Should I tip my private driver?

Yes. It is standard to tip your private driver 10-15 dollars per day if they are with you for the full duration of your trip.

Is it safe to drink the water?

Never drink tap water. Even in the most expensive hotels, stick to bottled, sealed water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Planning a Three-Week Luxury India Itinerary

Focus on the 'Golden Triangle' and Rajasthan, using private drivers and domestic flights to minimize transit time. Book boutique heritage properties at least six months in advance to secure the best suites and confirm internal logistics with a reputable ground handler.

Map your route by region. For a first-timer, stick to the North: Delhi, Agra, and the Rajasthan circuit (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur). This allows for a mix of culture, history, and relaxation without spending your entire trip on trains or long drives.
Hire a dedicated ground handler. Luxury travel in India relies on seamless logistics. Use a local DMC (Destination Management Company) to book a private car and driver for the duration of your trip. This prevents the stress of navigating local transport.
Prioritize heritage properties. India excels at palace hotels. Spend your budget on converted havelis and former royal residences rather than standard international business chains to get the full experience.
Schedule domestic flights. Do not attempt to traverse the entire country by train. Use domestic carriers like Vistara (Business Class) to jump between major hubs like Udaipur and Delhi, saving 10+ hours per leg.

Should I tip my private driver?: Yes. It is standard to tip your private driver 10-15 dollars per day if they are with you for the full duration of your trip.
Is it safe to drink the water?: Never drink tap water. Even in the most expensive hotels, stick to bottled, sealed water for drinking and brushing your teeth.