Bundi in Rajasthan, India, a special destination in its own, is an oasis in the desert state, a serene civilization far from the madding crowd and a well known tourist destination attracted Sir Rudyard Kipling, Rabindra Nath Tagore, Virginia Fass, Satyajit Ray and many more. Bundi is Rudyard Kipling's first destination, in Hadoti, that is accessible from Jaipur by road. Thousands of tourists both domestic and foreign come here to see and discover this beautiful place.
 
Bundi is the undiscovered splendour, 36 Kms from Kota ruled by the Hada Chauhans. First destination is Hadoti. Set in a narrow encircling gorge, the palaces and fortress of Bundi have a fairy tale like quality about them. Few other places in India have such a picturesque location. Isolated and independent, the entire township appears like a miniature painting, frozen in time for the traveller. At some point, the only movement felt seems to be the movement of the traveller. Bundi is a haven wanting to be discovered by tourists foreign as well as Indian. The ethereal beauty and grandeur of Bundi architecture is vivdly brought out in the palaces of India. The rulers who built these palaces must have had terrific egos, a great sense of style and great sense of humour. Bundi is one of the few places in India which can lay its claim to an authentic school of painting. The splendid paintings in the Chitrashala in the Bundi fort and also in the fort at Dugari are par excellence and can be compared with probably the best anywhere in the world. 

This little town of Bundi has till date retained a medieval atmosphere. Bundi is not exactly a tourist tramping ground but never the less, this adds on to its appeal with a curiosity to explore it. The look of the town has a Bluish hue same as that of Jodhpur. With no renovating desire, the art is in a crumbling state of disrepair. The view over the town and surrounding countryside from the top are magical, especially at sun set. Inside the ramparts are huge reservoirs carved out of solid rock, and the Bhim Burj, the largest of the battle- fields, on which there is, mounted a famous cannon. The place offers a unique culture with baoris, palaces & forts , lakes and the beautiful natural surroundings. The Bundi Palace, built of locally quarried stone, presents one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. Intricately carved brackets, pillars and balconies and sculpted elephants are used liberally. Of special interest here are the Diwan-I-Am, Hathi Pol and the Naubat Khana. Also located in the palace is the famous Chitra Shala which provides a colourful glimpse of history - the walls and ceiling of this palace are completely covered with paintings of the Bundi School. Hunting and court scenes, festivals, processions, animal and bird life and scenes from Lord Krishna’s life are still in very good condition.

Bundi has other palaces and hunting lodges like the Phool Sagar Palace, Sukh Mahal and Shikar Burj. Each palace has its own historical importance Phool Sagar houses a collection of murals done by the Italian prisoners of war who were held here; Sukh Niwas Palace evokes memories of Rudyard Kipling who not only stayed here but is believe to have found inspiration for his famous work Kim from the scenes that he saw here. Bundi is also known for its baolis or step-wells. Unique to Rajasthan and Gujarat, the step-wells served as water reservoirs for the months of summer when there was a scarcity of drinking water. At one time, there were over fifty such wells in Bundi but most of them have suffered the ravages of time. One very good example still to be found in the heart of the town is called Raniji-ki-Baori. It has exquisitely carved pillars and ornate archways - even the simple function of drawing water from the well became a special occasion for the womenfolk, they dressed up in their finery to visit these elaborate structures. 

In a word Bundi offers virtually everything to a tourist in terms of its exclusive paintings, exotic forts, unparalleled architecture, lakes and step wells (Baoris), outdoor locations, wildlife or the folklore, traditional music and handicrafts.

History of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

In 1193 A.D. when Prithviraj Chauhan was defeated by Sultan Mohammed Ghauri, some Chauhan nobles seeked shelter in Mewar and became allies to the Rana while other young warriors move towards the Chambal valley and overpowered the Meena and Bhil tribals-thus establishing their own kingdom of Hadoti. Later, two branches of Hadas formed two separates states of Kota and Bundi, on either side of the river Chambal.

