ACTIVITY LEVEL: Low

Come join The Continental Drifter® Founder Ralph Velasco for a customized, small-group tour of India.

Starting in Jodhpur, also known as the blue city, we’ll take in the very best of Pushkar, Jaipur, Agra, and India’s capital, Delhi, concentrating on the colorful and extremely diverse Rajasthan region.

Just some of the highlights of the base trip include the Pushkar camel fair, Amer (a.k.a. Amber) Fort in Jaipur, the incomparable Taj Mahal in Agra, and finally Jama Masjid mosque (Friday Mosque), and Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi.

Those interested in continuing their exploration of India can choose to participate in the optional post-trip extension to Varanasi, situated on the Ganges River.

• Sensory Experience:
  
  • India is a country that tantalizes and shocks the senses, offering an amazing and thought-provoking experience.
  • Known for outstanding food, friendly people, and intense traffic and crowds.
    
    
• Travel Philosophy:
  
  • Emphasizes the essence of travel: to see and experience new and different places.
    
    
• Tour Organization:
  
  • Carefully planned and organized by Ralph and his long-term local guide and partner, Ani.
  • Itinerary designed to efficiently cover the most interesting parts of each location.
  • Includes ample free time for personal exploration and unique experiences outside of the group activities.

• Guided Insights:
  
  • Professional local guide accompanies the group throughout the trip.
  • Provides deeper understanding of India's cultural nuances.
  • Offers insights into the language, religions, education system, political landscape, and other cultural aspects.

• Authenticity of Experience:
  
  • The slogan "Incredible India" is more than just marketing—it is a true reflection of the country's profound impact on visitors.

“The Colors and Culture of India trip was unforgettable. We were able to see all of the major sites and more with an itinerary jam packed with unique experiences and surprises. I had a blast on this trip. I captured wonderful memories, met amazing people and made great friends. Thank you!” - Chris P. 

“I really can’t say enough good things about the group, the guide, the trip and the itinerary. If you want to see India, as a photographer, go with a small group like Ralph puts together. Even if you have a passing interest in photography, this trip is for you. There were just 9 of us!! That is very similar to a private tour in terms of flexibility and comfort. The accommodations were excellent.” - Bob E. 

“Ralph’s trips are always well organized. I have always wanted to go to India but didn’t know where to start to plan a trip on my own. The itinerary covered many of the locations I wanted to see and I didn’t have to worry about getting from one place to another or how to get tickets to enter monuments. Ralph works closely with a local guide so everything runs smoothly. He also has a knack for knowing when to offer advice for taking better photos. I’m a novice photographer and really enjoy learning more about travel photography. This was my 4th trip with Ralph and I look forward to many more!” - Leslie T. 

“Loved the trip. I was nervous about traveling to India but Ralph and the local guide made it accessible and I always felt safe even though I don’t speak the language. Amazingly friendly people and great itinerary.” - Shaune K.

All activities and itinerary details are subject to change, but rest assured we’ll make every effort to provide a comparable alternative in the unlikely event changes to our schedule need to be made.

Most meals are included and B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, and D = Dinner

On the flight you’ll likely be asked to complete a short immigration form, so have a pen handy, and know the name and address of your hotel, which will be asked for on the form (this will be provided as the trip approaches).

Please don’t make any non-refundable travel arrangements until you’ve received confirmation from CD administrators to do so.

Once your participation is confirmed, and the trip is called a GO, we’ll send you a link to a form so that you can provide us with your flight information.  We won’t need this information before or in any other format.

About Your Flights

Because all flights from abroad to Jodhpur, where our trip begins, connect through Delhi, you’ll want to plan to arrive in Delhi (DEL) from your home country by 10:00 am local time on Wednesday, November 6 (or earlier).  This is in order to make your onward flight to Jodhpur (this flight is included, but pricing may vary slightly depending on when booked and a small supplement may be required).  

Your AIRPORT TRANSFER to the hotel in Jodhpur is included and our representative will be waiting outside of the airport exit, after baggage claim, holding a sign with the PhotoEnrichment Adventures logo and YOUR NAME on it. When located, please verify he’s there for you and follow our rep to where you’ll board the vehicle for the hotel, which is not too far. Your hotel check-in will be assisted by this person, as well.

Meals: L, D

Arrive at Delhi airport, proceed through immigration, collect any bags, and then check-in for your INCLUDED FLIGHT from Delhi to Jodhpur which is currently scheduled for 12:55 pm and to arrive at 2:15 pm (subject to change, details to follow). Board flight to Jodhpur (a.k.a. the Blue City), a city founded in 1459 and considered the cultural capital of Rajasthan. 

