City Palace, Jaipur

At the centre of the Pink City stands the City Palace, a graceful complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings that has been home to Jaipur's royal family since the city was founded in 1727. Part of it remains a royal residence, and part is a superb museum.

The architecture blends Rajput, Mughal and European styles, at its most beautiful in the Pritam Niwas Chowk courtyard, where four ornate gates represent the seasons — the Peacock Gate being the most photographed detail in the whole palace. The Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal and armoury complete the visit.

• ›The four exquisitely decorated seasonal gates of Pritam Niwas Chowk.
• ›The Mubarak Mahal textile and costume museum.
• ›The armoury and the giant silver urns in the Diwan-i-Khas.

It sits right next to Jantar Mantar and a short walk from Hawa Mahal — the three make a perfect Old City morning. Premium tickets grant access to the private royal quarters.