Weekend in Jodhpur

A 1740s stepwell with over 50 steps descending to the water. It's still used by locals and is a good place to watch daily life – women fetching water, kids jumping in.

Tip: Free, always open. Go around 4:30 PM when the light cuts diagonally across the steps. No entry fee, no ticket – just walk down the alley from the clock tower.

The heart of the old city. The 95-metre clock tower marks the entrance to a chaotic, colourful market selling spices, textiles, silver and street food.

Tip: Free to wander. Try a lassi at the little stall by the tower's base – ₹20 for a sweet, creamy glass. Bargain hard for textiles; offer 30-40% of the first price.

A sprawling garden with ruined cenotaphs, temples and a memorial garden. The 15th-century cenotaphs are carved from red sandstone and sit among peacocks and monkeys.

Tip: Free entry. Take a rickshaw (₹200-250 return from the city centre) – it's 9 km out. Visit early morning to avoid heat and crowds. The museum inside costs ₹10 extra but skip it; the gardens are the draw.

One of India's largest forts, towering 122 metres above the city. The audio guide is excellent and covers courtyard battles, royal howdahs and palace rooms.

Tip: The entry fee is ₹100 for Indians, ₹700 for foreigners (covers museum and audio guide). Free if you just want to walk the outer ramparts and see the views.

A white marble cenotaph built in 1899 for Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The intricate stone lattice work and peaceful garden make it a quiet spot to sit.

Tip: Entry is ₹30 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners. Combine with Mehrangarh Fort – it's a 10-minute uphill walk from the fort exit. Go late afternoon for golden light on the marble.