India: See 50,000 camels and ancient kingdoms in Rajasthan

India’s annual cattle and camel fair provides a chance to see an extraordinary gathering of animals -- and soak up a little culture too. Thousands from throughout the country come to the annual trade event to race and sell about 50,000 camels. The fair features music, dancing and other traditional festivities.

A 16-day custom tour called the Colors of Rajasthan can be scheduled during the Pushkar camel fair (Nov. 20-28 this year) or other times of the year. The itinerary includes ancient kingdom hot spots such as Jodphur, the Blue City at Mehrangarh Fort and Udaipur on Lake Pichola. A camel ride to the sand dunes near Jaisalmer, an elephant ride to the top of the Amber Fort in Jaipur, sunrise over the Taj Mahal in Agra and other experiences are included.

When: Trip dates are scheduled around the fair week.

Price: $2,350 per person, double occupancy. (Book by Sept. 31 and receive a $200 discount for two.) It includes most breakfasts, airport transfers, sightseeing tours, entrance and park fees and specialty tours with elephants, camels and other transportation. International airfare is extra.

Info: Geringer Global Travel, (877) 255-7438