Travelling, in general, is quite a tedious task, from booking hotels to finding landmarks and attractive tourist places. It can only become more difficult once you identify yourself as an openly LGBTQ+ person.
While India is no stranger to the LGBTQ+ community, it sure is a slow progressor and will take time for the entire country to join hands in the field. Safety is one of the greatest things we look for when we travel. It is usually followed by a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
In the same sense, people from the LGBTQ+ community look for the same protection and enjoyment when they travel. Here are a couple of destinations within India that welcome the community with open arms.
Mumbai:
It’s no shocker that Mumbai is on the list, lovingly known as the “city of dreams” and the “gay capital of India”. The place is well loved by both domestic as well as international visitors for its diversity, vibrancy and inclusivity.
Furthermore, it gives you the true India feel with multiple street food joints. It boasts restaurants and bars that can get you in the feel-good vibe. Also, the weather makes for some pit stops at the beach to watch a sunset.
You can visit these places:
The Ghetto – it’s a lit bar!
Hard Rock Cafe
Blue Frog pub
Gateway of India
Mumbai Sea Link or The Marine Drive for a scenic sunset
The Capital of India was one of the first to become vocal about the LGBTQ+ community, the city and its youngsters will treat you about the same as they would any other tourist. You can visit places in both Old and New Delhi. While Old Delhi boasts historic places and architecture, New Delhi will give you a great sense of nightlife. Also, shopping!
You can visit these places:
India Gate – you’ll want the cliche pictures once you get there!
Humayun’s tomb, Qutub Minar, Red Fort
Hauz Khas Village and the infamous Chandini Chowk
Kitty Su – one of THE most LGBT friendly bars, it even showcases Drag!
You already knew it was going to be on the list. In India, Goa is the largest and most visited place. This makes it a welcoming state irrespective of your sex or sexual identity. You won’t have any issues in finding a stay, looking for bars or restaurants. You can enjoy both extremes of adventurous and party filled nights or just calming strolls on the multiple beaches. People of Goa are very open-minded, thanks to its constant tourist crowd. Furthermore, you can be as affectionate as you want without getting the “look”.
You can visit these places:
Panjim and Baga beach
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Aguada Fort
Love Passion Karma – a waterfront club
SINQ
Cafe Continga
Courtesy – Holidify
Bengaluru:
Also known as the Pub Hub of India, Bengaluru boasts it’s nightlife like no other metropolitan city. You can find new restaurants and breweries around every nook and corner. However, the only downside to the town is its horrid traffic, but thanks to the Metro as well as the multitude of transport options available like Uber, Ola and Rapido, you’re good to go!
You can visit these places:
The Hummingtree
Pink Sky Bar
Ulsoor Lake
Cubbon Park
Literally anywhere on M.G Road, Brigade Road or our personal favourite: Church Street
Monkey Bar – Indiranagar, Bangalore Courtesy – Fab Hotels
Rishikesh:
Rishikesh is the yoga capital of the world, which of course, sees a lot of footfalls in a year. This makes the city very welcoming to all kinds of people. Rishikesh is a must visit for those who want a serene vacation. The people of Moksha believe that they can be attained through meditation and by dipping themselves in the Holy River that flows through. However, when and if you do make a visit, make sure you aren’t very public with your affection. Rishikesh is a holy place, so couples, regardless of sexuality, should avoid public display of affection. Thus, you must keep in mind the cultural and local sensitivities.
