Rajasthan is a state of unending variety and contrasts - from desert landscapes to lakeside cities; from forts, palaces and temples to rural villages; from polo-playing Rajputs to camel drivers.  It is one of the most colourful and exciting parts of India, renowned for its arts and crafts, elaborate architecture, and for its colourfully turbaned men and heavily jewelled women.

This trip gives you a hands on feel and taste of the many flavours of Rajasthan, from its well known cities - the pink city of Jaipur, the blue city of Jodhpur and the white city of Udaipur on its lake - to the desert landscape of Shekhawati - to off the beaten track and lesser visited towns and villages.

Day 1 Jaipur

Fly to Jaipur, India's pink city, with its sandstone architecture. Relax and explore the capital of Rajasthan, known for its town planning. In the evening, attend a folk music show organised by Lok Kala Parishad. Proceeds go to local artisans. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 2 Jaipur

Visit the city palace and look up, if you see the flag you know the Maharaja is in attendance! Walk around and observe the sandstone architecture in this uniquely constructed city, and study its layout. Option to visit Amber Fort or indulge in responsible shopping at fair trade shops. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 3 Nawalgarh

In the morning, drive 4 hours into the Shekhawati region, the unique semi-arid landscape of Rajasthan. Take a village walk and explore the culture of a rustic life. This region is known for its arts and artisans. Overnight in Nawalgarh.

Day 4 Nawalgarh

Make yourself some bangles and learn the art of making tie and dye. Workshops will keep you immersed through the day. You will be tempted to buy something from the artists directly. Overnight in Nawalgarh.

Day 5 Khimsar

Drive to 6 hours to Khimsar via Fatehpur and visit the havelis garnished with exquisite carvings. Stay at a sensitively designed desert camp or the majestic fort. Settle in with the dazzling sunset. Overnight in Khimsar.

Day 6 Khimsar

Visit the weaver's collective, the local Nila Moti Foundation and interact with the women to understand their lives and where they come from. Relax for the rest of the day. Overnight in Khimsar.

Day 7 Chandelao

Leave on a 2 hour drive to Chandelao, a quaint village which serves delicious local cuisine. Meet some friendly local characters - from potters to crafts people to folk artists. The hosts here will make your stay memorable. Go on a 'sundowner' trip at camel pace. Overnight in Chandelao.

Day 8 Chandelao

Visit the local markets around the town of Pipar or go watching migratory birds at a nearby sanctuary. Over lunch or dinner, your hosts will reveal the history of the fort and how the feudal system works. Overnight in Chandelao.

Day 9 Rohet

Drive 3 hours to Rohetgarh. En route, visit the huge Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and take in some great views of the Blue City. Also visit the Bishnoi villages. The Bishnois are known for being the original environmentalists who sacrifice their lives for environmental protection. Overnight, Rohetgarh.

Day 10 Rohet

Stroll about the picturesque Rohetgarh and see how life unfolds in a traditional Rajasthani village - or just relax at the hotel. Find Rajastan's most prized Marwari horse breed in the stables of Rohetgarh. Horse riding will be memorable if you try it! Overnight in Rohetgarh.

Day 11 Siyana

Drive 4 hours to Siyana, a quaint little town, off-the-beaten track. The hosts here are famous for their hospitality. By nightfall, the constellations will be your guide. Overnight in Siyana.

Day 12 Siyana

Take a village walk and explore the carpenter culture of Siyana. Visit a traditional carpenter's house. Drive across the dry river bed to meet the Rabari community, the traditional shepherds of this region. Explore the village and join a panther safari at dusk, before immersing yourself in stargazing. Overnight in Siyana.

Day 13 Udaipur

Drive 5 hours through the Aravallis and into the romantic white city of Udaipur. Enjoy the changing landscapes along the way. Stroll along the lakes and the narrow lanes, each with a unique character. Overnight in Udaipur.

Day 14 Delhi

You can reminisce on your trip over a leisurely lunch by the lovely Lake Pichola. Walk around the bazaar streets and collect some wooden toys and authentic silver accessories. Depart for Delhi/Mumbai by flight.