India’s Destination Weddings Fuel a New Tourist Economy

Abhishek Bajaj and Parasha Dhanda met at a friend’s wedding in Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. While they loved the energy and festive mood, they knew only a handful of the 300 guests. So when the couple began planning their own nuptials, they wanted a more intimate atmosphere. Since a wedding at home would have required hundreds or even thousands of guests to satisfy their family and friends, they chose a resort on Phu Quoc island in Vietnam, where they knew fewer people would likely attend.

Going overseas, though, raised some unexpected hurdles: The island didn’t have a horse for Bajaj to ride as part of the baraat—the groom’s lively procession in Hindu celebrations. So they brought one over by ferry and truck from Ho Chi Minh City, 250 miles to the east. And to ensure a sufficiently Indian atmosphere for their 180 guests, they flew in more than two dozen musicians and entertainers. “It was 1,000% the wedding of our dreams,” says Bajaj, a 29-year-old stock trader. “We got to spend time with our guests, and everyone really got to know each other.”