Read the story 21 July 2026
Ahilya Fort, the philosopher-queen's house on the Narmada
The 18th-century queen Ahilyabai Holkar ruled Malwa from this fort above the Narmada. Her descendants still live in it — and since 2000 take guests.
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Deal available 15 July 2026
BrijRama Palace, the palace you arrive at by boat
The palace the hotel calls Varanasi's second oldest has stood above the Ganges at Darbhanga Ghat since 1812. The right way in is by boat; then sitar with sunrise, Kathak after dark, and a front-row seat at the aarti.
Read the story 10 July 2026
Golden Triangle boutique hotels: the six-day route without a chain lobby
Delhi, Agra and Jaipur make up the classic first trip to North India, too often seen from three interchangeable hotel lobbies. There is another way: a bed and breakfast, a homestay and a family haveli, one car and driver, and parathas before the forts.
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