The 15 Most Romantic Places in India

India has to be one of the most romantic places in the world.Its alluring mix of ancient forts, beautiful palaces, shimmering lakes and gorgeous beaches is bound to make many travelers feel loved.If you are looking for a special setting to spend time with someone special, here are the most romantic places in India to set your heart high.

1. Udaipur, Rajasthan

With its scintillating pink-hued palaces dotted with a series of serene lakes, Udaipur in Rajasthan is probably the most romantic city in India.While the lakefront is overrun by the hotels, take to the labyrinthine back streets to discover the true heart of the city and experience the Udaipur of Old as you wind past traditional havelis and historic bazaars.Alternatively, reach the romantic Taj Lake Palace by water and admire its unique old-time charm.

Where to Stay:There are plenty of uber-romantic places to stay in Udaipur, many on Lake Pichola.Amet Haveli is one of the best mansions built in the 18th century.Rooms have spectacular lakefront views, and the restaurant and pool are sublime.

2. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

Sunset doesn't get more romantic than this.Travelers to Kanyakumari, India's southernmost tip, will be rewarded with a spectacular sunset on Chitra Purnima – or Poornima – coinciding with the rise of the moon.This makes it one of the best places to visit for couples in India.Almost completely surrounded by water, Kanyakumari is the place where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea.It is also a popular pilgrimage site, and the 3000-year-old Bhagwati Amman Temple located on the beach is a sight to behold.

Where to stay:Our choice is the beachfront Sparsa Resort Kanyakumari, just a 5-minute walk from Sunset Point.Amenities are excellent, and there is also an outdoor pool and tennis court on site.

3. Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Observe the most spectacular Mughal architecture at the Taj Mahal in Agra.Apart from being one of the most beautiful places in India, the Taj is certainly the biggest, most daring romantic symbol on the planet.It was designed to house the body of Muntz Mahal, the favorite wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.Made from precious materials and semi-precious stones from around the world, it took more than 20 years and about 20,000 men to build.It's ostentatious and extravagant, but there's no doubt that this wonder of the world is utterly spectacular.

For any lover aspiring to visit the Taj Mahal, why not combine your trip with a wildlife safari?Watching monkeys and leopards set against the magnificent Indian landscape is an experience of a lifetime.It is unforgettable to share it with your loved one.See it all by booking our Indian Wildlife Safari Tour today.

Where to stay:Head to the Oberoi Amarvilas Agra or the Grand Imperial for grandeur and heritage style.Both have luxurious decor as well as luxurious spa facilities.Anyone infatuated with couples massage?

4. Kumarakom, Kerala

For a quintessential Kerala experience, spend some time on the enchanting backwaters of Kumarakom on a traditional houseboat.Surrounded by lush green fringes, the setting is nothing short of magical.Enjoy the sound of the water as you savor the finest of Kerala cuisine, sail your boat idly to the coconut tree-lined shore, evoke a sense of old-fashioned romance.Check out our detailed Kerala guide before you go.

Where to stay:Booking a trip on a houseboat is an essential Kerala experience, with plenty of romantic places to stay even on dry land.Why not book a villa at Taj Bekal Resort & Spa?The Kappil River flows through the resort, offering a range of activities to enjoy with your loved one, from fishing to boating.The rooms are chic, the pool is divine and the food is delicious.

5. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Perched high in the Himalayan mountains, the picturesque, snow-clad Manali in Himachal Pradesh is a great stop for a romantic retreat.Indulge your adventurous side with activities like paragliding, skiing or mountaineering, making the most of the mountain breeze.Or, enjoy idyllic views of the Solang Valley from the cozy warmth of a riverside cottage.

If tremendous landscapes make your heart flutter, consider Rough Guides' Exploring North India: Delhi to Shimla Itinerary.As you traverse the foothills of the Himalayas, you can expect spectacular panoramas, especially from the prime train ride through the peaks.It is not just one of the most romantic places in India, it is also one of the most romantic places in the world.

Where to stay:Treebo Trend Celebrity Manali is our pick for couples living in Manali, where the interiors feature lots of wood.There is a fire pit in the garden, where tables have spectacular views of the Himalayas (like the balconies in the rooms).

6. Jaisalmer Desert, Rajasthan

What could be more romantic than a night under the stars in the spectacular Indian desert of Jaisalme?R in Rajasthan.While a camel trek itself may not make you fuzzy-hearted, as the sun sets and the sky blazes with shooting stars, My Taureus Desert will leave you mesmerized.Spend the night in a luxury tent and relax in the secluded, peaceful surroundings.

Where to stay:While camping in the desert will be facilitated as part of a camel trek, Jaisalmer itself has plenty of romantic options to book your adventure.Mustache Jaisalmer has heritage rooms with bags of character, and famously friendly staff.Meanwhile, Boutique Helsinki has lit up with a splash of colors all around.

7. Kodagu (Coorg), Karnataka

Kodagu in Karnataka is known as the Scotland of India, but as clouds of mist roll around the green, green, coffee plantations, it reveals itself as more exotic.Breathe in the smell of fresh coffee and spices and enjoy the relaxing lifestyle of Coorg as you explore its sleepy gardens.The area's rich birdlife and atmospheric teak and sandalwood forests also offer plenty of opportunities for loving strolls.