If arriving this day LUNCH will conveniently be available and can be enjoyed on your own at your hotel (if arriving any days early, only BREAKFAST will be included at your hotel those days and your first included meal will be LUNCH on November 6th). 

After your meal relax until early evening when you’ll have a Meet & Greet planned at a predetermined time and location where you can get to know your fellow travelers and experienced local guide, in person and you can discuss the trip ahead.  

After you’ll be TRANSFERRED to an area of Jodhpur with a beautiful clock tower known as Ghanta Ghar where there’s a bustling market and nearby you can enjoy a WELCOME DINNER in Jodhpur’s center.

Often dressed in beautiful colors, people from the surrounding villages can be found here with their families buying and selling a variety of items.  After a walk through the local bazaar with some free time, you’ll proceed to the WELCOME DINNER at the perfectly situated Indique Restaurant (located atop the Pal Haveli Hotel).  Here you’ll be able to enjoy a sumptuous dinner at this unique restaurant inside a Haveli (a former palace, now a hotel).  From this vantage point, you’ll get your first glimpse of the formidable Mehrangarh Fort, as well as the Gulab Sagar Lake and maharaja’s palace. This is especially magical at night when the city is lit up.

After dinner TRANSFER back to hotel via tuk-tuk.

About Jodhpur

Known as the gateway to the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is the second-largest city in the state of Rajasthan. It’s a popular tourist destination featuring a variety of ornate palaces, age-old forts, and sacred temples. Dubbed “The Blue City," many houses in the old city are painted in beautiful shades of indigo. While Jodhpur is largely a sprawling modern metropolis, enclosed within its old city walls is a labyrinth of winding, narrow medieval streets and bazaars, some of which you’ll leisurely get to navigate, photographing all along the way.

Jodhpur is home to one of the largest forts in India, the massive 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which towers over the city from its sandstone perch.

Overnight: Ajit Bhawan or similar.

About Ajit Bhawan Hotel

Ajit Bhawan is a palace resort in Jodhpur and the perfect place to start your journey. The hotel often plays host to royalty, artists, and other celebrities.  The property offers an assortment of rooms and suites decorated with antiques and old photographs.  Each room contains a safe deposit box, minibar, tea, and coffee maker, as well as hairdryer and bottled water.  Also available is 24-hour room service.

Hotel services include a travel desk, money exchange, laundry, car rentals, concierge, Internet access, doctors on call, and more.  Recreational activities available for your free time include a swimming pool, spa, health club, a shopping arcade as well as a variety of dining venues.

Meals: B, L

BREAKFAST on your own at the hotel.  

8:00 AM After your meal depart for a TOUR OF MEHRANGARH FORT. On the way, if they’re working, you’ll stop to see ladies drying textiles after dying them in beautiful colors.  

Standing on a legendary plateau 130 meters above ground, Mehrangarh Fort has been a witness to countless heroic tales.  During your visit to the fortress, among other things you’ll see a demonstration of how to properly tie a turban and its many uses will be explained.  After visiting the fort you’ll proceed for a peaceful walk through the Blue City where your local guide will explain all about the different places you’ll see and people you’ll meet.

About Mehrangarh Fort

Constructed in the 15th century, Mehrangarh Fort is considered to be one of the most formidable and magnificent forts of Rajasthan (Rudyard Kipling called it the “work of giants”). The fort and its palaces were built over a period of 500 years, and as a result, the varied building styles of many different periods are represented, including the 20th century. The museum in the fort is one of the most complete in all of India and it exhibits the heritage of the Rathores in arms, traditional clothes, paintings, decorated period rooms, and many priceless relics of Indian country life.

Next, you’ll make your way to a local restaurant for LUNCH where you’ll enjoy an Indian platter with a vast variety of different dishes to explore and sample.  After this meal, it’s back to the hotel where you’ll have the afternoon and evening free to relax and do your own thing with dinner on your own at the hotel or elsewhere.

Overnight: Ajit Bhawan or similar.

Meals: B, L, D

After BREAKFAST at your hotel be sure to check out (we’ll let you know exactly when, but please settle any outstanding bills) and then you’ll drive to Pushkar (~194 kms / approx. 4.5 hours) with at least one stop along the way.

You’ll enjoy LUNCH as a group at a local restaurant around the midway point of your drive.

