Despite ongoing debates on legalizing same-sex marriage, India has emerged as an unexpected gem for LGBTQ+ travelers. With its vibrant culture, deep history, and evolving inclusivity, the country is proving that acceptance goes beyond legislation. A recent survey found that 91% of LGBTQ+ travelers worldwide prioritize safety when choosing a destination, and India is making significant progress in creating a more inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community.
As a result, India’s ranking in global LGBTQ+ travel safety has improved considerably. According to the 2024 Gay Travel Index compiled by the Berlin-based International Spartacus Gay Guide, India now ranks 44th out of 213 countries and territories, marking a substantial improvement from its previous position of 82nd among 150 countries in the 2021 LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index.
As acceptance and visibility improve, India’s LGBTQ+ tourism sector is evolving into a promising economic opportunity. Businesses are recognizing the potential of inclusive travel experiences, catering to both domestic and international queer travelers. This shift aligns with the global LGBTQ+ tourism market, which is projected to be worth USD 357 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 604.34 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8%. Another estimate suggests the market could reach USD 634.9 billion by 2033, up from USD 296.8 billion in 2023, with a CAGR of 7.9% from 2024 to 2033.
India is poised to tap into this expansion. Its LGBTQ+ tourism sector is emerging as a high-potential market, driven by legal reforms and increased inclusivity in the travel industry. The country’s LGBTQIA+ population is estimated at approximately 140 million, representing a significant and largely untapped market for the travel and hospitality sector. According to the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), India has made notable progress in fostering a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ travelers, further solidifying its place in the global tourism economy.
The shift is not just statistical—it’s cultural. From the bustling streets of Mumbai, where pride marches spill into the city’s nightlife, to the serene shores of Pondicherry, where LGBTQ+ travelers find acceptance in quiet luxury, India is rewriting its tourism narrative. Now,India’s rise as an LGBTQ+ travel hub is fueled by a mix of legal progress, industry adaptation, and cultural richness. Unlike destinations where LGBTQ+ tourism is driven solely by legal protections, India offers something different—an experience rooted in tradition, spirituality, and a newfound openness.
Why queer people love to travel to India?,
India is fast becoming a favorite destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, offering a unique mix of cultural inclusivity, vibrant nightlife, and deep historical significance. Many queer tourists find India welcoming and respectful, with a strong sense of community making their travels enjoyable. The thriving queer nightlife scene in cities like Mumbai and Delhi provides safe spaces for self-expression, from underground parties to LGBTQ+-friendly clubs and events. Beyond urban life, India’s heritage and spirituality draw travelers seeking meaningful experiences—places like Auroville and Varanasi are known for their openness and tranquility.
The country’s rich festivals, growing LGBTQ+-friendly hospitality sector, and improved Gay Travel Index ranking further reinforce its reputation as an inclusive travel hub. Businesses like Indjapink, Pink Escapes, and LGBT Tourism India offer tailored experiences, ensuring safety and comfort for queer travelers. Whether celebrating Holi in Jaipur, exploring Pondicherry’s coastal charm, or immersing in Delhi’s queer spaces, India continues to redefine itself as a destination that embraces diversity and belonging.
Indian Companies Fostering an Inclusive Environment
In India, domestic businesses have recognized the importance of catering to LGBTQ+ travelers. Several companies are actively shaping the LGBTQ+-friendly tourism market, including:
Indjapink, Pink Escapes, Pink Vibgyor, and LGBT Tourism India, offering experiences ranging from high-end luxury to budget-conscious backpacking.
These agencies have reported annual growth rates of 15–20%, reflecting strong demand for culturally sensitive travel options.
Additionally:
The Hosteller, a well-known backpacker hostel chain, has seen a growing number of LGBTQ+ guests choosing its properties as bases for exploring India’s diversity.
Luxury travel firms like Abercrombie & Kent report increasing acceptance among high-end clientele, particularly from North America and Europe, who are eager to experience India’s vibrant festivals like Holi and explore destinations beyond the well-trodden north—particularly the southern regions.
Hotels and resorts are increasingly recognizing the importance of being visibly inclusive. Chains like The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, known for their LGBTQ+-friendly initiatives (like Kitty Su), have seen business benefits. Boutique stays catering specifically to gay men, like Mister and Art House in Delhi, are also emerging.
