Jewels of India Gay Cultural Tour

Day 1: Arrival – Delhi

Upon arrival in Delhi, a guide will meet you at the airport, and escort you to our elegant hotel. There are no activities or meals planned for today. You can rest in your sumptuous quarters, take a walk to shake off the jet lag, hit the pool, or relax and rest for our gay India tour.

Day 2: Delhi

Our journey today kicks off in Delhi with an orientation tour of New Delhi. Starting with a magnificent 16th century UNESCO World Heritage Site – Humayun’s Tomb. This was commissioned by the widow of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, it is an outstanding monument built in the same Indo-Persian style. This was a one of a kind monument which was commissioned by a woman for her husband.

Next, we will visit Gandhi Smriti. This is where Mahatma Gandhi spent his last days before his assassination. Dedicated to the life of the Mahatma, the Gandhi Smriti formerly the estate of the Birla family is a great way to understand the teachings and philosophy of Gandhi. It also gives one a glimpse into the simple life he led.

From here, we will drive past the iconic India Gate and Rajpath. This war memorial, surrounded by lush green lawns, is a popular relaxation area. Nearby, you’ll find the majestic buildings of the Indian Parliament and Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Residence).

We will then continue on to Old Delhi with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques, a magnificent structure of red sandstone and marble crafted by over 5,000 artisans. Next, we will immerse ourselves in Chandni Chowk, Asia’s largest wholesale market—a bustling labyrinth of shops, bazaars, and vibrant street life. We will drive past the iconic Red Fort, a 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, and visit Raj Ghat, a simple yet poignant memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Tonight we will enjoy our welcome dinner.

Day 3: Delhi – Khajuraho

This morning we will fly to Khajuraho.

Khajuraho was once the citadel of the Chandela dynasty, and is renowned for its breath-taking temples, built between 950-1050 CE. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, these temples are divided into three groups: Eastern, Western, and Southern. While globally famous for their erotic sculptures, the temples of Khajuraho offer a rich tapestry of art, history, and culture beyond their sensuality.

Upon arrival in Khajuraho, we will drive to The Lalit hotel for lunch.

After lunch, we will visit The Western, Southern and Eastern Group temples, which are a masterclass in sculpture and storytelling. Khajuraho’s temples captivate with intricate erotic sculptures and soaring spires, epitomizing Chandela artistry. The Temples, quieter and Jain-influenced, reflect spiritual simplicity and delicate carvings. Take a tour through the temples within the Western Group to see the wonderful creations of the Chandela rulers and the finest examples of the Nagara style of temple architecture in India. Other temples that you will visit within this complex include the Lakshmana Temple, Devi Jagdambi Temple, Vishwanath Temple, and Chitragupta Temple.

Day 4: Khajuraho

This morning is free to relax or enjoy the resort facilities. This afternoon, we will drive to Panna National Park, for an afternoon safari. Panna National Park is spread over an area of 543 Sq km along the banks of river Ken. The park was the former shooting reserves of the erstwhile royal state of Panna and Chhattarpur. Though Tiger sighting is always a matter of chance, expect regular sightings of animals like Leopard, Wolf and Gharial. Herds of Blue Bulls, Chinkaras and Sambars are a common sight. The park can probably boast of the highest density of the Paradise Fly-Catchers. This rich avian and faunal life combined with its picturesque scenery make a visit to the Park a memorable one.

Day 5: Khajuraho – Agra

Enjoy another morning at the resort or with some independent exploration. This afternoon we will make the journey from Khajuraho to Agra via train.

Agra’s history is steeped in the pomp and pageantry of the great Mughal Empire. It was here that three legendary emperors—Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan—transformed the city into a celebrated center for art, culture, and commerce. Today, the city is still renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, including stunning marble inlay work, intricate gold thread embroidery, and fine leather goods.

Day 6: Agra

We will awaken early this morning for a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, so we can personally witness the changing hues reflecting the gradually brighter sunlight. This mythic structure with its history of romance and survival from the ravages of various marauders threatens to underwhelm visitors who have lived in the shadow of its hype. But its symmetry, its purity, its whiteness, the elegance of its curves, and the majesty of its size and silhouette can still surprise and astound visitors. It is easy to understand why it was selected as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Later in the day, we will also visit the Agra Fort, which evolved during the reigns of three Mughal Emperors. Here we can witness the contrast of the stern red sandstone citadel raised by Akbar with the lavishly beautiful shimmering white palaces built by Shah Jahan.

This afternoon, we will embark on an exclusive, unique guided walk. This is our chance to discover a different side of Agra, one that most guidebooks miss. Cross the Yamuna river to explore lesser-known monuments and pleasure gardens that pre-date the Taj Mahal itself. Highlights include the Rambagh, a beautiful pleasure garden built by the first Mughal emperor, Babur, the Gyarah Sidi (11 Steps) used for early star gazing, and the stunning tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, a magnificent pre-Taj monument often referred to as the “Baby Taj.” This walk offers a rare glimpse into the city’s rich history and the daily life of its friendly residents.

Days 7: Agra – Jaipur

This morning we will drive (flights are no longer available) to the colorful city of Jaipur. Jaipur is called the Pink City because most of its buildings are of sandstone. It was chosen by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (1693-1743) for its capital, and it is still the vibrant capital of the desert state of Rajasthan. Surrounded on all sides by rugged hills, crowned with forts and enclosed by embattled walls, Jaipur is a must-see for travelers to India.

