Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels In Hyderabad

Hyderabad has one of the most polarizing skylines in India. On the one hand, Old City is home to winding spice bazaars and architectural marvels. On the other hand, we have ‘Cyberabad,’ a.k.a. HITEC City, its snazzy cousin brimming with pubs, restaurants, and malls. Given India’s traditional outlook, you might be surprised that Hyderabad is one of the more sexually tolerant Indian cities. What’s more, it’s also the least homophobic of Indian cities. So, while there aren’t any LGBTQ-only hotels, there sure are lots of options for friendly gay hotels in Hyderabad. While many of them are on the luxurious and mid-range side, they’re all wallet-friendly at the same time. Moreover, they all offer top-notch service and will make your stay in the city memorable.

That’s not all; Hyderabad even has its very own Pride and celebrated its eighth edition in November 2022. Although there isn’t a gay scene, Hyderabad brims with fantastic pubs, lounges, and restaurants that welcome LGBTQ people. Moreover, numerous organizations like Wajood and Queer Campus are working towards LGBTQ rights in the city. Additionally, there are many events like plays, performances, photography and paintings exhibitions, and poetry readings for the LGBTQ set to express their individuality. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also the 2018-built Firefly Community, a Hyderabad-based NGO working towards issues related to gender and inclusion.

Besides this, the city has many architectural wonders, like the stunning Golkonda Fort and Charminar. What’s more, it’s also home to the Nehru Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos in the world. So, pack your bags and set out to explore the “City of Pearls.” To that end, here are the top 11 gay-friendly hotels in Hyderabad.

Taj Krishna

11

Best luxurious in Old City. Taj Krishna is the only luxurious one among gay-friendly hotels in Hyderabad close to the Old City, where there are no luxury hotels at all! It’ll appeal immensely to gay travelers and couples who’re looking for a luxurious break in the city. The Banjara Hills hotel is also close to the pub scene at Jubilee Hills, giving you a well-rounded experience of Hyderabad. It’s rare to have a hotel’s showstopper right in the beginning; here, it’s the shimmering marble lobby with flowers and soaring pillars. When evening falls, the place is lit with candles perched on an ornate decorative gold display fringed by marigold petals. Instagram-worthy, isn’t it?

The hotel sits on sprawling, verdant grounds with a beautiful pool on a terrace scented by frangipani trees. You’ll find three decadent whirlpool baths beside it, perfect for soaking after a swim. What’s more, there’s even poolside service for cocktails, making it the best place to lounge on-site. Throughout the gardens, there are gorgeous romantic nooks perfect for candlelit dinners. Besides a fitness room, there’s a small spa and a wonderful jazz bar for nightcaps. While the restaurant is known for good food, it’s the 24/7 breakfast that’s the highlight here, with 136 different options!

Even entry-level rooms with a lovely blue-and-green color palette are lovely here. Apart from a slew of mod-cons, you’ll also find modern bathrooms and pillow menus here.

Check Rates on:

Lemon Tree Hotel, Gachibowli

10

Best for business. If you’re in town on business, then there isn’t a better-located one among other gay-friendly hotels in Hyderabad than the Lemon Tree Hotel, Gachibowli. Located in the heart of the financial district, it’s also a mere 20-minute drive to Jubilee and Banjara Hills, where all the entertainment, shopping, and dining is.

Even though it’s a business hotel, there’s much to love about the Lemon Tree Hotel. Firstly, it features several wellness facilities, beginning with a lovely outdoor swimming pool. With sun loungers and chairs and tables beside, you can not only lounge but also enjoy a bite later. After a swim, a trip to the spa and wellness center is much deserved. If a workout is on your mind, then head to the fitness center. Besides the concierge and 24-hour room service, the property has two restaurants and a bar that serve everything from cocktails to Indian and American cuisine, including a sumptuous breakfast.

The rooms here are equally good. All of them feature electric kettles, flatscreen TVs, and even minibars. Rounding up the features are modern bathrooms that come with all accessories and a shower or a bath.

Check Rates on:

Park Hyatt

9

Best for discerning travelers. The Park Hyatt is one of the most exclusive hotels in the able stable of the Hyatt brand. It’s also one of the most impressive gay hotels in Hyderabad and boasts one of the most spacious digs in the city. Located in Hyderabad’s upmarket Banjara Hills area, the hotel is very close to the amazing gay-friendly pubs and lounges of Jubilee Hills.

