Experience LGBTQ+ India like never before!
Experience LGBTQ+ India like never before!
Prince & Palaces – Unveiled Tour 2026 Now On Sale!
Following the success of our 2025 Discovery Tour, we’re delighted to launch Prince & Palaces – Unveiled 2026.
This elevated LGBTQ+ journey dives deeper into India’s palaces, history and living culture, with meaningful connections to local queer communities woven throughout. From royal encounters to shared stories on the ground, this is travel with heart – not just highlights.
To celebrate the launch, a limited number of packages are available with an exclusive 30% launch discount.
Discovery Tours
Prince & Palaces LGBTQ+ India Tour 2025
Join us for a journey of royalty, culture, and queer connection.
In a Nutshell
From $427 per person, per day (twin share).
- Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Boutique 3–4 star stays, including a 200-year-old heritage palace
- Exclusive royal lunch with Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil
- LGBTQ+ local guide + hosted by Points of Difference Travel & Events
- Full fare details below – or click here to skip to “tour pricing” FAQ
Exclusively available in Australia through Points of Difference Travel & Events.
Your LGBTQ+ Tour
Overview
A journey of queer heritage, royal grandeur, and soulful connection.
From the spice-scented bazaars of Delhi to the regal lakeside palaces of Udaipur, this hosted LGBTQ+ journey invites you to discover India in ways rarely experienced — through queer stories, royal hospitality, and deeply personal moments of connection.
This hosted LGBTQ+ journey is exclusively available in Australia through Points of Difference Travel & Events, in collaboration with our local partners at Soul of India Tours.
Explore majestic forts, ancient stepwells, and ornate heritage mansions once home to India’s royal families. Ride a 1930s vintage train through the Rajasthani hills, uncover queer histories on foot in Old Delhi, and share space with tribal communities and transgender advocates working for visibility and change.
At the heart of this journey is a rare opportunity: lunch and conversation with Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, India’s first openly gay royal, at his private residence in Rajpipla. His personal story — from closeted prince to outspoken activist — adds a powerful depth to this tour that goes far beyond the typical.
This is not a standard sightseeing itinerary. This is a Discovery Tour — immersive, intentional, and carefully curated for a small group of curious, like-minded travellers.
Inclusions
Twelve days. Eleven nights. Infinite memories.
This is more than a tour — it’s a deeply curated LGBTQ+ journey through India’s most storied cities, guided by community, culture, and connection.
You’ll stay in a handpicked mix of boutique hotels and ornate heritage properties, including a 200-year-old Maharaja’s palace in the heart of Rajasthan. Wake each day to a new adventure: from Delhi’s ancient spice markets to the royal courtyards of Jaipur, from a sunrise at the Taj Mahal to sunset over Lake Pichola.
Along the way, you’ll ride rickshaws through Old Delhi, visit sacred stepwells, meet tribal communities, and learn about the lives of India’s revered Hijra people in a moving visit to a transgender shelter.
Itinerary
While this journey covers a lot of ground, we’ve designed the pace thoughtfully — with several two-night stays to allow time to settle in, explore more deeply, and connect with each destination at your own rhythm. Here’s where you’ll enjoy a second night in the same hotel without needing to pack up and move on.
Day 1 – Monday, 6 October 2025
Arrive in New Delhi, India
Welcome to India!
As you step off the plane and into the swirl of Delhi’s international arrivals, one of our trusted Soul of India Tours team members will be there to greet you — all smiles, holding a placard with your name, and ready to whisk you into the start of your incredible journey.
Whether you’re arriving fresh today or have chosen to add on a pre-tour stay, rest assured your private transfer is included. Our team will take care of everything between the airport and your hotel — both at the beginning and end of your journey.
If you need assistance with pre-cruise arrangements, including transfers, accommodation, tours or airfares, please reach out to us. We’ll be delighted to assist you in starting your trip with something gorgeous!
