India Unveiled
Discover the majesty of India through its royal palaces, timeless traditions, and vibrant cultural heritage—where ancient rituals and centuries-old traditions offer a journey like no other.
Royal Heritage Meets Timeless Traditions
From the bustling bazaars of Jaipur to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, India’s contrasts come alive in a kaleidoscope of color, sound, and history. Experience the elegance of ancient palaces, stroll through artisan quarters steeped in centuries of craft, and savor the aromatic spices of local cuisine. This journey will transport you to the heart of India’s soul, where royal heritage and timeless traditions seamlessly coexist.
About your trip
Immerse yourself in India’s rich cultural and historical tapestry as we journey through two iconic cities: Jaipur and Jodhpur. In Jaipur, you’ll explore grand palaces, interact with local artisans, and experience the city’s vibrant traditions up close. In Jodhpur, delve deeper into the region’s history with visits to its awe-inspiring forts, cultural landmarks, and local villages. This thoughtfully curated itinerary offers a deep and meaningful exploration of India’s heritage, without overwhelming you with excessive travel or crowded tourist spots.
What’s included
Transportation to and from the airport
All activities mentioned on the itinerary
Boutique hotel accommodations in twin rooms
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners
El Camino’s exclusive Eat, Play, Shop Guide
Experienced local host with you throughout the trip
Not included
Airfare in and out of the country
Visa for US Citizens
Incidental expenses
Alcohol except where noted
Tips
Travelers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their journey. If you’d like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process. If you need assistance please contact our Customer Success team.
Itinerary
Flight
☞ Please remember to book separately
Day 1
☞ Arrival in Jaipur (JAI) | Welcome Dinner
Day 2
☞ City Palace & Jantar Mantar | Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
Day 3
☞ Yoga & Meditation | Artisan and Antiquities Walk | *Special Experience for Diwali
Day 4
☞ Aravalli Hills Hike | Amber Fort & Block Printing | Farmhouse and Elephant Sanctuary
Day 5
☞ Journey to Jodhpur
Day 6
☞ Mehrangarh Fort | Jaswant Thada & Umaid Bhawan Palace
Day 7
☞ Bishnoi Tribal Village | Local Cooking Class
Day 8
☞ Blue City Walk | Indian Tie-Dye Workshop | Private Folk Performance
Day 9
☞ Departure from Jodhpur (JDH)
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Welcome to Jaipur
Arrive in the vibrant city of Jaipur, Rajasthan’s historic capital known for its stunning palaces and rich cultural heritage. Upon landing, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, a charming palace property that embodies Jaipur’s regal past.
As evening falls, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, where you’ll be introduced to the flavors of Rajasthani cuisine in a beautiful setting.
Meals Included: Dinner -
City Palace & Jantar Mantar
After breakfast, we will go and explore the grandeur of the City Palace, a magnificent complex that has been the residence of Jaipur’s royal family since the 18th century. Blending Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, the palace’s beautifully preserved rooms and museums offer a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal heritage. We’ll also have the unique opportunity to tour the private residential areas of the Palace, typically closed to the public.
Afterward, visit the Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most impressive astronomical observatories. Built in the 18th century, its massive instruments remain remarkably accurate and showcase India’s advancements in astronomy and architecture.
Finally, stop by the Hawa Mahal for a photo opportunity. This iconic pink sandstone structure, known as the Palace of Winds, was designed to allow royal women to observe street life while remaining unseen, thanks to its intricately designed lattice windows.
The evening is yours to explore Jaipur at your own pace or relax at your hotel. Tap into your Eat, Shop, Play Guide for a curated list of recommendations.
Meals Included: Breakfast
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Yoga, Artisan Walk, *Diwali Experience
Begin your day with a private yoga and meditation session led by a yogacharya, a master of ancient yogic practices, who will guide you through asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and mantras (sacred chants). This peaceful session will help you relax both body and mind before returning to your hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, embark on a guided walk through Jaipur’s old quarter, a treasure trove of antiquities and traditional craftsmanship. In this carefully curated experience, you’ll engage with artisans dedicated to traditional crafts passed down through generations. Observe leatherworkers crafting fine goods, lac bangle makers shaping vibrant jewelry, and aari-tari artisans embellishing saris with intricate bead and sequin embroidery. You’ll also see master wood carvers creating detailed designs and sculptors at work, each contributing to Jaipur’s rich artistic heritage. As you continue the walk, you’ll gain insight into the architectural legacy of the area, where history and craftsmanship intersect.
The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to explore at your own pace. Whether you want to discover more hidden gems or savor local delicacies, your Eat, Play, Shop Guide will provide plenty of personalized options.
