Only three months into this year and two of my classmates are married already. And with weddings being broadcast all over social media, exotic locations have become the norm. And if not a destination wedding, then having a pre-wedding shoot has almost become a mandatory part of the festivities.
With that in mind, we bring you some of the best and lesser-known places for pre-wedding shoots in Karnataka for your big day.
What makes Karnataka the ultimate spot for such gorgeous shoots is its geographical location. The state has a long stretch coast, and beaches are perfect to create that magical effect; then there is the hilly Malenadu region comprising the Western ghats and hill ranges for a perfect forest-themed pre-wedding shoot.
Here are 4 lesser-known places in Karnataka for pre-wedding shoots:
1. Kundapura: Perfect for a beach pre-wedding shoot

Kundapura has some of the best and most incredible arrays of wide beaches the state has to offer. The town is situated in the Udupi district and is connected by all national highways and railways.
The town is surrounded by water on three sides. If you are looking for a place within your spending limit, pick Kundapura for a budget-friendly pre-wedding shoot.

The town is also home to some famous temples. Trasi, Padukone, Maravanthe, and Gangoli are some of the cleanest beaches.

Ideal time to visit: October to March, the weather is pleasant and less humid.
Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport, about 73 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Kundapura Railway Station.
2. Madikeri: For pre-wedding shoot among the hills

Madikeri is a hill town in Karnataka which overlooks an array of forest ranges and paddy fields. It doesn’t get any better than this.
The hill station has some of the state’s most famous coffee estates and is the perfect place for an elegant wedding.

The Raja seat would also be the perfect archway for a newlywed couple to exchange vows, besides a pre-wedding shoot. The town also has waterfalls as a perfect spot for couples to shoot their pre-wedding or newlywed photos.

Ideal time to visit: Summers is the best time to visit Madikeri. December- February sees pleasant weather.
Nearest airport: Mysuru domestic airport, about 121 km away.
Mangaluru International Airport, about 137km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Mysuru Junction, about 95 km away.
3. Mandya: Pre-wedding shoot among the gods
Mandya is home to many temples with amazing architectural value and beautiful stone carvings. If you are looking for a cosmic place to click pictures for your pre-wedding shoot, Mandya is your perfect destination.

The district has five rivers which makes it a great spot for a riverside wedding event. If you and your partner are history buffs, Pandavapura, which has associations with the Mahabharata, is the perfect place.
Ideal time to visit: June to August or October to March has the best weather.
Nearest airports: Mysuru domestic airport, about 41 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Mandya Railway Station.
4. Mandaragiri Hills: Pre-wedding shoot spot for scenic beauty

Mandaragiri Hills is a Jain pilgrimage destination located in the Tumkur district in Karnataka. Imagine having your pre-wedding shoot against the backdrop of the mesmerizing hilltop.

Very close to the hilltop is the lake shore. With a breathtaking view and a serene climate, Mandaragiri Hills could be dubbed the next Lake Como. Virushka who? Start your love story here.
Ideal time to visit: June to August or October to March has the best weather.
Nearest airports: Kempegowda International airport Bengaluru, about 83 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Tumkuru Railway Station, about 12 km away.