LGBTQ Tourism in India: INDIA IS AHEAD OF SRI LANKA DEALING WITH LGBTQ+ RECOGNITION AND TOURISM

India, long known for its cultural diversity, is now carving a place for itself as an emerging LGBTQ+ tourism destination.

- KKS PERERA

With legal reforms, shifting public attitudes, and a growing number of businesses catering specifically to LGBTQ+ travellers, the country is steadily positioning itself as a safe and rewarding holiday choice for Queer visitors.

India's struggle with LGBTQ rights has been one of the most dramatic legal and social transformations of the past two decades. While the country still stops short of granting full marriage equality, the progress achieved-largely through the judiciary rather than parliament-marks a significant departure from its colonial past. Challenges remain: homophobia and transphobia are still present in parts of society, and India does not yet recognise samesex marriage. But businesses, activists, and international networks are filling the gaps, creating a more welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ visitors.

Legal Landscape: Rights but No Marriage

Same-sex relations are legal, and courts recognise LGBTQ couples as "live-in partners," a limited but important step toward family recognition. Marriage, civil unions, and common-law status, however, remain out of reach. The Supreme Court's Deepika Singh v. CAT ruling in 2022 broadened the definition of "family" to include LGBTQ partners, offering some social security rights. Yet same-sex marriages - even when performed in Hindu ceremonies - remain legally unregistered.

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 gave transgender Indians the constitutional right to self-identify, obtain government IDs reflecting their gender, and access state benefits. Several states provide additional support, including housing, pensions, and free surgeries, particularly for hijras, South Asia's traditional third gender. According to the 2011 Census, about 480,000 transgender people live in India, though activists say the number is far higher.

Ancient Traditions and Colonial Shadows