Watching the sun's first rays tint the Taj Mahal saffron and coral? Or walking with a goatherd on a quiet country lane. As we look back on India, we never can decide which was more memorable. India is fantastical—and we visit sumptuous palaces and temples for the photogenic proof. India is intensely human too, but visitors who only see the raucous cities miss the point. So we arrange one-of-a-kind countryside walks that introduce you to villagers and rural life...as well as descendants of royal families, sari- and turban-tying experts, and eminent naturalists. India is a rush of mind-bending contradictions. (Think: swaying on camelback in Pushkar.) Most of all, our beloved India is epic. And that's where Classic Journeys comes in with a thoughtful, well-edited itinerary that handles the complex logistics and frees you to absorb an amazingly broad wealth of experiences.

DAY 1 - DELHI
We meet in Delhi (1 night). After a walking tour of the Old City, we switch to rickshaws for a ride around India’s largest mosque. We may sample street food in the Chor Bazaar, but save room for tonight’s dinner in a private home.

DAY 2 - AGRA
In Agra (1 night), we’re not content just to see the Taj Mahal—our hotel overlooks it for uncrowded access at dusk and dawn.

DAYS 3-4 - JAIPUR
We take the road to Jaipur (2 nights) through the villages of Rajasthan. Then we’ll visit the Amber Fort and pause for refreshments at a farmhouse.

DAY 5 - PUSHKAR
After our drive to from Jaipur to Pushkar, we’ll walk to Pushkar Lake, view the Ghats and explore shops before our camel ride. After, we'll retreat to our luxury encampment (1 night).

DAY 6 - DEOGARH
The city's main landmark is Deogarh Mahal (1 night), a 17th century palace. We'll board a small rural train for a ride from Phulad to Kamblighat to take a look at everyday life in this remote region. 

DAYS 7-8 - UDAIPUR / DEPART
In Udaipur (2 nights), the Venice of the East, we’ll stroll from our gleaming hotel to explore the city’s white marble palace complex. Then we shop the spice and vegetable markets with a chef, followed by a cooking lesson in her kitchen. On our final day, we part company in Udaipur.