The Creative Trail

CRAFT HOLIDAY JAIPUR

CRAFT HOLIDAY JAIPUR

20th Feb - 2nd Mar 2027

A deeply immersive journey into Jaipur’s timeless crafts, vibrant culture and living textile traditions.

This carefully curated holiday combines hands on workshops, cultural exploration and time to slow down and absorb the extraordinary atmosphere of Rajasthan. 

JOIN UPCOMING INFO SESSION

Join us online on Monday, 29th June 6pm UK time (GMT) to find out more

Block printing holiday Jaipur
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LIVING CRAFT TRADITIONS OF JAIPUR

Work with Jaipur’s master artisans and be looked after by Host Louisa de Jong and Guide Narendra Singh.

This craft holiday blends cultural exploration with hands-on learning.

WHAT YOU'LL EXPERIENCE

Learn about the crafts and their artisans, explore the history of their techniques to gain a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship.

Move from observation to practice, learning the traditional local Rajasthani techniques of block printing, dyeing and embroidery.

Block printing vacation Rajasthan
Block printed holiday India

WHO IS THIS CRAFT HOLIDAY FOR?

This craft holiday welcomes creatives of all levels of experience and interests.

It is ideal for those interested in craft traditions, textile heritage, meaningful travel and learning through making. 

HIGHLIGHTS

Learn with Jaipur's Master Artisans

Learn with Jaipur's Master Artisans

Work across Rajasthan’s craft traditions including block printing, natural dyeing, Bandhani dyeing and embroidery.

Bagru Village Block Printing Washing Fabric

Discover Jaipur’s Craft Neighbourhoods

Explore artisan neighbourhoods, colourful bazaars, hidden workshops and atmospheric backstreets.

Block printing course

Experience a Living Block Printing Community

Spend three days in Bagru, where generations of artisan families continue centuries old block printing and natural dyeing traditions.

Dyeing holiday India

Learn Leheriya with Jaipur’s Rangrez Dyers

Work with a master Rangrez family who have practised Leheriya dyeing for over 150 years in Jaipur’s old city.

Nila House

Discover Serene and Iconic Craft Spaces

Visit the inspiring cultural spaces of Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing and Nila House, where textile heritage is preserved and reimagined.

Jaipur cuisine and spices

Experience Jaipur’s Food and Cultural Life

Wind through food lanes, spice markets and exceptional restaurants, and experience Bollywood at the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema.

Block printing fabric collection

Build Your Own Creative Collection

Build a personal collection which reflects your time in Jaipur, shaped by the techniques, ideas and experiments you have explored.

Ladies Craft Holiday

Travel with Like Minded Creatives

Share inspiration, ideas and memorable experiences within a warm and supportive small group. Make lasting friendships.

Slow travel craft holiday

Take Time, Slow Down and Create

Take time to absorb, reflect and fully experience Rajasthan’s colour, craft and incredible atmosphere.

KEY DETAILS

WHY THIS JOURNEY IS DIFFERENT

This is not a sightseeing tour of craft heritage. It is a living creative experience immersed in working studios, artisan communities and Rajasthan’s enduring craft traditions. You will move between learning, observing and making, supported by expert artisans who continue to practise these traditions today.

Each day builds your understanding of Rajasthan’s craft and textile traditions, materials, techniques and cultural landscape:

  • Colour through natural dyeing and indigo vats
  • Pattern through block printing and carved wooden blocks
  • Tradition through Bandhani resist dyeing techniques
  • Material through embroidery and surface design
  • Place through markets, workshops and heritage spaces

You are not just seeing craft. You are working inside it.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• 10 nights accommodation in a carefully selected heritage haveli in Jaipur, with breakfast served daily in a peaceful courtyard setting

• All creative workshops and materials throughout the journey, including immersive, hands on sessions with master artisans across Rajasthan’s living craft traditions

• Block printing workshops in Bagru with traditional wooden blocks, natural dyes and centuries old printing techniques still used today

• Natural dyeing and indigo workshops, including working with traditional dye vats and learning colour processes derived from plants and natural materials

• Bandhani dyeing workshop with a master Rangrez artisan family in Jaipur’s old city, learning intricate tie dye techniques passed down through generations

• Soof embroidery workshop at Nila House, a beautifully calm cultural space dedicated to preserving and sharing Indian craft traditions

• Entry to all museums and cultural sites listed in the itinerary, including curated visits and guided introductions to Jaipur’s most important craft and heritage spaces

• A personalised shopping experience through Johari Bazaar and surrounding textile lanes, visiting specialist shops, boutiques and artisan suppliers we know and love

• A guided food walk through Jaipur’s markets and food lanes, sampling iconic Rajasthani dishes and discovering the city’s vibrant culinary culture

• A guided artisan backstreets walk with a local expert, uncovering hidden workshops, artisan neighbourhoods and everyday creative life in the city