After check-in, the evening is yours to relax, reset, or explore the local area at your own pace.
Overnight in Delhi: Regent Grand (4-star)
hotelregentindia.com
Note that all hotels are subject to availability and alternatives of similar standard may be substituted.
Day 2 – Tuesday, 7 October 2025
Queer Delhi & Chandni Chowk
Good morning, Delhi! Today we dive headfirst into the energy, history, and heart of India’s capital — starting with a walking tour that lifts the veil on its rich queer heritage.
Led by a proud and passionate member of the local LGBTQ+ community, this is a chance to hear the stories often left out of the guidebooks — truths hidden between monuments, and personal reflections on life, identity, and spiritual journey in a changing India.
You’ll also take in some of Delhi’s most iconic sites, including the mighty Red Fort and the tranquil Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Then it’s time to trade grandeur for grit as we step into the legendary maze of Chandni Chowk — an ant-like tangle of laneways and spice-laced air, where rickshaws jostle and street vendors tempt. We’ll explore bustling food streets and colourful spice markets, including the iconic Paranthe Wali Gali, where bubbling cauldrons of ghee deliver golden-fried parathas stuffed with every imaginable filling.
Expect a day full of insight, colour, and flavour.
🏨 Overnight in Delhi
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 3 – Wednesday, 8 October 2025
Delhi to Agra
After breakfast, we say farewell to Delhi and journey south to Agra — home of the Taj Mahal and one of the jewels of the Mughal Empire.
On arrival, we’ll explore the magnificent Agra Fort, a red sandstone citadel built by the third Mughal emperor, Akbar. Its palaces, halls and courtyards reveal the opulence of imperial life — and the shifting fortunes of emperors past.
Later, we’ll visit Mehtab Bagh, the “Moonlight Garden,” perfectly aligned across the river from the Taj Mahal. As the sun begins to dip, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the Taj reflected in the Yamuna — a breathtaking, tranquil moment to end the day.
🏨 Hotel in Agra The Retreat
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 4 – Thursday, 9 October 2025
Agra to Jaipur via Abhaneri
Rise early — because there is no better time to witness the Taj Mahal than at first light.
As the sun breaks across the horizon, the Taj slowly awakens in a golden glow, her marble facade kissed by the morning light. It’s a moment of stillness, reverence, and undeniable magic. Don’t forget to take that iconic “Lady Diana” photo from her famous seat — a timeless souvenir of your own.
After the visit, return to the hotel for breakfast before checking out and beginning your journey to Jaipur.
En route, we’ll stop at Abhaneri, home to one of the most photogenic and ancient stepwells in India — Chand Baori. With 13 symmetrical tiers and more than 35,000 steps descending into the earth, it’s a breathtaking feat of geometry and design. Built over 1,200 years ago, Chand Baori is even older than the Taj Mahal, and one of the oldest surviving stepwells in the country.
Later in the day, we continue on to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s famed Pink City, where you’ll settle into your hotel for the next two nights.
🏨 Hotel in Jaipur: Hotel Vimal Heritage
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 5 – Friday, 10 October 2025
Jaipur’s Heritage & Community
After breakfast, it’s time to explore the wonders of the Pink City — Jaipur, India’s first planned city and an inspired blend of regal splendour and modern rhythm.
Wandering its laneways and monuments is like donning a well-loved jacket that’s been cleverly updated — it fits with ease, but surprises with something new. Jaipur is a cocktail of past and present: layered, vibrant, and endlessly stylish.
Today’s highlights include a visit to the majestic Amer Fort, a sprawling hilltop palace of marble and sandstone, and the iconic Hawa Mahal, or “Palace of Winds,” with its rose-hued honeycomb façade built for royal women to observe the street below.
We’ll also visit a community-run shelter for transgender people — a powerful opportunity to connect with the lives, stories, and resilience of the Hijra community.