Where to stay:Couples should stick to a hilltop at about 4000 feet above sea level at the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa.The views of the misty forests are breathtaking, while lovers can unwind at the Jive Grande Spa, located on three floors.With a great restaurant, swimming pool, fitness center and bookable activities – from nature walks to cooking lessons – you will never want to leave.

8. Puducherry, Tamil Nadu

Escape the hectic pace of modern Chennai to Puducherry (sometimes called Pondicherry or just Pondy) in Tamil Nadu.With its crumbling colonial villas and colorful leafy streets, the influences of French rule are evident in the French Quarter.And, known as "Little Paris," it certainly bestows some of the romantic charm of the City of Love.Take a walk along the beach for panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.

Where to Stay:For a touch of old-world charm, look no further than Le Duplex.The property once served as the mayor's residence, the decor oozes romance and the beach is only a 5-minute walk away.

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Simply the name of this city conjures up the fragrant aroma of tea leaves.Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is one of the most romantic places in India, with its winding rows of spruce tea plants elegantly shaping the mountainous landscape in rolling waves of emerald-green hues.To experience its old-world charm, descend through the mist-capped mountains on the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Where to stay:Simplicity and clean lines are the order of the day at Sterling Darjeeling, located about 7600 feet above sea level.Couples with children will relish in the clubhouse - which has entertainment in the form of chess and table tennis - and in-house babysitting facilities.Leave your little ones in safe hands as you sit down for a candle-lit meal, go for a romantic stroll or take advantage of the hotel's spa and wellness center in peace.

10. Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Dubbed the Blue City for its famous cobalt-coloured buildings, Jodhpur in Rajasthan is an irresistibly charming destination in the so-called Golden Triangle of India.Above the city, the Mehrangarh Fort rises high, its red-sandstone walls perched on top of the cliff.Stay at a heritage property within the walls of the fort and view the city from the intricately carved windows.It is one of the most romantic destinations in India.If you are getting married and considering a stay in Jodhpur, read on why Indian is the ideal honeymoon destination.

Where to stay:For jaw-dropping luxury to mark the most romantic occasions, book a room at Umaid Bhawan Palace.It is a beautiful sand castle of a structure set in over 26 acres of gardens – making it one of the largest private residences in the world.Expect Art Deco details, a luxurious spa, two swimming pools, a yoga studio, tennis courts, and even a "Champagne Museum Walk."Oh, and the Cosmetics are all Molton Brown, of course.

11. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

This white desert spread between India and Pakistan remains covered with water during the monsoon season.But, once the water dries up, it turns into a barren landscape of pearlescent salt flats.Visit during the Rann Utsav, the festival of joy between November and March, which brings colour, music and crowds to the land.Party away, the white earth here contrasts charmingly with the clear blue skies.

Where to stay:Just 5 miles from the Rann of Kutch, you can sleep in simple thatched huts at the Rann Resort Dholavira.

12. Lakshadweep, Kerala

With palm tree-lined white-sand beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea, the idyllic cluster of islands that make up Lakshadweep boasts the country's only atolls.Part of the same maritime mountain range as the Maldives, the islands' diving and snorkeling opportunities are unsurpassed, and they feel like a world away from modern life, making it the ultimate Indian honeymoon destination.

Where to Stay:Visitors to Lakshadweep should head to Bangaram Island Beach Resort, with simple yet airy rooms that open directly onto the sand.This is pure heaven.

13. Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu

Though the city itself may be packed with visitors, nothing can detract from the splendor of the historical structures in Mamallapuram.Carved in the seventh century, the awe-inspiring UNESCO-listed temples and sanctuaries are a spectacular sight, especially when the sun goes down.Local sculptors in the street also learn how to carve, so you can make a locket for your loved one.

Where to stay:If you're the kind of couple who love your creature comforts, you may want to opt for a luxury hotel chain that does things right.Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay is the perfect destination with lavish decor, large outdoor pool, and even a golf course.Say goodbye to your worries.

14. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir has been one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India for decades.Although the region has been affected by the outbreak of violence in recent years, it is still one of the most beautiful places in India.Stay on a Gurkha houseboat on the Nagin Lake and cruise the waters of the "Venice of the East".Or, take a romantic shikara ride in the water at night and watch the cluster of stars rise above.

Where to stay:Book on a ship with Heritage Group of Houseboats for a truly romantic stay.A continental or buffet breakfast is also served every morning.Tuck in.

15. Leh, Jammu and Kashmir

Surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas, Leh is a great place for adventure lovers.The area offers great trekking opportunities, as well as mountain biking.But there are many places to see, from the medieval Tibetan Leh Palace to the golden-roofed Karma Dupgued Choling Monastery and the recently inaugurated Shanti Stupa "Peace Pagoda" by the Dalai Lama.The terrace of the pagoda is a picturesque setting to watch the sun rising over the mountains, or take part in a yoga session.If you want a more active honeymoon, book on our trek through Ladakh's Markha Valley, which takes in the excellent Himalayan scenery, hill monasteries and the heart of Leh.

Where to stay:Eco-conscious couples should make for the Grand Dragon Ladakh, equipped with its rooftop solar panels and energy-conserving features.Inside, tasteful decor combines antique furniture and elaborate wooden crafts with colorful prints.

India is one of the most romantic places in the world, with number of colorful towns, remote hill villages, blissful beaches and adventure activities to share with your loved one.If you have any idea for an Indian honeymoon, or just a couples trip, talk to one of our local experts today.They know all the best places for couples in India, and can help you customize every last detail to match your preferences.