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ART AND CRAFT INDIA
Art and Craft Tour: The Essence of Rajasthan
An art and craft tour through Rajasthan’s rich culture and timeless craftsmanship.
Rajasthan is a land where colour, culture and creativity converge in landscapes that are a dream for any artist. From the stunning palaces and temples to bustling bazaars scented with spice and sound, every corner hums with artistic energy. The vivid clothing of its people; flowing saris, expressive turbans and intricate embroidery animates the streets with colour, adding to a palette as layered and evocative as the land itself. Rajasthan’s landscapes — Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur and Bundi — are brimming with energy and creativity, each with its own unique charm that sparks the imagination, and each captured in this incredible art and craft tour.
Under the guidance of artist Charlotte Gerrard, you’ll explore the cultural and artistic heart of the region; from the bustling bazaars of Jaipur to the tranquillity of Pushkar’s sacred lake. Throughout the art and craft tour, you will develop your artistic practice while engaging with Rajasthan’s rich heritage, working with traditional materials and techniques such as block and mud printing.
TRIP DETAILS
- 3rd - 18th February 2027
- 16 Days
- Art and Craft Tour
- Early Bird Price: £5450 (until 30th June. Save £300. Full price £5750).
- Private Room Supplement: £690 (covers whole trip)
- 7-14 participants
Join us online on Wednesday 13th May 6pm UK time (BST) to find out more
ART AND CRAFT INDIA
February 2026
This immersive art and craft tour welcomes artists of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen an established practice, the experience offers a thoughtful balance of technique, exploration and creative growth. Beginners will discover accessible ways to bring ideas to life, while more experienced artists can expand their skills and challenge their creative boundaries in new and inspiring ways.
Throughout the tour, you’ll work with Rajasthan’s rich palette of colours, textures, and traditional techniques — experimenting with materials like gold leaf, sari fabrics and natural dyes. In addition to painting and sketching, you’ll explore Rajasthan’s unique crafts, including block printing in Bagru and mud printing (Dabu) near Udaipur.
A varied programme of workshops invites playful experimentation as well as focused development, allowing you to work at your own pace. Charlotte will support you in translating the richness of your surroundings into your own artistic language, encouraging playful experimentation and helping you deepen your connection to both your creativity and the cultural landscape that inspires it.
Tour Summary
A comprehensive itinerary is found further down this page. Here we provide a tour summary:
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Day 1: Arrival in Jodhpur
Arrive and settle into our heritage hotel. Enjoy welcome drinks and a sunset dinner — a perfect start to our creative journey in India.
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Day 2: Colours of India
We begin with our first art workshop, exploring India’s vibrant colours, then followed by exploring Jodhpur
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Day 3: Jodhpur Blue
Second workshop followed by the blue streets
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Day 4: Blue City & Free Exploration
Start the day drawing and painting at Jodhpur's glorious stepwells. The rest of the day is free to explore
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Day 5: Udaipur City of Lakes
Today we journey to Udaipur, the shimmering City of Lakes.
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Day 6: Exploring Udaipur
Today we explore Udaipur through its everyday moments — the quiet rituals, colourful markets, and the rhythm of daily life
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Day 7: Miniature painting and Photograph Hand-Colouring Workshop with Rajesh Soni
Today, we’ll learn from renowned Udaipur artist Rajesh Soni, who continues his family's legacy of miniature painting and hand-colouring black-and-white photographs
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Day 8: Sketching on the Streets and art workshop
We’ll set off for another sketching adventure, capturing the heart and soul of Udaipur — from its tranquil lake views to the vibrant street scenes.
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Day 9: Mud Resist (Dabu) Workshop in Traditional Village
Today we journey to Udaipur, stopping en route at a village renowned for the traditional craft of Dabu mud resist dyeing.
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Day 10: Exploring Bundi & Working With Pigments
We start the day with a leisurely walk through Bundi, wandering its narrow streets and vibrant houses, drawing inspiration from the town’s rich hues
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Day 11: Chitrashala Palace & Wildlife Workshop
This morning, we return to the stunning Chitrashala in Bundi Palace, renowned for its intricate murals and rich artistic heritage.
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Day 12: Pottery Village
Today we journey to a rural village where they make pots and we'll try our hand at the potters wheel.
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Day 13: Block printing in Jaipur
Today we head to Jaipur. On the way we immerse ourselves in one of India's most cherished crafts: block printing.
