A myriad experiences await the gay traveller interested in tackling India’s chaotic charm. The country boasts a fiery cuisine, Mughal and colonial architecture, flamboyant festivals and a diverse heritage.
Enthralled by it all? Read on for 8 experiences you can only enjoy on our India: Holi Festival Foray.
Visit a Bishnoi Village
Kicking off our list is a day spent with the ecologically conscious Bishnoi people. These environmentalists are responsible for the survival of such at risk animals as the Black Buck antelope. Arriving at the village, an elder will brew us a pot of opium tea — it’s legal, we checked 😉 — before he teaches us about their traditional way of life.
An Evening of Dunes and Dance
Journey into Rohet’s desert for an evening of fine food, amazing company and traditional music and dance performances. Our gracious hosts will light a bonfire after sunset while you kick up your feet and enjoy a plush front row seat.
Appreciate the Hindu Stylings of Amer Fort
At the epicentre of Jaipur, high on a hill and overlooking Maota Lake is the eccentric Amer Fort. This opulent building is a masterpiece of red stone and marble fashioned with Hindu embellishments and stylings. We’ll tour her hallways, indulge in her splendour and fantasize of a bygone era when royalty resided within the palace walls.
Connect with a Local LGBT Activist
Dine al fresco with an inspiring local activist, journalist and author. Our charismatic dinner companion will relay us with his experience growing up gay in a country that only decriminalized homosexuality this past September.
Photograph the Pink City
If you think Jaipur is blushing, you’re not wrong. The capital of Rajasthan was completely painted pink in anticipation of Prince Albert’s 1876 India tour. Enjoy her rosy glow on a walking tour through the bazaars and cobblestone alleys as we dodge rickshaws and taxis alike.
Devour Rajasthani Cuisine
Prepare to indulge in an authentic Rajasthani culinary extravaganza. Turmeric will stain your hands, cumin will seep into your hair and the region’s fiery chilies will kiss your lips in a delightfully masochistic manner. Bon Appetite! सुख भोजन!
Witness the Timeless Beauty of the Taj Mahal
In an act of true love, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the Taj Mahal to house the remains of his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal. We’ll enjoy this eternal testament to love twice — at dusk and dawn — ensuring you capture the structure’s beauty in it’s best light.
Slumber in Luxury
Feel like a Maharaja in our joining point hotel. Our gay tour of India features four nights in 4-star hotels and six nights of 5-star hotels. Check out this gorgeous preview of all the hotels and accommodations featured on tour. Your welcome. 😉
Experience the Colours of Holi Festival
India’s Holi is the world’s most vibrant and colourful festival as locals let loose, pelting each other with pigmented powders. We guarantee after a day participating in this unique Spring celebration, you’ll be a sweaty unicorn mess. But one steamy shower later and we’re certain you’ll be singing Holi praises.
Ready to experience India with a group of like-minded gay men? Check out our departure dates, prices and other nitty-gritty details here.
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