Old India, a few nights

Udaipur, Rajasthan

An island in Lake Pichola, reached by boat — the arrival alone makes the trip feel like a journey. Two nights is enough. Not for anyone who wants to walk out to the city.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

A three-minute walk from Lake Pichola and the courtyards do the work. I'd give it two or three nights, with childcare on call if you have little ones along.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

On Lake Pichola with the palace grandeur intact. Two or three nights here is a proper short trip, and they run yoga on site if you wake early.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

An 18th century palace in Delwara village, in the Aravalli hills. The building is the reason to come — go for the history, not for city access.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

On the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, 300 metres from the City Palace Museum, with royal artefacts in the suites. Walkable to the old city.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

A crescent-shaped palace from the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh, kept as it was. Two nights and you have seen something real.