At a glance
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Our group trips are a great chance to travel with others. We also recommend adding in a few extra nights tailor-made to ensure you build the perfect itinerary.
India is a land of glistening natural and cultural gems. From temples to tigers, to the Taj Mahal, there is so much to discover. The country is one of the world’s largest, and as such, travelers can often feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of opportunities for unforgettable travel. The Jewels Of India Group Trip has been designed to maximize your time in the country, and ensure that you get the chance to experience everything that makes India such a unique location.
Traveling with a group of LGBTQ+ individuals, you’ll visit the sprawling cities of Dehli, Agra, and Jaipur with interval stops at some of the country’s more relaxed destinations. Throughout your trip, you’ll stay in five-star luxury accommodation and can rest assured that no detail will be left unattended by our fantastic LGBTQ+ travel experts.
More Information
India’s LGBTQ+ rights landscape shifted significantly in 2018 when the Supreme Court struck down Section 377, a colonial-era law that had criminalized homosexual activity since 1861. The ruling was a landmark moment and was met with celebrations in cities across the country. Same-sex marriage is not yet legally recognized, and a Supreme Court ruling in 2023 declined to extend marriage rights, leaving that decision to parliament. Legal protections against discrimination remain limited compared to more progressive destinations.
In practice, the experience of LGBTQ+ travel in India varies enormously depending on where you are. Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore have established gay scenes, host Pride celebrations that draw significant crowds, and operate with a degree of openness that would have been difficult to imagine a decade ago.
The luxury travel circuit, the palace hotels of Rajasthan, the heritage properties of Kerala, the five-star hotels of the major cities, is generally welcoming and discreet in equal measure.
Public displays of affection are inadvisable outside the most cosmopolitan urban environments, and attitudes in rural areas remain conservative. India rewards LGBTQ+ travelers who go in with clear expectations and an itinerary built by specialists who understand the nuances on the ground.
Please ask us about dates
- Airport transfers
- Ground transportation
- Accommodation with breakfast
- Five lunches and seven dinners
- International flights
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners not described as being included
In detail
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Day 1-3 Mumbai
After breakfast, embark on our unique “Queer Tour” in vibrant Mumbai, exploring various aspects of queer life in the city. Discover what makes Bombay Queer, or as locals call it, “Bomgay.” Mumbai, once part of Catherine of Braganza’s dowry to Charles II of England, is India’s bustling hub known for its Bollywood spirit. Explore its seven historic islands, fishing colonies, and enjoy a welcome dinner.
The following morning, embark on a city tour of Mumbai, visiting the Gateway to India and the Prince of Wales Museum with its impressive collection, including Indus Valley artifacts and miniature paintings. Explore the Dhobi Ghats, an open-air laundry, and Mani Bhawan, Gandhi’s former residence.
Later, fly to Udaipur, one of India’s most romantic cities, nestled around clear blue lakes. Stay at an 18th-century palace in Delwara, Aravali Hills, where past meets future in its 39 luxury suites. This heritage property blends contemporary design with local materials and offers personalized service for a 21st-century Indian experience.
Day 3-5 Udaipur
After a seven-hour journey through the countryside of Rajasthan, you’ll arrive in Udaipur. The city is one of the most romantic places in India and is mesmerizingly surrounded by beautiful shimmering lakes. You’ll spend your time exploring the city where you will visit the City Palace and take a boat ride on Lake Pichola. On the last night, you will have a farewell dinner, no doubt with plenty of amazing experiences to reflect on. Best-known for its stunning peacock mosaics and wall paintings, Udaipur is the ideal place to end your tour of India, and perfectly encapsulates the unique charm and beauty of this extraordinary country.
Day 5-8 Jaipur
Jaipur was one of the first examples in the world of city planning. The 250-year-old settlement is a breathtaking blend of forts, palaces, and teeming markets. Known as the pink city for its characteristic pink sandstone, it’s arguably the most colorful city in the world, and is where you’ll visit the Maharaja’s walled palace, the old city, and the Jantar Mantar observatory. No trip to Jaipur would be complete without a tour of the Amber Fort, and it’s here that you’ll participate in the colorful festivities of the Hindu Holi festival.
Day 8-9 Agra
After arriving in Agra you’ll enjoy a whistle-stop tour of the Mughal temples that line many of the city’s most bustling streets before setting off from the hotel for the unique opportunity of experiencing the Mughal Heritage Trail under the guidance of a local expert. The highlight of Agra is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal, yet there are plenty of other reasons to visit Agra, and it’s here that your group will be able to enjoy the intoxicating collection of markets and temples that are characteristic of the region.
Day 10 Delhi
For travelers in the 19th century who spent their lives trading on the ancient silk route, Delhi was often the first promise of shelter, food, and business after crossing the indomitable Himalayan Mountains. Today, despite having been transformed by British occupation, the city remains a melting pot of cultures. You will be met at the airport before being escorted to your hotel where you will check in and meet the rest of the group. You’ll then be free to spend the rest of the day relaxing at your leisure. During your time in Delhi you’ll explore both the city’s old and new districts, where you’ll tour iconic sites including the Red Fort and Qutub Minar.
Why book with us?
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We want to ensure you have the best experience with us so we’ll keep working on your itinerary until perfect. You will have your own personal dedicated member of our team who will help build a trip that is bespoke to you.
Call our travel experts on +44 (0)20 7157 1570
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