Bundi India is a small Rajasthan town that still feels unhurried. A massive fort crowns the hill, and a painted palace tumbles down the slope below it. In addition, the old town hides dozens of carved stepwells. So, this guide covers the highlights, how to get there and when to go.
Quick Facts About Bundi, India
| Country | India |
| Region | Hadoti, southeastern Rajasthan |
| Known For | Taragarh Fort, Bundi Palace murals, stepwells and blue houses |
| UNESCO Status | Not a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Founded | Capital of a Hada Rajput kingdom from the 14th century |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Getting There | Train to Bundi or Kota, or road from Jaipur |
| Time Needed | Two days |
| Continent | Asia |
Where Is Bundi?
Bundi lies in southeastern Rajasthan, in a region called Hadoti. It sits in a narrow valley ringed by the Aravalli hills. Kota is about 40 kilometers away. Meanwhile, Jaipur is roughly four hours north by road, so Bundi fits easily into a Rajasthan route.
Why Visit Bundi?
First, Bundi has the drama of bigger Rajasthan cities without the crowds. Second, its palace murals are among the finest in the state. Also, the blue houses of the old town give it a gentle charm. However, the best part may be the pace. You can wander for hours and meet only locals, cows and curious children.
Things to Do in Bundi
Climb to Taragarh Fort
Taragarh, or Star Fort, stands high above town. The climb is steep but short. Inside, you will find ruined halls, water tanks and wide views. Take care, since the site is partly overgrown and monkeys live there.
See the Murals of Bundi Palace
Bundi Palace, or Garh Palace, sits just below the fort. Its elephant gate leads to courtyards and halls. Then head to the Chitrashala, a small pavilion covered in blue and green paintings. The murals show gods, court scenes and festivals.
Explore the Stepwells
Bundi was once famous for its stepwells, called baoris. Raniji ki Baori is the best known. It was built in 1699 and has deep stairs and fine stone carvings. In addition, Nagar Sagar Kund, a pair of stepped tanks, sits right in the market area.
Walk Around Nawal Sagar Lake
Nawal Sagar is an artificial lake near the old town. A small temple stands in the middle of the water. So, come here at sunset, when the palace and fort glow above the rooftops.
Visit Sukh Mahal and the Cenotaphs
Sukh Mahal is a small summer palace by Jait Sagar Lake. Rudyard Kipling is said to have stayed here. Nearby, the 84-pillared cenotaph, Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri, is worth a short stop.
Tips for your visit:
- Start the fort climb early, before the heat builds.
- Carry a stick or walk with a guide at Taragarh because of the monkeys.
- Stay in a family-run haveli in the old town for great views.
- Dress modestly and remove shoes at temples.
Day Trips From Bundi
Kota, a short drive away, has a large city palace and river views. Meanwhile, Chittorgarh and its huge fort are about three hours by road. Wildlife fans can also visit Ranthambore National Park. Finally, the blue city of Jodhpur makes a good next stop on a longer trip.
One Historical Fact About Bundi
Bundi was the capital of a kingdom ruled by the Hada Chauhan Rajputs. Their realm gave the Hadoti region its name. As a result, many of the forts, palaces and stepwells you see today were built by Hada rulers over several centuries.
How to Get to Bundi
- Train: Bundi has its own station with links to Jaipur, Delhi and Udaipur. Kota Junction has even more trains.
- Road: Buses and taxis run from Jaipur, Kota and Ajmer.
- Flying in: The closest major airport is Jaipur. Then continue by road or rail.
Best Time to Visit Bundi
October to March is the best time, with warm days and cool nights. April to June is very hot. Meanwhile, the monsoon from July to September turns the hills green and fills the lakes. So, late monsoon can also be beautiful if you do not mind some rain.
Is Bundi Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially if you want a quieter side of Rajasthan. The fort, murals and stepwells match the region’s big names. In fact, many travelers say Bundi becomes their favorite stop in the state.
Final Thoughts on Bundi
Bundi is a place to slow down. Climb the fort, admire the murals and sit by a stepwell in the evening light. Then explore more charming Asian towns with our guide to Takayama in Japan.
Image Credits
Unsplash
- Sanya Kakkar: A lake below the hills of Bundi, Unsplash License
- Abhijeet Parmar: Steps lead down to the water in a Bundi stepwell, Unsplash License
Wikimedia Commons
- Justin Morgan from Richmond, Virginia, USA: Bundi fort (4180260008), CC BY-SA 2.0
- Daniel VILLAFRUELA: Bundi-Garh Palace-20131016, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Sharvarism: Raniji Ki Baori, CC BY-SA 4.0
.jpg){kind=link}