For those traveling during Diwali, your local host will meet you in the hotel lobby in the evening to join a local family in celebrating the festival. You’ll be warmly welcomed with traditional hospitality, including a ceremonial ‘welcome drink.’ After the initial greetings, you’ll take part in Diwali festivities alongside your hosts and their family, followed by a traditional Rajasthani dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, *Dinner for Diwali Experience
Your Itinerary
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Hike through the Aravalli Hills, Explore Amber Fort, Elephant Sanctuary
Start your day with a serene hike through the Aravalli hills, visiting Meena tribal settlements and ruins of old forts. After the hike, enjoy breakfast at a private inn near the Amber Fort.
Following breakfast, explore the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort, known for its stunning blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Afterward, visit a special museum that preserves and celebrates the ancient art of hand printing, where you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a private block-printing demonstration.Later, visit a local family-owned farmhouse that has become a sanctuary for two elephants. Walk alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, feeding them and observing their peaceful lives. Please note, we do not condone riding elephants and have selected this location specifically for its commitment to animal welfare. The elephants are cared for following responsible wildlife tourism standards, ensuring they are treated humanely and allowed to roam freely.
The rest of the evening is yours to explore further or rest. Tap your Eat, Play, Shop guide for a curated list of recommendations.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
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Drive to Jodhpur
After breakfast, depart for Jodhpur on a scenic drive through the stunning Rajasthani countryside. The journey will take approximately 6.5 hours, with stops along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy a lunch break at a local restaurant. This will be a full day of travel, allowing you to take in the changing landscapes and rural beauty of Rajasthan.
Upon arrival in Jodhpur, check into your hotel, a heritage property that blends modern luxury with old-world charm. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring Jodhpur or relaxing at your hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
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Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada & Umaid Bhawan Palace
Start your day with a visit to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s largest and most impressive forts. Perched high above the city on a rocky hill, Mehrangarh offers stunning views of Jodhpur’s famous blue houses. The fort’s towering walls enclose centuries of history, with grand palaces, intricate carvings, and an extensive museum that showcases royal artifacts, weaponry, and textiles, providing a rich glimpse into Rajasthan’s past.
Next, visit Jaswant Thada, a striking marble cenotaph built in 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Known as the “Taj Mahal of Marwar,” this elegant structure is constructed from thin, polished marble that glows in the sunlight, giving it an ethereal quality. A cenotaph is a monument erected to honor someone whose remains are elsewhere, and Jaswant Thada serves as the cremation ground for the royal family of Marwar. The tranquil gardens surrounding the cenotaph offer a quiet space to take in the beauty of the monument and its serene surroundings.
In the afternoon, explore the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, part of one of the largest private residences in the world. This opulent palace, built in the 20th century, is a blend of Indian and Art Deco architecture and still serves as the home of the Jodhpur royal family. The museum showcases a fascinating collection of royal memorabilia, vintage cars, and artifacts from a bygone era.
The rest of the day is yours to relax or continue exploring the city’s vibrant markets, local cafés, or historical sites.
Meals Included: Breakfast
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Bishnoi Village Visit & Cooking Class
In the morning, set out for a visit to the nearby Bishnoi villages, a community renowned for their centuries-old commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable farming. As you journey through the scenic countryside, you’ll witness the quiet rhythm of village life, where the Bishnoi people live in harmony with nature. Known for protecting local wildlife and preserving the land, the Bishnoi have maintained their eco-friendly practices for over 500 years, cultivating crops and practicing traditional crafts with deep respect for the environment. Along with this, you’ll get a glimpse into the village’s pottery and weaving workshops, learning how these artisans create beautiful, functional pieces that reflect their heritage.
Later, return to the city for a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Rajasthani dishes using local spices. Under the guidance of an expert, you’ll discover the flavors and techniques that make the region’s cuisine so distinct. End the experience with a shared meal, enjoying the dishes you’ve prepared in a warm, intimate setting.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner
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Blue City Tuk Tuk Ride, Indian Tie-Dye Workshop & Bhopa Bhopi Folk Performance
After breakfast, start your day with a specially designed Blue City Walk, including an exciting tuk-tuk ride through the vibrant bazaars of Jodhpur’s old walled city. Known for its striking blue-painted houses against the golden desert, Jodhpur’s “Blue City” charm originates from the Brahmin community, with blue symbolizing peace and coolness. We’ll stop at the Kishanji Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, a site celebrated for its garland makers and traditional sweet shops. Later, browse the quaint shops of Sadar Bazaar, where you can savor local treats like Mishri mawa, crispy kachoris, and a refreshing lassi, fully immersing yourself in the flavors and lively atmosphere of Jodhpur.
