India Photo Tour Highlights…
- Photograph many of the iconic highlights of Rajasthan and Varanasi along with hidden or little known locations
- Tuition from Steve Gosling
- Local guide and fixer
- You will have access to places that you won’t normally see on a photo tour
- Regular photo reviews and critique
- Social time with other like minded photographers
- Experienced street, travel & architectural photographer, knows the best spots to shoot
This Tour Is For You If…
- You’re an amateur photographer of any ability who wants to improve your technical and creative skills
- You’re an advanced or Pro photographer looking to expand your portfolio with new and different images
- You’re a competitive camera club member and looking to create amazing winning images
Need more info or wish to book?
For more details you can speak with Siân or Steven:
Siân Warren:
sian@indiawoventravel.com
or tel 020 8064 1703
Steven Gosling:
hello@creativephotoadventures.com
or tel 07836 705 705
Or you can fill in your details on the form at the bottom of the page and we will get back to you.
Our India Photography Tour is one of the best we’ve put together. But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s some reviews recorded on our last India Photo Workshop.
Introduction to Photography in India
You know that feeling when a place has been calling to you for years? That’s exactly how India felt to me after all my travels across Asia. When I finally made it there a few years back, I promised myself I wouldn’t miss a thing. I’d done my homework, but honestly? Nothing – and I mean nothing – prepares you for India. The explosion of colours, the incredible sounds and aromas, the sheer cultural richness… it’s like someone turned all your senses up to eleven!
But here’s what really got me – the people. I’ve travelled a lot, and I can honestly say I’ve never encountered such genuine warmth and generosity anywhere else. Even in communities with very little, there’s this beautiful acceptance of life and an open-hearted willingness to share everything they have with you.
What I love most about India is that it doesn’t try to be anything other than what it is. No filters, no pretence – just pure, authentic life unfolding right in front of you. As someone who’s always chasing the perfect shot, I can tell you that’s photography gold.
So, here’s what I’m promising you: This won’t be one of those glossy, picture-perfect tours where everything’s been sanitised for your comfort. This is going to be real, raw, and absolutely transformative. The kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve come home.
Ready to see the India I fell in love with?
Rajasthan’s Majestic Palaces and Forts
Rajasthan is a land of majestic forts and opulent palaces – some of which we’ll have the rare chance to stay in – each one a living testament to its royal heritage. From the intricate pink façade of the iconic Hawa Mahal, to the commanding Amber Fort overlooking the serene Maota Lake, to the mighty Mehrangarh Fort rising dramatically above the city, these architectural wonders speak of a grand and storied past. Bathed in the golden light of the desert sun, they offer breathtaking backdrops, perfect for capturing the timeless beauty and grandeur of Rajasthan.
This is the Rajasthan I can’t wait to share with you.
Vivid Colours of India
Jaipur – they call it the “Pink City,” but that barely scratches the surface. Imagine entire streets washed in hues of rose, coral, and terracotta, punctuated by unexpected splashes of cobalt blue. It’s like someone painted a fever dream and then invited us all to step inside.
And then there are the bazaars. They’re a riot of colour and chaos in the best possible way – mountains of saffron and turmeric spilling from burlap sacks, silk scarves catching the breeze like prayer flags, artisans crafting treasures right before your eyes. Every corner you turn is another visual story waiting to be told, another frame begging to be captured.
Offbeat, Rare and Immersive Experiences
Anyone can tick off the famous landmarks – and yes, we’ll absolutely cover those. But here’s where this journey gets really special: we’re going deeper.
I’m talking about descending into ancient stepwells where geometric patterns and shadows play tricks with light. Sitting alongside artisans whose hands have perfected crafts passed down through countless generations. Standing in temples where the spiritual energy is almost tangible through your lens.
Photographing nomadic tribesmen as they tend their herds against desert backdrops, capturing rows upon rows of brilliant turbans laid out to dry under that relentless Rajasthan sun. We’ll lose ourselves in aromatic spice markets and watch master weavers create sarees so exquisite they belong in museums – many still using techniques their great-great-grandparents taught them.
And those iconic spots everyone knows? We’ll show you angles and perspectives most visitors never even realise exist.
This is where your camera comes alive.
The Streets Are Your Canvas
India doesn’t just allow street photography – it practically demands it. Life here doesn’t wait for you to get your settings right; it simply explodes around you in every direction. The streets pulse with an energy that’s intoxicating, and honestly? Your biggest challenge won’t be finding subjects – it’ll be choosing which incredible moment to capture next.
