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Bundi

Experiential journeys will make you a storyteller
About Bundi

Nestled in the northwestern state of Rajasthan, the little town of Bundi is known for its Rajput past. A gem of the Hadoti district, Bundi’s palaces, forts and other ancient monuments makes it a popular tourist magnet in the area.

Once home to the Hada Rajputs, the hillside town derives its beauty from the magnificent monuments here, that stand as proof of the brilliant art styles that flourished in Bundi in the erstwhile years. Dotted with lakes and ancient structures, the rustic charm of the town promises to leave you ravished.

From the magnificent Taragarh Fort jutting out of the hill, to the sprawling Garh Palace with its historic bounty, one can never run out of places to visit while in Bundi. Apart from being an absolute treat to the history buffs coming here, the attractions in Bundi vow to charm the nature lover in you as well.

Whether you choose to spend a leisurely day by the Jait Sagar Lake, or navigate the steps of Raniji ki Baori, or simply spend a day counting the pillars on the Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri- the various tourist spots here will keep you busy throughout your visit.

When in Bundi, do not hesitate to head over to the Chitra Mahal to marvel at the miniature paintings. Home to some of the best artworks of Bundi, the Mahal will enchant all those coming here. Another fantastic way to spend your time at Bundi would be to explore the various fort ruins of the town on foot. For an offbeat experience, one may also choose to visit the artisan villages of Theekarda and Akoda in the outskirts of the town. And if one is really lucky, one may even get to experience the magnificent Bundi Utsav and Monsoon festival held in the town.

Bundi enjoys a local steppe climate throughout the year. Summers at the town generally remain extremely hot, with high rates of humidity. Winters here, spanning between November and February, enjoy cool weather, with temperature remaining between 17 to 22 degree Celsius. The months between June and September enjoy heavy monsoon showers.

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Bundi FAQ's

What are the best places to visit in Bundi?

1. Taragarh Fort: Carved into a massive hill, Taragarh Fort is an ancient 12th century hillfort. One of the most remarkable places to visit in Bundi, this stunning hillfort was constructed by King Ajayraj Chauhan in 1113AD. With its massive gateways, labyrinthine tunnels and reservoirs, the Fort is a splendid display of the erstwhile glory of the Chauhan Empire.

Three arching gates, called Lakshmi Pol, Phuta Darwaza and Gagudi ki Phatak adorn the entrance of the Fort on all sides. Other structures housed within the Fort include the Miran Saheb ki Dargah, Rani Mahal and the 16th century bastion Bhim Burj.

Location: Nahar ka Chauhatta, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 08.00AM-05.00PM on all days of the week.
Entry fee: Rs. 25 per person.

2. Sukh Mahal: Once a summer retreat for the erstwhile rulers of Bundi, Sukh Mahal is now best known as the place where Rudyard Kipling composed ‘Kim’. Poised by the stunning Jait Sagar Lake, the picturesque palace was built by Raja Umed Singh. The main attraction at the palace is the stunning white marble Chhatri, that stands tall and proud on the second storey of the structure.

Location: MDR 52, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 09.45AM-05.00PM on all days of the week.
Entry Fee: Rs. 75 for Indians; Rs. 350 for foreign tourists.

3. Raniji ki Baori: Also known as the ‘Queen’s Stepwell’, Raniji ki Baori is an ancient stepwell by Rani Nathavati ji in the year 1699. Travelling downwards for 46 meters, this stunning stepwell is divided into several storeys, each adorned with well-carved marble pillars and an overarching gate.

Each floor at the Baori has a separate shrine, where visitors can stop to pay homage. Lifelike statues of the Gajraj, with their trunk turned inwards, flank two sides of the inviting gate here, giving the impression of having drunk from the Baori.

Location: Bundi Rd, near k. N, Adisal Singh Colony, Gayatri Nagar, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 10.00AM-04.00PM on all days of the week.

4. Dabhai Kund: The largest structure of its kind in Bundi, Dabhai Kund is probably the most popular tourist attraction in the town. The kund was built in the 18th century, under the rule of Rao Raja Ram Singh.

The massive stepwell stands testament to the art and architectural styles that flourished under the Chauhan dynasty. The steps leading to the water at the bottom boast of fantastic carvings, making them the primary attraction of the Kund.

Location: Gayatri Nagar, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.

5. Chaurasi Khambon ki Chatri: Its name literally translates to ‘the 84 pillared cenotaph’, the Chaurasi Khambon in Chhatri is an ancient Chhatri located at the very heart of the Bundi town. It is said that no person can ever count the 84 pillars of the Chhatri at a time.

The structure was erected in 1683 by the then ruler of Bundi, Raja Rao Anirudh, as a tribute to his beloved wet nurse, Deva. The walls of the cenotaph are lavishly decorated by splendid carvings of deer and elephants. The interior section of the cenotaphs houses an idol of the Shiva Linga, making it a popular tourist spot among Shaivites.