Upon arrival in Pushkar check in at hotel. After some rest, and as the light improves, you’ll TRANSFER to the fair where you’ll see a variety of colorfully decorated camels and unique horses being sold and traded as they have been for centuries. This is a wonderful place for photography and to witness local culture and customs which you’ll learn about from your local guide.  Know that you’ll also have some free time to explore the fair on your own terms.

Later, DINNER will be served at your hotel.

About Pushkar

Bordering the eastern edge of the sun-drenched Thar Desert, in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Pushkar is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage town known for its relaxed atmosphere, countless whitewashed temples and the mythical holy lake on which your hotel is situated.  

Please note: The city of Pushkar is both alcohol free and all veg, but alcohol may be available at your hotel.

While this incredible town is popular with travelers, for the most part it’s managed to retain its authenticity and connection to its pilgrim roots.  Pushkar offers visitors a variety of attractions including the 14th-century Jagatpita Brahma Mandir temple, the only Brahma temple in all of India; the annual Camel Mela, the largest camel fair in the world; and the lively Safara Bazaar, offering locally-made textiles, leather goods, jewelry and more. 

Overnight: Pushkar Palace or similar.

Meals: B, L, D

Optional early morning visit to the camel fair for unique photographic opportunities. Here people in the fair are just waking up, making tea (locally referred to as chai), talking, and discussing the previous and coming day’s activities.  

After this morning’s visit, you’ll return to your hotel for BREAKFAST, and next, you’ll take a walk nearby to see many of the bathing/washing ghats (stair step embankments) by the Pushkar lakeside where people perform puja in reverence to the Hindu god Brahma, the creator at the Brahma Temple.  Cheerful people dressed in vibrant dresses from the surrounding villages, as well as sadhus, or self-proclaimed holy men, which abound, can provide ample opportunities for some amazing photography (sadhus will often ask for a small “donation” for taking their photo).

After your visit to the sacred lake this morning you’ll walk through town before crowds swell the streets and the mid-day sun has a chance to overwhelm.

Next, you’ll have some free time and then return to the hotel for LUNCH, after which you can relax or continue your exploration of the fairgrounds on your own (your local guide can make additional recommendations for things to see and do).

This evening you’ll mount CAMEL CARTS and make your way to the peaceful outskirts of Pushkar, where all can enjoy the traditional dance and music of a family of local artists.  

Finally, DINNER will be enjoyed as a group.

About the Pushkar Fair

The Pushkar Fair, also called the Pushkar Camel Fair, or locally as Kartik Mela, is an annual livestock fair.  The fair starts with the Hindu calendar month of Kartik and ends on the Kartik Purnima, which typically overlaps with late October and early November on the Gregorian calendar.  

It’s a colorful and vibrant display of unique exhibitions, exciting competitions, and other fascinating events.  The last four days of the fair are considered to be the holiest occasion for all the believers of Hinduism, and bathing in the sacred Pushkar Lake is considered the ultimate act of spirituality.  At Pushkar Fair, there are many interesting activities one can witness and your local guide will inform you about them.

Overnight: Pushkar Palace or similar.

Meals: B, L

BREAKFAST on your own at hotel. Later check out and drive to Jaipur (~145 kms / ~3 hours).

Upon arrival check in at hotel and then have LUNCH at a local restaurant.

This evening you’ll explore a local outdoor market for photography, visit a local temple where often there are sadhus singing and playing instruments with an overview of the city.  Next, you’ll have some free time to walk through the local market streets and then it’s off to check in.

Dinner is on your own at the hotel or you can choose to venture out in the local area.

About Jaipur

Fringed by the rugged Aravali Hills, Jaipur is the capital and largest city in India’s northern state of Rajasthan.  This metropolis is famed for being India’s first planned city featuring a multitude of pink terracotta buildings within the walled historic center, earning it the nickname, ‘The Pink City.’ Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circuit, which also includes Delhi and Agra, and it serves as a gateway to the neighboring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. This colorful city is a combination of both the old and modern worlds and offers visitors a variety of vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces and ancient temples.  The salmon-hued (or pink) old city is home to the opulent City Palace (optional to visit in free time), encompassing an impressive assortment of palatial structures, sprawling gardens, courtyards and buildings.  

And one certainly can’t miss the fairytale splendor of the Amer Fort (a.k.a. Amber Fort), set against the backdrop of this arid landscape and which you’ll visit tomorrow.

Overnight: Trident Hotel Jaipur or similar.

