Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

One of the world's largest private royal residences, built in Art Deco style from golden-yellow Chittar sandstone.

Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Chittar Hill, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Best time: October to March

How to reach: Jodhpur Airport is just 5 km away from the palace grounds.

Commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1928 to provide employment during a severe drought, Umaid Bhawan Palace is an architectural masterpiece designed by Henry Vaughan Lanchester. Today, it is divided into a luxury hotel, a royal residence, and an extensive museum displaying vintage clocks, cars, and royal memorabilia.