After exploring the markets, take part in an authentic Rajasthani tie-dye workshop with a local artisan. This isn’t your typical American tie-dye; this is bandhani, a centuries-old art form requiring precise folding, tying, and dyeing techniques to create intricate patterns unique to Rajasthan. Under the guidance of a skilled artisan, you’ll witness the care and mastery behind each design, gaining a new appreciation for one of Rajasthan’s most iconic textile traditions.
The afternoon is yours to explore Jodhpur at your own pace. Whether you want to revisit the bustling markets, relax at a local café, or check out any spots you missed earlier, this free time lets you make the most of your final day in the city.
In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner following a private Bhopa Bhopi folk dance performance. Accompanied by traditional instruments like the dholak and harmonium, this lively dance narrates the legends and folklore of Rajasthan through rhythmic movements and vibrant costumes, bringing these stories to life. After the performance, enjoy a delicious Rajasthani meal at a restaurant with stunning views of Mehrangarh Fort, reflecting on the journey and the memories you’ve made with fellow travelers.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner
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Departure from Jodhpur
After breakfast, say farewell to Rajasthan as you are transferred to the airport for your onward journey, filled with memories of the royal heritage, vibrant traditions, and rich cultural experiences from your time in India.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accomodations
Please be aware that while we have reserved these hotels, there may be rare instances where changes are required due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we will do our best to secure comparable accommodations, but due to timing, availability, and local infrastructure, options may be limited. Rest assured, we’ll do everything possible to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
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Located in the heart of Jaipur, Naiwan Niwas offers a blend of traditional Rajasthani charm and modern comfort. This boutique hotel features spacious, comfortable rooms adorned with vibrant local decor, providing a cozy stay. Guests can unwind in the serene courtyard, savor local flavors at the on-site restaurant, and enjoy easy access to Jaipur’s iconic attractions, including the City Palace and Hawa Mahal, making it an ideal base for exploring the Pink City.
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Housed in a stunning heritage mansion, Alsisar Haveli transports guests to a bygone era of Rajasthan’s royal grandeur. This beautifully restored haveli features elegantly furnished rooms with antique decor, intricate frescoes, and plush comforts that reflect the charm of Jaipur’s regal past. Guests can relax by the tranquil courtyard pool, savor traditional Rajasthani cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and enjoy easy access to Jaipur’s historic sites, making Alsisar Haveli both a peaceful retreat and an ideal base for exploring the city.
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Daspan House, a meticulously restored 1921 sandstone haveli in Jodhpur, offers a serene retreat amid the city’s vibrant culture. Each room is thoughtfully designed with refurbished furniture and unique artwork, blending historical charm with modern comfort. Guests can unwind in style by the elegant infinity pool, experiencing the rich heritage of Rajasthan in a peaceful, elegant setting.
Important Notes
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At El Camino Travel, we prioritize depth over breadth. Unlike other trips that rush from one tourist spot to the next, we’ve carefully designed this journey to focus on just two iconic destinations—Jaipur and Jodhpur—allowing you to truly immerse yourself in their culture, history, and local life. By staying longer in each place, you’ll connect more deeply with the people, traditions, and artisans that make these cities so vibrant.
In Jaipur, you’ll not only explore grand palaces and ancient observatories but also meet local artisans who have honed their crafts for generations. In Jodhpur, you’ll visit royal forts and palaces while learning about Rajasthan’s commitment to environmental conservation through personal interactions with the Bishnoi community.
Our approach ensures that you’re not simply skimming the surface of India’s vast heritage; instead, you’ll walk away with a genuine understanding of its intricate culture and history. With carefully curated, one-of-a-kind experiences, this trip goes beyond the typical group travel itinerary. You’ll experience India’s most captivating regions in a way that few travelers ever do—by slowing down, diving deep, and truly engaging with the heart of Rajasthan.
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Fly into Jaipur International Airport (JAI) and fly out of Jodhpur Airport (JDH).
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We encourage travelers to aim for an arrival no later than 3 pm. This should allow you time to settle in ahead of any welcome activities.
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This trip is for the traveler who has an adventurous spirit, is looking to squeeze the most out of their time in India, and cares about making the world a better place through responsible tourism. The trip is filled with experiences that allow you to be immersed in the varied cultures of India. This traveler is open minded, inherently curious, and enjoys indulging in the moment. This trip is for the traveler who finds joy in stepping outside of their comfort zone, loves trying new things, and is excited to explore a culture completely different from their own. This trip is available to travelers from all walks of life who are over the age of 18.
