Traveling To India For A Wedding: What To Expect

India is a popular destination for weddings, with many people choosing to tie the knot in this vibrant and diverse country. If you're considering attending a wedding in India or even hosting your own, there are a few things to keep in mind. From navigating visa requirements and understanding the marriage process to exploring the country's rich history and culture, planning a trip to India for a wedding can be both exciting and challenging. In this discussion, we will explore the ins and outs of travelling to India for a wedding, including practical tips and suggestions for making the most of your time in this fascinating country.

Visa requirements for travelling to India for a wedding

When travelling to India for a wedding, it is important to ensure that you have the correct visa. Here are the visa requirements for travelling to India:

Visa Requirements for British Citizens:

British citizens need a visa to visit India unless they are Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders. OCI cardholders can use their OCI card and valid British passport to enter India without a visa.

The Indian government offers e-visas to British citizens holding a passport of Crown Dependency or British Overseas Territories. The e-visa application process involves uploading a photo and passport page, paying the e-visa fee online, and printing the ETA to present at the Immigration Check Post. The e-visa is valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years, with double or triple entry and specific conditions for each type. The application must be submitted at least 4 days in advance, and applicants should carry a copy of the ETA while travelling.

For British-Pakistani dual nationals, the visa application must be made on a Pakistani passport. If Pakistani nationality has been renounced or the Pakistani passport has been cancelled, documentary proof of this is required.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens:

U.S. citizens also need a visa to enter India. The U.S. Embassy in India does not provide specific information on visa requirements, but it is recommended to check the website of the Indian Bureau of Immigration for the latest visa and immigration guidelines.

General Passport Requirements:

Regardless of citizenship, all travellers to India must ensure that their passports are valid for at least 6 months after their arrival date and have at least 2 blank pages. It is important to get your passport stamped upon arrival and carry the old passport if the ETA was issued on it.

Additional Considerations:

When travelling to certain restricted areas in India, such as Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a special permit is required, which should be applied for at least 3 months in advance.

Furthermore, there are specific vaccine requirements for entry into India, including a yellow fever vaccination certificate for travellers from countries listed as transmission risks and a polio vaccine certificate for those coming from polio-affected countries.

It is also important to note that there are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into the country, and any amount above 5,000 USD in notes or 10,000 USD in notes and travellers' cheques combined must be declared.

Religious and civil ceremonies in India

India is a diverse country with a variety of religious and cultural beliefs. When it comes to weddings, there are several options for both religious and civil ceremonies. Here is an overview of the different types of wedding ceremonies in India:

Religious Ceremonies

In India, religious marriage ceremonies are generally considered legally binding. The specific rituals and requirements can vary depending on the religion. Here are some examples:

• Hindu Marriage: Marriages under the Hindu Marriage Act include those of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. While the certificate from the temple or gurudwara may be accepted, individuals may also seek a formal marriage certificate from the Registrar of Marriages. If one party is not Indian, a "no objection letter" and proof of termination of any prior marriages may be required.
• Christian, Muslim, Parsi, Jewish, or Baha'i Marriage: For these religious ceremonies, the certificate issued by the respective religious authority, such as a church's marriage certificate or a mosque's nikah nama, is generally sufficient proof of marriage.
• Other Religious Ceremonies: India also accommodates other religious beliefs, and each religion has its own set of rituals and requirements for marriage ceremonies.

Civil Ceremonies

For couples who prefer a non-religious option, India offers civil ceremonies under the Special Marriage Act. This option is suitable for individuals of different religions or those who do not wish to marry in a religious ceremony. Here are some key points about civil ceremonies in India:

• No Religious or Spiritual Elements: A civil ceremony in India does not include any religious or spiritual aspects such as prayers or scripture readings.
• Legal Recognition: A civil ceremony is a legally recognised wedding ceremony, provided that all the necessary requirements, such as a properly certified officiant, are met.
• Customisation: Couples opting for a civil ceremony have more control over the format of their wedding. They can choose to write their own vows and select a non-traditional venue, such as a beach, forest, or vintage farm.
• Waiting Period: There is generally a waiting period of at least 30 days from the initial application to formalise the marriage. During this time, a marriage officer will publish a newspaper advertisement to allow for any objections to the marriage to be raised.
• "No Objection Letter": Similar to religious ceremonies, a "no objection letter" may be required for civil marriages, especially if one of the parties is not an Indian citizen.

Tourist attractions in India

India is a land of diverse landscapes, cultures, and natural wonders, offering a plethora of tourist attractions that will leave visitors in awe. Here is a list of some of the most captivating places to visit:

The Taj Mahal, Agra

The Taj Mahal, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, is an iconic mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Construction began in 1631 and took 17 years to complete, involving 20,000 skilled craftsmen. The Taj Mahal showcases the finest Mughal architecture, with its white marble, Islamic design elements, and intricate inlay work featuring precious stones. The best times to visit are at dawn or dusk when the changing light alters the atmosphere, or during the full moon when you can view the Taj by moonlight.

The Red Fort, New Delhi

The Red Fort, or Lal Qalʿah, in New Delhi, was built by Shah Jahan in 1648 and served as the residence of Mughal emperors for almost 200 years. This colossal, crescent-shaped fort is named after the stunning red sandstone used in its construction. It covers a vast area of 254.67 acres, surrounded by defensive walls, and encompasses palaces, halls, geometrical gardens, and an ornate mosque. The Hall of Public Audience and the smaller Hall of Private Audience are notable structures within the complex.

