Oh and would the end of January, or the end of February/ beginning of March be the best time to go? Thanks!!

i prefer castle and king

Can't recommend Louise highly enough. I would say she's in a different category than your other choices because she is a specialist in Indian culture and art (wrote many guidebooks including the Natl. Geographic's) and is not part of a huge tour company based elsewhere.

Her people on the ground are truly the best in India, used to working with celebrities, politicians, top artists and designers, business VIPS...They have the highest admiration for Louise and work with her to provide unique, authentic (and affordable!) experiences, and are used to going the extra mile service-wise.

Although ours was a private trip arranged by Louise, we have several friends who went on her organized tours. One, not previously a "tour person," is about to sign up for a second trip. All said that the other tour members were fascinating and elevated their trip to the next level. And all raved about Louise's knowledge about India, organization skills and the serendipitous encounters like tea with Maharajas, tribal ceremonies, etc.

Her February - March trip sounds fabulous....Wish I could join you!

Thanks for your input. We decided on Tauck because we felt more secure with a known group even though Louise was very tempting.

If NOT going with one of her tours, how much does Louise charge for "consulting" for a private tour she arranges,and is it by the hour, day , length of your trip, etc?

She charges either a consulting fee or by the hour - After one conversation, most of her work is done via email. Well worth every penny. Contact her for her rates.

Thanks, CC. Thinking about Burma...

These are all wonderfully high-end companies and, I am sure, you will get to see India and enjoy wonderful luxury hotels. Unfortunately, the best memory you will have of India will be the hotels and, perhaps, some of your meals.
If you want to truly experience India, not just see it, I would suggest you contact VP Singh, LegendsandPalaces.com. He can arrange a private tour for you accordingly to your desires. If you want Oberoi hotels, so be it, he can arrange them. On the other hand, he will also suggest some other hotels which you may find to be as enjoyable but somewhat more "Indian".
I always say that VP introduced my wife and I to India. for us, it was not just drive-by tour, it was an experience that we felt and will remember always.
Whatever you decide, have a great trip.