The town of Orchha in Madhya Pradesh is one of India’s best kept secrets. The town is full of palaces and temples. Orchha Fort is more intimate than the huge forts of Rajasthan. It boasts some stunning murals, which are in good condition. The courtyards and fountains are also beautiful. Orchha is only a three hour drive from Gwalior airport.

The façade of Delhi’s Red Fort is an icon but the interior of the fort is less well known. There are gardens, fountains, a bazaar and many other hidden treasures. It is an oasis in the middle of the madness that is Old Delhi.

For something completely different, we love Vasai Fort or Fort Bassein, about 45 minutes north of central Mumbai. Coldplay filmed their video for “Hymn for the Weekend” here and you can see why. It’s more Indiana Jones than the Rajasthani forts – grey ruins, hidden amongst lush greenery.