Jaipur

Adjacent to the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, an observatory begun by Jai Singh II in 1728 that resembles a collection of bizarre giant sculptures. — Lonely Planet

A small museum offers small paintings, ceremonial relics and other souvenirs evocative of Jaipur's royal past. — Afar Magazine

Surrounded by ramparts, this dramatically beautiful fortress is perched on a hill near the rippleless Maota Lake and grows more alluring as you approach it. — Fodor's

To finish your visit of Jaipur, it is well worth heading up to the Amber Fort, which stands imperiously above the small Maota Sagar Lake a few miles from the Pink City. — Michelin Guide

The main courtyard of Nahargarh Fort has an attractive baori (step well). — Michelin Guide

The Galta temples, about a dozen temples built in the 18C, stand in the wild setting of a narrow, picturesque gorge that is populated by macaque monkeys. — Michelin Guide

Originally the royal treasury, this dramatic-looking fort has large water tanks for storing rainwater that's been channeled down the hill from imposing Nahargarh. — Fodor's

Maharajas' palaces in India are often stunning places to visit, especially when they house beautiful royal collections. — Michelin Guide

Worth paying a visit, also at night to see the colorful windows with lights. — Afar Magazine

Many mysteries surround the Jal Mahal or “Water Palace,” one of Rajasthan's most ethereal palaces. — Afar Magazine

On highway NH 11 that heads to Bharatpur and Agra stands one of many palaces built for the ranis, or queens, of Sawai Jai Singh II. — Fodor's