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India is unlike any country we know of (and we literally know the world). Opulence and wonder await at every turn, from the mesmerizing beauty of Jaipur to the tremendous Taj Mahal. It’s colourful and chaotic. Shocking and sublime. And if you really want to say you’ve seen the world, it’s probably the one place you can’t pass up.
In 2018, India’s Supreme Court decriminalized homosexuality. The watershed moment over-turned a 2013 ruling that called gay sex an ‘unnatural offence’. Meanwhile, a 2014 ruling recognized a third gender (hijra). While these are all massive steps forward for a traditionally homophobic country, the general opinion surrounding LGBT rights still tends to be very negative. Local LGBT people tend to be very discreet.
Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Gay Marriage: Not Legal
Right to Change Gender: Legal, but requires surgery. A unique third gender is used in official documentation.
Same-Sex Adoption: Pending
LGBT Discrimination: No Protections
Gay life in India is concentrated in Mumbai & Delhi, but there are no official LGBT venues in the entire nation…the second most populous on Earth! LGBT travellers should avoid all public displays of affection for everyone’s safety and security. If you are joining an Out Adventures’ tour, please note our guides and accommodations support our community, and have our best interests in mind.
There are no gay villages in India.
Delhi Queer Pride: Annually in November
Mumbai Pride: Annually December/January
We are unaware of any gay bars in India.
We are unaware of any lesbian bars in India.
Constructed in the mid-13th century by Odishan king Narashimhade, this soaring structure dedicated to the Sun God will take your breath away.
Lavish palaces, courtyards and gardens define this extraordinary city. City Palace in particular is an example of India’s incredible history, wealth and beauty.
Topping nearly every 7 Wonders list, the Taj Mahal has mystified and seduced millions of travellers. Be sure to witness her splendour at sunrise or sunset.
The Pink City got its name after a fresh coat of red paint was added to every building in anticipation of King Edward VII’s visit in 1876. The city still retains its rosy glow and is a popular destination among visitors.
India’s capital is a dichotomy of ancient and modern. Historic structures and palaces stand alongside skyscrapers. India’s famous bazaars are as chaotic as the city’s modern shopping malls. Meanwhile, the dangerous streets are cluttered with both rusty rickshaws and slick new cars. Most travellers need a few days to adjust to the pulsing tempo of Delhi.
Best Time to Visit: India – and specifically Rajasthan – is worth visiting between October and March. The nights are cooler, and the humidity less oppressive, but the real sweet spot is in February (when we visit). That’s when daily highs peak out at 27C/80F, with evenings lows around 16C/61F.
Electricity: C-, D-, and M-type sockets
Time Zone: IST (UTC+05:30)
Covid-19 Vaccination Requirements: Out Adventures requires proof of full Covid-19 vaccination from all guests, following recommendations by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more details please see our Covid-19 FAQ.
Other Vaccinations: Based on entry requirements, no other vaccinations are needed for entry unless you are travelling to India from a country affected by Yellow Fever, in which case you are required to show proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, consult with your doctor or a travel medical clinic.
Visas: A visa is required for most nationalities, and can be obtained online here.
LGBT Rights in India
In 2018, India’s Supreme Court decriminalized homosexuality. The watershed moment over-turned a 2013 ruling that called gay sex an ‘unnatural offence’. Meanwhile, a 2014 ruling recognized a third gender (hijra). While these are all massive steps forward for a traditionally homophobic country, the general opinion surrounding LGBT rights still tends to be very negative. Local LGBT people tend to be very discreet.
Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Gay Marriage: Not Legal
Right to Change Gender: Legal, but requires surgery. A unique third gender is used in official documentation.
Same-Sex Adoption: Pending
LGBT Discrimination: No Protections
Gay India Travel
Gay life in India is concentrated in Mumbai & Delhi, but there are no official LGBT venues in the entire nation…the second most populous on Earth! LGBT travellers should avoid all public displays of affection for everyone’s safety and security. If you are joining an Out Adventures’ tour, please note our guides and accommodations support our community, and have our best interests in mind.
There are no gay villages in India.
Delhi Queer Pride: Annually in November
Mumbai Pride: Annually December/January
We are unaware of any gay bars in India.
We are unaware of any lesbian bars in India.
Best Places to Visit in India
Constructed in the mid-13th century by Odishan king Narashimhade, this soaring structure dedicated to the Sun God will take your breath away.
Lavish palaces, courtyards and gardens define this extraordinary city. City Palace in particular is an example of India’s incredible history, wealth and beauty.
Topping nearly every 7 Wonders list, the Taj Mahal has mystified and seduced millions of travellers. Be sure to witness her splendour at sunrise or sunset.
The Pink City got its name after a fresh coat of red paint was added to every building in anticipation of King Edward VII’s visit in 1876. The city still retains its rosy glow and is a popular destination among visitors.
India’s capital is a dichotomy of ancient and modern. Historic structures and palaces stand alongside skyscrapers. India’s famous bazaars are as chaotic as the city’s modern shopping malls. Meanwhile, the dangerous streets are cluttered with both rusty rickshaws and slick new cars. Most travellers need a few days to adjust to the pulsing tempo of Delhi.
More Info
Best Time to Visit: India – and specifically Rajasthan – is worth visiting between October and March. The nights are cooler, and the humidity less oppressive, but the real sweet spot is in February (when we visit). That’s when daily highs peak out at 27C/80F, with evenings lows around 16C/61F.
Electricity: C-, D-, and M-type sockets
Time Zone: IST (UTC+05:30)
Covid-19 Vaccination Requirements: Out Adventures requires proof of full Covid-19 vaccination from all guests, following recommendations by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more details please see our Covid-19 FAQ.
Other Vaccinations: Based on entry requirements, no other vaccinations are needed for entry unless you are travelling to India from a country affected by Yellow Fever, in which case you are required to show proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, consult with your doctor or a travel medical clinic.
Visas: A visa is required for most nationalities, and can be obtained online here.
In 2009, India’s supreme courts decriminalized homosexuality only to reinstate it in 2013. Today, they’ve decriminalized it again.
Read MoreOut Adventures’ gay guide to Rajasthan’s colourful capital Jaipur.
Read MoreTime to spill some tea: Pride is *not* the world’s most colourful celebration. That honour belongs to Holi, the Hindu Festival of Spring.
Read More8 unique experiences gay travellers will enjoy on Out Adventures’ India: Holi Festival Foray.
Read MoreEnjoy luxurious hotels on a gay tour of India with Out Adventures. From award winning heritage hotel to could-be palaces excuding colonial elegance.
Read MoreToo many highlights to list. I loved Taj Mahal but also loved meandering through the crowds in the old towns. Amazing.