The hotel makes a bold statement right from the outset with a stunning water feature and a huge abstract sculpture in its open, towering atrium. The sculpture sits in front of a 130-foot reflecting pool, set off by gleaming marble and lots of original artwork. The hotel’s piece de resistance is the temperature-controlled outdoor pool fringed by pink frangipani trees, complete with city views from the wooden deck. Besides the 24-hour gym and sauna, there’s even a spa where we’d highly recommend the Ultimate Aromatherapy massage. Dining is one of the hotel’s highlights, complete with two restaurants serving lip-smacking Italian and Oriental fare. Topping everything off is a superb breakfast spread, including healthy choices.

Sleek and spacious rooms with wooden floors, plush beds, and foot ottomans make you feel like you’ve arrived somewhere exclusive. Floor-to-ceiling windows aside, the place has all the usual mod-cons and flourishes of five-star hotels. Bathrooms are havens of hedonism with deep soaking tubs, making them the perfect nest for gay couples.

Check Rates on:

Vivanta by Taj Begumpet

8

The Vivanta by Taj is one of the best gay-friendly hotels in Hyderabad’s upscale Begumpet area. It is a 15-minute drive to Husain Sagar, and Jubilee and Banjara Hills’ gay-friendly pubs and nightclubs are no more than 20 minutes away. Plus, you cannot go wrong with the Taj brand of hotels.

A modern facade welcomes you to the hotel, which has one of the best green settings in the city. The outdoor pool is lovely, with sun loungers beneath umbrellas and small water fountains by the side. The 24-hour fitness center will suit you nicely if you’re a fitness fanatic. However, it’s the food that’s the highlight here. The restaurant serves Thai specialties, and the lounge is well known for serving pan-Asian, continental, and Indian cuisine. Rounding it off are the exotic martinis and cocktails. Finally, the tour desk can even arrange for day trips to explore the town.

Rooms at Vivanta come with views of the city, the pool, and a slew of amenities. These include personal safes, minibars, flatscreen TVs, and more. What’s more, all ensuite bathrooms come with rain showers.

Check Rates on:

The Park Hotel

7

The Park Hotel is your best bet if you want stellar views of the gorgeous Husain Sagar Lake. It’s one of the most luxuriously decked-out gay hotels in Hyderabad, whether it’s the hotel or the rooms. To begin with, its facade is inspired by the architecture of Indian palaces and the Nizam of Hyderabad’s legendary jewelry collection. What’s more, its rooms have been designed by top Indian artists and designers, making it a true “design” hotel.

It’s no surprise that such an amazing hotel has equally amazing facilities. For starters, it boasts a fantastic, three-dimensional infinity pool that offers sweeping panoramas of the lake. For a session of unwinding, the Aura Spa offers a range of relaxing treatments and therapies. Three bars and restaurants include not only an all-day dining restaurant but also an ethnic Andhra cuisine one, a poolside dining place, and even a nightclub!

Rooms and suites are themed after the period era of Hyderabad and feature antique glass and Zardozi paintings, four-poster beds, crystal chandeliers, and rich fabrics. Walk-in washrooms are huge, to say the least, and the rooms come with all modern creature comforts too.

Check Rates on:

Taj Falaknuma Palace

6

Taj properties all over India are gay-friendly, like the Taj Exotica Goa, one of Goa’s top gay-friendly hotels, and even the Taj Bengal, one of Kolkata’s top gay-friendly hotels. Hyderabad’s answer to this is the spectacular Taj Falaknuma Palace, the zenith of luxury in Hyderabad. Inspired by Buckingham Palace and the White House, this place was once owned by the Nizam of Hyderabad. Today, this luxurious, gay-friendly hotel on a hill in southwest Hyderabad is where you want to stay if you want to splurge. And with the famous Taj brand helming it, you know you’re in for a grand time.

Falaknuma is a study in period pomp – French Baroque, Japanese Satsuma, and Art Deco make their appearance everywhere. Interesting historic touches include the ivory snooker table in the lounge. It’s one of only two in the world, with the other owned by the Queen, and it can be used! Another surreal immersive experience is sitting at Nizam’s old desk and writing with this onyx quill. Did you know that pink rose petals are strewn at your feet when you arrive? There’s even a superb library full of antique books. Coming back to the 21st century, the hotel has a superb outdoor pool, emerald-manicured gardens, and a heavenly spa. What’s more, the staff will even run fragrant baths as part of the turndown service. Two restaurants serve Indian to Western and everything in between, including a hearty breakfast spread.