About Trident Jaipur Hotel

The Trident Jaipur Hotel offers breathtaking views of the serene Mansagar Lake and the Aravalli range.  The hotel has 132 guest rooms, and is situated en route to Jaipur’s well-known Amer Fort, which you will of course visit. 

Meals: B, L

As usual BREAKFAST will be served at your hotel, after which you’ll proceed to view Jal Mahal, also known as the Summer Palace of Jaipur. Here you’ll photograph it from the shore (it’s situated in the middle of the lake) and then move on to VISIT AMER FORT (often referred to as Amber Fort).

About Amer Fort

The Amer Fort was built by Raja Man Singh I in the 16th century and completed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century.  With its large ramparts and series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks Maota Lake.  The most popular buildings in the fort consist of Diwan-i-Aam, the Diwan-i-Khas, the Sheesh Mahal (mirror palace), Jai Mandir and the Sukh Niwas, all of which you’ll learn about from your guide.

After your visit LUNCH will be served at a local restaurant, after which there’ll be free time to relax or have an optional visit to the City Palace and/or the Astronomical Observatory with a chance to spend time with a palm reader.  Those not interested can return to the hotel.

The remainder of your evening is free but you’ll have an option to visit some quality arts and crafts stores for shopping in Jaipur and then dinner can be enjoyed at your hotel or elsewhere on your own.

Overnight: Trident Hotel Jaipur or similar.

Meals: B, L

After BREAKFAST, at a predetermined time, you’ll check out and drive onwards to Agra (238 kms or approx. 4.5 hours with stops), but before that, you’ll have a chance to witness the striking Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds.

About Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) 

Well-known for its rich cultural and architectural history, Hawa Mahal is a fusion of Rajput and Islamic architecture.  Constructed of red and pink sandstone, it features a unique five-story exterior with 953 small windows called jharokhas decorated with intricate latticework. The intention of the lattice was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below, but without being seen themselves.

About Agra

Home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, Agra is one of India’s most popular destinations, though its attractions also extend to an array of other impressive historical sights, several of which you’ll visit, including the red-hued Agra Fort and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, with its white marble facade embellished with intricate inlaid designs and semi-precious stones.  

Overnight: Hotel Trident Agra or similar

About Hotel Trident Agra

With the Taj Mahal in close proximity, Hotel Trident Agra is the ideal base from which to experience this city steeped in history.  This charming hotel is set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains and was built in the local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era.  The hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, many of which overlook the central courtyard and gardens.

Soothing views are complemented by a selection of dining options, recreation, and wellness facilities, accompanied by warm Indian hospitality.

Overnight: Hotel Trident Hotel Agra or similar.

Meals: B, L

Surely this is the day you’ve been waiting for as today you’ll enjoy an early morning VISIT to the truly incredible TAJ MAHAL, which seems to float on its perch.  This is a monument that continues to mystify the world with its sheer grandeur and beauty.  

Constructed of white marble over a span of 20 years by more than 20,000 artisans and workers employed by the then Mughal emperor Sha Jahan, the Taj is an everlasting memory to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal and is a pristine monument of love, admiration, and devotion and certainly one of the grandest wonders of the world.

In an effort to miss the queuing crowds at the gate, you’ll arrive just after the initial tourist rush, which is often unavoidable.  After a brief overview by your local guide, you’ll enter the incredible grounds housing the Taj where you’ll have free time to admire and photograph this true wonder of the world. 

About the Taj

In a league of its own needless to say, the incomparable Taj Mahal is a must-see for any visitor to Agra and you’ll learn much more about it from your guide during this visit, plus you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the Taj on your own.

After your visit, you’ll return to the hotel for BREAKFAST on your own and then have a chance to relax from your early morning until LUNCH, which will be at a nearby restaurant. Later you’ll visit Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, often referred to as “Baby Taj,” for some additional photography.

About the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah

The tomb of I'TIMĀD-UD-DAULAH is a Mughal mausoleum in the city of Agra, which is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.  Described as a "jewel box," the tomb is often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal and you’ll certainly learn more onsite.

After this experience, you’ll VISIT MEHTAB BAGH, located on the other side of the Taj on the River Yamuna.  From here you can witness a very different view of the Taj Mahal.

About Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh, the garden complex, is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank of the River Yamuna.  The bagh was constructed by Emperor Babur and was the last of a series of 11 such gardens built along the river.  Mehtab Bagh was constructed as an integral part of the Taj complex, making it the perfect place from which to view the sunset.

