The National Geographic chose Kerala to be one of its ‘50 lifetime destinations’. Due to it’s maritime tropical climate (hot and humid!) it is basically one big rainforest. At the heart of Kerala’s beauty is its backwaters. Kumarakom is one of the popular stretches of the backwaters, nestled on the shores of the Vembanad Lake. It is renowned for its lush landscapes and thriving ecosystem. The destination is also known for its bird sanctuary, where migratory birds flock. With its harmonious blend of nature and culture, Kumarakom stands as a testament to the enchanting charm of Kerala's backwaters.

Shivamogga is a city that lies on the banks of the Tunga River. It lies centrally within the Western Ghats - a luscious mountain range that traverses six states across Southern India. As a result, Shivamogga is surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills and backwaters, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and Jog Falls are just some of the ways in which you can explore the local natural beauty. The region is also steeped in ancient tradition and religion, perhaps most famously the renowned Sharada Peetham Temple in the nearby town of Sringeri.

If you are interested in making plans in the local area outside of the wedding period, please do contact us and we would be more than happy to help!

India is a vast country with an enormous range of cultures, histories and landscapes. We have both been visiting India regularly since we were young kids, yet we have barely made a dent in exploring all that India has to offer.

Although India is becoming ever more inter-connected, travelling around will still take planning. We invite you to experience the magical charm that India has to offer, and we would be delighted to help with any recommendations / travel tips to explore the wider country.