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

If you are short of time you don't necessarily have to go into the mahal, though viewing it from the outside is most striking at sunset or sunrise. The entrance is at the side. — Fodor's

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

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

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

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

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

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

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