Bundi is 36 km from Kota is and is one of the unexplored cities with a rich historical wealth. Once a part of Kota, it was ruled by the Had Chauhans- an offshoots of the famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer.
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. 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.
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.
* Places to Visit :-
1. Taragarh or The Star Fort :-
Built in 1354 A.D., 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.
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. Chhattar Mahal or Palace or Towers :-
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.
5. Nawal Sagar :-
Visible from the fort is the square artificial lake of Nawal Sagar,broken up by islets. A temple dedicated to Varuna, the Aryan god of water,stands half submerged in the centre of the lake. The reflection of the entire city and its palaces can be seen in the lake -making it a unique attraction of Bundi.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Sukh Mahal :-
A magnificient summer palace on the Sukh Mahal Lake amid the lush surroundings of a beautiful garden. An underground tunnel is believed to run from the Sukh Mahal to the old palace.
9. Phool Sagar :-
The 20th century palace with an artificial tank and picturesque gardens. Presently, it is the residence of the former ruler (Prior permission of Secretary is required for a visit.)
10. Shikar Burj :-
The royal hunting lodge set amidst thel lush surroundings. It is a favorite picnic spot.
11. Kshar Bagh :-
An ancient garden near the Shika Burj with beautiful chhatris of the Bundi rulers and their queens all examples of the town's rich architecture. (Prior permission required for visit.)
12. Eighty Four Pillared Cenotaph :-
An amazingly magnificent memorial with 84 pillars in a single cenotaph along with a Shiva lingam. It was erected by Rao Anirudh.
* How to Reach Bundi :-
1. Airways :-
Bundi has no airport of its own. The one at Kota, lying at a distance of 40 km has not got any flight yet. Jaipur's Sanganer is practically the nearest airport (about 210 km away). For details see our section on Jaipur.
2. Railways :-
Train links exist between Bundi and Agra, Kota, Chittaur and Neemuch. For enquiries contact Railway Station
3. Roadways :-
The place is well connected by the state highway and places.
Copyright by Travelmasti.com.
Image courtesy by Letsgorajasthan.com