Handmade India, A Tour of Two Cities

JAN 27 - FEB 6, 2026

A Creative Cultural Immersion with Amy Butler & Prakash Detha

Join us for an extraordinary opportunity to explore the “Pink City” of Jaipur and the “Blue City” of Jodhpur

with our extensive 11 day, 10 night adventure loaded with all things Handmade! Creative workshops with local artisans; dying with master dyers, learning the ancient art of block printing in the village of Bagru, and discovering historic temples, palaces and forts while taking time out to scour hand made markets for raw materials and treasures! This textile-focused tour explores the wealth of incredible handcraft from these two magical cities in Rajasthan. Our home bases will be the luxurious Leela Palace in Jaipur and Daspan House, an elegant 100 yr. old historic mansion in Jodhpur. 

Our tour focus leans heavily into the idea of connecting directly with the culture and communities in which we interact, respectfully and holistically. This creates a unique opportunity for our guests to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the families and artists we meet giving us all a more authentic and a meaningful cross-cultural experience. This is a rich and rewarding deep dive adventure into one of the most beautiful and ancient cultures in the world.

 My dear friend & Indian cultural arts guide extraordinaire Prakash Detha will be joining me on this adventure with you! I’ve curated a unique journey for our guests where our intimate group of only 14 will be immersed in a personal experience of Indian art forms and culture. It will be my greatest pleasure to bring folks together from all walks of life and bond in the sprit of creativity and inspiration! 

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Here is a sampling of our itinerary:

JAIPUR “ the pink city”

* Explore the magnificent City Palace with a private palace and garden tour

* Immerse yourself in a full day of Hand block printing & dyeing in Bagru using traditional printing techniques while learning about organic, natural plant dyes.

* Tour the ancient flower markets, step wells and explore the beauty of Jaipur’s blue pottery!

* Creative afternoons sourcing incredible local textiles and artifacts, discovering beautiful block printed fabrics, vintage textiles and hand stitched quilts & embroideries

* Spend a full day learning the art of Leheriya Dyeing with one of India’s master dyeing families using natural indigo

* Enjoy discovering the beauty of hand crafted flower essences

* Magical evenings with live music and gorgeous food!

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JODHPUR “ the blue city”

* Explore the countryside just outside of Jodhpur with a Wildlife Jeep Safari

* Visit village artisans and learn the traditional styles of pottery making and rug weaving.

* Take part in a rural cooking experience and enjoy a handmade fresh meal made just for you with local ingredients

* Meet village communities & farms and explore their traditional way of life and beautiful culture

* Privately tour and explore a multigenerational family creative business working in hand carved furniture, & textiles both antique and new

* Enjoy a visit to Sambhali Trust, a progressive non-profit organization that empowers women and children.

* Tour the historic Mehrangarh Fort and palace built in 1459 and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Blue City!

* During a private sunrise walk, take in the stunning gardens, architecture and 500 year old streets of Jodhpur

*  Spend a day learning the historic art of Dabu mud printing in the small village of Pipar, working with hand carved wood blocks and natural dyes!

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The total tour cost is $9,300 broken up into a series of 3 payments of $3,100

Payment #1 is due upon registering

Payment #2 is due August 30th 2025

Payment #3 is due October 30th 2025

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What is included? 11 nights lodging at Leela Palace & Daspan House, all major meals, activities during the retreat, airport transfers to/from hotels.

What is the guest responsible for? Airline tickets, additional wine, desserts, soft drinks and snacks that are not included with planned meals and entertainment. Also entry and exit requirements including passports and Visas.

Please Note: All rooms are double occupancy. If you plan on traveling with a relative or friend we can arrange for you to share a room. If traveling on your own we will work with you to pair up with a great match. We’ve created the best, lasting new friendships over the years this way!

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BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR HANDMADE INDIA

We ask that all potential guests read our TERMS AND CONDITIONS & TRAVEL AGREEMENT forms so you are aware of important details concerning your attendance of the retreat. You will need to complete this agreement, sign and send to Susan @ workshops@amybutlerdesign.com

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I’M REGISTERED?

We’ll follow up with more details to support your journey. And as our trip approaches, we’ll send you helpful information to prepare you for your adventure. What I’ve found is once you sign up the magic already begins! In the meantime if you have any questions please reach out to Susan at workshops@amybutlerdesign.com.