27/09/2023
On World Tourism Day, we're thrilled to be featured in Mathrubhumi newspaper discussing the allure of destination weddings in Kerala and the tourism opportunities they bring. Grateful to Mathrubhumi for recognizing Shaadhi Wedding Management as a trusted promoter and experienced destination wedding planner in God's Own Country.
*Translation*: Tourism in Kerala is now transcending into a realm of grand wedding spectacles. With its picturesque rivers, pristine seas, and majestic mountains, Kerala is becoming a coveted wedding destination. The surge in popularity of Destination Nation Weddings in Kerala is undeniable. In the past, there were fewer than 100 such weddings, but today, the state hosts between 300 to 400 destination weddings annually, some of which entail extravagant expenditures. This trend is not only reshaping the wedding industry but also significantly contributing to the state's tourism revenue.
Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Alappuzha districts stand out as major hubs for destination weddings in Kerala. Enthusiastic couples are also venturing to charming locales like Wayanad and Munnar. To bolster this burgeoning 'Wedding Tourism' sector, the Department of Tourism has allocated a budget of Rs. 2 crores.
Destination Nation wedding packages are available, starting from INR 15 lakhs, with costs varying depending on the location and preferences. Remarkably, weddings with budgets of up to Rs. 5 crores are becoming commonplace. Prijo Jose, Director of Shaadi Wedding Management, highlights that a significant portion of these weddings are organized for couples hailing from North India, and foreign weddings are also gaining traction.
So, what exactly is a 'Destination Wedding'? It's an event where the chosen guests from the bride and groom's families gather at a scenic destination, typically revolving around wine or tourism. These weddings typically span two to four days and are meticulously planned, with location selection, travel logistics, and accommodations being central considerations.
The state aims to enhance its 'Wedding Tourism' campaign further, aiming to attract international couples to Kerala. Ambitious plans include partnering with world-class event managers and devising comprehensive strategies to make Kerala a global wedding destination.
P.A. Muhammad Riaz, the Minister of Tourism, highlights that if the bride is a foreigner, the wedding ceremony can also take place in Kerala. This signifies an exciting and promising future for Kerala's tourism industry, where love and beauty converge in the backdrop of its stunning landscapes.