Even entry-level rooms are spacious and comfy, complete with vintage roll-top baths and huge rain showers with space for two. If you have deep pockets, go for one of the three ‘Historic’ suites: period, ornate furnishings, and balconies with splendid city views.

Check Rates on:

Hyatt Place Hotel, Banjara Hills

5

There’s no better gay hotel in Hyderabad’s Banjara Hills than Hyatt Place. The snazzy, upscale place oozes 21st-century elegance and is one of the best places to put your feet up in this dynamic neighborhood. The hotel’s standout feature is its rooftop, which features a pool and a poolside restaurant. The huge, rectangular pool is perfect for both laps and a dip, complete with sun loungers on one side and an eye-popping green wall on the other. The poolside restaurant with cabanas is the perfect place to grab a bit after a luxuriating lounge by the pool. It also offers a curated selection of creative cocktails and more.

Begin your day with a fabulous complimentary buffet breakfast at the 24/7 cafe, which serves both local and international fare. The shared lounge and bar aside, the property has a fitness center where you can work to your heart’s content. Rounding up the amenities are facilities like room service and a 24-hour front desk. When it comes to the rooms, you’ll be impressed. Besides modern private bathrooms, all of them feature desks, kettles, fridges, and flatscreen TVs.

Check Rates on:

Taj Deccan

4

If you’re in Hyderabad for a spot of shopping and are looking for a luxurious hotel, then consider the gay-friendly Taj Deccan. This stylishly contemporary hotel from the Taj group lies on the fringes of Banjara Hills, with the GVK Mall right next to it. Plus, the many shopping avenues of Banjara and Jubilee Hills are not more than a 10-minute drive.

After you come back from a thrilling but exhausting shopping spree, you’ll be glad you chose this hotel. An all-white facade ensconced in lush foliage welcomes you to this modern hotel with many modern facilities. We begin with its crown jewel, the freeform outdoor swimming pool surrounded by plush sun loungers and lush greenery. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a laidback evening while watching the sunset. A state-of-the-art fitness center aside, the hotel also features two dining options that are amongst the best in the city. Apart from South Indian delicacies, it also offers a range of world cuisines, including Japanese, Vietnamese and Thai ones!

Warm, wooden floors feel lavish as you enter the spacious and sharply contemporary rooms at the Taj Deccan. Apart from in-room dining and luxurious bathrooms, they also have electric kettles, minibars, and flatscreen TVs.

Check Rates on:

ITC Kakatiya

3

It’s only fitting that one of the most luxurious hotels in Hyderabad bears the name of the dynasty that ruled the region for more than four centuries! Welcome to the ITC Kakatiya, one of Hyderabad’s most luxurious and compelling gay hotels. It lies a mere 10-minute drive from the scenic Husain Sagar Lake and almost midway between HITEC City and Old City.

A light-filled, welcoming entrance foyer has original artwork, floral displays, and cool marble floors. Softening the plush vibe are the soft sofas, which add a homely touch to the surroundings. The swimming pool area is particularly blissful, with a large boulder in the center of a la Hyderabad’s rocky outcrops. It’s shaded by coconut palms and features chairs, tables, and sunbeds. Work out in the fitness room overlooking the pool, with gorgeous furniture and Indian artwork on display. Two Indian destination restaurants and two bars care for all food and drink cravings. The highlight, however, is the Kaya spa, where the signature massage is a must-try.

The rooms overlook the pool or the city and boast hard and soft mattresses, depending on your need. All amenities are standard, but the pillow menu and turndown service are perks.

Check Rates on:

The Golkonda Hotel

2

Best value for money. If you’re looking for mid-range gay-friendly hotels in Hyderabad, then you couldn’t do better than the Golkonda Hotel. Located at Masab Tank smack dab in the heart of Banjara Hills, the hotel is one excellent value in a very good location. Even though it’s a mid-range hotel, the place offers an outdoor pool. In fact, the outdoor pool area is rather lovely and features sun loungers beneath umbrellas for you to relax in. Moreover, the hotel even provides barbeque facilities so that you can enjoy a nice evening grilling by the pool. Besides free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk, the hotel even has two superb restaurants, the Jewel of Nizam and Melange. They serve a range of local and international fare. The Zanzi Bar, where cocktails and nightcaps are recommended, is rounding up the amenities.