In ancient times, the area around Bundi was apparently inhabited by various local tribes, in which the Meenas were prominent. Bundi and the eponymous princely state are said to derive their names from a former Meena king called Bunda Meena

The Hadoti region in which Bundi stands takes is named for the Hada Rajputs, an offshoot of the Chauhan clan. The Hadas settled in the region in the 12th century and dominated the area for several centuries thereafter. Bundi was conquered by them in 1241 and nearby Kota in 1264. At one time, the Hada-ruled state of Bundi encompassed the present-day districts of Baran, Bundi, Kota, and Jhalawar.

The importance of Bundi state diminished over the years: as early as in 1579, it was deprived of the region which became Kota state; the alienated area included all of what later became Jhalawar state in 1838. However, Bundi state did remain an independent entity, if only nominally, up to and during the British Raj. After the independence of India in 1947, it became part of the Dominion of India (later the Union of India).

Bundi’s coat of arms is a shield depicting Garuda, the mount of Vishnu, flanked by winged griffins. The shield is flanked by bulls representing dharma or righteousness; it is crowned by a warrior emerging from flames, signifying the creation-legend of the ruling Chauhan clan, which was supposedly created from fire.

Tourist attractions of Bundi in Rajasthan, India
 
Bundi is a small town with rustic setting that stands on the foothills of the Aravali Mountains. Bundi is very famous for its baolis meaning waterworks or step wells, havelis, temples and chhatris with carved pillars. The mural adorned palaces, the forts and the monuments tell tales about the glorious past of the city. A picturesque lake where the entire city and the palaces get reflected in the lake adds a stunning quality to the place.

Taragarh Fort of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The Taragarh Fort, or 'Star Fort' is the most impressive of the city's structures. The white fort that stands on a wooded hill is one of most striking forts of Rajasthan. Taragarh fort was built in 1354 AD upon a steep hillside and is great palace to ramble around at leisure. Set within the horse-shoe shaped fold of the hills, and with the lakes and water reservoirs below, the fort straddles the crest and offers invincible battlements that must have proved difficult to scale. Taragarh is reached by a steep road leading up the hillside to its enormous gateway. The views over the town and surrounding countryside from the top are magical, especially at sunset. The largest of its battlements is the 16th century bastion known as the Bhim Burj, on which was once mounted a particularly large cannon called Garbh Gunjam, or 'Thunder from the Womb'. The fort has three tanks which never dry up. These tanks are right on top of the fort which sits on top of one of the hills surrounding the city. The huge reservoirs within the fort were carved out of solid rock. The technique is long since lost but the tanks survive as a testament to the advanced methods of construction and engineering in medieval India.

The Bundi Palace of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The marvelous structure located adjoining the Taragarh Fort atop the hill, exhibits the extraordinary craftsmanship of the place. The palace is reached from the north - western end of the bazaar, through a huge wooden gateway and up a steep cobbled ramp.  The awe-inspiring traditional murals are characteristic of the splendor and opulence of the royal dwellers of this palace. Only one part of the outer perimeter of the palace, known as the Chittra Shala, is officially open to public. It is a fascinating pavilion and has a gallery of miniature murals that embellish the palace. Elaborate colourful paintings on the walls depict scenes from the 'Raga mala' 'Raslila' -- the Radha-Krishna story. You can see the renowned Bundi murals at the Chattar Mahal and Badal Mahal within the palace complex.

Chattar Mahal is perched on top the hill and a steep, paved carafe-way is the only way to reach the monument. Of special interest in the palace is the Hazari Pol or Gate of the thousand, the Naubat Khana, the Hathi Pol with its old water clock and the Diwann-e- Aam. Flash photography is officially prohibited. The palace looks beautiful, from a distance and when illuminated at night.

84 pillared cenotaph of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Chaurasi Khambhon-ki-Chatri is a magnificent memorial with84 pillars in a single cenotaph along with a Shiva lingam was erected by Rao Anirudh.
The stunning 84 pillared cenotaph, set among the well maintained gardens, is a treat to watch when it is lit up at night.

Menal near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Menal, located 48 km from Bundi, is a complex of Shiva temples built in Gupta period. After a good monsoon, there is an impressive waterfall which develops in this area that is also a big attraction.

Ratan Daulat of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Built by Rao Raja Ratan Singh, it is a very interesting structure forming a stable for nine horses and a Hatia Pol. Prior permission is required for visit to the Ratan Daulat.

