Rajasthan Bundi
The monuments and their architecture reflect the brilliance of the local Rajput chiefs. The walls of the palaces at Bundi are decorated with life-size murals depicting the glory of its rulers. Sightseeing in Bundi opens a world of monumental marvels, especially the Taragarh Fort. The Taragarh Fort, built in 1354, with its imposing structure of stone , is situated on a steep hill and has massive battlements and ramparts. The Taragarh Fort is a magnificent point to see the sunset over the Rajasthan horizon. Bundi Palace, which is situated on a hill, adjacent to the Taragarh Fort, is known for its traditional frescos. These murals give the traveler a glimpse of the splendor and lifestyle of the rulers of Bundi and their exploits. Though most parts of the palace walls are decorated with traditional murals, only the Chitra Shala area is open for tourists.
History Of Bundi
Bundi was ruled by the Had Chauhans- an offshoots of the famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer.
In 1193 A.D. when Sultan Mohammed Ghauri defeated Prithviraj Chauhan, some Chauhan nobles sought shelter in Mewar and became allies to the Rana while other young warriors moved towards the Chambal valley and conquered 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, (from Bunda, a Meena chieftain), on either side of the river Chambal.
Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on the three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways. Interesting monuments including impressive medieval forts, palaces, havelis, temples with beautiful stone idols and chattris with carved pillars, along with a picturesque lake in the heart of the town, add to its charm. Bundi is very famous for its intricate carvings and murals. Known as the finest in Rajasthan, these are painted in the Hara style of the Kota-Bundi school of miniatures, and known for their brilliant colors, elegant sense of design and their masterful technique.
State Rajasthan
Area 5628 sq kmsp
Temperature 35.0°C - 43.0°C (Summers)5.0°C - 30.7 °C (Winters)
Altitude 515 mts
Rainfall 75 cms
Language Rajasthani, Hindi, English
Best Season August - February
Places To See In Bundi
1. Taragarh or the star fort
The fort is one of the most impressive forts of Rajasthan. Perched on a thickly wooded hill is a marvelloous white fort with a huge reservoir which once supplied water to the palace. The serpentine Taragarh Fort and its palace is what immediately strike visitors on arrival in Bundi. Rudyard Kipling who visited here a century ago wrote, "No human hand can create such a splendour; for only angels have that skill". Taragarh is Bundi's pride. This imposing fort was raised at a height of 500 meters atop a hill by Rao Bar Singh in the 13th century. Strong bastions the biggest being Bhim Burj, rise above the chain of palaces built by different rulers over a period of time.
A huge reservoir within the fort provided the place white water. A curious feature about it is that whenever the water lever rises above the danger level, sluice gates are opened and the running water makes the lanes of the city turn into miniature canals. Striking features of the fort are the Chhatra Mahal, Badal Mahal and Ratan Daulat - Diwan-I-Aam, built by Rao Raja Ratan Singh (1607-31). The Chhatra Mahal was founded by Raja Chhatrasal in 1660 the famous Bundi Kalam miniatures can be found here.
The Zenana Mahal and the Badal Mahal also have an excellent collection of miniatures. The famous Chitrashala, built by Rao Raja Umed Singh (1739-70) has open galleries running around it and have the best of Bundi wall painting depicting the Raas Leela, court life and beautiful women.
To view the other frescoe-covered palaces, permission is required form the royal family as the fort is private property. The Chhatra Mahal, Phool Mahal and Badal Mahal and Bundi miniatures have been recognized, world wide, for their superb quality.
2. The Palace
This magnificient edifice is a fine example of the Rajput architecture, housing some of the superb Bundi murals.
3. Ratan Daulat
Built by Rao Raja Ratan Singh,, it is a very interesting structure forming a stable for nine horses and a Hatia Pol. (Prior permission required for visit.)
4. Chitrashala
A fascinating pavilion and a gallery of minature murals embellish the palace.Elaborate colourful paintings on the walls depict scenes from the ‘Ragmala' and ‘Raaslila'-the Radha-Krishna story.
5. Raniji-ki-Baori
It is 46 m. deep stepped dwell with some superb carvings on its pillars and a high arched gate built in 1699 A.D. by Rani Nathavatji. This well is one of the largest of its kind.
How To Reach
By Road
Bundi is well connected by buses, there are semi-regular express buses to Ajmer (5 hours), Kota (1 hour), Jaipur(5 hours).
By Rail
The few trains to Bundi but traveling by train is very slow. The No. 282 train at 8:03 AM & No. 295 at 9:47 PM both go to Chittorgarh(31/2 hours)
By Air
Nearest airport Jaipur 220 Kms. Jaipur has an international airport.