• An evening at the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema, experiencing Bollywood in one of India’s most atmospheric and beloved cultural institutions

• All in country transport throughout the trip in air conditioned private vehicles, ensuring smooth travel between workshops, villages and cultural experiences

• A welcome dinner overlooking Jaipur and a farewell dinner at Bar Palladio, marking the beginning and end of the journey in unforgettable settings

• Hosted support and guidance throughout the journey from Louisa de Jong alongside trusted local experts and artisan partners

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• International flights to and from India

• Indian visa fees

• Airport transfers (we can assist with arrangements)

• Travel insurance (mandatory for all participants)

• Personal expenses including shopping, laundry and additional sightseeing

• Lunches, most dinners, tips and gratuities (we will organise an optional shared kitty to simplify this for the group)

• Optional activities during free time such as spa treatments or additional experiences

Tour Summary

A comprehensive itinerary is found further down this page. Here we provide a tour summary:

  • Day 1 – Welcome to Jaipur

    Arrive and settle into your heritage haveli in the heart of Jaipur. In the evening we gather for welcome drinks and a sunset dinner overlooking the city.

  • Day 2 – Traditions of Craftsmanship

    Visit the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing and Amber Fort, where intricate carvings and royal craftsmanship reveal Rajasthan’s heritage. End the day exploring a curated textile warehouse.

  • Day 3 – The Living City of Craft

    Explore City Palace and its Textile Museum before a personalised shopping experience through Johari Bazaar and surrounding lanes, visiting our favourite textile shops and boutiques.

  • Day 4 – The Art of Bandhani

    Learn Bandhani dyeing with a master Rangrez family in Jaipur’s old city, a tradition passed down for over 150 years. Create your own dyed scarf or stole.

  • Day 5 – Nila House and Bollywood

    Visit Nila House for a Soof embroidery workshop with a Meghwal artisan, then explore its library and studios. In the evening, enjoy a Bollywood film at Raj Mandir Cinema.

  • Day 6 – A Taste of Rajasthan

    Explore Jaipur’s food culture through bustling markets and food lanes, sampling regional dishes and learning about local spices and traditions.

  • Days 7–9 – Block Printing and Natural Dyeing (Bagru)

    Spend three days in Bagru working with master artisans on block printing and natural dyeing using carved blocks, indigo vats and traditional techniques.

  • Day 10 – Jaipur Backstreets and Farewell Dinner

    Explore Jaipur with a guided walk through backstreets, workshops and artisan neighbourhoods. The afternoon is free before a farewell dinner at Bar Palladio.

  • Day 11 – Fly Home, or Explore Further

    Depart Jaipur with new skills, inspiration and a personal collection of handmade textiles. Or we can help you explore further.

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.

This journey is based in Jaipur, with curated excursions into surrounding regions.

Jaipur The Pink City, home to palaces, bazaars, artisan workshops and living textile culture.

Amber A historic royal landscape including UNESCO listed forts, stepwells and the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing.

Bagru A traditional block printing village where entire families continue centuries old dyeing and printing practices.

TRIP DETAILS

Join us online on Monday, 29th June 6pm UK time (GMT) to find out more

YOUR TOUR LEADERS

Louisa de Jong The Creative Trail Holidays

Trip Host Louisa de Jong

Having led creative journeys in Rajasthan for many years, I am continually inspired by the colour, rhythm and living traditions of Jaipur’s craft communities.

This journey has been designed with local artisans and guides who are deeply rooted in their craft traditions, offering access to places and practices not often experienced by visitors.

Trip Guide Narendra Singh

Narendra Singh has been our trusted guide and friend for around 10 years.

Narendra brings a strong understanding of Rajasthan’s culture, history and daily life.  Narendra’s gentle nature, humour and genuine hospitality make him a much loved part of the experience.

YOUR CREATIVE JOURNEY: DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

Artisans Jaipur Holiday

Day 1: Welcome to Jaipur The Pink City

Arrive in Jaipur and settle into your beautiful heritage haveli in the heart of the old city. If you’d like help with travel arrangements or arriving earlier, we’re very happy to assist.

This evening we gather for Welcome Drinks and Dinner, a chance to meet fellow travellers and begin our journey into Jaipur’s rich world of craft, colour and creativity.

Craft Traditions Jaipur India

Day 2: Traditions of Craftsmanship

We begin at the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, exploring Rajasthan’s rich block printing traditions filled with textiles, carved wooden blocks and centuries of craftsmanship.

We then continue to the magnificent Amber Fort and Jaipur’s remarkable stepwells before browsing vintage textiles and traditional fabrics at a hidden treasure trove.

Living City of Craft Jaipur Rajasthan

Day 3: The Living City of Craft, Bazaars and Boutiques

This morning we visit Jaipur’s magnificent City Palace and Textile Museum, where royal garments and historic textiles reveal the richness of Rajasthan’s craft heritage.

