Divine intervention: Why temple weddings fail to lose their magic

Region: Tirupati, Benaras, Madurai

Want to have a simple yet meaningful wedding? Head to the temples of South India. Many South-Indian families opt for kalyan mandapams in Tirupati and Annavaram in Andhra Pradesh and other temples in Tamil Nadu.

In Benaras, temples dotting the ghats of the River Ganges or in the climes of Uttaranchal are a favourite choice by most foreigners seeking an Indian touch to their special day.

Pleasant Days Leading to the Wedding: Most couples who get married in temples, plan interesting funfilled activities such as cricket matches between the bride and groom's family, trekking for the guests who seek adventure and nature trails for the rest, before the actual wedding ceremony.

NOTE: Stay facilities at the kalyan mandapams and temples are basic. Enquiry and bookings can be made through the trust that run these temples. The trust also offers priest service, prasadam or satvik food and floral decorations. For those who seek luxurious options can book accommodation in five-star hotels nearby and buses can be arranged to ferry the guests.