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Day 14: Amber Fort, Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, Bollywood
We'll begin sketching the stunning UNESCO Amber Fort, a masterpiece of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Followed by an exploration of the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
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Day 16: Lasting memories and onward journeys
This trip has been about creativity, connection and inspiration — and you will leave with lasting memories and fresh artistic energy. If you'd like to extend your adventure, we can help you with onward travel. Or join us for our 11 day Craft Holiday in Jaipur - a deep dive into Jaipur's timeless crafts, vibrant culture and rich traditions.
Please note: While we strive to follow the outlined itinerary, changes may occur due to local conditions, weather, or unforeseen circumstances. This is India, where flexibility and adaptability are key to ensuring an enriching experience.
Embark on a journey through Rajasthan, starting in the blue streets of Jodhpur followed by Udaipur’s serene lakes, Bundi’s artistic beauty and and finishing in Rajasthan’s craft capital Jaipur.
KEY DETAILS
Price:
- Price: £5450. Early Bird price until 31st May.
- Private Room Supplement: £690 (covers whole trip)
Booking Details:
- Deposit: £1200 to reserve your place
- Final Payment Due: 3rd November 2026
Dates & Logistics:
- Duration: 16 days
- Start: Pal Gagh, Pal Village, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342014, India – 3rd February 2027
- End: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace, Jaipur – 18th February 2027
- Group Size: 7–14 participants
What’s Included:
- A small group experience ensuring a more intimate and personalised tour
- Accompanied throughout by artist Charlotte Gerrard and tour organiser Louisa de Jong, with support from expert local guides for deep cultural insights.
- Expert guidance of artist Charlotte Gerrard on the streets and during workshops
- 15 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in charming, carefully selected boutique hotels and heritage properties that reflect the character of each destination.
- All creative workshops, including block printing, natural dyeing, mandalas, expressive painting workshops, hand-colouring photography and more.
- Guided visits to architectural and cultural highlights, including Amber’s Fort and Stepwells and Bundi Palace and it’s Chitrashala.
- Immersive experiences with local artists, craftspeople, and communities — including a visit to a desert school and a joyful Maha Shivaratri festival celebration.
- A special Dabu mud-resist dyeing workshop at a traditional artisan village en route to Udaipur.
- Entry fees to monuments, museums, and workshops.
- Welcome dinner and drinks on arrival and a celebratory farewell dinner on the lake in Udaipur.
- Private, air-conditioned transport.
- Ample free time to explore, reflect, and create — whether in vibrant bazaars, quiet temples or from a rooftop terrace with sketchbook and chai in hand.
What’s Not Included:
- International flights to and from India.
- Indian visa fees (required for most travellers).
- Airport transfers (we can assist with arrangements).
- Travel insurance (mandatory for all participants).
- Personal expenses such as additional meals, drinks, tips, and shopping. We’ll have an optional shared kitty for meals and tips to make things simpler for everyone.
- Optional activities during your free time (e.g., spa treatments, shopping, or extra sightseeing).
HIGHLIGHTS
Expert Tuition and Inspiration
Join Charlotte Gerrard, whose artwork is deeply influenced by India’s vibrant colours, culture, and heritage. With her expert guidance, you’ll explore traditional and contemporary techniques to create expressive artwork inspired by India’s rich artistic traditions.
A Journey Through Rajasthan’s Contrasts
From peaceful lakeside towns to vibrant desert cities, each stop offers a new mood, palette and cultural perspective to explore.
Celebrate Maha Shivaratri in Pushkar
Experience the energy of this sacred Hindu festival — from temple rituals to flickering oil lamps and rhythmic chanting by the lake.
Slow Down, See More
Take time to draw the lively street scenes, where the rhythms of life — from the bustle of markets to quiet temple courtyards — unfold around you.
Sketch the Colours of India
Capture the brilliant hues of Indian life — vibrant markets, intricate saris and colourful doorways — bringing the energy of the streets to your sketchbook.
Craft with Generations of Artisans
Work alongside master artisans to learn traditional crafts like block printing, hand-dyeing and creating textiles, passed down through generations of Indian culture.
Sketch and Sip Masala Chai
Pause to sketch scenes of chai stalls, street vendors and cows wandering through the streets, while sipping a cup of freshly brewed masala chai.
Savour the Flavours of Rajasthan
Indulge in saffron-infused pulao, smoky baati with ghee and sweet cardamom gulab jamun, a feast full of rich, aromatic flavours.
BOOK YOUR CREATIVE ESCAPE
Spaces are limited. Join our unique creative journey.
