Mandap Wedding Guide: Meaning, Decoration Ideas & How to Hire One in the UK
Your complete guide to mandaps – from their cultural significance to decoration inspiration, costs and where to hire one for your UK wedding
If you're planning a Hindu or Asian wedding, the mandap is one of the most important - and beautiful - elements of the ceremony.
But what is a mandap exactly, and how do you choose the right one for your celebration?
Whether you're dreaming of a floral wonderland or a minimalist modern setup, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about mandap weddings, from decoration ideas to mandap hire and costs in the UK.
If you're still in planning mode, we've also got a round up of the best Asian wedding planners to support you.
What is a mandap?
A mandap is a traditional structure used in Hindu and some Jain, Sikh and South Indian wedding ceremonies.
Typically consisting of four pillars and a canopy, the mandap acts as a sacred space where the couple and their families take part in important rituals such as the pheras (circling the sacred fire) and the kanyadaan (giving away of the bride).
The four pillars of the mandap are often said to represent the couple’s parents or the four goals of life in Hinduism - dharma, artha, kama, and moksha.
While traditional mandaps were constructed from wood and adorned with marigolds, modern weddings often feature a range of mandap decorations, from fresh flowers and crystals to acrylic or fabric designs.
Learn more about Hindu wedding ceremonies here.
Mandap Decoration Ideas and Themes
Whether you're going for a classic look or something contemporary, there's no shortage of mandap decoration inspiration to make your wedding ceremony feel personal and unforgettable.
Need some visual ideas? Take a look at these stunning wedding mandap pictures from real weddings and Hitched suppliers.
Traditional Floral Mandaps
Floral mandaps are a timeless favourite. Think cascading garlands of jasmine and marigolds, paired with lush greenery and soft drapery.
These mandaps work beautifully for both indoor and outdoor weddings, adding colour, fragrance and romance to the setting.
White & Pink Floral Mandap
This gorgeous mandap at Rutland Hall has been decorated with soft pink and white flowers.
Colourful Floral Mandap
We love how bright and beautiful this mandap is at De Vere Wokefield Estate - the bold floral blooms add a cheerful colour pop.
Dark Red Mandap
We adore this dramatic, romantic mandap at Ragley Hall, decorated with dark red flowers and greenery.
Elaborate Floral Mandap
We’ve never seen so many stunning roses! How beautiful is this rose adorned mandap at Rutland Hall?
Engraved Mandap
Those who prefer a more simple set up will love this engraved mandap, decorated simply with greenery and white flowers, also at Rutland Hall.
Round Mandap
Use your mandap as the focal point for an incredible display. Be inspired by this wedding at Easthampstead Park, with a beautiful backdrop and floral arch.
Outdoor Mandap
Dazzle your guests with an incredible, abundant display of florals - take inspiration from this outdoor mandap at De Vere Wokefield Estate.
Mandap Ceremony Set Up
If you have the weather for it, an outdoor mandap is beautiful - we can’t get enough of this gorgeous mandap set up at Easthampstead Park.
Spiral Floral Mandap
How regal is this traditional mandap by Glitz Entertainment & Decor?
Rainbow Floral Mandap
You’d be grinning like these two are if you got to stand under this beautiful, rainbow floral mandap at The Elvetham.
Glamorous Red Mandap
We love how the flowers really pop in this beautiful mandap ceremony set up at Winstanley House.
Traditional Mandap
This traditional style mandap by Rani & Rose features deep red roses and sheer red curtains.
Rudraksha Mandap
We’re simply blown away by the beauty of this mandap by Glitz Entertainment & Decor.
Square Style Mandap
Another striking structure by Glitz Entertainment & Decor, this square mandap features gorgeous, autumnal inspired decor.
Pretty Pink Mandap
Couples who love pink will fall head over heels for this white and pink mandap at De Vere Wokefield Estate.
Autumnal Mandap
This traditional mandap at Winstanley House evokes autumn vibes due to the rich and vibrant orange flowers used to decorate it.
Wooden Mandaps
A wooden mandap offers a rustic, regal feel - ideal for couples looking to honour tradition with a stylish twist.
Carved wooden pillars, intricate detailing and warm tones give this style a classic and grounded look.
Wooden Mandap
This wooden mandap at Shearsby Bath is minimal and chic - ideal for couples who want a more modern mandap style.
Wooden Outdoor Mandap
Wooden mandaps work well for outdoor ceremonies - check out this beautiful one at Ragley Hall.
Fabric and Draped Mandaps
For a softer, romantic aesthetic, opt for a fabric-draped mandap.