If you’re feeling inspired by the colours of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the perfect place to indulge in a bit of fashion. Whether it’s a tailored kurta, a sharp sherwani, or a bold, beautiful saree, there are options to suit every level of adventurous spirit. And don’t forget — Jaipur is the jewellery capital of India, so a little sparkle might just find its way into your suitcase.
🏨 Overnight Jaipur
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 6 – Saturday, 11 October 2025
Jaipur to Deogarh
Today we trade the urban buzz for rural Rajasthan as we journey westward to the peaceful countryside town of Deogarh.
Your accommodation for the next two nights is nothing short of regal: the magnificent Deogarh Mahal, a 200-year-old heritage palace once home to the ruling Maharajas. With each room uniquely styled in rich colonial design and traditional detail, this palace offers a rare and immersive window into India’s noble past.
The contrast from the bustling cities is instantly palpable — this is a place to exhale, wander at your own pace, and take in the beauty of quiet village life.
After check-in, the remainder of your day is at leisure. You may like to explore the local Deogarh bazaar, stroll through the palace courtyards, or simply take a seat on a shaded terrace and watch the light shift across the Aravalli hills.
🏨 Hotel: Deogarh Mahal – deogarhmahal.com
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 7 – Sunday, 12 October 2025
Deogarh to Udaipur via Phulad
This morning, you’ll board a local train straight out of the 1930s — a charming, rattling relic of a slower time. Over the course of an hour, you’ll chug gently through Rajasthan’s rugged hills and sleepy villages, waving at children from doorways and glimpsing daily life unfolding in the fields.
This isn’t just a ride — it’s a living, breathing connection with India’s rural heart.
Your journey ends in the tiny station of Phulad, where an open-top jeep awaits to whisk you through the countryside and back to Deogarh. After lunch at the palace, it’s time to hit the road again — this time bound for the romantic lake city of Udaipur.
Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” Udaipur welcomes you with its white-washed havelis, serene waters, and majestic palaces.
🏨 Hotel in Udaipur: Vasant Vilas
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 8 – Monday, 13 October 2025
Palaces & Lakes of Udaipur
After breakfast, prepare to be swept into the splendour of Udaipur’s City Palace — an opulent labyrinth of courtyards, balconies, and towers perched along the eastern banks of Lake Pichola.
This is India’s second-largest palace complex, and its grandeur is undeniable. As you wander its mosaic-adorned halls and marble courtyards, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Aravalli hills and the shimmering lake below.
Later, you’ll take to the water on a peaceful boat ride across Lake Pichola, floating past palaces, ghats, and the legendary Lake Palace itself.
In the afternoon, visit the lush Garden of the Maids — a beautifully preserved retreat once reserved for royal women — and stop at a miniature art school, where traditional Rajasthani painting techniques are still kept alive today.
There’s also free time for shopping or simply enjoying the rhythm of Udaipur at your own pace.
🏨 Overnight in Udaipur
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 9 – Tuesday, 14 October 2025
Udaipur to Ahmedabad
Today we journey eastward into the state of Gujarat, trading lakeside palaces for sacred water architecture as we make our way to Ahmedabad.
On arrival, we’ll visit the extraordinary Adalaj Stepwell, a hidden gem set in the quiet village of Adalaj. Built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai, this five-storey marvel of carved stone served not only as a vital water source but also as a spiritual refuge and resting place for travellers and pilgrims.
Its cool, intricately carved chambers and octagonal shaft reveal a stunning fusion of Hindu and Islamic design — an awe-inspiring example of India’s layered architectural heritage.
After the visit, we’ll check in to our hotel and settle in for the night in Gujarat’s largest city.
🏨 Hotel in Ahmedabad: Four Points by Sheraton
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 10 – Wednesday, 15 October 2025
Ahmedabad to Vadodara
After breakfast, we drive to Vadodara, a princely city where art, architecture, and royalty still walk hand-in-hand.