The Old City, the actual Pink City, is a great place to wander around. Maharaja Man Singh II had the whole city painted pink when the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, visited Jaipur in 1876. Today, every home within the old city is obliged by law to maintain this facade. Fabulous, tall houses with latticed windows line the narrow streets of the old city, their rose-pink color lending enchantment to a scene that is almost magical at sunset.

We will enjoy a fabulous dinner this evening at Mohan Mahal, known for its elegant ambiance and exquisite Rajasthani cuisine.

Days 8: Jaipur

The day will begin with a visit to City Palace, a remarkable fusion of Rajput, Mughal, European, and traditional Indian design. This grand complex houses palaces, pavilions, museums, temples, and the Sawai Man Singh II Museum, home to royal portraits, costumes, weaponry, and ceremonial regalia. Highlights include Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, and the vibrantly painted seasonal doorways—beloved backdrops for photo enthusiasts.

A short walk away lies Jantar Mantar, the famed astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features a collection of sophisticated instruments once used to study celestial movements and timekeeping— a testament to Jaipur’s historic patronage of science.

Later, we will visit Amber Fort, the former capital of Jaipur’s rulers, built by Maharaja Man Singh in the 17th century. Surrounded by fortified walls and overlooking Moat Lake, the fort reveals exquisite frescoes, precious stone inlays, and the dazzling Sheesh Mahal, where mirrors reflect a single flame into endless light. Ascend by jeep and explore the majestic courtyards on foot.

We will return to the hotel to freshen up and prepare for the evening.

As the evening draws in, proceed on a unique exploration of the city immersing in the elegance of Rajputana culture, where the timeless traditions of the Rajputs come to life. For the Rajput warriors, jeeps and a fine glass of liquor are more than passions—they symbolize their rich heritage and enduring spirit. On this unforgettable night safari, explore Jaipur’s architectural marvels under the starlit sky. Feel the rush of wind in your hair as you pass by Jaipur’s iconic landmarks, each aglow with royal grandeur, evoking the city’s regal past.

No evening steeped in Rajputana tradition is complete without sampling the region’s royal legacy—heritage liquor. In the past, Rajput royal families crafted their own exquisite liquors, preserving secret recipes passed down through generations. We’ll take you to the ancestral home of one such noble family, where you’ll enjoy a special heritage liquor-tasting session, paired with local snacks. From this vantage point, soak in breathtaking views of Jaipur’s old city and its glowing monuments, adding a layer of romance to the evening.

The evening continues with a visit to a contemporary bar in the city, where master mixologists create innovative cocktails using these heritage liquors—blending tradition with modern flair for a truly unique tasting experience.

Day 9: Jaipur – Holi celebration

We have timed our tour so that we may celebrate the Holi Festival of Colors in Jaipur. Holi is considered to be the day of friendship when in keeping with the spirit of the day, people forget petty enmities and renew their friendship. It’s also the day when people toss powder of various bright colors on their friends to celebrate the day. We will have the honor of enjoying the festivities with a local family.

Join in the festive spirit by playfully throwing vibrant hues, sharing traditional sweets, and laughing with your hosts. This celebration is a true feast for the senses, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of happiness, friendship, and new beginnings.

Days 10: Jaipur – Mumbai

Mid-morning we will fly to Mumbai. Mumbai is a city of dreams, the glamour of the movie world, the razors edge of the skyscrapers to the mainland of the harbor, people here come from diverse ethnic backgrounds yet nurture the dream of success, their undying spirit adds color and flavor to this multicultural city. A throbbing, cosmopolitan metropolis, it still retains the glory of the past, the colonial legacy that coexists with the Maratha influence. Still considered as the heart of business India, Mumbai houses the country’s vibrant Stock Exchange.

Upon arrival in Mumbai we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

This afternoon, we will explore the main sights of Mumbai starting with a photo stop at dhobi ghats, the massive outdoor laundry site where dhobhi wallahs (laundry workers) beat, wring, iron and code millions of pieces of laundry daily. Drive along Marine Drive, the sea – Front Boulevard, also known as the Queen’s Necklace as in the evening, the streetlights on this U-shaped road light up, the view from south Bombay’s skyscrapers or from the exclusive residential area, is that of a Queen’s Necklace. Next visit Prince of Wales Museum. Built in gothic and Moorish architecture, it boasts of a significant collection of Indus valley artefacts some of them dating back to more than 5000 years. Most impressive are the miniature paintings – nearly 2000 of them, from various stylistic schools of India. We will end the tour driving past some of Mumbai’s most prominent landmarks and iconic buildings like the Asiatic Library, St. Thomas Cathedral, and the famous Rajabai Clock Tower as we tour the historic Fort district.

Days 11: Mumbai

After a leisurely breakfast, we will be taken on a specially curated full-day “Queer Tour”. Queer’s Day Out is a unique experience – which includes a full day of flirting with various aspects that frame Queer lives of persons in the city. It will start with the question ‘What makes Bombay Queer?’ and will involve journeys to various spots across South Bombay to find the answer, while experiencing the dynamic Queer culture of Bombay. Or as Queer folk here call it—Bomgay!

Tonight, we will gather for a farewell dinner at Ziya, the award-winning restaurant. Ziya is celebrated for its inventive approach to modern Indian cuisine, all crafted by renowned Michelin-starred Chef Vineet Bhatia.

Day 12: Farewell

Today we will say our goodbyes. Enjoy breakfast and your transfer to the airport home or onto our extensions.

See the Extensions tab for more touring in Varanasi and Kathmandu before/after the trip!

Tours are subject to change due to availability, weather, traffic, and other factors out of our control. We do our best to delivery all items listed, but occasionally activities need to be cancelled or completed out of order.