October through March is ideal - the heat drops and it's actually pleasant to walk around the old city and explore forts. Summer (April-June) is brutal; monsoon (July-September) brings rain but fewer crowds. Check what's booked heavily before you go to gauge when tours run most frequently.

The longer multi-day trips (6-10 days to Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Jaipur, or Agra) benefit from booking a week or two ahead so your guide and transfers are locked in. Day tours and shorter excursions are usually more flexible, but book a few days early to be safe.

For most visitors, yes - nearly every tour on offer includes private transfer, which lets you stop for photos, avoid crowded stops, and move at your own pace between sites. Public buses work if you're budget-conscious and flexible, but the roads aren't always smooth.

Absolutely. Walking tours unlock stories about the blue-painted Brahmin quarter and the fort's royal history that you'd miss alone. The cultural and photography tours in the Thar Desert are especially valuable - guides know the light, the villages, and which families welcome visitors.

Yes, but pick carefully. The 2-night Jaisalmer excursion or the walking tour work well with children. The longer 10-day trips can be tiring for younger kids; check with tour operators about what's realistic for your group's age and stamina before you go.

Private transfer, guide, and entry fees to forts and palaces are standard. Meals, accommodation, and boat rides (like the Udaipur lake excursion) depend on the package - always confirm what's covered when you book.

The old city is very walkable for a few hours, especially the blue quarter and bazaar. But reaching outlying sites like the royal car collection or going further to other cities requires transport. Most tours combine walking with private transfer for the best of both.