Bundi

So much of an Indian one can be, or no matter how long you have been in India,
you only get the vibes of being an Indian when you hear PADHARO MHARE
DES.
The feeling of this slogan echoes throughout the lanes of every village, city and
town, and can only be found in RAJASTHAN. A place which was marked by the
reigns of several kings. Its palaces and forts are reminders of the many kingdoms
that historically vied for the regions. A state which is known for being neighbours
with Pakistan, for having enormous deserts and various pilgrimage sites.
One small part of it is the town Bundi.
Geography:
The town of Bundi is situated 35 km from Kota and 210 km from Jaipur.
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.
Best Time To Visit:
Summer season in Bundi is normally hot, with the temperature increasing up till
44 degrees Celsius, and thus advised not to visit around this time.
Rainy season is a pleasing time to visit for those who love the showers with the
temperature over around 24 degrees Celsius.
Winter is the best time to visit Bundi. The weather during this time stays cheered
up with temperature between 2 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius.
Tourist Attraction:
In ancient times, the area around Bundi was apparently inhabited by various local
tribes and this gave a more Indian-ness to the monuments it holds. Listed below
are regarded as the main places of attraction:
Taragarh Fort:
Established in the year 1354, Taragarh Fort or Star Fort is still considered as one
of the most impressive forts. With its vegetation in the outfield, this fort lies on a
steep slope. Even being the main tourist attraction by itself, the view from the fort
is picturesque. There are three gateways to the fort, well known as Lakshmi Pol,
Phuta Darwaza and Gagudi ki Phatak. It offers a panoramic view of the city of
Bundi situated in Nagpahari of Aravalli ranges.

Sukh Mahal:
Built in the 19th century, yet a quintessential palace with several man made lakes,
exquisite statues and classic Bundi art. Located on the banks of river Jait Sagar,
one can hear the noise of the silence felt at the palace. Beauty takes guard as it is
bring situated around flourishing gardens. It is also said that underground tunnels
run from the palace as they were once used for the Kings exits.
Bundi Palace:
Located on the foot of the Taragarh Fort, this palace depicts an epitome of
engineering. Blessed with natural beauty, this palace is famous for its step wells
and water tanks. The best wall paintings in the Bundi style are still available in the
Chitrashala. These paintings are displayed in excellent conditions, well preserved
and truly fascinating to attract millions of visitors, but Bundi is still hidden from
the tourist map.
Dabhai Kund:
One of the largest Kunds in India, it boasts a historical significance to be
remembered. Shaped like an inverted pyramid, with steps leading down, the visit
will depict the architecture of the place and is attracted by most tourists.
Nawal Sagar Lake:
Being the most important backbone of Bundi, this lake is an artificial lake that
can be seen from the Taragarh Fort. The major attraction is the pristine water
which reflects the whole of the city. Also it has a half submerged temple at the
center which is dedicated to Lord Varun Dev. The specialty of this lake is that it is
square shaped.
Ratan Daulat:
This majestic monument holds a character reference to the knighthood and
magnanimity of the Rajput rulers. One can learn about the bygone era and get
completely nostalgic about the olden and golden days of India. There are also
carvings built within the stables for horses. The Hatia Pol is another important
peculiarity of the Ratan Daulat.

Raniji ki Baori:

Also known as the Queens stepwell, it is also known for a multi-structure setting
with places to worship on each floor. A well with steps and being 46 meters deep,
the pillars are filled with carvings with an elephant statue at every corner.
It was constructed during the reign of his son Maharao Raja Budh Singh who ruled
Bundi from 1695 AD to 1729 AD.
Chaurasi Khambon Ki Chhatri:
As the name Chaurasi means the number 84, the empty tomb has 84 pillars,
strong and standing straight since 1740, as was built by Rao Anirudh Singh. It is
basically a two storey building having strong roots and domes on corners.
It was built as a tribute to the kings care taker in his childhood. An impressive
structure filled with carvings of various animals is mesmerizing.
Kshar Bagh:
The forbidden garden as by the Government holds the tombs of the royal families
standing in their architectural splendour.
Fairs And Festivals:
Bundi Festival:
A two day occasion which reflects the traditions and cultures of Rajasthan, where
various handicrafts and houshold attires are displayed for sale. The tourists are
captivated by other programs including dance, sports and music
Best time to visit: Nov-Dec confirming the dates
Kalji Teej Festival:
Again a two day festival celebrated with the beginning of monsoon, holds a
significance for a married couples. According to various beliefs, it strengthens the
bond between married couples. It includes a variety of traditions with artists
performing bands on elephants and camels
Best time to visit: 1st week of August.
Tejaji Fair Festival:
A five day occasion, with numerous temples dedicated to Tejaji as a saint. It is a
common belief that Tejaji can protect his devotees from snake bite and therefore
he is worshiped with utmost devotion throughout the region.
Best time to visit: Sept-Oct
How to reach Bundi:

Despite being on the southern part of Rajasthan, Bundi is well connected to all
parts of it by various modes, which makes it easy for the tourists to visit
conveniently.
BY ROAD:
Kota being one of the major cities in Rajasthan, is approximately 1 hour away
from Bundi. Taxis or buses are convenient which can lead you here.
Also, a wide network of road connects Jaipur, Ajmer etc with rest of India
BY AIR:
Jaipur being the capital of Rajasthan, has an airport which is 220kms from Bundi.
So a bus or a car is convenient to take you from Jaipur to Bundi.
BY RAIL:
India, is majorly connected by railways. So one can easily reach Jaipur, Kota or
Ajmer by rails and further a bus or car can take you to Bundi. Also, Bundi itself
has a small railway station, which is connected by Agra and Kota.
Being located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, splendid palaces, the Rajasthani
culture, forts and lakes and gardens enhances the beauty of the region.
Due to the existence and survival of immense the artifacts, it is a source of
inspiration to art-lovers.