Our highlight today is a visit to the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace — a sprawling Indo-Saracenic masterpiece that’s nearly four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Still home to the royal Gaekwad family, the palace grounds stretch over 700 acres and are alive with peacocks, monkeys, and echoes of regal life.
Built in the late 19th century, the palace fuses Mughal, Hindu, and Gothic architectural elements in an explosion of domes, arches, minarets, and grandeur. The complex also includes the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, home to a striking collection of royal artefacts and paintings by renowned Indian and European artists.
After your palace visit, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure to relax or explore more of Vadodara at your own pace.
🏨 Hotel in Vadodara: Lemon Tree Hotel
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 11 – Thursday, 16 October 2025
Vadodara to Rajpipla (return)
Today offers one of the most extraordinary moments of the tour — a rare and intimate visit with His Royal Highness Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, India’s first openly gay royal.
We’ll travel to Rajpipla, where you’ll be welcomed to the prince’s residence for an unforgettable royal luncheon. As the conversation flows and the food is served, you’ll hear directly from the prince about his journey — from closeted royal heir to global LGBTQ+ advocate and changemaker.
It’s a chance to engage not just with a historical figure, but with a living voice of courage and transformation — all in a regal yet relaxed setting few ever get to experience.
After lunch, we return to Vadodara for the evening.
🏨 Overnight in Vadodara
🍽️ Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner included
Day 12 – Friday, 17 October 2025
Vadodara to Delhi & Onward
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to either Vadodara or Ahmedabad airport for your included domestic flight back to Delhi.
From here, connect to your international flight home — or, if you’d prefer to ease out of India a little more gently, we’re happy to assist with an added night in Delhi to suit your schedule.
If you need help with post-cruise arrangements, including additional accommodation, transfers, tours or flights, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ll be delighted to help you finish your journey on a high.
🍽️ Breakfast included
✈️ Domestic flight to Delhi included
Ready to book now?
Tour priced from $5115 per person (twin share).
Single Supplement just $797.
The Gay Layer
This time, the whole tour is the Gay Layer.
No add-ons, no afterthoughts — this tour is proudly designed by and for the LGBTQ+ community from day one. It’s not something extra. It’s baked in.
Going solo?
If you’re travelling on your own, you’ve got options. We offer a “Share with a Stranger” program where solo travellers can be matched in a twin-share room to avoid the single supplement.
Simply indicate your interest on the booking form, and we’ll do our best to find you a suitable match. You’ll be introduced before committing to share — so there are no surprises.
Prefer your own space? No problem — just add the single supplement ($797) and enjoy a private room throughout the journey.
Accommodation and Hotels
Throughout the tour, you’ll stay in a thoughtfully selected range of hotels designed to immerse you in comfort, character, and cultural connection.
Our accommodation mix includes ornate heritage properties, such as the regal Deogarh Mahal — a 200-year-old palace filled with history and charm — as well as stylish boutique hotels and reliable 3–4 star comfort brands like Lemon Tree and Four Points by Sheraton.
Each property has been chosen for its location, service, and unique atmosphere. Some are family-run and full of local flavour, while others offer more modern comfort and convenience — giving you a well-rounded taste of Indian hospitality.
See our FAQ section for a full listing of all the hotels and website links.
Please note:
- Hotel categories range from 3-star to 4-star standard.
- All rooms are in the base room category, typically with ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.
- Hotel listings are subject to availability and may be substituted with similar quality properties if required.
- Room upgrades may be available on request (subject to availability and additional cost)
Tour Pricing at a Glance
This 12-day tour is priced from $5115 per person (twin share).
A single supplement of $797 applies for solo travellers seeking their own room, or you can opt to “Share with a Stranger” and be matched in a twin share room (subject to availability and compatibility).
Ready to book now?
Tour priced from $5115 per person (twin share)
Single Supplement just $797.
