Textiles, Temples & Traditions in India

Namaste! Welcome to India! Your adventure begins in Delhi, India's lively capital.

Your tour starts this evening around 6pm when you will meet with your Tour Leader at the hotel - then head out for your first taste of India with a Welcome Dinner at a Local Restaurant.

Meals Included: Dinner

Start your day with a visit to the National Crafts Museum and get acquainted with the rich and diverse practicing crafts and weaving traditions of India. At present the Museum collection consists of over 29,000 specimens in various crafts acquired over a period of 70 years sourced from various states of India. Following the visit enjoy some lunch at Café Lota.

Continue your day by venturing out to Old Delhi. Wander through alleyways and experience a Cycle Rickshaw Ride through chaotic streets, such as the famous Chandni Chowk. Make a visit to the Jama Masjid, Delhi's oldest mosque and one of its most impressive buildings, then visit the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) to learn about the Sikh religion. After that take a tour to the famous spice market Khari Baoli which is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. This place is crazy and chaotic from the moment the sun rises. As you walk through the market, your senses are sure to be overwhelmed by the intense smell of all the spices. Visit the famous courtyard where these spices are stored, and enjoy some of the best.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, hit the road and make the drive to Agra (approx 4 hours). For lunch we will head to Sheroes Hangout - a café managed by courageous female survivors of acid attacks. This empowering initiative provides survivors with the opportunity to earn a living and engage with others, fostering a supportive community. Join them for coffee and snacks as they share the inspiring story behind Sheroes Hangout and engage in discussions about the challenges surrounding acid attacks in India.

Later in the day visit India's most iconic structure at sunset – the spectacular Taj Mahal. Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century Taj was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife and is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture, surrounded by trimmed English gardens. Meet with a Taj Mahal guide who will illuminate the fascinating history of this world-famous Wonder of the World as you take a tour at sunset.

Beyond its most famous structure, Agra also boasts a marvellous food scene, so tonight, a local expert will join you on a street food tour away from the main tourist trail and help you understand Agra’s cuisine and culture. Stop by a 19th-century shop serving up age-old recipes from the Braj region of India and visit hyperlocal eateries most visitors to Agra never see. You’ll also pass by the incredible Jama Masjid of Agra – one of the largest mosques in India.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning is free at leisure until we hit the road to Jaipur (approx 5 hours).

Jaipur, land of the Rajputs, is an exuberance of colour, dance and traditional arts and crafts. Known, as the ‘Pink City’ due to the vibrant colour of it's buildings, Jaipur (City of Victory) is the state capital and largest city of Rajasthan.

It is home to a wonderful selection of ancient forts and palaces. One of India’s most well planned cities, Jaipur is built in 9 rectangular sectors symbolising 9 divisions of the universe, as per Indian cosmology!

Originally, the buildings were painted in a variety of colours but in 1853 when Prince Albert visited, the old city was painted pink, a traditional colour of welcome. It has remained pink ever since. Arrive and later embark on a leader led walking tour. Walk through the crowded streets packed with cars, camel carts, rickshaws, trucks and bicycles, past traditionally dressed Rajput men wearing colourful turbans and sporting magnificent moustaches.

Included Meals: Breakfast

This morning Enjoy a refreshing ride through Jaipur in your Pink City Rickshaw, canopy down, as you glide through the serene, early-morning streets. Your dedicated rider will meet you at the hotel and take you to witness the mesmerizing morning aarti at Govind Devji Temple, where devotees chant in devotion to Lord Krishna. This 18th- century temple, revered by Jaipur’s erstwhile royal family, remains a spiritual hub for Hindus.

Next, explore the bustling wholesale flower market near Hawa Mahal, where traders in colorful turbans barter over sacks of roses and marigolds. Stop by the iconic Hawa Mahal, a stunning five-story palace from 1799, designed to resemble Lord Krishna’s crown. Pause for a flavorful kulhad chai at Chaura Rasta before heading to Albert Hall Museum, a magnificent Indo-Saracenic structure in Ram Niwas Garden. Finally, return to your hotel for a delightful breakfast, completing a morning steeped in heritage and culture.

Later visit the extravagant Amber Fort – the jewel of Jaipur. Originally the ancient capital of the Kachwaha's clan from 1037 the ancient town of Amber, 12km from Jaipur, is dotted with ancient temples, Havelis, and step wells.

High above the town and surrounded with defensive fortication walls sits the impressive Amber Palace. Built by Raja Man Singh in the early 17th century it houses mighty gates, temples, huge ornate halls, palaces, pavilions, and gardens.

Meals included: Breakfast

Today have a half day excursion to Bagru a village near Jaipur that has made its mark on the textile industry map around the world. We will have a tour of this Handicraft village, visiting workshop centre and learn about the art of Carving on wooden blocks to create unique designs, making of natural dyes, printing on fabric, drying and finally transforming into a textile masterpiece.

Return to Jaipur, with the rest of the day at leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Say Goodbye to Jaipur and drive to Chandelao Garh. (Approx 5 hours journey) On arrival, get your bearings during a walk through the village, then visit Sunder Rang - a project that employs local artisans, mostly women, while keeping traditional craft practices alive. Meaning ‘beautiful colours’, the vibrant pieces crafted by the women at Sunder Rang stand in contrast to the surrounding desert landscapes. More than 30 women are currently employed by Sunder Rang, with an hour of their workdays dedicated to their education. Meet the ladies who work here, browse the beautiful pieces they’ve created and learn about the project’s impact on their lives, their families, and the wider village.

