Discover India in true style. This luxury handcrafted tour veers you to explore Rajasthan’s best kept secrets through exclusive experiences and expert local knowledge.
From backstreet food tours in Delhi, to a private champagne sipping in the royal quarters of the City Palace of Jaipur. Dine in century old stepwells and discover village life in some of the country’s most time frozen regions giving you a true insight into the real India and the rituals and life of its people. Embrace the fascinating highlights of classical Rajasthan whilst staying in handpicked properties showcasing India’s colour, character and classe.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Namaste! Welcome to India! Once you have cleared immigration and collected your luggage, our representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall holding a Crooked Compass branded signboard with your name on it. You will be accorded a traditional welcome with marigold garlands before you are lead to your vehicle and transferred to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Overnight – Dharampura Haveli in a Dewan-e-Khas Room or similar
Following breakfast this morning, you will depart on a privately guided tour of New Delhi which will include exploring several iconic government buildings including the President’s House, Parliament and India Gate. As you drive past each sign, you will reach one of the monuments from Delhi’s Past – Humayun’s Tomb. The design of this tomb inspired Emperor Shahjehan to build the Taj Mahal in Agra. Continuing, you will drive to Old Delhi where your lunch will be served in an authentic restaurant, Chor Bizzare, where the food tastes like a home cooked meal in someone’s house.
After your stomach is full, you will visit the Red Fort. Mughal ruler Shahjehan shifted the capital of his empire in 1639 from Agra to Delhi to heighten the esteem of his regime and fulfil his motivated building plans – a new city named Shahjahanabad, now known as Delhi, or more specifically, Old Delhi. The foundation of a fort, known as the Red Fort, located on the northern side of town was constructed, taking around 9 years to complete (1639 – 1648). The Red Fort was utilised as a residential property for the Mughal ruler and was also the capital of Mughal rulers until the regime of Bahadur Shah Zafar. The Red Fort became UNESCO heritage listed in 2007.
This evening, you will explore Old Delhi by rickshaw. A truly unique experience allowing you to witness the city’s sights and delights in a totally new way. Immerse yourself in the city’s charismatic, chaotic yet intoxicating charm. Your expert driver will put their skills to good use as they navigate what appears to be non-navigable streets. This is an offbeat, ‘only in India’ experience in the ancient city of Shahjahanabad. This experience will begin after your visit to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. After your visit, you will board your rickshaw and enter the colourful and narrow laneways of Old Delhi. Discover the gems of the main street of Chandni Chowk before veering into the bustling streets clamouring with daily life and trade, offering a glimpse of what life was like when the city first started as a trading hub. You will visit the firecracker market, see exquisite silver jewellery, antique items, perfumes and piping hot, scrumptious jalebis – an Indian deep fried desert.
Next, head to Kinari Bazaar also known as the wedding market, this is the place to purchase your wedding paraphernalia. At night, the gold and silver decorated borders, laces and colourful embellishments in this lane twinkle, glitter and shine. Visit Asia’s largest spice market where spices were once so valuable that they caused invasions and fierce battles. As you explore, so will your taste buds. Taste some of Delhi’s delicious street food from jalebis to samosas. (B,L)
Overnight – Dharampura Haveli in a Dewan-e-Khas Room or similar
Departing after breakfast this morning, you will travel along the Express Highway to the city of Agra. Agra is the city of love and longing – meticulously planned, built and nurtured by three successive Mughal emperors – Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan, during the most glorious era of the Mughal empire. The buildings spread across Agra are stellar examples of Mughal architecture and engineering skills. Conversations about Agra usually begin with mentions of the Taj Mahal.
Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel before later visiting the impressive Agra Fort, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. Shah Jahan, the Taj’s creator, spent the last years of his life imprisoned at the fort by his son Aurangzeb. It was built in the late 1560’s by their predecessor, Akbar, with later embellishments by Jehangir, his son, and Shah Jahan, his grandson.
Continue to the Taj Mahal and spend time here until the sun sets, witnessing the beautiful wonder of the world changing its colour as the sun dips. This is one of the most beautiful times to view this iconic monument – one of the Seven Wonders of the World, celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. Emperor Shah Jahan built this exquisite white marble mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz Mahal. The monument was commissioned in 1631 and took 20,000 artisans, 22 years to complete. (B)
Overnight – ITC Mughal in a Mughal Chamber Room or similar
After breakfast, you have a five and half hour drive towards Jaipur. En-route you will also stop at Fatehpur Sikri. Fatehpur Sikri – a city planned by Mughal emperor Akbar as his new capital. A 16th century English traveller Ralph Fitch described it as ‘considerably larger than London and more populous’. However, Fatehpur Sikri remained the Mughal capital for only ten years – the bigger structures like the mosque and the palaces still stand tall, witnesses to the rising and waning interests of its Mughal rulers. Fatehpur Sikri is loved by those who like awesome architecture.