Nawal Sagar of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Visible from the Taragarh fort in Bundi is the magnificent artificial lake, Nawal Sagar. The Nawal Sagar is a large square-shaped artificial lake in the centre of Bundi containing many small islets. A temple dedicated to Varuna, the vedic god of water, stands half-submerged in the middle of the lake. the lake feeds the numerous bavdis in the old city by creating an artificial water table. The reflection of the entire city and its palaces can be seen in the lake - making it a unique attraction of Bundi.

Rani-Ji-Ki-Baori of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

There are over 50 stepwells in Bundi, of which only a handful have been maintained. They used to be the only source of water for the town until a piped water system was introduced. After that these stepwells were abandoned and the monuments fell into disrepair. Most of the former stepwells inside the town have become garbage dumps, and are slipping out of the public consciousness.

The most renowned of the Baoris or the stepwells is the very impressive Rani Ji-Ki-Baori which is 46m deep and has some superb carving. It is one of the largest of its kind and was built in 1699 by Rani Nathavatji. The steps built into the sides of the water-well made water accessible even when at a very low level.

Nagar Sagar of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The Nagar Sagar twin step wells are identical step wells crafted in pristine masonry on either side of the main spine of Bundi town. The kunds (pools) are currently full of waste from the ancient vegetable market in the vicinity.

Dabhai Kund of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The Dabhai Kund also known as the jail kund, is the largest of the kunds in Bundi. Though slightly overgrown, it is well worth a visit for the spectacular carvings on the numerous steps leading down to the water level.

Sukh Mahal of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

It is a luxurious summer palace surrounded by a beautiful verdant garden on the Sukh Sagar Lake.

Phool Sagar of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

To the west of Bundi is a modern palace known as the Phool Sagar Palace. There is a charming artificial tank in the gardens that is a good place for bird watching, especially from November to February.

Shikar Burj of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Nearby Sarbagh in Bundi, Shikar Burj is a small erstwhile hunting lounge and picnic spot frequented by locals for small picnics for weekends

Sar Bagh of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Situated on the opposite side of Jait Sagar Lake, Sar Bagh has a beautiful collection of royal cenotaphs, with some of them having beautifully carved statues.

Jait Sagar Lake of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Jait Sagar, in the north of Bundi, is a picturesque lake flanked by hills and strewn with pretty lotus flowers during the monsoon and winter months...

Rameshwaram near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The cave temple of Lord Shiva is surrounded by the Aravalli ranges. It is an idyllic picnic spot.

Ramgarh Sanctuary near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The Ramgarh sanctuary is situated on Nainwa road. Permission of the forest department is essential to visit this sanctuary. ...

Keshavraipatan near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The temple of Keshav Raj Ji Maharaja (God Vishnu), standing on a huge platform at the bank of river Chambal, has a unique and wonderful architecture and sculpture. It is important pilgrim center for Hindus. The ancient Jain Tirthankar temple has made Keshoraipatan an important Jain pilgrim centre also. Famous writer Nemi Chandra wrote the renowned and holy granth (Vrahed Dravaya Sangrah) in this temple. The Mratunjaya Mahadev temple is one of the oldest temple of Rajasthan. Keshoraipatan is one of the oldest towns in India and was named as Ashram Nagar in the ancient times.

Bijolia near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

50 km on the Bundi-Chittaurgarh road, in Bhilwara district, is the old fort and city of Bijolia. In ancient times it was known as Vindhyavali. During the Chauhan period, it became a famous centre for art and architecture. Several beautiful Shiva temples were constructed by the Chauhan rulers at this place. Most of the temples have either disappeared or are in ruins today. On the eastern side of the town near the city wall, there are three beautiful temples. Prominent amongst them is Hajaresvara Mahadeva temple. It has a high linga surrounded by hundreds of small lingas and hence called Hajaresvara or Sahastralinga. The temples of Mahakala and Baijnath are also well known. The temple of Undeshwar Mahadeva is also well known. Near by Mandakini Kund is a holy water tank. Bijolia inscription dating back V.E. 1226 is very important because it through a new light on the early history of the Chauhan dynasty.

