Kerala, with its palm tree-filled, serene backwaters, is quickly becoming a favorite for couples seeking a picturesque destination wedding. But how much will it actually cost to get married in the backwater venues in God’s Own Country”?
Here is a reality check, a practical breakdown of what to expect when budgeting for your destination wedding in middle Kerala backwater places like Alleppey, Kochi, and Kumarakom—whether you are planning an intimate affair or a grand celebration. We have sorted it out for you!
Average Cost Range
A 2-day destination backwater wedding in these locations (Kochi, Kumarakom, and Alappuzha) for around 100–150 guests can cost between…
₹10–15 Lakhs (Intimate Wedding—Elegant but Budget-Conscious)
₹20–40 Lakhs (Mid-Range—Stylish with a Few Luxuries)
₹50 Lakhs+ (Luxury Wedding—Premium Venues & Custom Experiences)
Let’s break it down further.
1. Venue & Accommodation – ₹5–25 Lakhs
In Kerala, popular backwater venues located in central Kerala include resorts in Kumarakom, Alleppey, and Kochi.
Many resorts offer wedding packages inclusive of accommodation, meals, and basic décor.Venue Type
Cost per Night (100 guests)
3-Star Resort
₹2–4 Lakhs
4/5-Star Luxury Resort
₹6–12 Lakhs
Houseboat Wedding
₹1.5–3 Lakhs (day use)
2. Catering – ₹400–₹2,500 per plate
Food is a highlight at any Kerala wedding. Choices range from:
- Traditional Kerala Sadya
- Multi-cuisine buffets
Live seafood counters, continental & fusion dishes
Meal Type
Approximate Cost
Traditional Sadya
₹400–₹1,000 per person
Buffet (Veg + Non-Veg)
₹1,500–₹2,500 per person
For 150 guests, expect ₹2–3.5 lakhs total.
Decor & Event Styling – ₹1.5–10 Lakhs
Décor depends on your vision: simple floral setups or extravagant themed evenings.
- Simple Traditional Setup: ₹1.5–3 Lakhs
- Mid-Level Décor (floral, lighting, stage): ₹4–6 Lakhs
High-End Custom Décor (mandaps, backwater setups): ₹8–10 Lakhs+
Photography & Videography – ₹1.5–4 Lakhs
Capturing your special moments is key. For backwater destination weddings:
- Pre-wedding + 2-day coverage: ₹1.5–3 Lakhs
Add-on drone shots or cinematic films: +₹50K–1 Lakh
Makeup & Styling – ₹30K–₹1.5 Lakhs
Bridal makeup packages (including trials, wedding day, and reception) cost ₹30,000–₹80,000.
Groom and family styling can add ₹30K–₹50K more depending on the artist.
Entertainment & Extras – ₹50K–₹5 Lakhs
Live music (Chenda melam, violin, etc.)
- DJ/Band
- Folk dance, fire shows, or Kathakali performances
- Emcee or anchor
Entertainment can be minimal or fully curated depending on your vibe.
Transportation – ₹50K–₹3 Lakhs
This includes:
- Guest pickups (airport/train station)
- Travel to events
- Houseboat rides or curated local experiences
Wedding Planner Fees – ₹1–5 Lakhs
Hiring a local destination wedding planner in Kerala is possible from Kochi city, Alappuzha town, or even Kottayam town for Kumarakom, Alappuzha, and Kochi wedding events; they are highly recommended to coordinate logistics, especially with permits for backwater ceremonies.
Optional Costs to Consider
- Travel for guests (flight/train): ₹5K–₹15K per person (if covering)
- Legal registration of marriage (₹10K–₹30K if you’re marrying legally in Kerala)
- Mehendi artists, guest hampers, or outfit changes
Money-Saving Tips
- Off-season weddings (April–September) can reduce venue rates.
- Choose an all-inclusive resort to simplify and cut costs.
- Opt for local décors and cuisine to reduce imports and logistics.
Final Thoughts
A backwater destination wedding in Kerala can be as affordable or luxurious as you want it to be. With proper planning, you can create a breathtaking celebration for far less than what you’d spend in cities like Mumbai or Delhi.
Whether it’s a backwater coastal event vow exchange or a sunset ceremony on a houseboat, Kerala offers unforgettable beauty without breaking the bank.
