Compare Rajasthan, India Photography Holiday by Creative Escapes vs Inspirational India, a Wander Women Journey, Summer 2022 by Insight Vacations

DAY 1: DELHI

From touchdown into Delhi, we’ll whisk you off to our 15th-century fort in rural Rajasthan for some well needed R&R, chance to recover from the long flight. and ease you gently into the frenetic hubbub of India – the perfect start to your Rajasthan, India Photography Holiday. We’ll start by reviewing some of the in-camera techniques to prepare you to shoot in some of the epic locations on our Rajasthan odyssey – from the vast desert swathes of the Pushkar Camel Fair, the low-light positioning of the Taj Mahal at dawn, and the energy from hundreds of pilgrims rushing to bathe in the Ganges.

Each, a new set of techniques to add your repertoire. Then a dinner on the terraces in palatial surroundings, the perfect start to our Indian adventures.

DAYS 2 & 3: PUSHKAR CAMEL FAIR

Up early, we depart our royal retreat and take the road to Pushkar, the holy city, and check-in to the stunning lakeside Pushkar Palace. Built by the Maharajah of Jaisalmer in the 15th century, this small palace has fabulous, panoramic views of the city. On arrival, we’ll take a seat on the shores and dive straight into our next task, learning how to bring some narrative into our images – capturing faces and expressions in the myriad scenes throughout the city – before venturing out to explore the Brahma temple – the only one in India.

Towards dusk, we’ll don our small backpacks and head out to the jaw-dropping Camel Fair. Held each November at the time of the Kartik Purnima full moon, Pushkar Camel Fair is one of India’s most highly-rated travel experiences, a spectacle on an epic scale, attracting more than 11,000 camels, horses and cattle and visited by over 400,000 people over a period of around fourteen days. For visitors it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the color, spectacle and carnival of one of the last great traditional meals, which brings livestock, farmers, traders and villagers from all over Rajasthan. Over two days, we’ll shoot a number of assignments, from formal portraits under canopy, to dusty reportage of the days events, to sublime sunset vistas over the campgrounds. We guarantee this is one photo-shoot you will never forget.

DAYS 4 & 5: JAIPUR

Today, we depart our private retreat and take the short hop to Jaipur, the regal capital of Rajasthan. This afternoon we’ll dive into the myriad backstreets of the city, tour the technicolor spice markets, observe the stunning pink architecture of the Hawa Mahal and get to grips with shooting high energy street scenes in saturated colors. Along the way, we’ll stop for a few snacks – or chaat – tasty Indian street food featured by Gordon Ramsay. Our stunning haveli (or Indian mansion) is in the plush central district and its breezy verandahs and pool provide solace from the energy of downtown Jaipur. Here we will round of the day reviewing our creative hard work from the last few days, then dine on an open-air terrace, waiters buzzing around bringing local delights for you to try.

The next day, we’ll take a trip towards the Amber Fort, a truly beautiful palace atop a hill overlooking Jaipur. The tour is an event itself, climbing onto elephants who lead you on a slow ascent to the top, then an exploration to shoot the opulent interiors; from the tiny Sila Devi Temple, with inlaid silver doors, to the maharajah’s apartments and the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure); carved marble relief panels into ivory-inlaid sandalwood doors and a channel that once cooled water right through the room. The zenana (secluded women’s quarters) surrounds the fourth courtyard. The rooms were designed so that the maharaja could embark on his nocturnal visits to his wives’ and concubines’ respective chambers without the others knowing, as the chambers are independent but open onto a common corridor. From the Jai Mandir you can photograph the fine views from the palace ramparts over picturesque Maota Lake below – shoot the decorated guards in full gear, or capture the melee ‘reportage’ style all around you. Finally, we descend by army jeep and return to our haveli for some rooftop sundowners, and kick back to watch the sun gently falling over the horizon.

DAYS 6 & 7: TAJ MAHAL

Today we head to Agra – the home of the Taj Mahal. En-route, we’ll stop off at Chand Baori, one of the most beautiful stepwells in India, and the location of several period Hollywood films. Built by King Chanda in 800AD, the well is 20m deep and 3500 steps on 13 levels – at the bottom of the well, the air remains 5-6 degrees cooler than at the surface. Chand Baori was used as a community gathering place for locals during periods of intense heat. A short drive later, we arrive in Agra in time to visit one of the icons of India at sundown – the Taj Mahal – the magnificent mausoleum which eptomises the golden age of Mughal architecture and the reign of Shah Jahan. After finding our spot for shooting the best images, we’ll retire to our haveli haven and sample a modern interpretation of Indian cuisine.

