A Shout-Out to The Most LGBTQ-Friendly Destinations in India

India is definitely coming out of the closet, and its acceptance for the LGBTQ community is growing with every passing day. More power to the Supreme Court for scrapping Section 377, post which the Indian cities have become more welcoming towards the community. Good news, right? Along with regular people, travellers too are loving this fresh change in mindsets.

Every traveller looks for a safe, fun and welcoming atmosphere while on a trip, and LGBTQ is no different. So, here’s a list of the top cities in India that have their arms wide open for the LGBTQ community!

Mumbai

Popular as the “City of Dreams”, Mumbai is loved not only by domestic, but also by international travellers for numerous reasons. Being one of the most progressive cities in India, it is known as the ‘Gay Capital of India’, and also hosts The Mumbai Queer Film Festival known as ‘KASHISH’ every year in May to celebrate LGBT cinema.

Marine Drive, Gateway of India, and Worli Seaface are some of the most romantic spots in Mumbai for you and your loved one. You can also explore the numerous cafes and hotels here. If you are a night owl, Mumbai’s nightlife won’t disappoint you! You can just enjoy a relaxing holiday with a diverse group of people celebrating life together.

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Delhi

The national capital of India has been one of the very first supporters of LGBTQ rights, and ensured that more voices reach the masses. The Queer Pride Parade in Delhi is held every year, and it is also the very first parade to be held in India, celebrating and honoring lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and queers. From Central Park in Connaught Place to Nehru Park, there are plenty of gay-friendly public gardens where you can just sit back and have fun with your loved one.

Explore the ancient monuments, tombs, forts and other historical places. For amazing pictures with your travel buddy, head over to the Red Fort, India Gate, Humayun’s tomb or the Qutub Minar. Talking about Delhi, how can we not mention the amazing food here? If you don’t try the amazing street food of Chandni Chowk, your Dilli-darshan would remain rather incomplete.

Read More: 7 Secret Places in Delhi

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Goa

Goa is known to be one destination that welcomes everyone irrespective of their sexual preferences. With gay-friendly clubs, laid-back beaches and hotels, all you need to do here is sit by the beach and relax.

Did you know that this city is known as the ‘Party Capital of India’? You can dance till you drop at the amazing clubs here, including Club Cubana, LPK – Waterfront and Cafe Mambos. 

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Pune

With a population mostly comprising of young students, you can expect Pune to be quite chilled out. With hip nightlife, youthful atmosphere and positivity around, your sexual preferences are hardly of consequence here. 

Party like a rockstar at the aa-mazing clubs like Mi-a-Mi in JW Marriott, Penthouze and Publiq! For adventure lovers, there are tons of options like GoKarting, Paintball or a trek to the Sinhaghad Fort.

Read More: 5-Star Hotels in Pune for a Fab Family Holiday

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Bangalore

Known as one of the friendliest cities in India, Bangalore can definitely be on your list of LGBTQ-friendly destinations to visit. With the lesbian motorcycle club, Dykes on Bikes procession taking place in the Bangalore Pride of 2013, for the first time, the city screams of progression. Bangalore Queer Film Festival is also held in the city every year.

Popular as the Garden City of India, Bangalore has a lot to offer to people from different communities. It is one of the most scenic destinations of the country, so you can expect to  take some amazing selfies. Visit the Ulsoor Lake, Butterfly Park, Pyramid Valley and Brigade Road to get the authentic feel of this city.

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Nobody should be restricted from doing what they want to do, be it love or travel. So head over to these amazing places and set your soul free!