Saffron-robed Sadhus lost in meditation. Street vendors arranging their kaleidoscope of goods with meticulous care. Families weaving through the beautiful chaos of daily life. Every face tells a story, and here’s the beautiful part: most people welcome the camera. They’ll meet your lens with curiosity, warmth, sometimes even a theatrical flourish.
When Worlds Collide
What makes India endlessly fascinating is how it refuses to choose between tradition and modernity – it simply embraces both at once. You’ll frame a shot of a hand-painted rickshaw against glass towers that kiss the clouds. A grandmother in an immaculate sari glides past teenagers sporting the latest streetwear. Ancient rituals unfold beside coffee shops with WiFi passwords. These collisions aren’t contradictions – they’re India being unapologetically itself, and they’ll add layers of meaning to every single frame you capture.
The Heartbeat Behind the Lens
But here’s what really matters: beneath all that colour and controlled chaos, you’re capturing something profoundly human. The belly laugh of a child who’s found joy in the simplest things. The proud, weathered smile of a vendor who’s been working his corner for thirty years. That fleeting glance between strangers that somehow contains an entire conversation.
If you’ve ever felt nervous about street photography, India will cure you of that fast.
Photography tour of Varanasi – The spiritual home of India
Varanasi offers photographers a rare combination of ancient tradition and vivid daily life. Along the ghats that line the Ganges, sunrise and evening Aarti ceremonies create dramatic lighting conditions, while the city’s narrow lanes reveal layers of activity – from silk weavers at work to street vendors and pilgrims navigating the crowded alleyways.
The city presents constant visual contrasts: sacred rituals alongside everyday commerce, ornate temples next to crumbling architecture, quiet moments of prayer amid urban chaos. For photographers, Varanasi is both challenging and rewarding – the light can be harsh, the crowds overwhelming, but the authenticity is unmatched.
What makes Varanasi particularly compelling is its lack of artifice. Life here unfolds without performance or pretence. Whether capturing the intimate gestures of religious devotion, the textures of weathered stone and flowing fabric, or the faces of people connected to traditions spanning millennia, photographers find a city that refuses to be anything other than itself.
Varanasi rewards patience and respect. The best images often come not from seeking the perfect shot, but from being present to witness a city where the sacred and the ordinary exist side by side, in constant, timeless motion.
Ancient Ghats, Eternal Light: Photographing India’s Holiest City.
2026 Rajasthan & Varanasi Photography Tour – Day by Day Schedule
Guests need to make their way to Delhi in time for the start of the tour on the afternoon of 28th October 2026. Overnight direct flights on 27th October from London Heathrow to Delhi is recommended. All guests will be met on arrival at Delhi international airport by our representatives and transferred to the hotel.
If you wish to arrive a day or two early, we can arrange extra nights at the starting hotel for you.
28th October | Arrival Delhi
Once at the hotel, everyone will have some time to relax before the group meets up for the first time in the afternoon. Later we will be met by our escort guide and head to Lodhi Gardens, which is a sprawling green park located in the heart of Delhi. It houses the mausoleums of two Delhi Sultanate rulers, namely Mohammed Shah and Sikander Lodhi, along with other structures. Boasting of impressive architecture and impeccable natural beauty, the garden, and the structures within it echo Delhi’s illustrious history.
Overnight Colonel’s Retreat, Delhi
Meals included – Breakfast
29th October | Delhi
After breakfast, we’ll head to Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi to explore its vibrant streets, each known for a specific trade. We’ll walk through Dariba Kalan, home to silver smiths, Kinari Bazaar, famous for wedding goods, and Khari Baoli, Delhi’s legendary spice market. A cyclerickshaw ride will take us through the busy streets, offering a unique perspective of the bustling markets. Chandni Chowk’s lively atmosphere and diverse scenes make it an ideal spot for street photography! We will also make a visit to one of Asia’s largest mosques, the Jama Masjid. This magnificent Mughal-era mosque stands as a testament to the architectural grandeur of the 17th century. Later in the afternoon we will make a visit to Bangla Sahib, the holy place of worship for Sikhs. Here we will be able to see the open kitchen where volunteers work hard to prepare meals for over 20,000 people every day!
Overnight Colonel’s Retreat, Delhi
Meals included – Breakfast
30th October | Delhi – Varanasi
This morning we will be transferred to the airport in time for our flight to Varanasi (guests can leave some luggage back in our local Delhi office at their own risk).