About Artist Charlotte Gerrard
Charlotte Gerrard is a London-based visual artist whose expressive work is deeply informed by her profound connection with India and its culture. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years, she has cultivated a unique style that artfully merges her passion for India and its rich traditions. Her innovative approach utilises mixed media—incorporating stencils, typography, sari borders and rangoli-inspired patterns to create evocative and meaningful art. Having visited India innumerable times, Charlotte has immersed herself in its vibrant culture, learnt Hindi and forged strong bonds with local people, schools and animal sanctuaries. As your guide, Charlotte offers expert insight and inspiration to support and elevate your own creative journey.
ART AND CRAFT TOUR: DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, weather conditions or other factors beyond our control. We will do our best to ensure that the experience remains seamless and enjoyable.
Day 1: Arrival in Jodhpur
Arrive at our charming heritage fort hotel in the incredible blue town of Jodhpur, where the city’s rich history meets modern comfort. After settling in, join us for a warm welcome reception with drinks — a chance to connect with fellow artists and get excited about the creative journey ahead. Later, we’ll gather for a delicious dinner. It’s the perfect setting to relax, soak in the energy of the group, and set the stage for a memorable artistic adventure through India’s cultural soul.
Day 2: Colours of India
We begin with our first art workshop, exploring India’s vibrant colours, setting the tone for the creative journey ahead. Later, we’ll head into Jodhpur and start creating the colours as we see them around us.
Day 3: Jodhpur Blue
In the gardens of our beautiful fort accommodation we'll enjoy a second workshop - working with the rich blue hues of Jodhpur. Next we'll head into Jodhpur and start exploring the area of blue streets - prepare to be awed.
Day 4: Blue City & Free Exploration
Start the day drawing and painting at Jodhpur's glorious stepwells. The rest of the day is free to explore Jodhpur's vibrant streets, unwind with a relaxing massage or indulge in some retail therapy.
Day 5: Udaipur City of Lakes
Today we journey to Udaipur, the shimmering City of Lakes. We’ll stop to draw on route. This afternoon we settle into our lakeside hotel on Lake Pichola and gather for a sunset drink and dinner..
Day 6: Exploring Udaipur
Today we explore Udaipur through its everyday moments — the quiet rituals, colourful markets, and the rhythm of daily life that make this city so captivating. From hand-painted doorways to bustling food stalls, the streets are alive with inspiration. Later, we return for a relaxed workshop with Charlotte at the hotel
Day 7: Miniature painting and Photograph Hand-Colouring Workshop with Rajesh Soni
Today, we’ll learn from renowned Udaipur artist Rajesh Soni, who continues his family's legacy of miniature painting and hand-colouring black-and-white photographs — a rare and beautiful tradition rooted in India’s royal courts. Rajesh will guide us through the basics of this delicate technique, sharing stories from his heritage and how he bridges traditional and contemporary styles.
Day 8: Sketching on the Streets and art workshop
We’ll set off for another sketching adventure, capturing the heart and soul of Udaipur — from its tranquil lake views to the vibrant street scenes. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect, collect more impressions from this laid back and beautiful town and work on your visual story. This afternoon we'll head back to our beautiful rooftop for another workshop with Charlotte.
Day 9: Mud Resist (Dabu) Workshop in Traditional Village
Today we journey to Udaipur, stopping en route at a village renowned for the traditional craft of Dabu mud resist dyeing. Here, we’ll take part in a hands-on workshop, learning how natural mud and dye are used to create intricate, beautiful patterns on fabric - learning from local artisans who have been doing this work for generations.
Day 10: Exploring Bundi & Working With Pigments
We start the day with a leisurely walk through Bundi, wandering its narrow streets and vibrant houses, drawing inspiration from the town’s rich hues. Next, we visit Bundi Palace, capturing its grandeur and intricate frescoes against stunning panoramic views. In the afternoon, we return to the terrace for a shift to canvas, experimenting with natural pigments and materials sourced from local markets.
Day 11: Chitrashala Palace & Wildlife Workshop
This morning, we return to the stunning Chitrashala in Bundi Palace, renowned for its intricate murals and rich artistic heritage. We’ll take time to sit, sketch and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this inspiring space. This afternoon, we'll enjoy an art workshop with breathtaking views of the majestic fort and the town’s rooftops focusing on Rajasthan’s fascinating wildlife.
Day 12: Pottery Village
Today we journey to a rural village where they make pots and we'll try our hand at the potters wheel. Set in incredible farmland, we'll journey through the fields seeing the flow of saris against the green luscious crops. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you wish — whether shopping, relaxing or sketching more of Bundi’s charming streets and rooftops. Bundi is a treasure trove of antiques and old silver, making it a perfect place to explore hidden gems
Day 13: Block printing in Jaipur
Today we head to Jaipur. On the way we immerse ourselves in one of India's most cherished crafts: block printing. This hands-on workshop is rooted in the artistic heritage of India and is one of Jaipur's major crafts.
