Thai Airways’ low-cost sister, Thai Smile, has launched direct flights from Bangkok to Jaipur, the Pink City of India renowned for its 18th-century sandstone palaces and old-world forts.

Launched in June, the full-service flights will run four times a week: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. OK, at around B7,745 round-trip, the prices are a litle higher than AirAsia's (sub-B6,000, if you're lucky), but Thai Smile does have its perks, including flying out of Suvarnabhumi not Don Mueang, 20kg baggage allowance (bring home some textiles!) and dainty little snacks that'll keep you going for the 4.5- hour flight time. 

Desribed as a land of the living past, Jaipur's rich history can be traced back to 1727 when the city was founded by the royal family. In 1826, it was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales. Though modern-day Jaipur is a big, bustling city, charming remnants of this history can still be found in much-photographed landmarks like Hawa Mahal. 

Jaipur is also the largest city of Rajasthan state and as such is often used as a gateway to destinations like the blue city of Jodhpur and Kota. 

Earlier this year, Thai Smile also launched a direct flight to India’s cultural capital, Kolkata, for around B7,500 return.