Flight: Indigo 6E-2334 Delhi 11:05 – Varanasi 12:35, 15kg checked-in luggage allowance, 7kg hand luggage allowance
Once in Varanasi, we will be collected by a new driver and transfer to the hotel to check in. Perched on the crescent-shaped banks of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is one of holiest of sites for Hindu’s, with the belief that dying here offers liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Later in the afternoon, as the sun begins to set, we will board our boat on the River Ganges – which will drift slowly from Assi Ghat, offering breathtaking views of the city glowing in the golden light. We’ll then pass by the hauntingly atmosphereric Manikarnika cremation grounds, which burn day and night. The experience reaches its crescendo at Dasashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform the evening fire rituals honouring the river as a goddess. As darkness falls, we’ll set small lamps afloat on the water, a serene and timeless gesture of reverence.
Overnight Ganges View Hotel, Varanasi
Meals included – Breakfast
31st October | Varanasi
We will start our day at dawn with a boat ride along the Ganges, watching devotees gather for morning prayers as the sun rises over the ghats. Later, we will get to explore the old city on a guided walking tour through its bustling bazaars and winding alleys, meeting local artisans whose families have lived here for generations. Then in the evening we will witness the unforgettable Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat, a sacred ceremony of fire and devotion on the riverbanks.
Overnight Ganges View Hotel, Varanasi
Meals included – Breakfast
1st November | Varanasi
In the morning, we will continue exploring the historic city of Varanasi with our expert guide. For a complete experience, we will take a journey on foot from ghat to ghat, following the rhythm of the Ganges and observing the daily life and rituals along its banks. This is the perfect opportunity to take a peek into temples, portrait photography of the pilgrims and the living heritage of Varanasi. The group can spend as much time as they wish exploring and for photography. In the evening, we will then take a rare and deeper look into the spiritual fabric of the city, to learn about the death and rebirth cycle in Varanasi. The walk begins at a fertility temple, moves through the unorthodox Aghor traditions, and concludes at the Harish Chandra cremation grounds and a powerful Shiva complex, offering a thought-provoking perspective on life, death, and rebirth in Varanasi. Guests can choose to have dinner either before or after the walk as the suggested start time is 7:30 PM.
Overnight Ganges View Hotel, Varanasi
Meals included – Breakfast
2nd November | Varanasi – Delhi – Agra
This morning, we depart early from Varanasi to Delhi in order to catch our domestic flight and then continue by road to Agra (approximately 4–5 hours by road, depending on traffic).
Flight: IndiGo 6E-2015 VNS 06:40 – DEL 08:15., 15kg checked-in luggage allowance, 7kg hand luggage allowance.
Once in Agra, a local expert guide will take us on an off-the-beaten-path exploration of the city, revealing hidden vantage points for unique views of the Taj Mahal – an unforgettable highlight for photographers.
Overnight Ekaa Villa, Agra
Meals included – Breakfast
3rd November | Agra
We will rise early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise today. Built as a monument to eternal love and described by poet Rabindranath Tagore as “a teardrop on the cheek of time”, this magnificent 17th century mausoleum made of milk-white makrana marble was created by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. Later in the afternoon, we are invited to embark on an enchanting adventure of an exclusive Agra handicraft walk. A chance to immerse ourselves in the extraordinary expertise of local artists who cast the magic of their talent and showcase it through marble inlay work known as Pietra Dura and Zardosi, ari embroidery and rug making.
Overnight Ekaa Villa, Agra
Meals included – Breakfast
4th November | Agra – Jaipur
After breakfast, we will travel with our driver to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri – the abandoned capital city (approx 6 hours drive excluding stops). Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri city was abandoned not long after due to water shortages, leaving behind beautifully preserved palaces, courtyards, and mosques. Walking through its red sandstone gateways and quiet squares, you’ll get a real sense of the grandeur and ambition of the Mughal era, all set against the haunting backdrop of a once-thriving city frozen in time. On arrival in Jaipur, the remainder of the afternoon will be at our leisure.
Overnight Dera Rawatsar, Jaipur
Meals included – Breakfast
5th November | Jaipur
This morning, we will have an interesting look into what makes Jaipur a craft haven. We will take a walk through the old part of the city for an exploration of the city’s arts and antiquities. The walk itself will take us to a neighbourhood that has been inhabited by the trader community for many generations. We will be able to witness beautiful old havelis with their intricate carvings, and the smoky ateliers of the hard-working metal smiths. We will then end the walk in the street of the lac bangle makers, where bangle artisans spend hours a day creating colourful bangles of all shapes and sizes. After the walk through the old part of the city, we will have lunch at a local restaurant that boasts stunning views of the Hawal Mahal (Palace of Winds). There will then be some time at leisure. Later in the afternoon, we will drive to the majestic Amber Fort and ascend to the hilltop by 4×4 jeep. Before we reach the Fort, we will stop to admire the intricate workmanship of the ancient Panna Meena Stepwell. If there is one quintessential fort that pays homage to the illustrious Rajput empire, then it is Amber Fort. We will spend some time meandering through the complex with our guide, admiring its glory and intricate lattice and marble work. Before heading back to our hotel, we will stop to photograph the Jal Mahal as it lit up in the early evening (timings will be conducted on the day depending on the sunset and the time it is lit up).