After this visit, you’ll return to the hotel and then dinner is on your own at the hotel or nearby.

Overnight: Hotel Trident Hotel Agra or similar.

Meals: B, L, D

After BREAKFAST and checking out depart for an early morning VISIT TO AGRA FORT, and then drive to Delhi (~203 kms or about 4 hours) with LUNCH on the way.

About New Delhi

India’s largest city, Delhi has been one of the country’s commercial and economic hubs for centuries and, as a result, is incredibly rich in culture and history. Made up of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the more modern sector, New Delhi, this sprawling city encompasses a staggering array of beautiful architecture, notable monuments and age-old temples, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites on your itinerary, namely the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb.  

Other key attractions which you may choose to visit in your free time include the 17th century Chandni Chowk marketplace, still one of the city’s most popular retail centers today, particularly for jewelry and traditional Indian saris; the impressive Qutab Minar and the iconic Bahà’i Lotus Temple, an award-winning but much more modern architectural gem.

On arrival check in and settle in at your hotel.

DINNER this evening will be included.

Overnight: Royal Plaza Hotel or similar.

Meals: B, L, D

As usual BREAKFAST will be served at your hotel and next enjoy an early morning VISIT to the peaceful HUMAYUN’S TOMB (more below).  

Next, you’ll have an unforgettable walk around the neighborhood of Nizammuddin Dargah where you can meet and interact with the many friendly people in this off-the-beaten-track part of Delhi. After you’ll visit Gurudwara Bangla Shaib, a truly impressive Sikh temple first built in 1783 (see description below). Here you’ll need to take off your shoes and both men and women will need to wear headscarves which will be provided on entry.

About Humayun's Tomb

Built in 1572, Humayun's Tomb is one of the most magnificent tombs built in Delhi during the Mughal rule. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an excellent example of Persian and Indian architecture, and the tomb itself is made with red sandstone along with the use of white and black marble accents.  It was considered the first and foremost garden-style tomb in India. This complex is also known as the 'Dormitory of the Mughals' because it houses more than a hundred graves from India’s royal family. 

About Gurudwara Bangla Sahib 

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most prominent Sikh gurudwara, or Sikh houses of worship, and is known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan.  Inside the complex, you’ll see the faithful bathing in an extremely large pool, known as the "Sarovar."  It was originally a Bungalow (Haveli) from 1783 used by Mirza Raja Jai Singh, a well-known military leader of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.  

The complex of Gurudwara is quite large and has a community kitchen hall, higher secondary school, charitable dispensary, library, museum, and multilevel parking available.  You’ll be able to enter the community kitchen hall where you can witness the truly incredible process of preparing to feed more than 2,000 people per day, each of whom eats for free.

This truly amazing experience will be followed by LUNCH at a local restaurant.

After lunch explore Old Delhi’s Spice Market (Khari Baoli) with an unforgettable RICKSHAW RIDE and then end your tour with a VISIT to India’s largest mosque, JAMA MASJID (which translated means “Friday mosque”) after which you’ll TRANSFER back to your hotel for some much-deserved rest and relaxation.

About Jama Masjid, New Delhi

Built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid features the best of Hindu and Islamic architecture.  At capacity, approximately 25,000 pilgrims can offer their prayers in this mosque at one time. It has three gates, four towers and two 40 meter high minarets constructed of strips of red sandstone and white marble. The mosque houses several relics of Islamic religious significance including an age-old transcript of the Quran printed on deer skin and a red beard-hair said to belong to the Holy Prophet Mohammad.

Finally, later this evening, at a predetermined time, you’ll TRANSFER for a FAREWELL DINNER where you can say goodbye, at least for now, to old and new friends.

Optional Things to Do on Your Own in Your Free Time in Delhi

1. Lotus Temple (closed on Mondays) 
2. Qutub Minar
3. Chandni Chowk

Overnight: Royal Plaza Hotel or similar.

Meals: B

After BREAKFAST check out from your hotel, settle any remaining bills, and GROUP TRANSFER to the airport to board flights for home or for your optional extension to Varanasi.

From here guests who choose to take the Varanasi extension will TRANSFER to Delhi’s domestic airport.

Departure for Home

If you’re not joining the extension, unfortunately, your trip to India, with its exotic sites and sounds, ends today.

After a leisurely BREAKFAST, you’ll gather your belongings and check out from your hotel. A GROUP TRANSFER to DEL airport will be provided, however, private transfers can be arranged for an additional fee if the timing doesn’t work out or you’d like to spend additional time here.