Journey into a side of India where vibrant cultural traditions, extraordinary artistry and untamed wilderness converge. From the colorful villages of Gujarat, where generations of artisans preserve remarkable textile arts and distinctive traditions, to the sweeping salt flats of the Little Rann of Kutch, this is a journey filled with compelling subjects, rich textures and unforgettable photographic possibilities.
Then, venture into the heart of tiger country. In the forests and open meadows of Kanha National Park, the search for Bengal tigers unfolds alongside encounters with barasingha, an abundance of birdlife and the intricate beauty of the natural world. With time to observe, compose and create, this immersive photography adventure invites you to look beyond the familiar and discover the many faces of India through your lens.
Led by Art Wolfe
Assisted by Gavriel Jecan
Limited to 10 participants
Minimal hiking involved
Transportation and Accommodation
All meals, lodging, and transportation specified on the itinerary are included. You will be responsible for your flight into Mumbai and departing out of Delhi. You are encouraged to arrive one day prior to the workshop so that there is no worry of flight delays causing any problems.
Itinerary
Day 1 — February 3 | Arrive in Mumbai
Arrive in Mumbai, India’s vibrant coastal metropolis, and transfer to your hotel. The city offers a fascinating introduction to India’s cultural diversity, historic architecture and dynamic street life.
Overnight: Mumbai
Day 2 — February 4 | Mumbai: Architecture, Markets & Street Life
Explore Mumbai through its architecture, bustling streets and everyday rhythms. Visit the iconic Gateway of India and historic heritage district, photograph the remarkable activity at Dhobi Ghat, and experience the city’s famous local railway. Depending on the confirmed sightseeing schedule, there may also be opportunities to observe Mumbai’s celebrated dabbawalas and explore its colorful spice and market districts.
Overnight: Mumbai
Day 3 — February 5 | Fly to Bhuj: Discovering Kutch
Fly to Bhuj, the historic gateway to the Kutch region of Gujarat. Visit the Living and Learning Design Centre to discover the region’s remarkable textile traditions, embroidery, weaving and other traditional crafts. There may also be an opportunity to explore Bhuj’s historic sights and lively market streets.
Overnight: Bhuj
Day 4 — February 6 | Kutch: Traditional Arts & Village Life
Venture into the villages of Kutch, where distinctive architecture, intricate embroidery and traditional craftsmanship offer compelling photographic subjects. Visit Nirona, known for its extraordinary Rogan art, a rare technique in which artisans create intricate designs using castor-oil-based paint. Additional village visits offer opportunities to observe the region’s rich cultural traditions.
Overnight: Bhuj
Day 5 — February 7 | Kutch: Cultural Encounters & Craftsmanship
Continue exploring the villages and communities of Kutch, including Ludiya, Hodka and Dhaneta Jat communities. Photograph traditional homes, decorative details, textiles and artisan work while learning about the cultural identities and traditions that make this region so distinctive.
Overnight: Bhuj
Day 6 — February 8 | Journey to the Little Rann of Kutch
Travel across Gujarat to the Little Rann of Kutch, a distinctive landscape shaped by salt flats, open plains and seasonal wetlands. In the evening, learn about the lives of the Agariya salt workers, whose traditional livelihoods are closely tied to the region’s salt-producing landscape.
Overnight: Little Rann of Kutch
Day 7 — February 9 | Community Photography in the Little Rann
Spend the day exploring the cultural traditions of the Mir and Rabari communities. Discover intricate beadwork, traditional adornment and distinctive cultural practices, with opportunities for thoughtful portraiture and documentary-style photography.
Overnight: Little Rann of Kutch
Day 8 — February 10 | Travel to Kanha National Park
Transfer to Ahmedabad for your flight to Raipur, followed by a drive to Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh. Settle into Kanha Jungle Lodge, surrounded by forest and close to the park. In the evening, meet with naturalists to learn about the park’s habitats, wildlife and conservation efforts, including the remarkable recovery of the barasingha, or swamp deer.
Overnight: Kanha Jungle Lodge
Day 9 — February 11 | Kanha: Into Tiger Country
Begin your wildlife photography experience with a morning safari in an open 4×4 vehicle, accompanied by naturalists and a local forest guide. Kanha’s forests, meadows and water sources provide habitat for Bengal tigers, leopards, barasingha, deer and a rich variety of birdlife. Return to the lodge for a break before heading out again for an afternoon safari.
Overnight: Kanha Jungle Lodge
Day 10 — February 12 | Kanha: Forests, Meadows & Wildlife
Continue exploring Kanha on morning and afternoon safaris. Each excursion offers a different opportunity to observe wildlife, study animal behavior and photograph the park’s remarkable landscapes. Keep watch for tigers and other elusive mammals, as well as the birdlife and smaller details that bring this ecosystem to life.
Overnight: Kanha Jungle Lodge
Day 11 — February 13 | Kanha: A Deeper Wildlife Experience
Enjoy further safaris in Kanha, with time to refine your photographic approach and explore the park’s varied habitats. A full-day safari permit is included in the arranged program, providing an extended opportunity to experience the park. The lodge’s conservation heritage and knowledgeable naturalists add valuable context to the wildlife encounters.
Overnight: Kanha Jungle Lodge
Day 12 — February 14 | Kanha to Delhi
Enjoy a final morning safari, then drive to Raipur for your flight to Delhi. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for your final night in India.
Overnight: Delhi
Day 13 — February 15 | Departure
Transfer to the international airport for your onward journey, taking with you a memorable collection of images and experiences from India’s vibrant cultures and extraordinary wildlife.