The decriminalization of homosexuality in India in 2009 has brought about a huge boom in the gay India travel market. A number of gay-owned travel agencies have opened up to meet the needs of gay and lesbian tourists who want to experience India. These companies arrange exclusively gay tours to places all over India, with popular cultural destinations including Khajuraho (erotic temples), Varanasi, Goa, and Kerala. Staff at hotels and resorts where gay visitors stay, drivers, and tour guides are all trained to treat gay guests normally and respectfully, in the same manner they would straight guests.
IndjaPink
IndjaPink was the first gay travel agency to be set up in India, in 2009. Its founder is Delhi's gay fashion designer Sanjay Malhotra. The travel agency offers customized and intimate luxury tours in India for gay men. It charges $350-550 per night per person or couple depending on the package. Weddings and honeymoons are also arranged, and there are group tours to various destinations in India as well. A highlight is Sanjay's themed "Manescape" tours. Sanjay has future plans to build an exclusively gay resort as well.
GoPink Asia
Another gay-owned tour operator catering solely to gay men, GoPink Asia aims to bring together gay men (and their families and friends) from different cultures and continents on tours with a gay flair. The tours are pre-planned and have set dates. There are a wide range of options including everything from healing tours to party tours. Prices are reasonable.
Out Journeys
Out Journeys is an India-based travel agent with both gay male and lesbian clientele. The company offers a diverse range of services, including both independent and group tours at affordable rates. In addition, they facilitate interaction between the gay and lesbian community by arranging get-togethers, parties or visits to gay-only bars in major cities of India. The owners pride themselves on attention to detail and having personally handpicked every driver, guide, and escort.
Pink Vibgyor
Pink Vibgyor is an offshoot of established travel company Vibgyor, which has been in business for over 10 years. It offers a range of experiences for gay men and lesbian travelers. Organized tours are inexpensive and have an eco-friendly focus wherever possible. A highlight is the special Nirvana Buddha Trail tour, which visits the important Buddhist sites in India. The company also organises gay wedding, honeymoons, and surrogacy.
Sita Tours and Travels
Sita Tours and Travels is a major player in the Indian tourism market and has been in business for almost 50 years. The company specializes in unique, authentic and sustainable travel experiences for individuals and small groups to India. It's working with an international tour operator for the gay and lesbian segment of the market. Tours are gay friendly.
