Skyscanner has released its latest survey titled Destination ‘I Do’, which shows that Indians want overseas weddings, with 85% of them planning or having already had a wedding abroad. Gen Z is particularly at the forefront here, with 49% considering getting married in a stunning wedding venue, compared to 33% of millennials. This younger generation is attracted to the adventure and uniqueness that such celebrations offer.

The survey data shows that a whopping 66% of respondents in India are all for hosting their own extravagant pre-wedding celebrations, reflecting the splendor associated with Indian weddings. If Indian couples could have their dream celebrations, 33% would go on a weekend getaway with family and friends, while 32% dream of celebrating on a cruise with their crew. Meanwhile, 29% envision an Italian-style soiree and 26% would rock out at concerts with their squad for the ultimate pre-wedding celebration!

Commenting on the findings, Mohit Joshi, travel trends and destination expert at Skyscanner, said, “Destination weddings are inspiring Indian couples and turning travel dreams into spectacular celebrations! Recent high-profile weddings have inspired more Indians to celebrate their wedding milestones with unforgettable celebrations like destination weddings. Our research has found that couples prioritize unique experiences and are willing to invest more to create celebrations that truly reflect their wishes. But it’s not just about spending money – they carefully plan every detail and balance grand gestures with smart choices.”

The ideal “I do” destination for Indian couples

Asia was the first choice for Indians to have a wedding, with 48% of respondents in India eyeing Asia as a destination, drawn by the allure of places like Thailand, Japan and the Maldives. These places not only promise stunning backdrops, but are also closer to home and more affordable. On the other hand, 31% are captivated by the romantic charm of Europe, considering destinations like the UK, Spain, France and Italy.

Top picks for Indian couples: When it comes to planning the perfect wedding abroad, Goa, Dubai, Bali and Bangkok are among the most popular destinations among respondents. Goa, with its sun-kissed beaches and vibrant atmosphere, offers the perfect blend of relaxation and thrill for wedding celebrations. Dubai, with its ultra-glamorous skyline and opulent venues, offers bling galore and is perfect for couples who want to say “I do” in style. Bali and Bangkok, on the other hand, offer dreamy tropical atmospheres and rich cultural backdrops, giving couples the opportunity to get married in paradise while enjoying the local charm.

Beach bliss, royal palaces or scenic mountains?: When it comes to the atmosphere of a dream wedding, 26% of respondents in India envision a romantic beach celebration with sunsets and sand, while 20% are drawn to the opulence of a royal palace celebration like in Jaipur or Udaipur. Others envision a soulful, personal celebration (19%) in scenic locations like Tuscany, Lake Como or Mussoorie, and the same percentage yearn for a lavish, glamorous event in vibrant cities like Dubai, New York or Bahrain. 19% of respondents are also drawn to a scenic mountain backdrop and envision a marriage proposal against the breathtaking view in places like Mussoorie, Munnar or Switzerland.

Couples in India give their all for their wedding abroad, but stay smart

Spending money on wedding dreams: Indians are willing to spend! With weddings abroad becoming increasingly popular, almost half (45%) of couples in India are willing to increase their budget by up to 50% to experience the extra adventure and make their celebration truly unforgettable. This proves that for many, a wedding abroad is worth every extra penny. According to insights from WeddingWire India, a leading wedding technology platform in India that connects engaged couples with local wedding professionals, 56% of couples consider the type or style of venue the most important thing when searching for their wedding destination. As a result, top destinations like Udaipur, Goa and Dehradun are becoming increasingly popular as they offer couples the perfect blend of bespoke services and stunning backdrops.

Hidden gems – 83% of respondents in India would swap the usual wedding hotspots of Shimla or Goa for hidden gems like Gokarna or Kalimpong. WeddingWire India also reveals that lesser-known destinations like Mahabalipuram in Chennai and Kukas village in Jaipur, Rajasthan are also gaining popularity due to their unique charm and intimate setting, offering couples the opportunity to create truly unique celebrations.

Plan ahead for the perfect celebration: 62% start planning their overseas wedding up to 12 months in advance, ensuring every detail is absolutely perfect. While 40% of respondents in India rely on the expert advice of wedding planners, proving that professionals are still the first choice for planning a dream overseas wedding, 36% rely on recommendations from friends and family for the personal touch.