Talwas near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

A magnificent fort was built by Ajit Singh, adjacent to it is the temple of Dhooleshwar Mahadev and a wonderful waterfall which makes the place worth a visit. Apart from this is the beautiful Ratan Sagar Lake. During the rainy season, animals like leopard, bear and deer could be spotted. Ramgarh sanctuary is located just near to Talwas.

Dugari near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Established during the reign of Solanki Rajputs this village has a beautiful and lovely lake which is covers an area of 36 kms. Constructed in the 10th century, this magnificent lake is home to hundreds of migratory birds during the winter months.

The fort is situated on the bank of the lake. It is famous for the wall paintings which are based on Bundi style; the paintings are still beautiful and attractive.

The walls of the palace are covered with elaborate paintings depicting scenes from the Raslila, the Radha Krishna story. Charming spotted deer, peacocks, lions and elephants are also painted on the walls. Ram Mandi of Dugari is very famous; it has remnants of 200 year old wall paintings. The garden of Dugari is famous for chandan (sandalwood) trees.

The place holds natural and scenic beauty which attracts many visitors.

Indragarh near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Nestled in a narrow valley fortified by huge walls with four gates, the beautiful and charming Indragarh town was established by Inder Saal Singh Rao Raja of Bundi state. The fort of Indragarh holds extraordinary architecture and sculpture.

The town of Indragarh and the nearby places are famous for the renowned temples of Mother Goddess Kali and Kamleshwar. The tank of Indargarh is considered as one of the most attractive places in the Bundi district especially during the rainy season.

Kota near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

An amazing, juxtaposition of majestic medieval age and modern industrialization, mainly the Hydro Electric Plant on the Chambal River and the Nuclear Power Plant has a few traces of its past still left. The fort overlooking the river Chambal is the foremost tourist attraction. It also houses the museum with a rich collection of art and artifacts and some elaborately painted chambers.
 
Earlier it was a part of Bundi state, but later it grew to be a bigger state. What retains the past glory are the untouched wealth of impressive forts, opulent palaces and temples dating back over several centuries. These temples were conquered by the Hada chieftain Rao Deva. It was at the time of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir that Rao Ratan Singh gifted this territory to his son Madho Singh. The Kota state reflects in the form of a beautiful collection of Stone Idols (murties) in the Raj Mahal, embellished with gold stained glass work on the walls, the silver mirror work on ceilings and the marvelous wall paintings. The Akh-Ade-ka-Mahal displays the regalia and paraphermedia of the state. Besides there is, Badal Mahal (the private living quarter) with the Kota Miniature show casing into beauty. The paintings of various schools of periods set in glass on the walls, the ladies interactions echo in the Zanana Mahal worth a look.

Other edifices of the by gone era are depicted in Brij Raj Bhawan Palace, the Jag Mandir an  Island Palace and a splendid haveli (mansion) with beautiful frescos and royal cenotaphs. Kota today is well known for its dams and famous Kota Saris, woven in the nearby village Kaithoon, these are made of cotton silk in an assortment of colours, and delicate golden thread. Miniature paintings of the hunting scenes, portrays the forest, while attracted many of the royals and aristocrats who passionately indulged in this wild sport, announcing Kota as the Magic along the Chambal river.
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Jhalawar near Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The princely state of the Jhalas created in 1838 AD, after being separated from Kota by the British. It is best explored by foot within the city and a horse safari in the outskirts as Jhalawar boasts of rich natural wealth, with flora and fauna as active.
 
Since it is situated at the edge of the Malwa Plateau it has rocky but water laden verdant landscape unlike much of Rajasthan, with some exquisite pre-historic cave paintings,  massive forts, thick woody forests, exotic wild life variety and a lush country side which has Red poppy fields, orange laden orchards making it look fascinating and colourful during winters. The Bhawani Mandi contributes the major share of the fort; it houses some exquisite paintings on walls and mirror. The museum has a collection of rare manuscripts and sculptures and Bhawani Natya Shala is one of the rare theatres in the area built in the 1920s.

