Travelling as a queer person is fraught with risks no matter where you go on the planet. From hotels denying admission to harassment and violence by the police and society, members of the LGBTQIA+ community have to do extensive research before booking a stay, particularly if they are travelling with their partners.
Here in India, there are a few places where LGBTQIA+ people can feel safe and welcomed during their travels. Book a stay in any of these seven listings for a worry-free holiday.
The LaLiT Hotels were recognised by the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGTLA) for their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusivity in 2024. The IGLTA Accredited program is a gold standard of assurance for travel brands committed to promoting equality and safety for queer travellers. The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group has also started a "Pure Love" loyalty program for queer travellers to access special privileges at their hotels and restaurants. They currently operate 12 upmarket hotels and two budget-friendly stays (under the "LaLiT Traveller" brand) across India.
You can find a LaLiT hotel in Bengaluru, Bekal, Chandigarh, Goa, Jaipur, Khajuraho, Kolkata, Mangar, Mumbai, New Delhi, Srinagar and Udaipur.
India's first luxury bed-and-breakfast for gay men is located in upscale South Delhi. The accommodation has luxurious bedrooms which are super-stylish, comfortable and adorned with beautiful artwork. Their king-size antique beds give off a truly royal feeling. Check out their one-of-a-kind art gallery where sculptures and paintings from bygone eras will draw your attention.
Room rates start from INR 4,850 per night.
Address: D 3, Greater Kailash Enclave II, Greater Kailash, New Delhi 110048
Owned by a gay couple, The Birdcage in Uttarakhand is your home away from home among the mountain ranges of the Himalayas. The bed-and-breakfast operates seven rooms with inspiring views of the countryside. They serve continental and select Indian delights for breakfast, lunch and dinner, alongside a selection of beer, wine and non-tobacco shisha. They source their food from nearby farms and orchards to ensure freshness.
Room rates for off-season stays start at INR 7,500 per night.
Address: Leti Bunga, Shasbani Market, near Bhatelia, Mukteshwar 263137
Epitomising Indian luxury hospitality, The Leela provides a high-end experience for travellers through their cosy rooms, award-winning dining experience, wellness offerings, and curated displays of paintings, sculptures and crafts from the region they are based in. They welcome travellers from all walks of life and have zero tolerance for workplace discrimination, violence or harassment across their operations.
You can find The Leela in Ashtamudi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Gandhinagar, Gurugram, Jaipur, Kovalam, Mumbai and Udaipur.
This boutique hotel in Udaipur prides itself on being LGBTQIA+ friendly. Situated on the edge of Bujera village in Rajasthan, the accommodation is small, friendly and welcoming. The fort has the feel and atmosphere of an English country house combined with Indian antiques and fabrics. Virtually all the doors and windows were salvaged from the region to create a feeling of being in a centuries-old building. It has a central courtyard with a swimming pool, flower gardens with many secluded areas and fountains, a library, a games table, and a drawing room with a silver grand piano.
Room rates start from INR 20,000 per night.
Address: HJ6J+7X7, Village Bujera, Via Nai, Tehsil Girwa, Udaipur 313031
This LGBTQIA+ friendly stay in Tamil Nadu is a 4-star hotel retreat for business and leisure travellers. They have modern rooms, deluxe suites and apartments with kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi and marble bathrooms. Their conference venue can accommodate nearly 100 people. The Courtyard Chennai has three on-site restaurants specialising in multiple cuisines. Pets are not allowed.
Room rates start from INR 12,236 per night.
Address: 564, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Thiru Vi Ka Kudiyiruppu, Teynampet, Chennai 600018
This branch of The Park Hotels in Bengaluru is a boutique hotel with deluxe, luxury, terrace and premier suites for the discerning traveller. All rooms have a queen-size bed, free Wi-Fi and pretty interiors. Their poolside lounge comes with an al fresco dining experience in addition to an Italian restaurant and bar. Their banquet halls vary in size and cater to weddings, media launches, meetings and conferences.
Room rates start from INR 6,800 per night.
Address: The Park, MG Road, 14/7, Bhaskaran Road, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru 560042