India is emerging as a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers due to a combination of factors, including a growing urban LGBTQ+ scene, the decriminalization of same-sex relations, and increasing visibility of LGBTQ+ issues and Pride celebrations.
LGBTQ+ Travel's Contribution to India’s Pink Economy,
The pink economy, also known as the rainbow economy, refers to the economic influence of the LGBTQ+ community, including their purchasing power, employment contributions, and market demand. In India, the LGBTQ+ population is estimated at 135–140 million, with a purchasing power of approximately $168 billion. This sector spans industries like fashion, entertainment, healthcare, and tourism, creating significant economic opportunities.
Globally, the LGBTQ+ travel market is valued at $4.7 trillion, with Asia’s share at $1.1 trillion. India’s domestic tourism potential is substantial, and businesses are increasingly tapping into this market. Thailand’s success as a gay-friendly destination has significantly boosted its tourism sector, and India is adopting similar strategies to generate revenue from LGBTQ+ tourism.
Beyond tourism, welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers fosters a more inclusive image, which attracts talent, drives innovation, and contributes to overall economic growth. The pink economy in India, estimated at $168 billion (as of early 2025), has the potential to expand across various industries, including tourism.
Economic Contributions of LGBTQ+ Tourism:
LGBTQ+ travelers inject revenue into the tourism and hospitality sectors, foster the growth of inclusive businesses, enhance India’s global reputation as a diverse and welcoming destination, and act as a catalyst for broader LGBTQ+ inclusion and economic empowerment.
Additionally, LGBTQ+ travelers—especially international ones—often have higher disposable incomes and are more likely to spend on premium accommodations, high-end dining, and luxury experiences, boosting revenue for hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and tourism-related businesses. Their diverse travel patterns—gay cruises, pride festivals, LGBTQ+ weddings and honeymoons, adventure tourism, nightlife, and heritage tourism—further diversify revenue streams across multiple industries.
Indirect Contributions to Economic Growth:
LGBTQ+ travelers engage in diverse travel patterns for example gay cruises, pride festivals, LGBTQ+ wedding and honeymoon destinations, adventure travel, nightlife, and heritage tourism, diversifying the revenue streams for the industry.
LGBTQ+ tourism is also creating inclusive work environments and employment opportunities, contributing to India’s broader economic development. The rise of LGBTQ+-friendly travel has spurred job creation in hospitality, event planning, and tour operations. Small businesses that previously relied on online platforms are now expanding, with ventures like drag discos and LGBTQ+-friendly hotel apps (e.g., Stay Uncle, Oyo Rooms) gaining traction.
Government Initiatives to improve lgbtq+ tourism,
Significant government actions have bolstered India’s appeal as an LGBTQ+ travel destination. The 2018 Supreme Court decriminalization of Section 377 was a landmark step, removing legal barriers and boosting confidence among queer travelers. In 2019, the Ministry of Tourism launched a campaign to promote India as a safe and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ visitors, with ongoing efforts to integrate inclusivity into tourism plans.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is also advancing broader welfare and rights for the LGBTQ+ community through schemes and high-level committees examining queer entitlements. Partnerships with organizations like IGLTA further signal India’s commitment to inclusivity. Despite these strides, challenges remain in ensuring the sector reaches its full potential.
Challenges and the Road Ahead,
While LGBTQ+ tourism is growing, the rapid commercialization of the market raises concerns. One challenge is 'Pinkwashing'—where businesses market themselves as LGBTQ+-friendly primarily for profit without meaningful inclusion efforts such as internal policies, employee support, or advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Travelers are increasingly seeking authenticity and looking for businesses that genuinely promote inclusivity.
Additionally, although decriminalization was a crucial step, the lack of full legal recognition for same-sex relationships and other LGBTQ+ rights still creates limitations and affects the sense of security for some travelers.
India’s LGBTQ+ tourism industry is at a turning point, with strong economic potential and increasing acceptance. As businesses, policymakers, and communities work together, the country can establish itself as a truly inclusive global travel destination.
References:
https://www.dw.com/en/lgbtq-tourism-on-the-rise-in-india/a-72645261
https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/lgbtq-tourism-on-the-rise-in-india-a-growing-market-embraces-inclusivity-and-diversity/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/lgbt-tourism-market-expected-reach-us-5685-billion-2030-pramod-singh/
Research & Analytics | Ministry of Tourism | Government of India
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