New Delhi: Pre-wedding shoots have moved beyond simple photo sessions to become intimate getaways before the wedding rush begins. Many couples now choose destinations that reflect their personality while offering striking backdrops for timeless portraits. Beaches, temple towns, palace cities and misty hills across South India provide ideal settings for those who want a traditional aesthetic. Stone-carved temples, royal courtyards, serene backwaters and colonial streets beautifully complement sarees, veshtis and classic ethnic ensembles.
These trips also offer a pause from hectic planning schedules, allowing couples to relax, connect and capture natural moments without the pressure of the wedding day timeline. Top locations like heritage ruins in Karnataka to the coastal charm of Tamil Nadu and the tranquil landscapes of Kerala offer diverse yet culturally rich options. Here is a carefully edited guide to the top pre-wedding destinations in South India that promise elegance, authenticity and unforgettable frames.
Best pre-wedding destinations in South India
1. Hampi, Karnataka
Ancient ruins and dramatic rocky landscapes create epic, timeless mood for traditional shoots.
Best pre-wedding locations
- Matanga Hill
- Virupaksha Temple
- Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
- Elephant Stables
- Tungabhadra river banks and coracle rides
- Vijaya Vittala Temple
Top resorts and stays in Hampi
- Heritage Resort Hampi
- Kishkinda Heritage Resort
- Clarks Inn Hampi
2. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Rock-cut temples and coastal views lend classic South Indian charm.
Best pre-wedding locations in Mahabalipuram
- Shore Temple
- Pancha Rathas
- Descent of Ganges relief
- Mahabalipuram Beach
Top resorts and stays in Mahabalipuram
- Ideal Beach Resort
- InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort
- Chariot Beach Resort
- Golden Sun Beach Resort
- The Secret Garden
3. Mysore, Karnataka
Palaces and gardens offer regal and heritage-rich atmosphere.
Best pre-wedding locations in Mysore
- Mysore Palace
- Brindavan Gardens
- Karanji Lake
- Chamundi Hills
- St Philomena’s Church
- Lalitha Mahal Palace
- Rail Museum
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Top resorts and stays in Mysore
- Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel
- Royal Orchid Metropole Mysore
- The Village
- Silent Shores Resort and Spa
4. Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala
Backwaters and houseboats reflect calm, cultural beauty.
Best pre-wedding locations in Alleppey
- Houseboats on backwaters
- Punnamada Lake
- Marari Beach
- Pathiramanal Island
- Krishnapuram Palace
- Andhakaranazhi Beach
Top resorts and stays in Alleppey
- Haven Alleppey Beach Villa
- Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey
- Uday Backwater Resort
5. Munnar, Kerala
Tea estates and misty valleys offer serene, romantic setting.
Best pre-wedding locations in Munnar
- Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
- Sevenmallay Tea Estate
- Pallivasal Tea Garden
- Pothamedu Viewpoint
- Marayoor and Lockhart Gap
Top resorts and stays in Munnar
- Tea County Munnar
- Ragamaya Resort and Spa
- Dew Drops Farm Resorts
6. Pondicherry (French Quarter)
Pastel streets and colonial buildings create unique blend of European and Indian charm.
Best pre-wedding locations in Pondicherry
- White Town streets
- Promenade Beach and Rock Beach
- Café des Arts
- Bharathi Park
- Église de Notre-Dame des Anges
- Immaculate Conception Cathedral
- Serenity Beach
- Paradise Beach
- Auroville
- Chunnambar Boat House
Top resorts and stays in Pondicherry
- Le Pondy Beach Resort
- La Maison Pondichery
- French Rivera, White Town
South India offers a remarkable variety for couples seeking traditional elegance in pre-wedding portraits. Choose a location that reflects your story, plan for permits where required and allow natural surroundings to frame moments that feel authentic and lasting.