject to specific regulations. It’s crucial to communicate with your hotel or resort to understand the rules and guidelines regarding alcohol consumption, particularly during events.
Makeup Artists: Rishikesh Makeup Artists for Weddings
I found my makeup vision with Padmaksh Studio by Ventakesh Aggarwal. The team is truly exceptional, and I can confidently say that they’ll make you radiate from within.
One of the best things about Padmaksh Studio is the transparency. They were upfront about costs, and there were no hidden surprises. We agreed on a budget and stuck to it without any issues.
I didn’t even have a trial session with them. We met in November, and they directly worked their magic on my mehendi, the first function of my wedding. I didn’t have specific styles in mind, but the team was incredibly patient. Before each look, they sat down with me to discuss my preferences, ensuring I was completely satisfied.
I wholeheartedly recommend Padmaksh Studio to anyone seeking top-notch beauty services.
Finding Your Perfect Makeup Artist in Rishikesh
Choosing the right makeup artist for your special day is crucial. A skilled artist can enhance your natural beauty and make you look and feel your best. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect makeup artist in Rishikesh:
Do Your Research:
- Online Reviews: Check online platforms like Google, WeddingWire, or Zomato for reviews and ratings of local makeup artists.
- Social Media: Explore Instagram and Facebook to see the work of different artists and their styles.
- Word-of-Mouth: Ask friends, family, or wedding planners for recommendations.
Set a Budget:
- Determine your budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend on makeup services.
- Compare Prices: Get quotes from different artists to compare prices.
Consider Your Style:
- Natural or Glamorous: Decide on the desired look, whether it’s a natural, dewy look or a glamorous, dramatic one.
- Skin Tone and Undertones: Choose an artist who understands your skin tone and can select the right shades for your complexion.
Trial Makeup:
- Book a Trial: Schedule a trial session to test the artist’s skills and ensure you’re happy with the look.
- Experiment with Looks: Try different styles and products to find what suits you best.
- Travel Fees: If your venue is outside of Rishikesh, ask about any additional travel fees.
How Much Does a Destination Wedding Cost in Rishikesh?
Here, I’m sharing all my quotes, with an approximate range.
Cost of booking a wedding venue in Rishikesh for a destination wedding?
24 Rooms for 3 days – ₹4,41,000/-
The rate of each room varied for us due to occupancies.
How much does catering cost for a destination wedding in Rishikesh?
On our customised menu and package the cost of food and beverage came out to be – ₹2,90,000/-
How much does wedding decoration cost in Rishikesh?
Initial Quote – ₹4lakh
Final Amount – ₹4,50,000/-
How much does a wedding photographer in Rishikesh cost?
We didn’t hire any Rishikesh photographer and got our team from Dehradun to stay with us for 3 days.
The package we selected had traditional photography & videography along with candid photos and videos, with a wedding teaser, Instagram reel, 50-sheet wedding album, 1 photo frame and raw data in a pen drive. Also, the team stayed with us for 2 nights.
Wedding photographer cost – ₹1,20,000/
How much does a wedding Makeup Artist cost in Rishikesh?
Every makeup artist will share a package with you, consisting of HD makeup, Airbrush Makeup and Celebrity Makeup, Depending on what you choose the prices will alter. My wedding makeup package consisted of 4 makeup and hair, engagement, mehendi, phoolon ka gehena, and wedding.
The wedding makeup artist charges for our destination wedding – ₹1,30,000
The things I haven’t added to the calculation are the cost of hiring Baraat, dholwala that we hired for our wedding, along with Mehandi wala, and the charges for reaching our wedding destination.
Roughly you can add around ₹50k more for all the above.
The estimated cost of a destination wedding in Rishikesh for 3 days with 50-60PAX-
- Venue: ₹4,41,000 (3 days, 24 rooms)
- Decoration: ₹4,50,000
- Photography & Videography: ₹1,20,000
- Makeup Artist: ₹1,30,000
- Food & Beverage: ₹2,90,000
Additional Costs (Estimate):
- Baraat, Dholwala, Mehandiwala: ₹50,000
- Travel and Logistics: (Varies based on group size and travel mode)
The final estimated cost of a destination wedding in Rishikesh for us: ₹14,86,000/-
I hope this blog post has provided you with real and valuable insights for your destination wedding in Rishikesh.