Location: Devpura, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 09.00AM-05.00PM on all days of the week.

6. Garh Palace: One of the grandest palaces in the country, Bundi’s Garh Palace is a collection of several stunning Rajput monuments built across several centuries. The palace is known for its resplendent Rajput architecture, made evident in its pillars and jharokhas, each sporting elaborate carvings. Some of the best known structures located within Garh Palace include the Chhatra Mahal, Phool Mahal and Badal Mahal.

Location: Sadar Bazar, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 08.00AM-07.00PM on all days of the week.
Entry Fee: Starting from Rs.20 per person.

7. Badal Mahal: Its name meaning ‘The Palace of Clouds’, Badal Mahal is an ancient palace housed within Garh. The Palace is known for its unique architectural style, which is heavily influenced by the Chinese art forms and culture. Three arches flank the Palace on all sides, each sporting an image of a half-ready lotus.

Location: Garh Palace, Sadar Bazar, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.

8. Chitra Mahal: Known as the art hub of Bundi, the Chitra Mahal stands testament to the artisan culture flourishing in the town’s past. Literally translating to the ‘Palace of Pictures’, Chitra Mahal derives its name from the resplendent murals that adorn its walls.

Housed within the Chitra Mahal is the Chitrashala, a museum commissioned by Raja Umed Singh, that now houses some of the best miniature paintings and murals that were ever produced in Bundi. Located on an elevated podium by the courtyard, the gallery is home to historical paintings depicting scenes from folklore and mythology. Being the innermost chamber in the Palace, the Chitrashala is hardly penetrated by moisture and sunlight, thus retaining the original splendor of the paintings.

Location: Garh Palace,Sadar Bazar, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.

What are the best things to do in Bundi?

1. Explore the miniature paintings at Chitra Mahal: Housed within the Garh Palace, the Chitra Mahal stands testament to the art culture that flourished in the yesteryears of Bundi.

Home to Chitrashala, a magnificent art gallery, the Palace is teeming with fantastic murals and miniature paintings. The colourful miniatures at the gallery depict scenes from ancient folklore and Indian mythology, and are an absolute sight to behold.

Location: Chitrashala, Chitra Mahal, Garh Palace, Sadar Bazar, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.

2. Thikarda Village Tour: The Thikarda village is located roughly 30 miles outside Bundi city limits. It is the perfect place to experience Rajasthan rural life in its most authentic form. The village is also famous for its residents being expert handicraftsman, excelling in skills like metallurgy, jewellery and pottery. Location: Theekarda, Rajasthan.

3. Explore the stunning stepwells: Bundi is home to some of the most magnificent stepwells in all of Rajasthan. The Dhabhai Kund of Bundi is the largest stepwell in the state, and prides in its magnificent stone carvings and marble work. Closely following is the Raniji ki Baori, an ancient 18th century well that boasts of exquisite statues and stone carvings.

Location: Dhabhai Kund, Raniji ki Baori.

4. Experience the Monsoon Festival here: Monsoon in Bundi are extra special due to the Teej festival that is held during this time. Taking place in August, Teej celebrates the holy union of Lord Shiva and Parvati. The festival finds colourful processions taking to the streets, with decorated camels and elephants, traditional dancers and musicians and chariots making their way through the time.

Location: Bundi.

5. Attend the Bundi Utsav: Held just after Kartik Purnima, Bundi Utsav is an annual cultural festival held for three days every November. A number of playful events are held during the festival, such as kabaddi contests, horse and camel racing, turban tying competitions, and much more.

Location: Bundi.

6. Enjoy a lazy day by the lakes: Apart from its historic monuments, the town of Bundi is also well known for its various lakes, both artificial and natural. Whether it is evening walk by the Nawal Sagar, with its unique half-submerged temple, or a leisurely day spent on the banks of Jait Sagar in April, when its waters are brimming with lotus blossoms, anyone is bound to get carried away by the beauty of the lakes here.

Location: Nawal Sagar, Jait Sagar.

7. Hike along the low hills: One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Bundi is to take a casual hike along the low hills of the city. One of the best locations to enjoy a short trek in Bundi is the Taragarh Fort.

Dotted with stunning temples and ancient fort ruins, the trek to the Taragarh fort is an easy and scenic one. Once at the top, the Fort commands an excellent view of the surrounding town sprawling around it. The summit commands some fantastic views of the sunset as well.

Location: Taragarh Fort.

How to reach Bundi?

- By Train: The nearest railway junction to Bundi is the Kota Railway Station. From here, one can either take a cab to Bundi, or avail one of the many regular buses that ply between the two places.