Using chiffon, silk or velvet in your chosen colour palette, these mandaps can be customised with fairy lights, hanging florals or crystals for extra drama.
Mandap with Draped Fabric
Wedding drapes are a huge trend - and they work perfectly with mandaps! Be inspired by this stylish set up by Blue Door Weddings.
White Fabric Mandap
This simple white mandap at Luton Hoo is adored with fabric and decorated with modern floral arrangements.
Mandap with Drapes
This simple mandap structure has been decorated by Rani & Rose with draped fabric and fresh flowers, for a stylish and trend-led look.
Mandap with Curtains
This sleek, contemporary mandap by BusyBrides is finished with elegantly gathered curtains at each corner.
Outdoor Mandap with Drapes
This beautiful outdoor mandap by Rani & Rose features artfully draped pink voile fabric, which complements the pink flower decorations perfectly.
Acrylic & Modern Designs
Couples planning a more contemporary wedding might love a clear acrylic mandap.
These sleek, minimalist structures can be styled with floating flowers, geometric features or neon signage to bring your modern vision to life.
Contemporary White Mandap
This white mandap at Kew Gardens has a really modern feel due to the simple white frame and the hanging flowers.
Boho Style Mandap
If you want a more modern take when it comes to your mandap, be inspired by this one at the Manor of Groves Hotel. The boho style flowers give it a fresh, contemporary feel.
Gold Framed Mandap
Add a luxe feel to your mandap by choosing one with a modern gold frame - we adore this one by Rani & Rose.
Red & Gold Mandap
Rani & Rose are total pros at mandap styling - especially for couples who want a modern feel. We love this gold mandap, styled with red flowers.
Gold Mandap with Bright Florals
The clean, structural lines of this gold mandap at Cambridge Marina contrast beautifully with the bright, colourful flowers.
Pastel Pink Mandap
The simple structure of this gold mandap at Winstanley House is perfectly paired with romantic pink flowers.
Silver-Toned Mandap
This beautiful silvery mandap at the Manor of Groves Hotel feels really modern and sleek, while still retaining some beautiful traditional details.
Hitched tip: Match your mandap colours and style with your wedding attire and floral arrangements for a cohesive aesthetic throughout the day.
Mandap Hire: What You Need to Know
If you’re not building your own, mandap hire is a practical and popular choice - and there are plenty of brilliant suppliers across the UK.
What’s included in a mandap hire package?
Most wedding mandap hire services include:
- The mandap structure (pillars and canopy)
- Drapery and basic decoration
- Set-up and dismantling
- Delivery and collection
- Optional extras like flowers, stage, seating, lighting and carpet
Some vendors also offer full-service styling, including floristry, lighting, and coordination with your venue.
How much does a mandap cost in the UK?
So, how much does a mandap cost? Prices vary depending on the style, location, and level of customisation. We've put together a rough guide, but it's best to check with your chosen vendors for clarity:
| Type of Mandap | Average Cost (UK) |
|---|---|
| Basic Fabric Mandap | £800 – £1,200 |
| Floral-Heavy Setup | £1,500 – £3,000 |
| Luxury Custom Mandap | £3,000 – £6,000+ |
Factors affecting cost include:
- Size of the mandap and stage
- Real vs artificial flowers
- Delivery distance and setup logistics
- Additional decor or lighting
- Seasonal availability
Hitched tip: Booking early and bundling your mandap with other decor elements (like table centrepieces or aisle decor) may help reduce overall costs.
What is a mandap?
A mandap is a sacred structure used in Hindu and South Asian weddings where key religious rituals take place.
Can I customise a mandap?
Absolutely. You can customise everything from the materials and colours to the florals and lighting.
Can I hire a mandap for a non-Hindu wedding?
You can, but ensure you’re doing it for the right reasons - some couples choose to incorporate mandap-style structures into fusion or multicultural ceremonies.
How early should I book a mandap?
Ideally at least 9-12 months before your wedding, especially if you’re planning a summer or peak-season date.
How is a mandap different from a chuppah?
A mandap is used in Hindu ceremonies and typically includes four pillars and a canopy.
A chuppah is part of Jewish weddings and has different symbolic meanings, though the visual structures can be similar.
Whether you’re planning a traditional Hindu wedding or a modern multicultural celebration, the mandap is more than just a decorative structure - it’s a sacred, symbolic space where one of life’s most beautiful milestones begins.
Still in full planning mode? Discover the best Asian wedding venues in the UK here.