The major outskirts attractions are the Jhalrapatan (city of temples), with a huge 10th century Surya temple, adorned by one of the best preserved idol of Surya.  The Sheetaleshura temple is a fine example of Gupta architecture. A little away is the Chandrabhaga temple with gardens and a 'Bawari' (step well). All in all it is basically an attraction for the tourist of an individual interest.

Fairs and Festivals of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

Kajli Teej of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

During the monsoons in Bundi a local festival called Kajli Teej is uniquely celebrated here. Though Teej is celebrated all through the state but in Bundi it is celebrated on the 3rd day of Bhadra whereas at the other it is celebrated on the third day of Sharavana in other places. The festival starts with the traditional procession of goddess Teej in a decorated palanquin from the Naval Sagar. The procession has decorated elephants, camels, band artistes and cultural groups depicting the place. A local fair is also held on this occasion exhibiting lot of local handicraft items including Katar, paintings and bangles etc. Both the urban and the rural people join this festive occasion. Thus the small tinsel town of Bundi in Rajasthan once famous for its Baories (reservoirs) and the Bundi miniature paintings attracts the traveller and from the highway it seems as if the city itself is a miniature painting frozen in time and the only movement visible is that of the traveller.
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Bundi Utsav of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The Bundi Festival is organized every year to provide a cultural view of Bundi to the tourists. Colourful processions, fireworks and cultural evenings are organized on the bank of Jaitsagar, Navalsagar and in the Garh Palace ground. Bundi has been termed as the "Queen of Hadoti".

The main highlights of the Bundi Utsav is the Inauguration, procession, Bundi painting exhibition, Arts & Crafts Fair, Ethnic Sports like the Turban Competition, Cycle Race, Folk Music & Dance Programme, Musical Band Competition and Fireworks display.
Artistes who have performed for the Bundi Utsav include Kalbelias, Langaas from Jodhpur, WZCC group, Ustad Ahmed Hussain & Ustad Mohd. Hussain with Sagarika & Shweta, Shaane Hind ,Char Bet Party from Tonk, Protima Bedi, Surupa Sen & Uma Sharma, Anoop Jalota, Roopak Kulkarni, Geeta Chandran, Sushmita Bannerji, Palash Sen Sugato Bhaduri and many more.

Location and Transport of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

The town of Bundi is situated 36 km from Kota and 206 km from Jaipur. It is located at 25.44° N 75.64° E and an average elevation of 268 metres (879 feet). The city lies near a narrow gorge, and is surrounded on three sides by hills of the Aravalli Range. A substantial wall with four gateways encircles the city. Bundi is located in the South East region of Rajasthan and lies at a distance of 206 km from Jaipur and 36 km away from Kota.

By Air 
Nearest airport is Jaipur.

By Bus
Bundi is approchable by road from Kota (40 km), jaipur(206) and many other cities.

By Train
train links are from Kota, Agra and many other cities.
 
Getting around
Cycle - rickshaw and tongas are available.

Facts of Bundi in Rajasthan, India
 
The Rajputana of yore, set  amidst  the  great Thar, the only desert of  the  sub-continent,  is known  not only  for the sizzling heat and the dunes but also for  the warmth  in the hearts of the people. Considered  as  the most colourful region of India, this exotic land of valiance and  chivalry  has  an unusual diversity in  all  its  forms, people,  customs,  culture,  costumes,  music,  manners, dialects, and cuisine etc. It is the land of superlatives; everything here is breathtakingly beautiful, impressive and   fascinating. Rajasthan is endowed with   invincible forts, magnificent Palaces and Haveli. We  will  confine ourselves  only  with the southern  Rajasthan  - The  Hadoti region  that is Bundi, the least explored land  of  Rajasthan. Bundi is a city and a municipality of approximately 88,000 inhabitants (2001) in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan state in northwest India. It is of particular architectural note for its ornate forts, palaces, and stepwell reservoirs known as baoris. It is the administrative headquarters of Bundi District.

Weather of Bundi in Rajasthan, India

In Summer: 43 C (Max) - 35 C (Min)
In winter: 37.5 C (Max) - 5 C (Min)
Rainy Season : July to Mid Sept, and very humid (upto 90%)
Best time to come: Oct to March