Meet up at the entrance gate of the Crown Plaza Mall at 4:00 PM, you’ll work up an appetite by diving head-first into a local tradition  Carrom, also known as Karrom. This strike-and-pocket table game, believed to have been a favorite of the Maharajas and Ranis of Rajasthan, is an Indian family tradition, and thus the perfect intro into local family life. With a rani in the center, pawns all around, and peculiar rules and techniques to guide your play, Carrom is a thoroughly fun game to learn and play. Post-Carrom, with excitement levels at a high, we’ll head off to the local Jaipur market to hunt for fresh meat and vegetables, based on what you’ll be cooking that evening. Your local guide will give you the lowdown on how to navigate the vegetable bazaar and help you engage in conversations with the vendors and colorful Rajasthani people.

You’ll walk through Jaipur, back to your host’s family home, where years of home cooking and masala secrets are waiting for you. This region’s age-old culinary prowess involves a unique blend of rich, colorful spices, ancient herbs, mouthwatering curries, and a variety of other delectable dishes. You’ll learn spicy secrets and tasty tips for mastering truly traditional (and rather scrumptious, as the locals would say!) dishes. Be sure to take notes of recipes and techniques and take them safely back home  these notes are one of the best souvenirs in Jaipur.

Spend the rest of the evening enjoying your Rajasthani home-cooked meal with the family members of your host, learning local stories and experiencing first-hand the closeness of the Indian family culture. Ask questions, listen up, and immerse yourself in the ultimate Indian cultural experience. Savour the spices and the sweets ─ we’re sure the taste of Rajasthan will spoil your taste buds forever. With a special homemade to-go packet of masala, as well as full tummies and hearts (and safely guarded cooking notes and recipes!), we’ll depart our host’s home. Your local guide will drop you off back at your local Jaipur hotel, or assist you in finding transportation onwards to your next evening activity.