This evening, take some time to explore Chandelao Garh further or relax at your heritage property accommodation.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, we will visit the Sunder Rang Crafts Centre once again for a hands-on experience in embroidery with the talented women of the centre. We will learn Aari Taari embroidery, a needlework technique using gold and silver kasab and threads, typically featured on women's bridal outfits. Additionally, we will explore beadwork and jewelry making, gaining practical experience in these crafts.

The rest of the day is free for leisure and exploring other activities. You might choose to book an Ayurvedic spa treatment (Additional cost) or visit the nearby bazaar in Pipar.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning after breakfast we will drive to Jodhpur (approx 1 hour drive) With a sea of sapphire-blue painted houses and guarded by the gorgeous Mehrangarh Fort, the city of Jodhpur, the second-largest in Rajasthan, is an architectural marvel. A labyrinth of medieval lanes, interspersed with vibrant markets, criss-cross the city, which enjoys a languid pace of life. Jodhpur abounds in antique shops and, according to many locals, has the best lassi in India. Explore the colossal Mehrangarh Fort with a local guide. This 15th century fort sits 125 metres above the city and is one of the largest forts in India. Its beauty and grandeur are reflected in the numerous palaces within, telling tales of skilled Jodhpuri sculptors who carved masterpieces from hard sandstone. Inside the fort, you'll find a series of courtyards and palaces that add to its splendor.

In the afternoon, join your guide for an exploration of Jodhpur's street food scene. The Jodhpur food walk offers a unique blend of sampling popular street foods while strolling through the historic lanes of the old city. The food joints, many of which have been serving delicious fare for generations, enhance the experience. Traditionally, you'll start with sweets, sampling ‘Makhaniya lassi,’ followed by a gentle introduction to ‘Mirchi vada.’ As you explore the Brahmin neighborhood of the ‘Blue City,’ you'll also try other delicacies such as ‘Mawa Kachori,’ ‘Sohan Halva,’ and ‘Pyaz ki Kachori.’ Conclude your walk with a hot cup of Masala chai, discussing your day with your local guide.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Another day in Jodhpur today where we will be exploring local tribes and villages. Head out today for a Bishnoi Village safari which is 30 minutes drive from Jodhpur. The Bishnoi tribe, an eco-conscious community in Rajasthan, is renowned for its deep reverence for nature and wildlife. Founded in the late 15th century by Guru Jambheshwar (also known as Jambhoji), the Bishnoi adhere to 29 principles (Bishnoi translates to "twenty-nine" in Hindi) that emphasize environmental conservation, compassion for all living beings, and a harmonious way of life. We will today have a cultural interaction with the villagers along with exploring their lifestyle, Local cuisine and traditional crafts.

Return to the city by afternoon and later head out on a walking trail for Jodhpur’s Art and Craft. Walk through the gorgeous Blue coloured corridors that mark Brahmin settlement of the old city and explore the alleys of beautiful

Havelis, Temples. Visit the Artisans making the very famous leather shoes of Rajasthan 'Mojari' for a demo. Following it is the traditional Tie & Dye of the state “Bandhani" which is hand-knotted with threads and dipped in dye to make colourful ladies Indian wear. The Lac bangle makers offer a demo of the handmade art and offer to try these Indian accessories for ladies. A stroll through the kite making artist that are famous for crafting these kites for over generations throughout the year and witness the goldsmiths in the city demonstrate their niche of different processes of converting gold piece into an ornament.

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning depart Jodhpur to head to Deogarh, a scenic drive lasting approximately three hours. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the various in-house activities offered by the hotel. In the late afternoon, take a village walk to immerse yourself in the authentic rural life of Deogarh. As evening approaches, embrace the vibrant culture of Rajasthan by dressing in traditional Indian attire, such as the elegant Sari, which will be provided as a souvenir for guests to keep. Gather in the central courtyard and ascend to the terrace for a memorable dinner experience.

Indulge in Rajasthani Tera Taal Dance performances while relishing a delectable meal served in a traditional "Thaal," offering a wide array of dishes carefully curated by the esteemed Rani Sahiba.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Have a relaxing morning at leisure before hitting the road to Udaipur (approx 3 hours drive) - lunch will either be enroute or on arrival in Udaipur.

On arrival in Udaipur, the rest of the day is free at leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we visit Sadhna - a social enterprise established in 1988 that works with over 600 women in low socio- economic neighbourhoods of Udaipur. The women receive vocational training in patchwork, applique, block printing, and Kashmiri tanka embroidery and produce handmade textiles for a boutique clothing label, providing them with economic empowerment and self-condence. This afternoon we visit Ashoka Arts, housed in a beautiful haveli. The Centre’s team of experts will present an informative talk about the history and techniques involved in the intricacies of miniature painting, for which Udaipur is famous. Afterwards, there’s the option to take a class in the basics of miniature painting with a master of this art (additional cost applies) or have free time to relax or explore as you wish.

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning visit the City Palace. This majestic architectural marvel towers over the lake from a hill and is surrounded by crenellated walls. It is a complex of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms, and hanging gardens. The main entrance, the 'Tripolia,' is a triple-arched gate with eight marble porticos.

The rest of the day is free for leisure to explore the city on your own - maybe take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, or book in for an Ayurvedic Massage.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Have some free time in the morning to continue enjoying Udaipur, before being transferred to the airport for your flight to Delhi.

On arrival at Delhi, you will be transferred to the hotel, with the rest of the day free at leisure. There will be a farewell dinner all together.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today brings to an end your Indian adventure - we hope you have had a wonderful time!

Meals included: Breakfast