Best Couple Retreat Destinations in India for a Romantic Escape
When it comes to love, every journey deserves a destination that deepens connection, slows down time, and creates unforgettable memories. India, with its enchanting mix of landscapes — from serene beaches and rolling hills to colonial towns and quiet islands offers a curated palette of experiences for every kind of couple. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, planning a surprise getaway, or simply seeking to escape the noise, these romantic destinations in India promise the perfect backdrop.
In this Blog
1. Shillong – Misty Hills and Music-Laced Moments
Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong’s charm lies in its pine-scented air, cascading waterfalls, and soulful cafes. The vibe is slow, the skies dramatic, and the romance, unmistakable.
Things to Do:
- Stroll through Ward’s Lake or picnic at Elephant Falls
- Take a scenic drive to Laitlum Canyons
- Explore quaint local cafes with live music evenings
Hidden Gem
A sunset boat ride in Umiam Lake is both cinematic and intimate.
Stay Recommendation
For couples who crave peace with a view of warm wooden interiors and sweeping valley views, this is perfect for misty morning cuddles and candlelit dinners by the fireplace.
2. Landour – Whispering Pines and Old-School Romance
Wrapped in deodar forests and colonial nostalgia, Landour feels like a love letter from the past. It’s ideal for couples who find joy in books, bakeries, and long, quiet walks.
Things to Do in Landour
- Follow the ‘chaar dukaan’ trail and sample hot chocolate
- Enjoy the view from Lal Tibba
- Get lost in bookshops and write postcards to each other
Hidden Gem in Landour
A walk through Kellogg’s Church at dusk is quiet, gothic, and magical.
Stay Recommendation
A cosy wooden stay in Landour, where mornings begin with birdsong and misty views, and evenings end by a warm bonfire — perfect for a peaceful mountain escape.
3. Dalhousie – Colonial Charm in the Lap of the Dhauladhars
A town that moves at its own pace, Dalhousie is where mountain air, colonial architecture, and untouched trails come together. Ideal for couples who want serenity and soul-soothing scenery.
Things to Do in Dalhousie
- Hike up to Dainkund Peak
- Visit the charming churches and heritage spots
- Cafe-hop in Gandhi Chowk
Hidden Gem
Trek together to the mysterious Panjpulla waterfall and spend the day by its side.
Stay Recommendation
8 Oaks, a nearly century-old British bungalow in Dalhousie, rich with history and nestled amidst pine and deodar forests, offering serene views, heritage charm, and a soulful mountain escape.
4. Darjeeling – Tea, Trains, and Timeless Views
Darjeeling’s evergreen beauty is poetic — think fragrant tea gardens, the rhythmic chug of the toy train, and soul-stirring Himalayan views.
Things to Do in Darjeeling
- Watch the sunrise over Kanchenjunga at Tiger Hill
- Sip tea in a colonial-era plantation
- Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway together
Hidden Gem
Take the scenic trail from Ghoom Monastery — less explored, more rewarding.
Stay Recommendation
Perched at 5500 ft in the heart of Darjeeling, Arya Treetops and Tea Trails offers breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, serene tea estate living, and unforgettable experiences like plantation tours and tea-tasting masterclasses.
5. Shimla – Romance Amid Snowflakes and Cedar Trees
Shimla’s wintery charm and winding lanes make it one of India’s most beloved hill retreats. Come for the snow, stay for the stories.
Things to Do in Shimla
- Walk hand in hand on the Mall Road
- Visit the Jakhoo Temple for panoramic views
- Dine at an old colonial café like Wake & Bake
Hidden Gem
Take the heritage toy train to Tara Devi station and have a quiet picnic.
Stay Recommendation
A nature-wrapped sanctuary in Mashobra, Shai Sher Estate is a hillside retreat that blends rustic charm with modern luxury, offering scenic views, al fresco dining, and soul-soothing moments by the bonfire or on serene treks.
6. Varkala – Cliffs, Coastlines, and Ayurvedic Calm
For the beach-loving duo, Varkala is a revelation. Unlike Goa’s bustle, Varkala’s cliffside charm is quiet, spiritual, and soaked in golden light.
Things to Do in Varkala
- Watch sunsets from the North Cliff
- Indulge in couple’s Ayurvedic massages
- Café hop by the edge of the sea
Hidden Gem
Walk down to the black sand beach, untouched and beautiful.
Stay Recommendation
Couples can book a cliffside escape in Varkala, where breathtaking sea views, golden sunsets, and peaceful vibes set the tone for a romantic coastal retreat.
7. Lakshadweep – Love Beyond the Mainland
If the idea of being marooned together on a pristine island excites you, Lakshadweep is your calling. Fewer tourists, crystal-clear waters, and surreal sunsets await.
Things to Do in Lakshadweep
- Go snorkelling or scuba diving together
- Take a private boat to explore nearby islands
- Enjoy a candlelit dinner by the lagoon
Hidden Gem
Visit Agatti Island its serene charm and lack of crowds make it ideal for couples.
Stay Recommendation
Couples can book a secluded island stay in Lakshadweep, where turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and untouched coral reefs create the perfect tropical escape.
8. Haflong – The Hidden Gem of the Northeast
Haflong remains one of India’s most underrated destinations. Rolling green hills, mist-covered valleys, and complete tranquility make it a soulful escape.
Things to Do in Haflong
- Spend a lazy afternoon by Haflong Lake
- Visit ethnic tribal villages
- Trek up to viewpoints to catch the clouds rolling in
Hidden Gem
Take the Silchar-Haflong train — one of India’s most scenic and least known.
Stay Recommendation
Couples can slip away to Haflong for a cosy hilltop retreat, where quiet lakes, misty mornings, and unhurried moments make it feel like time stands still.
9. Pondicherry – French Love Notes by the Bay
Pondicherry feels like a European postcard, cobbled streets, mustard-yellow buildings, and café-lined promenades.
Things to Do in Pondicherry
- Explore the French Quarter hand-in-hand
- Enjoy an al fresco brunch by the beach
- Try pottery or cycling tours together
Hidden Gem
Take a walk along Serenity Beach at dawn — quiet, soft, and magical.
Stay Recommendation
In the heart of the French Capital of India, Chitrita Bhavan is a heritage villa that blends vintage charm with modern comforts — think peaceful sit-outs by a fountain, a cosy library, and games that spark fun-filled evenings.
Planning the Perfect Romantic Getaway – Quick Tips
- Travel Light: Keep your itinerary relaxed and your bags lighter
- Pick the Right Season: Hill stations are best between March and June or October to December
- Stay Somewhere Special: Intimate villas like StayVista’s offer a lot more privacy and character than standard hotels
- Disconnect to Reconnect: Leave behind screens for at least a part of the day
- Add a Surprise: Whether it’s breakfast in bed or a secret plan — small gestures go a long way
Romantic getaways are not just about the place — they’re about the shared laughter, the quiet silences, the little adventures. India offers countless destinations that speak the language of love, but the true magic lies in finding the right stay to match the mood. Whether you crave mountain air or coastal sunsets.
So pack your bags, take that long overdue trip, and let love lead the way.
Image credits banner: igorovsyannykov via wikimedia commons
Written by: Elita Almeida
