10 Places To Explore In Bundi, Rajasthan

A trip to Bundi promises an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss! This charming town perfectly blends Rajasthan’s regal and traditional heritage. With its royal temples and stunning gardens, Bundi offers something for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions in Bundi.

Chaurasi Khambon Ki Chhatri is a remarkable example of traditional architecture. This splendid monument features 84 columns, an intricately adorned cenotaph with artistic figures, and a wall designed in a Kundan shape.

# Taragarh Fort

Constructed in 1354, Taragarh Fort is one of Bundi’s most iconic landmarks. Founded by Rao Deva, Bundi saw the beginning of this massive square fortification in the same year. Often referred to as the "Star Fort," it is perched on a hill offering breathtaking views of Bundi and is nestled within the Nagpahari ranges of the Aravallis. Famous writer Rudyard Kipling described it as “more the work of Goblins than men.” Although time has taken its toll on the fort, its architectural splendor remains evident.

The fort's entrance is marked by three grand gateways, leading to tunnels, numerous battlements, and ramparts. Notable attractions include the Grand Canyon and Garbha Gunjan, along with the Rani Mahal, built for the rulers’ wives and concubines. The city’s sunset view from the fort is particularly mesmerizing, casting a golden glow over the entire area.

# Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri

Ideal for history enthusiasts, Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri is supported by eighty columns. Built in 1683 by Rao Anirudh Singh to honor the services of Deva as a nurse, this monument stands on an elevated platform divided into two levels used for memorials and worship. The second floor features a flat roof with a large central curve and four small domes at the corners. The base is adorned with animal engravings, and the pilasters reflect the Rajput lifestyle of the 17th century.

# Nawal Sagar Lake

Nawal Sagar Lake, an artificial lake located in the heart of Bundi, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The lake, dotted with islands, perfectly mirrors the city’s reflection, making it a serene spot for visitors to enjoy.

# Hathi Pol

The entrance to Bundi’s Garh Palace is through Hathi Pol, a grand gateway with two imposing elephant statues. The entrance, designed by Rao Ratan Singh, originally featured brass elephants but was later recast in concrete.

# Sadar Bazaar

Sadar Bazaar is a haven for art lovers, offering exquisite Bundi miniatures, Kota sarees, and intricately crafted cotton carpets. It’s an excellent place to find beautiful textiles, paintings, metal wares, lac bangles, silver jewelry, wooden toys, and vibrant cotton stoles, known as "odhnis."

# Lake Jait Sagar

Lake Jait Sagar is one of Bundi’s most peaceful tourist spots. It features Sukh Mahal, a palatial residence with terraced gardens. The lake is surrounded by high walls and four entrances, and the eastern side houses the Bag of Kshar, where cenotaphs of past Bundi rulers and their wives are intricately carved.

# Chitrashala

Chitrashala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located within Bundi Palace, showcases a unique art form blending Mughal, Deccan, and Mewar styles. Its murals, featuring green backgrounds with white figures, depict scenes from Rajputana courts and the life of Lord Krishna, including his dance rasa mandala.

# Keshoraipatan

Keshoraipatan, a picturesque town 45 kilometers from Bundi along the Chambal River, is known for its religious significance and temples. The city hosts the Kartik Purnima festival in November, drawing over a lakh visitors who bathe in the sacred Chambal River. The Makkah Baba shrine is also a sacred site, and the Bundi Festival adds vibrancy to the riverbanks, comparable to the Pushkar Fair.

# Raniji’s Stepwell

Rani Ji ki Baoli, one of Asia’s most beautiful stepwells, is located in Bundi city. Built by Nathavati, the princess of Rao Raja Anirudh Singh, the stepwell features three gates and multiple steps leading to the water level. Known for its artistic design and restoration, it includes jharokhas, arches, and water deities, and is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

# Ramgarh Vishdhari Sanctuary

The Ramgarh Vishdhari Sanctuary, located in Bundi, is home to a variety of wildlife including sambar, leopards, wild boars, chinkara, sloth bears, Indian hyenas, and foxes. While it may not be as well-known as other wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, it offers a unique and exciting addition to any Rajasthan itinerary.