Later, we explore Johari Bazaar and its surrounding lanes, visiting favourite textile shops and boutiques filled with hand printed fabrics and contemporary Indian design.

Bandhani Dyeing Artisans of Jaipur

Day 4: The Art of Leheriya Dyeing

Experience the vibrant tradition of Leheriya dyeing with a highly acclaimed master artisan family from Jaipur’s historic Rangrez community.

Learn how fabric is folded, tied and dyed to create flowing patterns rich in colour, rhythm and tradition. The rest of the day is free to browse the bazaars, sightsee or relax.

Nila House Craft Holiday Creative Travel

Day 5: Nila House and a Bollywood Evening

Today we visit Nila House, a cultural space celebrating India’s handmade traditions. Enjoy a Gudri embroidery workshop from the Kalbelia community before exploring the studios, library and beautiful shop.

We head to Jaipur’s iconic Raj Mandir Cinema, a much loved art deco landmark. Settle in to a Bollywood film, a lively experience with the energy and storytelling spirit of modern India.

India Spices Market Jaipur

Day 6: A Taste of Iconic Rajasthan

We wander with a specialist guide through Jaipur's bustling markets and lively food lanes sampling iconic Rajasthani dishes including kachoris, ghewar and rabdi.

Gain a deeper understanding of Rajasthan’s spices, culinary traditions and the important role food plays in everyday life and local culture, offing another window into its vibrant identity.

Block printing course Rajasthan

Days 7, 8 & 9: Block Printing and Natural Dyeing

Across three days, we immerse ourselves in traditional block printing and natural dyeing. Bagru is a historic craft village where artisan families continue centuries old techniques.

Explore these ancient printing and natural colour processes. See fabrics drying in the sun, visit workshops and gain hands on experience while creating your own printed textiles.

Jaipur Backstreets

Day 10: Jaipur Backstreets and Local Favourite

We take a specialist guided walk through Jaipur's atmospheric backstreets to meet artisans at work - jewellers, metalworkers, potters and more.

The afternoon is free to relax, shop or revisit favourite places. In the evening we gather for farewell Cocktails and Dinner at the iconic Bar Palladio.

Day 11: Fly Home, or Explore Further

Your heart will be full of inspiration and your luggage filled with handmade treasures. India has a way of staying with you long after you leave.

We can help you with further travel, and you may choose to combine this tour with our 16 day Art and Craft Tour running beforehand, a richly immersive creative journey for all levels.

While we strive to follow the outlined itinerary, changes may occur due to local conditions, weather or unforeseen circumstances.

ACCOMMODATION

You’ll stay in a beautifully restored heritage haveli in the heart of Jaipur.

Filled with traditional architectural details, peaceful courtyards and elegant interiors, the hotel offers a calm and welcoming retreat from the energy of the city.

Jaipur Haveli Hotel
Rajasthan Hotel Art Holiday
Jaipur Haveli Hotel Swimming Pool

If any changes are necessary, we will provide alternative accommodation of a similar standard.

Who is this trip for?

This immersive 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 craft enthusiasts of all levels, this journey offers a balance of immersion, learning and hands-on creativity.

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.

All materials for the workshops will be provided. If you have preferred supplies, feel free to bring them, but everything needed for your creative sessions will be ready for you upon arrival.

You’ll create a collection of hand printed, dyed and embroidered textile pieces throughout the journey.

We are here to talk you through the process and make your holiday as simple as possible. We will be happy to advise regarding flights and airport transfers. The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (JAI).

Jaipur’s rich culinary culture is an integral part of this tour. Unique and varied tastes. Mouth-watering Rajasthani dishes. Widely vegetarian but meat options widely available. Most dietary requirements can be catered for.

You’ll stay in a beautiful Haveli, a beautifully restored heritage hotel in central Jaipur. This elegant property offers antique furnishings, scenic courtyards, and a relaxing atmosphere — the perfect base for our creative journey.

February is one of the best times to visit Jaipur, with warm sunny days and cooler evenings. Jaipur enjoys pleasant warm weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C . It’s a great time to explore the city, as the weather is mild and the glorious sun allows for spending free time by the pool or for outdoor activities. 

We maintain a small group size with a maximum of 14 participants to ensure an intimate and personalised experience.

Absolutely. Most guests travel solo, and many arrive not knowing anyone but leave with lasting friendships and shared memories.

To maintain the focus on the creative and immersive experience, we are unable to accommodate non-participating guests on the tour. This policy ensures the best experience for all involved.

Yes, the itinerary balances structured activities with some free time, giving you time to relax, shop, or simply soak up the atmosphere of Jaipur at your own pace.

BOOK YOUR CREATIVE HOLIDAY

Join us for this incredible Craft Holiday in Jaipur. Spaces are limited for this intimate small group experience.