Jaipur

Also known with the nickname "The Pink City", Rajasthan's capital is famous for the rose colored sandstone architecture. The main attraction is the early 18th century Jantar Mantar which is the largest and best preserved of the five observatories built by astronomer prince Jai Singh II. The observatory complex is fascinating the prince had the huge stone structures built to measure time, chart the declination of celestial bodies and predict eclipses. Jal Mahal is a maharajah's summer palace and Tiger Fort is yet another royal residence. Dont miss the 18th-century Amber Palace and Fort. The museum which was once a beautiful royal residence which contains excellent examples of Rajasthani and Mughal art and architecture. Other attractions are the Palace of the Winds also known as Hawa Mahal, perforated screens and a nearby market which sells hand-decorated textiles, a regional specialty.