While El Camino Travel provides a high level of customer service, our traveler is someone who is easy-going and amenable to change in the diverse and unpredictable landscape of travel in Asia.
This trip is also for a solo traveler who does not want to travel solo, but instead with an interesting group of people and for those who do not want to spend countless hours planning a trip of a lifetime.
Our adventurous style of group travel is not for everyone. Please read carefully through the itinerary and the above description to ensure that you are booking a trip that fits your comfort level.
Please review our Traveler’s Values here prior to booking.
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We are not a luxury travel company, but we're not budget either. So what exactly does that mean? At El Camino Travel, we're all about the high-low. We enjoy fine dining but we also love street food. We fly coach but you can find us in the airport lounge. We'll splurge on something special like handmade pottery or a one-of-a-kind hand-sewn dress, but we also love searching online for a good deal. We love great style and design, but we also get excited about off-the-beaten-path experiences that are a little rough around the edges. We pride ourselves on designing trips that are authentic and real, understanding that any country is comprised of many lenses and lived experiences and that we can't possibly showcase them all.
This duality can be seen in our trips. Our trips represent boutique travel—not luxury, not budget. We won't be staying at hostels but we won't be at luxury hotels either. We choose boutique hotels where we can prioritize things like location, character, charm, safety, and customer service.
Sometimes we do experiences that feel more high-end. Sometimes we're going *way* off the beaten path to do something entirely unique, and sometimes that means it's a little unpolished. Our traveler is someone who enjoys both ends of the spectrum and understands that one isn't more authentic than the other.
Luxury travel usually means a lot more hand-holding. While we provide a high level of customer service, our traveler is a little more adventurous and self-sufficient. We provide blocks of free time so you have the flexibility to explore the destination your way because we understand that everyone is different. Don’t worry though, we will make sure you are equipped with a curated list of all our favorite places to eat, play, and shop for when you are out on your own with your new travel friends.
For some additional context, a luxury-travel version of our trips would start anywhere from $7,000-12,000. We mix the high-low versions of a destination to keep our trips more accessible.
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Please note that our standard pricing is based on shared double rooms. This allows us, among many things, to keep the cost of the trip accessible to as many travelers as possible. If you’re booking this trip with a friend, family member, or significant other, let us know and we’ll place you together.
Traveling solo? No problem—the majority of our travelers choose to fly solo. We’ll be in touch before the trip to learn a bit about you and find the best fit for a roommate. We will make it a priority to best situate you and we’re happy to chat more in-depth if you have any questions or concerns about this.
Single room upgrades are available! A limited number of single rooms have been reserved. Please select this option at checkout if you’d prefer your own space. If all the single rooms have already been filled, please email us at info@elcamino.travel and we'll let you know if we can secure additional rooms to accommodate a single.
We'll have more details regarding hotels prior to your trip, but we promise we chose these locations because they pass the El Camino standard of customer service and are clean, safe, and well-maintained.
It's important to note that our accommodations are not luxury or high-end. We seek more boutique accommodations that are well-situated and allow us to make the most of our itinerary.
We book enough rooms to accommodate the entire group at our preferred hotels well in advance, however, please be aware that emergencies with the hotel or other unforeseen events could result in last-minute changes.
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We have a roster of well qualified hosts that we work with. Prior to your trip, you will receive a welcome packet that will inform you on who will be guiding your adventure. We proudly work with local hosts because no one is better equipped to provide layer upon layer of context than someone who is actually from there.
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A non-refundable $500 deposit is due at the time of booking. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure.
Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions for more information about our cancellation policy.
Payment plans are now available using Affirm. Apply now to make monthly payments.
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ECT members get $250 off.
Current members, click here for more info about your discount. Not a member? Click Here to learn more about joining The ECT Clubhouse.
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Our trips are very active, and involve a lot of walking, standing, and moving around—sometimes, in very high temperatures, with high humidity, on uneven roads and terrains, in busy cities. While we work to accommodate all travelers, other modes of transportation are not always available, due to infrastructure, making walking the only option. Travelers should be willing and able to walk anywhere up to 4 miles each day, up and down stairs and hills, and be able to stand for extended periods of time. If you have any concerns or questions about the activity level of this trip, have recently had surgery, or have any history of mobility issues, please reach out to us at info@elcamino.travel before booking. We want to ensure that everyone on our trips is safe, and will able to keep up with the active itinerary. By signing up for any of our trips, you agree to and understand that a certain level of physical fitness is required to safely participate in this itinerary.