ALL THE COLOURS OF THE RAINBOW

F rom offbeat experiences and inclusive hotels to a gender-neutral local community, here's what can make travel even more enjoyable for members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Words

Priya Kumari Rana

Meet the author

Priya Kumari Rana has been an editor for the last two decades and writes on fashion, travel, food, design, spirits, actors, sportspersons and heritage. She is the founder of the luxury portal LifestyleInsider.co

Instagram: @priya_rana

The pink dollar (the economic affluence of the LGBTQ+ community) makes for a large demographic spend and its power is only on the rise. Its influence is being seen in every sector, including travel. In 2022, Paris was voted as the best city in the world to celebrate the Pride Month (June), followed by Berlin, Stockholm, New York, Madrid and London. In India, the most favoured cities by the LGBTQ+ community are Mumbai, Goa, Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata. But what makes these destinations so popular? Travellers and prominent members from the community say that some countries, cities and even hotels are more inviting and inclusive than others. “For me, a good travel experience is about choosing the right destination, or opting to be a part of a group of like-minded people and selecting places that are LGBTQ+ friendly,” says Zubair Sher Singh Kalsia, manager, content, influencer and advocacy at Diageo India, an HIV advocate and an inveterate traveller.

Travellers from the community say in India, some cities are extremely inclusive, while others, partly so. “I love Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi,” says Kalsia, adding, “In Goa and Kerala, certain areas are very accepting. You have to test the waters in different states. In India, I usually travel with friends or a partner. I have explored offbeat and inclusive homestays with a Bengaluru-based tour group called Out and About. But there are not many of these.”

Among foreigners travelling to India, Rajasthan is not just popular but inclusive as well. “Rajasthan is the most popular among foreign tourists,” says Rajat Singla, owner of Delhi-based travel company Pink Vibgyor, that specialises in trips for LGBTQ+ members. Singla adds many travellers prefer staying in boutique heritage hotels and want to experience local traditions.

In recent times, Pune has also gained favour for its inclusiveness.

North Goa is popular for spaces where there is no discrimination.

Many like Rajasthan, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh.