Hyderabad has one of the most polarizing skylines in India. On one hand, there’s Old City that’s home to winding spice bazaars and architectural marvels. On the other hand, we have ‘Cyberabad’ a.k.a. HITEC City, its snazzy cousin that’s brimming with pubs, restaurants, and malls. Given India’s traditional outlook, you might be surprised that Hyderabad is the most sexually tolerant Indian city. 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 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 the seventh edition in 2019. Although there isn’t a gay scene, Hyderabad brims with fantastic pubs, lounges, and restaurants those very much welcome LGBTQ people. Moreover, there are numerous organizations like Wajood and Queer Campus which are working towards LGBTQ rights in the city. Additionally, there are lots of events like plays, performances, photography and paintings exhibitions, and poetry readings for the LGBTQ set to express their individuality. Besides this, the city has many architectural wonders to explore, like the stunning Golkonda Fort and Charminar. What’s more, it’s also home to the Nehru Zoological Park, one of the 25 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
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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! 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. Behold the shimmering marble lobby, complete with flowers and soaring pillars. When evening falls, the place is lit up 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 that feature a beautiful pool in a terrace scented by frangipani trees. Right beside it, you’ll find three decadent whirlpool baths 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 even 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.
Lemon Tree Hotel, Gachibowli, Hyderabad
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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 a lot to love about the Lemon Tree Hotel. Firstly, it features a slew of 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.
Park Hyatt Hyderabad
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The Park Hyatt is one of the most exclusive hotels from 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-feet reflecting pool, set off by gleaming marble and lots of original artwork. The temperature-controlled outdoor pool fringed by pink frangipani trees is the hotel’s piece de resistance, 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 usual mod-cons and flourishes of five-star hotels. Bathrooms are havens of hedonism with deep soaking tubs.
Vivanta by Taj Begumpet
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The Vivanta by Taj is one of the best gay friendly hotels in Hyderabad’s upscale Begumpet area. Not only is it a 15-minute drive to Husain Sagar, but also 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 within the hotel, which has one of the best green settings in the city. The outdoor pool is particularly lovely, complete with sun loungers beneath umbrellas and even small water fountains by the side. If you’re a fitness fanatic, then the 24-hour fitness center will suit you nicely. However, it’s the food that’s the highlight here. The restaurant serves Thai specialties which the lounge is well known for serving Pan-Asian, Continental, and Indian cuisine. Rounding it off are the exotic martinis and cocktails it serves! Finally, the tour desk can even arrange for day trips for exploring the town.
Rooms at Vivanta come with views of the city or 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.
The Park Hotel, Hyderabad
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If you want stellar views of the gorgeous Husain Sagar Lake, then the Park Hotel is your best bet. 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.
Taj Falaknuma Palace
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The Taj Falaknuma Palace is the zenith of luxury in Hyderabad. Inspired by the 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 the place you want to stay at 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 the world, with the other owned by the Queen, and it can be used! Another surreal immersive experience is sitting at the 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? Talk about royalty! There’s even a superb library full of antique books, some of which you can even take out and read! 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 which are period, ornate furnishings and balconies with splendid city views.
Hyatt Place Hotel, Hyderabad Banjara Hills
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There’s no better a gay hotel in Hyderabad’s Banjara Hills than the 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 standout feature at the hotel 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 even has a fitness center where you can work out 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.
Taj Deccan
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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 within this modern hotel, which has a bevy of modern facilities. We begin with its crown jewel, the freeform outdoor swimming pool that’s 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 lavish bathrooms, they also have electric kettles, minibars, and flatscreen TVs.
ITC Kakatiya
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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 the most luxurious and compelling gay hotels in Hyderabad. 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 and welcoming entrance foyer is bedecked with 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, complete with a large boulder in the center 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, which has gorgeous furniture and Indian artwork on display. Two Indian destination restaurants and two bars take care of all food and drink cravings. The highlight, however, is the Kaya spa, where the signature massage is a must-try.
The rooms overlook either the pool or the city and boast both hard and soft mattresses, depending on what you need. All amenities are standard, but the pillow menu and turndown service are perks.
The Golkonda Hotel, Hyderabad
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If you’re looking for some 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 one 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, which means you can spend 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. Rounding up the amenities is the Zanzi Bar, where cocktails and nightcaps come recommended.
If you’re impressed by the facilities, then wait till you seem 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.
Trident, Hyderabad
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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 what is 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 and makes 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 just 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, which is 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.
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.
Get Some Culture in Hyderabad:
- Hyderabad Pride: The city’s Pride, known as the Hyderabad Queer Swabhimana Yatra (literally ‘Pride parade’), has gone from strength to strength since it began in 2013. The 2019 Edition was the first one since homosexuality was decriminalized in India. It celebrated sexual diversity and gender variance.
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 of the LGBTQ public.
Best Gay Saunas in Hyderabad:
Hyderabad doesn’t have a gay sauna scene yet, which we’re hoping to see in the future.