In Rajasthan’s Hadoti district is the charming town of Bundi. A journey through winding alleys and Rajasthani culture will fascinate you. Rajasthan is known for its regal forts and monuments. This vibrant location, with its blue-washed homes, lakes, step wells, traditional murals, and temples on every corner, has a special significance and enchanted ambiance that allows you to experience India’s culture and rich history.
OVERVIEW
Location- Rajasthan
Nearest airport – Jaipur
How to reach – by road and rail
Famous for – Stepwells, Forts and Miniature paintings
Best time to Visit – October to March
WHAT TO SEE
Rani Ji Ki Baori (Queen’s Stepwell), Dadbhai Kund, Nagar Saga Kund,
Taragarh Fort, Garh (Bundi) Palace and Chitrashala, Sukh Mahal
Hathi pole, Shikar Burj, Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri (84 Pillared Cenotaph)
Lake Jait Sagar, Lake Nawal Sagar,Lake Kanak Sagar
History:
Bundi’s previous name was Bunda-Ka-Nal. The term “nal” describes the congested roads found in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Hills. In the 12th century, a group of Chauhan nobles established Bundi as their capital, turning it into a separate town. After 1947, Rajasthan annexed Bundi.
Culture:
Bundi, with its traditional background and rich culture, is rightfully known as the land of Rajputs. The culture of Bundi is a collaboration of folk music and dance, the famous Bundi Utsav, traditional handicrafts of Rajasthani culture, and a shared history of bravery, royalty, and tranquil nature.
Rani Ji Ki Baori (Queen’s Stepwell): It was built by Rani Nathavati Ji 1699, who was the younger queen of Raja Anirudh Singh. This stepwell is 46 m deep with high-arched gates and beautifully carved pillars. This multi-storeyed stepwell is the largest in Bundi. Stone elephant statues facing each other are kept beautifully at its entrance.
Dadbhai Kund: Dadbhai Kund is a great tourist attraction in Bundi, which is in the heart of the city. It is the largest Kund in Bundi. If you are an art lover, here you can witness the magnificent carvings on the staircases and experience Rajasthani heritage.
Nagar Sagar Kund: The Nagar Sagar Kund is a twin stepwell. It is decorated with pristine sculptures over white sandstone, and the view from the top is mesmerizing. A place of historical importance, the Kund was a primary source of water during the famine.
Taragarh Fort Bundi: Also called the Star Fort, it is famous for its gigantic architecture. Taragarh Fort Bundi has large reservoirs made of huge stone rocks and mesmerizing tunnels that crisscross the entire fort. This fort has a painting gallery showcasing the Bundi style of mural painting.
Garh/ Bundi palace and Chitrashala- Bundi palace is surrounded by the Aravalli ranges and is famous for its beautiful paintings and murals. The Rajasthani architecture of the Bundi Fort surrounds the whole city with a strong wall with four gateways. The palace is admired for its step wells, palaces, water tanks, and its sheer beauty.
Sukh Mahal: Sukh Mahal is famous for its amazing white-marble umbrella, which is constructed on the top of the second floor of the Mahal. As the name suggests, the palace was for the pleasure of the prince and is a place of historical beauty.
Hathi pole: Hathi pole is the more popular gate out of the two entrance gates of the Bundi Palace, with two majestic stone elephants blowing bugles at the entrance.
Shikar Burj: Shikar Burj was specially made for hunting by the rulers of Bundi. It is a peaceful place to spend an evening and has been converted into a picnic spot for visitors.
Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri: It is a cenotaph that is supported by 84 pillars and is a famous place of worship. Several images carved on the pillars of the building depict life during the 17th century under the Rajput rulers.
Lake Jait Sagar: Mountains encompass the Jait Sagar Lake from all sides. There are carvings of elephants on the banks of the river, which makes it all the more pristine and beautiful.
Lake Nawal Sagar: Situated in the center of Bundi, the Nawal Sagar Lake is an artificial lake, which showcases beautiful reflections of various Bundi forts and palaces.
Lake Kanak Sagar: The lake attracts several migratory birds around the year and is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Nearby Attractions:
Kota- Kota has a Seven Wonders Park, where you will find mini replicas of monuments like the Taj Mahal and Eiffel Tower. One can visit the City Palace if he wants to see antique weapons and miniature paintings, or the Chambal Garden to witness crocodiles.
Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary- Located 15 kilometers from Bundi, it is home to a diverse species of flora and fauna. One can behold the Chinkara, wild boar, sloth bear, foxes, jackals, and other majestic beasts in the sanctuary.
Other Attractions:
Bundi Utsav- This cultural festival vividly showcases the colorful traditions of the Bundi region. Processions, classical music performances, and firecrackers are the main attractions of the festival, where visitors will get a chance to indulge in the beauty of Rajasthani culture.
How to reach:
By Air: The closest international airport is Jaipur Airport. Bundi can also be reached from Udaipur Airport, while Kota Airport is an option for domestic traveling. From the airport, you can book a taxi to reach Bundi.
By Rail: The Bundi railway station is well connected to most cities in Rajasthan, as well as in other states. Kota Railway Station is around 36 kilometers from Bundi. After reaching Kota Junction, you can reach Bundi by bus or taxi.
By Road: Reaching Bundi by road is a viable option for tourists. Bundi is well connected to cities like Jaipur, New Delhi, and Ajmer, with several buses across these essential routes.
Where to stay:
Several luxurious hotels offer the royalty of Rajasthan, combined with a local touch. You should choose a hotel that is close to Taragarh Fort Bundi and offers excellent hospitality.
The Ummaid Bagh Bundi- They provide you with all the modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. It provides tented accommodations along the Jait Sagar Lake and is wrapped with the beauty of nature.
Ishwari Niwas Palace- The luxury resort represents the heritage of Bundi, with rooms having their royal charm along with modern amenities. One can enjoy the local cuisine of Bundi at their famous on-site restaurant.
Hadoti Palace- A stay at Hadoti provides you with an enchanting experience of Bundi. It has an outdoor pool and a beautiful lawn, and you can enjoy your days bathing in the picturesque beauty of Rajasthan.
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