Rajasthan is India at its most outrageously colorful—and the fort cities of Rajasthan offer atmosphere in abundance. A fine starting point is Jodhpur with its formidable, brooding Meherangarh Fort looming over the town. A visit is mandatory for the views alone, so hire a bike in town and pedal up. Move on from here by overnight train to Jaisalmer; a magical fort town surrounded by a honey-colored sandstone wall, the town is like something straight out of the Arabian Nights. Accommodations range from guest houses in traditional buildings within the fort to luxury hotels in the surrounding town.

A fort night:
Bike around Rajasthan.

The train trip is an adventure in itself—second-class has bunks three high, tea-sellers, hawkers, and itinerant musicians—and it's the best way to see the country in comfort. Other amazing fort cities with connections to Jaisalmer include Bikaner, Chittorgarh, and Jaipur.

Trip Facts
Difficulty rating: Easy
When to go: OctoberApril