Continuing your drive, you will stop in Peharsar for lunch in a heritage mansion – Chandra Mahal Haveli. Built in 1840, this 170-year rich heritage has witnessed many generations of multi-cultural and a multiethnic past. The Haveli is a representation of Persian architecture, which is very different from the palaces and forts of Rajasthan.
Following lunch, travel onward to Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan and known for its uniform pink-hued architecture. En route, stop to explore the Chand Baori stepwell in Abhaneri, one of the deepest and most visually striking stepwells in India. Dating back to the 8th–9th centuries, the structure descends 13 stories and features over 3,500 symmetrically carved steps, originally designed to harvest rainwater in this arid region.
Arriving in Jaipur, settle into your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B,L)
Overnight – Samode Haveli in a Deluxe Suite or similar
Following breakfast, you will depart for a privately guided tour of the old city of Jaipur. Step into the Jantar Mantar, by the City Palace, a bizarre garden of astrological structures. Be amazed at how astronomers calculated eclipses and planetary positions accurately without a sophisticated computer!
Your next stop will be the impressive City Palace, now a public museum, which lies in the heart of old Jaipur city. Marvel at the magnificence of Rajasthani architecture and artistry that blends seamlessly with distinct Mughal influences. The palace, which was once the private royal museum of art and artefacts from the world over is now open to the public. At the City Palace, you will be escorted to the residential areas of the royal family (their presence cannot be guaranteed), followed by a glass of sparkling wine in one of the living rooms. These beautifully decorated rooms are where Princess Diana had dined. This part of the palace is for VIP access only. During your journey, you will also drive past the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).
In the afternoon, you will visit the magnificent Amber Fort which you will reach by 4WD jeep. (We do not encourage elephant back riding at the fort).
This evening offers a window into contemporary Indian culture with a visit to the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema. Opened in 1976, this 1,100-seat theatre is known not just for its grand Art Moderne design by architect W.M. Namjoshi, but for the electric atmosphere it generates. The façade features dramatic curves, zig-zag forms, and star motifs, all brought to life after dark with concealed lighting.
Inside, chandeliers hang from domed ceilings, and a sweeping ramp leads to the upper level. The auditorium itself is striking, with colour-changing lighting hidden behind plaster leaf-like mouldings lining the ceiling and walls. Beyond its architecture, the experience lies in the audience—expect singing, cheering, and spontaneous dancing in the aisles as you immerse yourself in the passion of Bollywood. (B)
Overnight – Samode Haveli in a Deluxe Suite or similar
After breakfast, leave the city behind and journey into rural Rajasthan. Your destination is Chhatra Sagar, where a collection of hand-stitched canvas tents sit along the eastern edge of a century-old dam, overlooking a lake frequented by waterfowl. This peaceful setting offers a welcome contrast to the intensity of Rajasthan’s cities.
Once a site for royal hunting gatherings in the 1920s, the camp has been reimagined with understated luxury by the Nimaj family, who continue to farm the surrounding land. The hosts remain actively involved, offering guided village walks, birdwatching excursions, and insights into local life and agriculture. The food is organic, locally sourced, and full of regional flavour. As the day ends, take in panoramic views over the plains with sundowners on a nearby hilltop—expansive, open skies uninterrupted by modern life. (B,D)
Overnight – RAAS Chhatrasagar in a Luxury Tent or similar
After breakfast, depart for Mihir Garh, stopping en route in Jodhpur. Explore Mehrangarh Fort, a towering 15th-century structure set high above the city, with intricately decorated palaces and sweeping views of the blue-painted old town. Nearby, visit Jaswant Thada, a serene marble cenotaph built in honour of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.
Continue to the museum at Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the last great palaces built in India, showcasing Art Deco interiors and royal memorabilia. Following lunch, resume your journey to Mihir Garh. Arrive at this striking mud fort set amidst the Thar Desert. Check in and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner is served this evening at the hotel. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Mihir Garh in an Alishan Suite or similar
This morning it is time to set off on a village safari. This excursion will allow you to feel the very pulse of rural Rajasthan. The little mud houses, the turban clad men, the shy, beautiful women dressed in their traditional saris. To make this experience even more intimate, you will visit the homes of the village folk and share a slice of their life.
