3 Best Sights in Rajasthan, India

You can't leave Udaipur without seeing the stunningly romantic Lake Palace (Jag Niwas, now a Taj hotel), which seems to float serenely on the waters of Lake Pichola. A vast, white-marble fantasy, the palace has been featured in many Indian and foreign films, including the James Bond film Octopussy. Unfortunately, the palace's apartments, courts, fountains, and gardens are off-limits unless you're a guest at the Taj Lake Palace Hotel. The equally isolated, three-story Jag Mandir Island Palace occupies Jag Mandir Island at the southern end of the lake, and is open to visitors from 10 am to 6 pm (take a boat over). This palace has an elegant restaurant, The Darikhana (it serves Indian and continental cuisine, and is open for lunch and dinner), as well as a more casual all-day café. Built and embellished over a 50-year period beginning in the 17th century, Jag Mandir is made of yellow sandstone, lined with marble, and crowned by a dome. The interior is decorated with arabesques of colored stones. Shah Jahan, son of the Mughal emperor Jahangir, took refuge in Jag Mandir after leading an unsuccessful revolt against his father. Legend has it that Shah Jahan's inspiration for the Taj Mahal came from this marble masterpiece. One-hour motorboat cruises (₹400 morning rides, or ₹700 for a sunset cruise) start at the City Palace, including a stop at Jag Mandir, and leave from the jetty on the hour (daily 9 am–6 pm); check for the exact spot at the ticket counter and book a day ahead during the busy season.

Built in the 12th century, this freshwater lake surrounded by numerous golden-hued shrines is frequented by a spectacular and diverse avian community. Entry is through the impressive two-story Tilon ki Ol Gateway. Plan for a picnic and perhaps a short paddleboat excursion on a cool afternoon when the town is not overrun with local tourists including families and children, and bring some bread to feed the catfish.

The sacred Nakki Lake, resting between green hills, is said to have been carved out by a god using his nakh or fingernails (hence the name). Several types of boats ply the lake; rides cost approximately ₹200--₹400 for half an hour. Around the shores of the lake are stalls selling local handicrafts. At Sunset Point, just southwest of the lake, you can take in a romantic Mount Abu sunset—but don't expect peace and quiet in the tourist high season. This is a major beauty spot, and you'll likely be joined by plenty of others.