For a visual glimpse into the grandeur of Indian heritage hotels, you might enjoy this video tour of the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Amazing service, with a big smile! Extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Great assistance managing our large and dynamic group needs! Definitely recommend and use again and again! :)
Meet the Gay Prince of India
A trailblazer, an activist, and a symbol of queer courage — Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil made history as the first openly gay royal in India. His personal journey from tradition-bound heir to outspoken LGBTQ+ advocate has inspired millions around the world.
As part of our tour, you’ll not only hear his story — you’ll share a meal with him in his private residence at Hanumanteshwar Palace in Rajpipla. It’s an intimate opportunity to connect, reflect, and be moved by a man whose life bridges royalty and resistance.
“My coming out was not just about me. It was about giving voice to others who felt they couldn’t speak.”
Guest Gallery
Some snaps for previous groups that Soul of India Tours have hosted in the past couple of years. We look forward to capturing our own this year!
Important Information & FAQ’s
Tour Pricing
Fares as at 10 June 2025 and are AUD
Twin Share Price: $5115 per person
Solo Travellers
Single Supplement: $797 in addition to Twin Share fare
Prefer not to pay the supplement? You can opt to “Share with a Stranger” and be matched with another solo guest in a twin room (subject to availability and compatibility). Should a match not be found by the final payment date, the solo supplement will apply.
Pricing Notes
Pricing is based on the current exchange rate (AUD to INR) as of June 2025. Should there be a significant shift in exchange rates, pricing may be adjusted accordingly.
Tour costs are also calculated based on prevailing fuel prices in India. If there is a government-imposed fuel price hike, package costs may be revised.
This is an exclusive tour operated for Australian travellers by Points of Difference Travel & Events, in collaboration with Soul of India Tours. Bookings are only available through Points of Difference Travel & Events as the exclusive agent for Australia.
Booking Information
The Prince & Palaces LGBTQ+ India Tour 2025 is an exclusive hosted group tour operated in collaboration with our local partner, Soul of India Tours. All touring, accommodation, and on-ground arrangements are delivered by Soul of India, while Points of Difference Travel & Events acts as your central booking agent, host, and coordinator — adding our signature “Gay Layer” of hosted experiences, community connection, and attention to detail.
This tour is personally hosted by Adam Bold, Director of Points of Difference Travel & Events, and features special guest Dean Arcuri (aka Frock Hudson), bringing warmth, humour, and a unique sparkle to the journey.
Financial Arrangements
All bookings and payments are facilitated through Savenio, a fully accredited Australian travel agency, with Points of Difference Travel & Events operating proudly as an affiliate.
You will see Savenio listed as the agent on all official financial documents, invoices, and payment receipts.
Please Note:
- Details are correct at the time of publishing. Itinerary, hotel selections, and specific program elements are subject to change based on availability and operational needs.
- A name change fee may apply once your booking is confirmed, particularly where airfares or tour documentation have already been issued.
- Please refer to the relevant FAQ sections for cancellation policies, amendment fees, and participant responsibilities.
Let us know if you need help arranging flights, travel insurance, or a post-tour extension — we’re here to help at every step.
This is an exclusive tour operated for Australian travellers by Points of Difference Travel & Events, in collaboration with Soul of India Tours.
Payment Schedule
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking (payable within 48 hours) to confirm your place on the tour. For solo travellers, an additional $247 is payable at time of booking.
The final balance is due 50 days prior to departure — by 18 August 2025.
All payments are processed via Savenio, with Points of Difference Travel & Events acting as your booking agent and tour host.
Need help with staged payments? Just get in touch — we’re happy to assist with flexible arrangements where possible.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change, but to ensure fairness and protect the viability of the tour, the following cancellation terms apply:
- The 25% deposit is non-refundable in all cases.
- Cancellations made 50 days or more prior to departure: Deposit is retained; no further payment is required.
- Cancellations made within 50 days of departure: 100% cancellation fee applies.
