Honeymoon: What It Really Costs and Where to Go

When you think of a honeymoon, a post-wedding trip designed for couples to relax, reconnect, and celebrate. Also known as a bridal getaway, it’s not just a tradition—it’s your first shared adventure as a married couple. But here’s the truth: a honeymoon doesn’t have to mean luxury resorts and five-figure budgets. Many couples are skipping the overpriced Maldives packages and choosing meaningful, affordable trips that fit their style—whether that’s a quiet temple tour in South India, a train ride across Rajasthan, or a trek through the Himalayas.

What you spend depends on what you value. A luxury honeymoon, a high-end travel experience with premium accommodations, private transfers, and exclusive experiences can cost up to $20,000, according to recent data. But the average couple spends between $3,500 and $8,000. The difference? It’s not about how fancy the hotel is—it’s about how well the trip matches your rhythm. Some want sunrise at the Taj Mahal with no crowds. Others want to hike to a remote temple in Rameshwaram and sleep under the stars. Then there are those who’d rather ride the world’s longest luxury train through India’s heartland, sipping chai as the landscape changes outside their window.

And let’s talk timing. December is the most expensive month to visit India—not because it’s the most beautiful (though it is), but because everyone else is booking flights and hotels. If you want to save money without sacrificing magic, aim for early winter: cool weather, clear skies, and lower prices. Skip the weekends at the Taj Mahal. Take a local train instead of a private car. Choose a guesthouse near a temple instead of a branded resort. These small choices add up.

Who pays for what? Traditions are fading. More couples are splitting costs evenly—or using wedding gifts to fund their trip. One couple we spoke to used their dress budget to upgrade their train cabin. Another traded a big reception for a week in Goa. It’s not about what’s expected—it’s about what feels right for you.

And don’t forget the purpose. A honeymoon isn’t just a vacation. It’s a reset. A chance to slow down, talk without distractions, and start your life together on your terms. That’s why the best honeymoon isn’t the most expensive one—it’s the one where you both feel completely free.

Below, you’ll find real stories, real costs, and real advice from couples who’ve been there. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet temple visit, a thrilling trek, or a rail journey through India’s most colorful cities, there’s a honeymoon here that fits your heart—not your bank account.