After a restful nights sleep, we’ll rise extra early, locate our secret location to take some incredible images of the sun rising over the Taj Mahal, and shoot away in a sea of orange light, before heading off early afternoon to the buzzing Agra station, chance to practice the effects of fill flash on contrasty black-and-whites, shooting modern Indian life in a classic documentary style. Early evening, we’ll board our first-class sleeper train to Varanasi, meeting locals from all walks of life and shooting some memorable documentary and portrait images, before drifting off to the gentle, hypnotic movement of the train travelling through the night.

DAY 8: VARANASI

Arriving just after dawn, we’ll transfer directly to our plush heritage hotel close to the banks of the Ganges, and take some time to unwind in the lovely surroundings. We’ll hold some 1-on-1’s today to give you a detailed personal review of where you are at, then head out towards dusk for our first look at the Ganges, and the Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ritual using fire as an offering, usually made in the form of a flower raft with a lit candle, that’s floated off down the river. It’s a truly incredible spectacle and a photogenic wonder.

DAYS 9, 10 & 11 : VARANASI

We spend the early morning on board our private boat, touring the ghats to witness the hoards of Hindu pilgrims bathing in the Ganges river’s sacred waters. You’ll observe funeral rights, and tour the winding backstreets, home to over 2,000 temples, including Kashi Vishwanath, “Golden Temple’, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. This is one of India’s most beautiful, crazy, colorful and chaotic places; it’s a veritable smorgasbord for any photographer and an experience you’re not likely to ever forget. Together, we’ll develop a final portfolio of images, ready to show on our final night's exhibition; be that portraits of expressive saddhus, using a remote fill flash and softbox (a la Joey L), saturated reportage shots of Hindu pilgrims bathing in the river, richly coloured night shots of dusk at this most spiritual of places or the everyday humour of this bizarre city. The possibilities are truly endless. Along the way, we’ll be there to assist your production, edit your best and then prepare for our exhibition show and final night’s celebration.

Our 11-day pilgrimage takes in the photographic highlights of this picturesque state, from world renowned festivals, to iconic buildings and one of the most visually stunning places in all of India. Welcome to Creative Escapes’ tour of Rajasthan.

Day 1: Welcome to Delhi

After your arrival at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport, you are greeted with the traditional floral garland and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow female travellers for a welcome drink, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: The hustle and bustle of Old Delhi Relaxed Start

Dive into Old Delhi’s symphony of sounds, smells, tastes and colours as you wander down beautiful narrow lanes and taste authentic Delhi street food. Visit an elegant haveli, an old private mansion and enjoy a delicious lunch with a local family.This afternoon, visit the Sikh temple Bangla Sahib Gurdwara and take a walk through their community kitchen where you witness the practice of langar: serving food free of charge to anyone who is hungry. This beautiful act promoting equality also involves the Sikh women who help with the preparation of the meals.

Day 3: Exploring New Delhi

Today explore New Delhi, largely built by the British in the early 20th century. Drive along the Rajpath to see the war memorial India Gate and the colonnaded Parliament House. Visit the 16th century Tomb of Emperor Humayun. This marvelous example of Mughal architecture went on to inspire the design of the Taj Mahal. Continue your exploration of Delhi with Insight Choice. Choose to get creative and hands on as you take part in a jewelery making class. Alternatively, enjoy abhyangam, an Aryuveda massage practice whereby oil is applied to your body by two skilled therapists.

Day 4: Delhi to Agra

Journey to Agra and visit its historical fort complex resembling a walled city. The Agra fort is made up of a series of impressive buildings including the Sheesh Mahal or “glass palace” and the The Muthamman Burj. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Sheroes Café and meet the inspiring women behind it who are survivors of acid attacks. Be encouraged by their resilience and enjoy this opportunity to chat to them about their stories and support their cause in raising awareness.