No refunds can be given for unused services once the tour has commenced.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect your investment. Let us know if you’d like a quote — we can arrange this for you quickly and easily.
Changes to Your Booking
We understand that sometimes plans shift — and we’re here to help where we can.
- Name Changes: A name change fee may apply once your booking has been confirmed, particularly where flights or documentation have already been issued.
- Rooming Adjustments: Requests to change from twin share to single (or vice versa) will be accommodated subject to availability. The applicable fare difference will apply.
- Tour Amendments: Changes to dates, extensions, or pre/post-tour arrangements may be possible, but are subject to supplier availability and applicable amendment fees.
All changes must be submitted in writing and confirmed by Points of Difference Travel & Events. We’ll always do our best to assist — and advocate on your behalf with our partners.
Hotel Summary
We’ve handpicked a collection of comfortable, character-filled hotels throughout the journey — a mix of heritage-style properties, boutique stays, and reliable mid-range brands. Where possible, we prioritise heritage hotels — properties with historical charm, often family-run or converted from former royal or colonial homes.
While some of these fall within the 3-star category, they offer a rich and memorable local experience not always captured by the star rating alone.
All accommodations are subject to availability and may be substituted for a similar quality property of equal or greater standard as needed.
Note: Be sure to also read our Inclusions FAQ for details on what’s covered (meals, transport, flights, etc.) throughout the journey.
| Day | Destination | Hotel Name | Star Rating | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Delhi | Hotel Regent Grand | 4-star | hotelregentgrand.com |
| 3 | Agra | The Retreat | 4-star | theretreat.co.in |
| 4-5 | Jaipur | Hotel Vimal Heritage | 3-star (Heritage) | hotelvimalheritage.com |
| 6 | Deogarh | Deogarh Mahal | 4-star | deogarhmahal.com |
| 7-8 | Udaipur | Vasant Vilas | 3-star (Heritage) | vasantvilas.com |
| 9 | Ahmedabad | Four Points by Sheraton | 4-star | marriott.com |
| 10-11 | Vadodara | Lemon Tree Hotel | 4-star | lemontreehotels.com |
Star ratings are based on official classifications and available information as of 2025.
What’s Included in the Tour Price?
Your journey has been thoughtfully packaged to cover all the essentials — plus some truly special extras. Here’s what’s included:
✅ Included:
- Twin-share accommodation in carefully selected hotels (or similar quality alternatives)
- Base category rooms at each hotel
- Daily breakfast starting from Day 2
- Set-menu lunches and dinners from Day 2 onward at selected restaurants
- All airport transfers by private vehicle
- Tour and transport services in an air-conditioned mini bus with professional driver
- Fuel, tolls, parking fees, and all relevant taxes
- Driver’s food and accommodation costs
- Domestic economy-class flight from Vadodara or Ahmedabad to Delhi (Day 12)
- English-speaking private tour guide accompanying the group for the entire tour
- Exclusive lunch with Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil at his residence in Rajpipla
- Local train journey near Deogarh (1930s heritage railway)
- Boat ride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur
- Cycle rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s historic lanes
- Single-entry admission to all monuments and listed experiences in the itinerary
Note: Hotel check-in on Day 1 is available after 2pm. If your flight arrives earlier, you may wish to add an extra pre-night in Delhi. We’re happy to assist with this.
What’s Not Included?
Here’s what’s not covered in the tour cost, so you can plan accordingly:
🚫 Not Included:
- Any paid experiences not listed under “What’s Included”
- Beverages at meals (including soft drinks, coffee/tea, alcohol)
- Bottled water beyond standard daily allowance
- Alcoholic beverages at any time
- International flights to and from India
- Indian visa and related processing fees
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Laundry, personal items, and incidental hotel expenses
- Gratuities and tipping (at your discretion)
- Extra baggage charges for the internal flight
Are airfares included in the tour price?
No — international airfares are not included.
