Jaipur — The Pink City

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and part of the famous "Golden Triangle" (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur), rightfully earns its nickname "Pink City": In 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh II had the entire old city painted pink (actually terracotta) in honor of Prince Albert's visit. To this day, the residents of the old city must maintain their facades in this color.

The Amber Fort (11 km north) is Jaipur's crowning glory. The massive fortress complex sits atop a hill overlooking Maota Lake and combines Hindu and Mughal architecture. Inside lies the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) — a chamber inlaid with thousands of tiny mirrors. A single candle creates a firmament of light points here. The ascent is on foot (15 min.), by Jeep (500 ₹), or — ethically questionable — on elephants.

In the old city stands the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds, 1799) — Jaipur's landmark. The five-story pink sandstone facade with 953 small windows (Jharokhas) was built so the women of the royal harem could observe street life without being seen themselves. Best photographed in the morning when the sun illuminates the facade.

The City Palace in the heart of the old city is an impressive complex of courtyards, gardens, and museums — part of it is still inhabited by the royal family. In the museum: the world's largest silver vessel (Gangajali), which Maharaja Madho Singh II transported to London in 1902 — filled with Ganges water. The Jantar Mantar next door is the world's largest stone observatory (UNESCO World Heritage) with a 27-meter-high sundial.