Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort encapsulates so much of what draws visitors to India time and again: opulent architecture made only more beautiful by its aging imperfections; long views, softened by warm sunlight; historic grandeur dressed in a romantic glow.

Built in the 1400s, this palace is still managed by the Jodhpur royal family, but is now operated as a museum. Mehrangarh translates to ‘fort of the sun’, and is one of the largest forts in India.

The museum itself is impressive. Visitors are walked through room after room, some filled with artifacts and art, and others that are impeccably historically recreated, providing a glimpse into the past.

Stained glass windows, carved balconies, and painted walls all blend together into a stunning and well renovated display of grandeur.

And of course, it can’t hurt to leave the Fort at the end of the day, when you can watch the sun setting from atop the hill, and gaze out over the distinctly blue homes of Jodhpur.