We understand that guests may be flying from different cities and on different schedules, so we’ve excluded airfares to keep your travel flexible. However, we’re more than happy to assist with booking your flights or recommending the best options based on your location and budget.
As a ballpark, return economy fares from Australia to New Delhi typically range from AUD $1,000 to $1,400, depending on airline, route, and timing. Premium Economy fares with full-service airlines such as Singapore Airlines or Cathay Pacific generally start from around AUD $3,300+ return.
Our preferred departure date from Australia is Sunday, 5 October 2025, with most flights arriving into Delhi on Monday, 6 October in time for the tour to begin the following day.
BTW — best fares are usually from Perth! If you’re open to positioning via Western Australia, you could save significantly.
We’re also currently exploring a group airfare solution, which could offer added value and simplicity — subject to minimum numbers.
Need help? Just get in touch. As a full-service travel agency, Points of Difference Travel & Events can manage your flights, extensions, insurance and more — ensuring your journey begins and ends smoothly.
Baggage Allowance
In addition to any allowances for your international flights, please be aware of the following allowances:
- Domestic flight (Vadodara or Ahmedabad to Delhi):
- 15 kg checked baggage
- 7 kg cabin baggage
- Additional baggage fees apply if these limits are exceeded.
- We can advise on fees in due course.
Passport & Visa Requirements
It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have the appropriate visa for entry into India and that their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure from India.
Most Australian passport holders (and many others) will need to obtain an Indian e-Tourist Visa (eTV) in advance of travel. This can be applied for online via the official government website:
We strongly recommend applying at least 4 weeks before departure to avoid any processing delays.
If you’re unsure about your passport validity or visa requirements, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Points of Difference Travel & Events is here to assist with guidance and support to ensure everything is in order before you travel.
Beware of third-party visa websites — only use the official portal linked above to avoid unnecessary fees or potential scams.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that all guests purchase comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking. Travel insurance provides essential protection against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, tour cancellations, lost luggage, or significant disruptions.
In India, private medical care and emergency evacuations can be expensive, and they are not covered by Medicare or most Australian private health funds. A good policy ensures you’re not left out of pocket in the event of illness, injury, or delays.
Make sure your policy includes:
- International medical cover
- Trip cancellation and interruption protection
- Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions (if applicable)
- Lost or delayed baggage
- Optional coverage for travel disruptions or missed connections
As the Australian Government’s SmartTraveller service says:
“If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.”
Need help choosing the right policy? Points of Difference Travel & Events can provide a quick quote and arrange coverage for you in under 10 minutes — just ask.
Ask us about our exclusive 10% discount available to tour guests booking with our preferred travel insurance providers.
What is the current status of LGBTQ+ rights in India?
India has made notable legal strides in recognising LGBTQ+ rights, though significant challenges remain.
- Decriminalisation of Homosexuality: In September 2018, the Supreme Court of India decriminalised consensual same-sex relations by striking down parts of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. This landmark decision affirmed the rights to privacy, dignity, and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals. (ILGA Asia)
- Recognition of Transgender Individuals: In 2014, the Supreme Court recognised transgender people as a ‘third gender’ (also referred to as hijras) in the National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India case. This ruling granted transgender individuals the right to self-identify their gender and access fundamental rights. (UPPCSMagazine)
- Same-Sex Marriage: As of now, same-sex marriages are not legally recognised in India. In 2023, the Supreme Court declined to grant marriage rights to same-sex couples, emphasising that such recognition falls within the legislative domain.
- Adoption Rights: Same-sex couples currently do not have the legal right to adopt children in India.
- Anti-Discrimination Protections: While the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, prohibits discrimination against transgender individuals, there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting individuals based on sexual orientation. (The Revealer)
Social Climate: Despite legal advancements, societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals in India remain mixed. Many LGBTQ+ individuals, especially in rural areas, continue to face stigma, discrimination, and lack of acceptance.