Overnight Dera Rawatsar, Jaipur
Meals included – Breakfast, Lunch
6th November | Jaipur
We will rise early this morning to take a unique view of the Pink City today, with an early morning rickshaw ride with the Pink Rickshaw Company. The Pink Rickshaw Company is a unique non-for-profit organisation that provides employment for women from low-income backgrounds in Jaipur. These women have registered as equity owners of their own e-rickshaw and proudly own and manage them for their sightseeing tours. For our e-rickshaw ride we will explore the empty streets and witness how the city begins to wake up. We will start with a humble prayer ceremony at a colourful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna before continuing to the local flower market to see the floral bounty being traded. Next, we will find a spot to halt for some masala chai. Later for those that are interested, our guide will take guests to visit the City Palace compound which houses a museum detailing the contents on display from the palace. Seeing the decorated gates inside the inner courtyard is always popular with photographers. We will also make time to stop at the Jantar Mantar observatory.
Overnight Dera Rawatsar, Jaipur
Meals included – Breakfast
7th November | Jaipur – Fort Barli
This morning, we will rise early to re-visit the Jal Mahal but this time at sunrise. We will then return to the hotel for breakfast before continuing on to the village of Barli where a little oasis and a delightful, converted fort in the heart of Rajasthan awaits us (approx 4 hours drive). The Palace Fort has remained in the hands of the same family for nearly 350 years and has been beautifully restored to its old charm. Once here, we will take an exploration of the village, which is a great chance for some rural life photography. Later this evening we will enjoy signature Barli dishes, hand cooked to perfection, served on traditional platters.
Overnight Fort Barli, Barli Village
Meals included – Breakfast, Dinner
8th November | Fort Barli – Jodhpur
After breakfast, we’ll drive to the ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur (approx. 4 hours drive). On arrival, take some time to relax and enjoy the hotel’s beautiful grounds and pool. Later in the afternoon, we’ll set out on an Old City walking tour to experience the vibrant preparations in the bazaars for Diwali. We will then get to enjoy a small Diwali celebration at the hotel.
Overnight Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur
Meals included – Breakfast
9th November | Jodhpur
This morning, we’ll visit a site near Panchkunda, known for its intricately designed cenotaphs. Here, we’ll see vibrant yards of turban cloth drying in the sun, dyed in brilliant colours and patterns for special occasions (timing to be confirmed locally). Later, we’ll explore the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, perched high above the city. Inside, discover beautifully carved palaces, delicate jali windows, and sweeping views of the blue-painted Brahmin houses below. As we descend, we’ll wander through the blue-hued neighbourhoods, stopping for tea along the way.
Overnight Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur
Meals included – Breakfast
10th November | Jodhpur – Delhi
Today will be transferred to the airport for our flight to Delhi.
Flight: IndiGo 6E-2034 Jodhpur 12:20 – Delhi 13:35, 20kg checked-in luggage allowance, 7kg hand luggage allowance.
Once in Delhi, we will transfer to the hotel close to the airport.
Overnight Vivanta by Taj Dwarka, Delhi
11th November | Depart Delhi
Today we will transfer to Delhi international airport in time for our flights back home. All guests will have private transfers to the airport, with assistance from our airport representatives.
Important Note: Some locations mentioned may need to be substituted due to weather, accessibility or local restrictions beyond our control. The photographs shown may not include all locations and may feature places that are not accessible.
End-of-tour photo review and follow-up
I also offer an online follow-up after the tour to help with selecting and editing your images.
Access to private members’ Facebook group
We have a private Facebook group where members can post images for feedback, ask questions and receive help and advice from me.
What type of camera do I need?
As this is a dedicated photography tour, it is preferable to bring a camera with interchangeable lenses, such as a DSLR, a mirrorless camera or a film camera. After booking, we will provide further details about the recommended equipment to bring.
Can I attend with only a mobile phone camera or a point-and-shoot camera?
Yes. This can work, and I can still show you how to create your best images with a mobile phone or a point-and-shoot camera. I can help you improve your composition techniques and much more. The most important thing is to be enthusiastic about taking great photographs and enjoying the Indian experience.
