Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Taj Group’s flagship property in Jaipur is the Jai Mahal, former palace of the state Prime Minister–a cream-and-red-painted pile conceived in grand Mughal style. The colour-themed interiors are predictably plush, but the real treat here are the views over the rear grounds from the marble terrace on the first floor.

In the evenings, classical Indian musicians perform in delicately domed pavilions on the lawns below where, if you’re feeling like pushing the boat out, you can dine in your own candle-lit gazebo – a magical experience. Open-air folk recitals, puppet shows and after-dark artisans markets are other possible distractions.