The Top Things to Do in Bundi, Rajasthan

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Discover A Royal Town with Unique Miniature Paintings off the Tourist Trail

Want to escape for a while from the commercialization and commotion of the tourist trail in Rajasthan? The peaceful town of Bundi, in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, is often overlooked by visitors in favor of the state's most iconic destinations. However, the city can be easily reached in around three hours from Jaipur via National Highway 52 and is an ideal stopover for anyone traveling to Udaipur. Like most places in Rajasthan, Bundi has a royal heritage. In particular, it captivated and inspired Nobel Prize winners Rabindranath Tagore and Sir Rudyard Kipling (author of "The Jungle Book") and Oscar-winning filmmaker Satyajit Ray.

There are enough things to do in Bundi to keep you busy for at least a few days. Here is our pick of them.

Admire Miniature Paintings

The Hada Chauhans, who ruled Bundi and the surrounding region, favored the arts. As such, King Rao Chhatrasal (or Rao Chattar Sal) established the Hadoti School of Painting, one of four schools of royal painting during the 17th to 19th centuries. This school, created from the Mewar School of Painting in Udaipur, made Bundi known for her own style of Rajasthan miniature paintings. The paintings feature intense colors and predominantly depict scenes from royal celebrations and everyday life. They also incorporate Mughal elements, influenced by the important position of Rao Chhatrasal Hada in the court of Emperor Shah Jahan.

Many of the paintings can be seen adorning the walls of the 17th century Garh Palace in Bundi and the 18th-century Chitrashala building (the gallery of the Hadoti School of Painting) which is part of the adjacent Ummed Palace. The set of structures in this palace complex was built by various rulers, but sadly, most are in a state of neglect, due to ongoing disputes between the royal family, which still owns the palace, but left it unoccupied.

Highlights include the great Hathi Pol Gate, Badal Mahal, Phool Mahal, Chhatra Mahal, and Ratan Mahal's Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) with its marble throne. The complex is open every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., although hours may vary according to the season. Tickets are 500 rupees for foreigners and include entrance to Fort Taragarh and a camera fee. The Indians pay 80 rupees for the palace, 100 rupees for the fort, and 50 rupees for the chambers. It is recommended to hire a guide. Otherwise, you may lose important parts.

Explore the Fort Ruins

If you are energetic, follow the steep 20-minute trail up the hill from the palace complex to the extensive ruins of the ancient Taragarh (Star Fort) of Bundi, which was built by King Rao Bar Singh in the 14th century. The condition of the fort too is disappointingly run down. Inside, it is invaded by monkeys (carry a stick to scare them) and covered with vegetation. However, the panoramic view of the city from the fort's walls, which surround the entire top of the hill, makes the strenuous walk worthwhile. The fort is a pleasant place to go back in time and spend a few hours. When exploring it, you will find numerous ruins and a serene temple of Shiva. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water to drink.

Marvel at Ancient Stepwells

Bundi is also known for its multitude of baoris (stepped wells), which were used to collect water and as places of social gathering. About 50 of them are scattered throughout the city, including some that supplied the fort with water. The most spectacular is Raniji ki Baori (The Queen's Pass). It is named after Queen Rani Nathawati, the youngest wife of the ruler Rao Raja Anirudh Singh, who built it in the 17th century. The step spans three levels and its stone pillars are accented with magnificent sculptures, such as elephants and incarnations. of Lord Vishnu. Unfortunately, it is not possible to enter completely.

Raniji ki Baori is centrally located in front of the police station and the Indira market, just outside the main entrance to the Chogan Gate in the old town. Open every day from 9:30 a.m. M. At 5:00 p. M. Tickets are 200 rupees for foreigners and 50 rupees for Indians. Bundi's other prominent well, Dhabhai Kund, is south of Raniji ki Baori and admission is free. The geometric pattern of his steps is an interesting sight to see. Drive one block north of Raniji ki Baori, through the market, to find two two-step wells better known as Nagar Sagar Kund. Tickets are not required to view them.

Wander Through the Old City

Jodhpur is known as the "Blue City" of Rajasthan and Bundi can be considered a mini blue city. Many of its buildings are also painted blue, to represent the houses of the Brahmins. They stretch under the palace and line the narrow streets of the old town, which is brimming with heritage and delightfully maintaining the atmosphere of a bygone era. Stroll from the palace to Chogan Gate, at the entrance to the old town, and you'll find captivating markets and temples as you go. Don't miss the colorful Charbhuja Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, near Tilak Chowk in Sadar Bazaar east of Nawal Sagar Lake.

Stay at a Heritage Hotel

Many historic Bundi properties have been converted into hotels. It is recommended to stay in one to fully experience the charm of the city, and there are many options for all budgets. If you can afford it, stay in a suite room for all the splendor. Dev Niwas is among the main options in the old town, close to the main road. This stately 17th-century mansion has three floors, a fountain, a courtyard, and a rooftop restaurant. Rates start from Rs 1,500 per night for a double room. The Bundi Haveli Hotel is also popular in the old town, near the lake, with 12 rooms that have been recently restored in a contemporary style.

Haveli Braj Bhushanjee is right below the fort and offers a panoramic view from the roof terrace. The hotel's miniature paintings and antiques are the main attractions. Rates start from Rs 3,500 per night for a double room. For a breathtaking view of the palace at a lower price, try the 250-year-old Bundi Inn or the nearby Kasera Paradise. For closer proximity to the palace, stay at the 300-year-old Bundi Vilas. It is embedded in the walls of the ruined palace! There are seven rooms, but the property only discloses its rates on request. However, you can expect to pay around Rs 6,000 per night for a double room.

Relax by the Lake

In addition to the wells, the rulers of Bundi built several lakes to meet the city's water needs. Nawal Sagar overlooks the old city and has a semi-submerged temple dedicated to Lord Varuna, who is worshiped as the god of water. It is beautiful to take a sunset walk around the lake. The palace and fort are evocatively reflected in it, creating a brilliant photo opportunity. They also light up after dark, adding to the attractiveness of the landscape.

Also worth a visit is the much larger Jait Sagar, about a 15-minute walk north of the city. This picturesque lake is surrounded by small temples and the Aravalli hills. It looks most spectacular when enlivened with lotus flowers that bloom from April to October. Another highlight is the small 18th century Sukh Niwas Mahal (Palace of Bliss) by the lake, where Rudyard Kipling is said to have written part of "Kim." Unfortunately, its greatness disappeared after centuries of neglect. Compound ticket holders can access the Sukh Mahal along with Raniji ki Baori and 84 Pillared Cenotaph. The cost is Rs 350 for foreigners and Rs 75 for Indians.

We hope you enjoy watching this video about the most beautiful places to visit in Bundi, Rajasthan

Source: Ratekut Travel

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