The Gateway of India, Mumbai

The Gateway of India is a bold yellow basalt arch standing 85 feet tall on the waterfront of Mumbai Harbour. It was built to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911 and combines Islamic styles with Gothic and Hindu elements. This iconic structure served as the first welcome to visitors arriving by sea and continues to be a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

Amber Palace (Amber Fort), Jaipur

The Amber Palace, also known as Amber Fort, is a fortified palace built in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I. Situated atop a hillside, it served as the capital of Jaipur and the royal residence of Rajput rulers. The complex blends Hindu and Rajput styles and features the famous Mirror Palace, where the queen could view the stars through a glass ceiling before sleeping. The Hall of Public Audience and the Hall of Pleasure are also notable for their intricate designs and decorations.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

The Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Wind, is a unique five-story structure with 953 intricately designed windows. Built in 1799, it served as a place for royal women to observe street activities while remaining hidden from view. The palace's design exemplifies Rajputana architecture and is one of Jaipur's most popular tourist attractions.

Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), Amritsar

The Harmandir Sahib, commonly known as the Golden Temple, is the main tourist attraction in Amritsar and the most important religious site for Sikhs. The temple complex includes a tank, the Amrit Sarovar, which is believed to have healing powers and is surrounded by a marble walkway. The temple itself is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, with a shimmering golden upper level and a lower level adorned with flower and animal motifs.

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

The Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India, sitting atop a hill overlooking Jodhpur. Built in the mid-15th century, it served as a defensive structure and still bears cannonball imprints on one of its seven entrance gates. The fort houses beautifully decorated palaces and a museum with a rich collection of artefacts. The ramparts offer splendid views of the city below.

Mysore Palace, Mysore

The Mysore Palace is a complex of seven spectacular palaces built by the Wodeyars, who ruled Mysore from 1399 to 1950. The current palace, completed in 1912, blends Muslim, Hindu, Gothic, and Rajput styles of architecture. It features deep pink marble domes, an ivory tower, and an imposing sculpture of the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Gajalakshmi. The palace hosts an annual arts and culture festival, Dashara.

Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad

The Ajanta Caves are rock-cut cave monuments dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves were abandoned around 650 CE and forgotten until they were rediscovered in 1819 by a British hunting party. The well-preserved murals within depict a variety of subjects, including battlefields, sailing ships, city streets, and teeming forests. The isolation of the caves has contributed to the exceptional preservation of their paintings.

Kerala Backwaters

The Kerala Backwaters are a chain of lagoons and lakes running parallel to the Arabian Sea coast in the state of Kerala. This unique ecosystem is home to diverse aquatic life and is renowned for its houseboat tourism, offering a tranquil and popular tourist experience.

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi has a long history, starting as a small shrine in the 7th century AD and growing into a large complex under the Vijayanagara rulers. It is believed to be one of the oldest functioning Hindu temples in India, with an uninterrupted tradition of worship.

Varanasi

Varanasi is a sacred city situated on the banks of the River Ganges and is considered holy by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, epitomising the best and worst aspects of India. The sight of pilgrims performing devotions in the Ganges at sunrise, against the backdrop of ancient temples, is truly impressive.

Travel advice for India

Planning and Safety

Spontaneity is not advised when travelling to India. Plan your trip well in advance to ensure safety and peace of mind. Research the cultural nuances and dos and don'ts to avoid any cultural misunderstandings.

Transportation and Accommodation

Be prepared for problems with transportation and lodging. Consider hiring a travel agency or travelling with an Indian friend who can help you navigate these challenges.

Attractions and Activities

If you're an outdoors enthusiast, there are plenty of hiking opportunities and ancient historical sites to explore. Visit the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad for ancient cave paintings and carvings, or the Elephanta Caves, accessible by ferry from Mumbai. For religious architecture, check out the Palitana and Somnath temples. If you're interested in ruins, the Indus Valley Civilisation site at Dholavira is one of the biggest ever discovered and well worth a visit. For wildlife, head to Gir National Park to see lions, or the Khijadia Bird Sanctuary in January when migratory birds flock there.

Other Considerations

Be mindful of the weather when planning your trip, as some months may be too hot for comfort. Consider visiting during the cooler months like February, when you can also enjoy the cheap local wine at Sula Vineyard.

Transport and accommodation in India

Transport and accommodation are key considerations when planning a wedding in India. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Transport Options:

• Traditional Options: The traditional way to arrive at an Indian wedding is on a ghodi (horse) or an elephant, especially for the groom's procession (baraat). Some couples may also opt for a horse-drawn carriage.
• Luxury Vehicles: Wedding transportation companies in India offer a range of luxury vehicles such as limousines, vintage cars, sports cars, and high-end brands like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Fortuner.
• Air Travel: For a grand entrance, couples can charter helicopter or plane rides to and from the wedding venue, especially if they want to avoid traffic.
• Water Transport: If you're planning a beach wedding, consider including yachts, boats, or cruises for a romantic escape or guest experience.

Transport Vendors:

When choosing a transport vendor, look for companies that offer a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs and style. Some vendors specialise in certain types of transport, while others provide a more comprehensive service. It's advisable to book your transport vendor at least three months in advance to ensure availability.

Accommodation:

When planning accommodation for your wedding guests, consider the following:

• Guest Pick-up and Drop-off: Some transport vendors offer guest transfers from airports, railway stations, or bus stops to the wedding venue and guest accommodations.
• Guest Convenience: Ensure that the guest accommodations are conveniently located near the wedding venue or provide shuttle services for guests.
• Recreational Activities: If your budget allows, consider including recreational activities for your guests, such as a city tour or other local experiences.
• Budgeting: The cost of guest accommodations can be factored into your budget, with options ranging from luxury resorts to more affordable options like golf courses or gardens.

Frequently asked questions