Photograph of Aden with vista of flat-roofed, single and two storey buildings. In foreground there is incline up to covered well, with pulley and rope and figure. To left of well, four arches lead to courtyard where there are trees. Mountains in background and other buildings.

In an effort to strengthen diplomatic relations between the Indian rulers and the British Crown, Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of Queen Victoria, embarked on a tour of the Indian subcontinent in October 1875. The Prince visited 21 towns and cities across parts of modern-day India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Nepal, where he exchanged and received gifts from each ruler he met during his tour. The Prince returned to England in May 1876. As a result of the visit, six photographic albums were compiled of portraits, groups and views. Some of the photographs were commercial prints already available; others were specially taken to commemorate the tour.