If you’re impressed by the facilities, then wait till you see the rooms. Their highlight is the floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of Banjara Hills. Besides modern bathrooms, the rooms also feature tea/coffee-making facilities, minibars, and even cable flatscreen TVs.

Check Rates on:

Trident, Hyderabad

1

The Trident is one of the best overall gay hotels in Hyderabad that you can stay at. Despite a HITEC city location, the hotel overlooks one of Hyderabad’s largest green spaces, Rock Heights Park. So, if you like greener spaces to look out to or take a walk or jog around, then the Trident is perfect.

Service at the Trident is exceptionally good. The fitness room is particularly wonderful, as it’s flooded with natural light, making working out a pleasure. It also has a yoga studio if you want to ditch the regime and try something new. In fact, there are yoga classes every morning next to the infinity-edged pool. But you might want to lounge on the sun loungers next to the 10th-floor infinity pool. The spa is superb and will relax you immediately with its range of treatments. The two restaurants serve all cuisines, but the highlight is the Cigar Lounge, the first in the city.

Triple-glazed rooms keep the digs peaceful, with the floor-to-ceiling windows keeping the sun out and taking the views in. The glass-walled Italian marble bathrooms are sexy, with just drapes separating them from the room. Apart from mod-cons, the automatic blackout blinds, plush beds, and bathtubs infuse enough romantic character into the rooms.

Check Rates on:

Our Verdict!

The Trident Hyderabad is a fabulous hotel, no doubt, but we’ve also curated a specific list of hotels by their best attributes:

• Best value for money: The Golkonda Hotel 
• Best luxurious in Old City: Taj Krishna
• Best for business: Lemon Tree Hotel
• Best for discerning travelers: Park Hyatt 

Just So You Know:

• There are many openly gay groups in Hyderabad that regularly organize meet-ups. It’s one of the few Indian cities where this happens.
• Hyderabad-based D’Kommunitee’s Habitat Inc. is India’s first inclusive living space. It offers single, double, and even triple-sharing co-living space options at reasonable rates.
• The Hyderabad Drag Club held and hosted India’s First Drag Con in 2019, the Hyderabad Drag Con 2019. It was also the very first Indian drag conference and featured many drag performers and artists, such as Sajiv Pasala, Colonge, and Patruni Sastry.
• In 2021, Hyderabad saw its first queer magazine, Queernama, take off. 

Get Some Culture in Hyderabad:

• Hyderabad Pride: The city’s Pride, formally known as the Hyderabad Queer Swabhimana Yatra (literally ‘Pride parade’), has gone from strength to strength since it was first held in 2013. While the 2019 edition drew large crowds, even the 2022 Edition, which happened after a three-year hiatus due to Covid-19, saw as many as 400-600 people participate. The pride event is a safe space for all queer folk and their allies to celebrate together and bring issues faced by the LGBTQ community to the fore.
• Hyderabad Private City Tour with Evening Boat Ride: This full-day memorable tour takes you through alluring Hyderabad and its many attractions. You also get to enjoy local cuisine and spend an evening on a boat on the Husain Sagar lake.

Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Hyderabad:

• Pulse, Country Club: This LGBTQ-friendly club is a famous clubbing destination and hosts many gay parties.
• H2 The Pub, Amrutha Castle: Located within the four-star boutique Amrutha Castle hotel, this pub is also gay-friendly and regularly hosts parties.
• Giggle Water: This speakeasy bar is very welcoming to the LGBTQ public.
• Cafe Rasasvada: This newly-opened queer-friendly cafe frequently hosts queer open mic sessions. The idea and intent are to bring out the hidden art in people and create a safe space for them to perform and show off their skills. In fact, the performances range from erotic poetry and storytelling to drag and music.

Best Gay Saunas in Hyderabad:

Hyderabad doesn’t have a gay sauna scene yet. While the city might not be homophobic, it’s still slightly more conservative than other Indian metro cities. But we’re hoping to see gay saunas pop up in a big way in the future.