It is true that a solo, customized programme is the best way to go, which is what I did in Rajasthan in 2007. See some of my images here -
http://www.parrikar.com/#/India/Rajasthan/1/thumbsHowever, a customized tour does not come cheap, and if this is your first time in India, a good deal of research is recommended before you venture out on your own. I can see why a specialized photo tour might be attractive to some.
I used the services of Compass Tours for my customized solo 2-week jaunt through Rajasthan. See -
http://compasstours.us/I supplied them with my rough plan and specifications, and they handled the rest. If you decide to go this route, you may want to consider some of my stipulations for the driver (make this clear at the outset):
- Safe driving (no speeding).
- No smoking or drinking.
- Flexibility (availability for early morning shoots).
- No music in the car (unless I specifically request it).
- No detours to establishments other than the ones I specify (note: this is important, because many stores, restaurants, vendors have deals with drivers to steer you to them).