- By Air: The nearest airport to Bundi is the Sanganer Airport, which is about 200 kilometers away. Cab service is easily available from the airport.

- By Road: Bundi is well connected to all the major cities in Rajasthan by road. Regular buses ply between Bundi and neighbouring cities such as Ajmer, Jaipur, Bikaner and so on.

Is Bundi worth visiting?

Bundi is definitely worth visiting if you are looking for authentic Rajasthani culture. The city of Bundi has developed and yet is tinged with the air of an age of bygone royalty. Various attractions like Taragarh Fort, Garh Palace, 84-pillared Cenotaph and Sukh Mahal are most visited.

How many days are enough for Bundi?

Most of the places to visit in Bundi are within the city limits themselves, so a duration of one full day is enough to scour the whole city and have a comprehensive understanding of its culture. Travellers visit Bundi for its characteristically traditional flavour.

What should I buy in Bundi?

Bundi is famous for its handicrafts, jewellery, antique souvenirs and art. While in Bundi, make sure to purchase the exquisite artworks and souvenirs here for friends and family at home. Head over to the local markets at Sadar Bazar and Chaumukha Bazar, where you can select from an assortment of lac Bangles, metal wares, locally made 'odhnis’ or shawls, and much more.

What is the famous food of Bundi?

Bundi is famous for its fast food, especially kachoris and chaat. Also, no trip to Bundi is complete without taking a sip of what is possibly the best tea in India.

While in the city, do make it a point to try out some of the local Rajasthani dishes produced here as well. Vegetarians can go for the delectable Nukhti, Laapsi and Ghoogri, while meat lovers can enjoy a meal of Laal Maans, Khad Khargosh or even Saanth ro Achaar.

What is famous in Bundi?

The little town of Bundi is best known for its ancient monuments and historic fort dating back to the Rajput era. From the majestic Taragarh Fort to the magnificent Garh Palace, the historic splendors of Bundi promise to leave you spellbound.

What is the best time to visit Bundi?

The best time to visit Bundi is during the winter months, between October and March. During this time, the weather here remains cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing tours. The temperature rarely rises above 22 degree Celsius, and rainfall is measured or scanty.

How far is Bundi from Jaipur?

Bundi is approximately 200 kilometres away from Jaipur. It takes approximately 3 and a half hours to drive between the two places. Alternatively, one can cover the route by the regular buses that ply between the two towns.

How far is Bundi from Kota?

Bundi is merely 35 kilometres away from Kota. One can reach within an hour by simply taking a bus from Kota.

What are the best places of shopping in Bundi?

1. Geet Art and Jewellery- This jewellery shop is unlike any other you have been to before. Besides having some of the best handcrafted Rajasthani jewellery, the shop allows its visitors to design their own jewellery and accepts orders for custom-made jewellery.

2. Bundi Paintings: Artist Gopal: This shop is renowned in Bundi for its huge collection of art and paintings and warm hospitality.  The store prides in it's collection of miniature paintings depicting sceneries and scenes from folktales, all handmade by the residing artist here.

3. Romeo’s Corner- If you are looking for jute accessories, art on cloth or other handicrafts, Romeo’s Corner is the best place to frequent. With varying range, the prices are extremely affordable as well.

4. Yug Art- Yug Art is a shop that every lover of handmade and pictorial art will definitely visit. With an already exhaustive store of finished pieces, the store has its own artists that make custom-ordered pieces of art of your own design and choosing.

Which are the best resorts in Bundi?

1. Dev Niwas- The hotel is located in Sadar Bazar, opposite the Kotwali. There are 21 rooms in three categories: Standard, Deluxe and Suite. The rooms are well maintained and air conditioned, with excellent room service and free Wi Fi. Bicycle rentals are also available at the hotel.

2. The Ummaid Bagh Resort- This is a family- run resort near the famous Sukh Mahal Palace. Visitors can opt for this resort for a comfortable and homely stay in Bundi. The hotel also allows pets, has its own restaurant and free Wi Fi.

3. Bundi Inn- This inn is based on a heritage property built over 250 years ago and is presently maintained by a Rajput family. It stands just near the historic Bundi Palace, reminding the visitors of its legacy. The décor is quaint and reminiscent of earlier times.

4. Ishwari Niwas Palace- This is a hotel which was built as a traditional Rajasthani Haveli by H.H. Maharao Raja Shri Sir Ishwari Singh Bahadur. Visitors can stay in an interior rich with grand historical décor without compromising on comfort.

5. Hotel The Hadoti Palace Bundi- This is one of Bundi’s premium hotels that do not compromise on luxury living. The hotel has 43 rooms including 7 suites, all completely air-conditioned. The hotel also allows pets, has a swimming pool, a restaurant and offers free Wi Fi service to the guests.

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