Day 5: The unmatched beauty of the Taj Mahal

Put on a traditional saree in preparation for your visit to the Taj Mahal, a true highlight of your journey. Following the death of his wife, Emperor Shahjahan vowed to honor her with a memorial of unmatched beauty. He commissioned the world's best craftsmen and 20,000 workers to build this mausoleum. You can’t help but be awestruck by this delicately carved white marble jewel. Later, enjoy lunch on your way to Jaipur, the stunning capital city of Rajasthan state. In the evening visit the local market and shop for a traditional Indian dress for the upcoming Diwali celebrations.

Day 6: Jaipur through the locals’ eyes

On your city tour see the Hawa Maha, the Palace of the Winds. Its stunning lace-like facadehas 953 windows. Visit the Jantar Mantar Royal Observatory, and the neighbouring City Palace, housing a fabulous collection of Rajasthani and Mughal art.  Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet the ladies of the Pink City Rickshaw Company, dedicated to empowering women from low-income households. Continue your exploration of Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to take part in a demonstration of the art of Mehndi, the traditional henna body painting. Alternatively, learn a few new moves at an energetic Bollywood dance class.  Tonight, join a local family to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Get involved in the preparations for Lakshmi Puja by lighting oil lamps around the house, to invite the goddess Lakshmi to come home. Learn how to prepare traditional meals by watching a cooking demonstration before feasting on a delicious dinner.

Day 7: The Pink City

Start your day with a yoga session led by a female guru and explore the deeper meaning of yoga postures, breathing techniques, and the importance of harmony between body, mind and spirit. Explore Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to go on a walking tour in the bazaars where you will meet the colourful characters involved in gem-polishing, tie die or bangle-making as well as the world-renowned pickle makers. Alternatively, visit a Blue Pottery workshop and see how this characteristic local pottery is made. In the late afternoon, ascend the hilltop Amber Fort by jeep and experience India’s spiritual majesty with a special Hindu blessing ceremony. Feel like royalty as you dine at the opulent 1135 AD Restaurant and savour mouthwatering Rajasthani cuisine accompanied by impeccable service.

Day 8: Chandelao and the Blue City of Jodhpur

Meet the female artisans of the Sunder Rang Arts and Crafts Project in Chandelao village, producing traditional Rajasthani textiles and handicrafts. The workshop enables and empowers women to earn a fair living through developing their craft skills and providing a sustainable income. After your lunch, continue to the Blue City of Johdpur and tonight take a stroll through the Ghanta Ghar, the clock tower market. Perhaps pick up some Mathania chilis or flavoured teas and try some lassi.

Day 9: Exploring Jodhpur

This morning, venture to a nearby village and meet the Bishnoi people, who for 500 years have protected nature to ensure the survival of endangered species like the majestic black buck antelope. On your return to Jodhpur, visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and see the marble cenotaph of Jaswant Thada. In the afternoon, meet an astrologer and learn about the importance of the influence of planets. Indulge in a Highlight Dinner at Khaas Bagh, a worthy tribute to the legendary lifestyle of princely India surrounded by handpicked memorabilia of the Raj Period that include a fleet of dazzling vintage cars.

Day 10: Ranakpur And Udaipur

Travel to Ranakpur to explore the elaborate carvings and classic architecture of the Jain Temples before meeting a priest and attending a special prayer ceremony. Enjoy an al fresco lunch served under a 300-year-old banyan tree at Mountbatten Lodge, a unique boutique hotel in the wilderness. Continue to Udaipur. Founded in the 16th century, the city is set around a series of artificial lakes and surrounded by the ridges of the Aravalli Hills.

Day 11: Explore Udaipur Relaxed Start

Explore the City Palace complex, visit the Jagdish Temple and explore the Garden of the Maids of the Honour. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Seva Mandir Organization, working to empower women by building stronger and more ethical communities. Wander through the bazaars to see the spice and textile markets and later cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola. Tonight, experience Bedla hospitality at your Celebration Dinner. The Bedla Family had the distinction of serving their cuisine to Queen Elizabeth II, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Hear their fascinating stories and enjoy excellent entertainment while dining on superb culinary delights and toasting to your journey in incredible India.

Day 12: Fly to Delhi

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you fly to Delhi and your journey comes to an end. For your onward travels please schedule your flight after 21:00 from Delhi.