Western Rajasthan is home to the Premier Ecologists of the world, the Bishnoi’s. This tribe have protected nature for more than 500 years and are responsible for the very survival of species like the Black Buck Antelope (India’s most beautiful antelope and a rare and protected species today). They share a beautiful relationship with this special animal, where the antelope stays close to the Bishnoi habitation, never leaving it and displays complete trust to the Bishnoi people. You will also meet the Raikas (shepherds) with their glorious costumes and the Piliwals and Meghwals – the Brahmin farmers and weavers. This afternoon is yours at leisure. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Mihir Garh in an Alishan Suite or similar
Following breakfast, you will drive two and half hours to the rustic village of Narlai. Check into your hotel, a former Royal hunting lodge.
This afternoon, enjoy a countryside safari. The rugged countryside of the Godward region is explored by jeep. You will visit a nearby village where you can see the different local craftsman working their trade, famous temples with beautiful architecture and a visit to a traditional working farm. Another interesting stop is the Stud Farm that houses the famous pure bred horses which are typical to this region. This is an experience that not many people will get to have in their lifetime.
This evening, enjoy tea by the lake. Take in the serene beauty of the surrounding nature as you sip on your tea and witness the flight of different migratory birds which nest in the area. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rawla Narlai in a Grand Heritage Room or similar
This morning you will enjoy a train safari on the meter gauge train which still runs through the beautiful countryside. If it has rained recently, waterfalls can be seen. This is the best way to enjoy the rugged and beautiful countryside.
This afternoon can be at leisure or you may wish to get active and explore Elephant Hill. There is a statue of a white elephant on the summit, and although the hike is challenging (uphill), the view is incredibly rewarding of the countryside and village life below. The climb is guided and is approx. 700 steps – to go at sunset is a wonderful time of day.
This evening, enjoy dinner in an ancient stepwell lit by 110 lanterns. This is truly an experience that will linger in your mind for many years to come. Taste the flavour of true Rajasthani royal hospitality at the 16th century old Baori (stepwell). Your journey to stepwell begins in the courtyard with a welcome drink enjoyed in the company of a resident royal who will regale you with stories and history of the locals before you are transferred by bullock cart. The ride may be a little rough, but it is all part of the experience. You will be guided into the dusk as the village starts to sleep with the starlit sky appearing above you. You will pass the yogi who mediates by a blazing fire before you reach your lantern lit destination. Your culinary journey is about to begin with elaborate fare offered over the next few hours whilst you are entertained by a local yogi singing devotional folk songs. Following dinner, return to your hotel for a cup of herbal tea. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rawla Narlai in a Grand Heritage Room or similar
Today, following breakfast take a walking tour of Narlai Village – lead by one of the locals. Witness the traditional and untouched way people still live in this area. Narlai is a very close-knit community, and everyone comes across happy, contented and proud. Agriculture, cattle and its supporting income make the locals content with a simple life. During your walk, you will have the opportunity to go inside some of the houses, talk with the local people, ask questions – fuel your curiosity! Enjoy a cup of tea or smoke a bidi with them if you wish.
Later in the morning, drive for about three and half hours to the Venice of the East – Udaipur. En-route, stop to admire the marvellous marble carved temples of Ranakpur. Lunch will be arranged at Fateh Bagh – a palace over two centuries old showcasing impressive architecture, antique furniture and period interior decor which makes it a timeless beauty. Upon arrival in Udaipur, check-in to your hotel. (B,L)
Overnight – Fateh Garh in a Renaissance Room or similar
This morning, enjoy a city tour of Udaipur visiting the City Palace, Sahelion ki Bari (a beautiful garden) and the bustling local markets. Today, you will witness the rare art of Jal Sanjhi – painting on water! We are trying our part to revive and preserve this traditional form of art. This will be an exclusive experience for you at a priest’s home in the old city.
Later, continue to Devra Udaipur for a cooking session followed by lunch. Devra is a house built on an estate of five acres, set amidst lush green fields, perched atop a small hillock. Devra is the perfect retreat for travellers looking to immerse themselves into an experience of heritage and nature.
In the evening, relax and enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola by a private boat. (B,L)
Overnight – Fateh Garh in a Renaissance Room or similar
This morning is yours at leisure. Why not wander down to the ghats and watch the locals perform their morning cleansing rituals? You will then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Delhi. You will be met upon arrival in Delhi and assisted to connect with your onwards international connection. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 2 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
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This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
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Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
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Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
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Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
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Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
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