Day 14: Amber Fort, Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, Bollywood
We'll begin sketching the stunning UNESCO Amber Fort, a masterpiece of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Followed by an exploration of the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing - a beloved museum dedicated to the traditional Indian textile craftmanship. Tonight we'll enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Bollywood cinema.
Day 15: Immersing in Jaipur
After a morning of free exploration and shopping in Jaipur, we'll delve into Jaipur's old town on a special tour, wandering through backstreets to meet local craftspeople and sample delicious street food.
We’ll close our unforgettable journey with a farewell dinner at Bar Palladio, an enchanting venue blending Venetian and Rajasthani style.
Day 16: Lasting memories and onward journeys
This trip has been about creativity, connection and inspiration — and you will leave with lasting memories and fresh artistic energy. If you'd like to extend your adventure, we can help you with onward travel. Or join us for our 11 day Craft Holiday in Jaipur - a deep dive into Jaipur's timeless crafts, vibrant culture and rich traditions.
Please note: While we strive to follow the outlined itinerary, changes may occur due to local conditions, weather, or unforeseen circumstances. This is India, where flexibility and adaptability are key to ensuring an enriching experience
ACCOMMODATION
Throughout the tour, you’ll stay in a collection of beautifully restored heritage havelis (traditional mansions) or heritage style family hotels, full of character and charm. These peaceful sanctuaries offer shaded courtyards, quiet terraces and rooms rich in local details. Each property blends old-world elegance with modern comforts, providing a serene atmosphere for relaxation and creativity, whether you're sketching or simply soaking in the stillness. The perfect backdrop to support your artistic journey.
Please note: if any changes are necessary, we will provide alternative accommodation of a similar standard.
Who is this trip for?
This immersive art and craft tour welcomes creatives of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or deepening your practice, the tour offers a balanced mix of hands-on workshops, cultural exploration and creative inspiration. Thoughtfully paced and designed for creatives of all levels, this journey offers a balance of immersion, learning and hands-on creativity.
Do I need to be good at art or craft?
No experience is necessary. The focus is on enjoying the process of creating and learning new skills in a supportive and relaxed environment. Expert local artisans will guide you every step of the way.
What is the food like?
The food on the tour showcases the rich and diverse flavours of Rajasthani and Indian cuisine. Vegan and vegetarian options are fully catered for, with plenty of flavourful, fresh dishes to enjoy.
What is the weather like in Rajasthan in February?
February offers pleasant, mild weather in Rajasthan—cool mornings and evenings with warm sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.
How do I get to Jodhpur?
Jodhpur is well connected by domestic flights, trains and road from major Indian cities. We can provide guidance on the best way to arrive and assist with airport transfers if needed. We will work with everyone individually about their need and work to help people travelling together from major hubs, including for example London Heathrow.
Will I need specific materials for the trip?
We will provide a suggested list of art materials to bring.
What’s the accommodation like?
We’ll stay in charming heritage hotels and guesthouses chosen for their character and comfort, providing a warm and authentic atmosphere.
Do I need a visa for India?
Guests from most countries will need a visa to enter India. Please make sure to apply for an Indian tourist visa before departure. See the Booking Terms and Conditions for more details.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. It should cover health, medical emergencies, cancellation and baggage loss. Proof of insurance will be required before departure and we recommend booking travel insurance as soon as you confirm your place.
What language is spoken during the tour?
All activities and workshops are conducted in English. Our expert local guides will be happy to answer all your questions in English and provide insights into the local culture.
Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
Due to the nature of the activities and the venues visited, this tour may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Some locations will involve walking or stairs. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs.
Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation, but access may be limited in certain locations, especially during excursions.
Can I do laundry while on the tour?
Laundry facilities are available at the Havelis, and you may use them during your stay for your convenience.
Can I contact somebody to find out more?
Absolutely. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you decide if this trip is right for you. Joining an upcoming online information session is also a great way to ask more questions and hear further details from us.
Can a non-participating guest join me?
Unfortunately, the tour activities and accommodations are designed specifically for participants. Non-participating guests cannot join the tour.
For all booking and cancellation related information for your art and craft tour, please refer to the following policies:
- Booking Terms & Conditions: Covers payment details, responsibilities, cancellations and what to expect when booking your trip.