The Journal · Royal cities, forts and desert
Rajasthan & the Palaces
Rajasthan is India's most romantic region — a land of royal cities, living forts, marble palaces and desert, and the heart of most first journeys to India. This is our editorial guide to travelling it well: the palace circuit of Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur, the hidden estates beyond them, the golden fort of Jaisalmer, and when to go.
Jaipur, Sixth Happiest City in the World
Time Out placed Jaipur sixth of 150 cities in July 2026, ahead of Chicago and Shanghai. The survey asked residents how they feel about living there, not visitors how they were treated — which is exactly why the result is worth reading carefully rather than repeating.
Best Time to Visit Rajasthan: A Month-by-Month Guide
Rajasthan rewards those who arrive in the right season. A month-by-month reading of the desert state, from the cool clarity of winter to the drama of the monsoon.
The Palace Circuit of Rajasthan: Jaipur, Jodhpur & Udaipur
The three great royal cities of Rajasthan, each with its own colour and character — and the case for experiencing them as a single, unbroken palace journey.
A Luxury Guide to Udaipur, the City of Lakes
The most romantic city in India, wrapped around shining water and crowned with marble palaces. How to experience Udaipur at its most beautiful.
Jaipur for the Discerning Traveller: Beyond the Pink City
Everyone sees the Pink City's icons. The discerning traveller goes further — into royal apartments, artisan workshops, and dawn at the forts before the crowds.
Rajasthan's Hidden Estates: Beyond Jaipur, Jodhpur & Udaipur
Past the famous three cities lies a quieter Rajasthan — marble Jain temples, forgotten forts, and private estates where you may be the only guests.
Jaisalmer & the Thar: The Golden City and Desert Luxury
Rising from the Thar like a sandcastle made real, Jaisalmer is Rajasthan's most romantic outpost. How to experience the golden city and its desert in luxury.
Design Your India Around Rajasthan
Tell us what draws you, and a curator will compose a private journey around it — typically within one working day.
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