Bundi: 15 Best Places to Visit

Tucked away in the heart of Rajasthan, Bundi is a charming town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This hidden gem is often overlooked by travelers flocking to more popular destinations in the state, but it has a distinct character that makes it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic experience.

History and Architecture:

Bundi’s rich history dates back to the 12th century, and its architectural heritage is a testament to its glorious past. The town is home to numerous forts, palaces, and temples, each with its own story to tell. The Bundi Palace, built in the 17th century, is a stunning example of Rajput architecture, with intricate carvings, frescoes, and ornate balconies.

15 Best places to visit in Bundi:

1. Bundi Palace: A majestic palace built in the 17th century, known for its intricate carvings, frescoes, and ornate balconies.
2. Taragarh Fort: A 14th-century fort offering breathtaking views of the town and surrounding hills.
3. Sukh Mahal: A beautiful palace built in the 19th century, featuring stunning gardens and a serene atmosphere.
4. Kshar Bagh: A ancient garden and cremation ground of the royal family, showcasing intricate stone carvings and sculptures.
5. Nawal Sagar Lake: A picturesque lake offering boat rides and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
6. Bundi Museum: A museum showcasing the history and culture of Bundi, with a collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.
7. Jait Sagar Lake: A serene lake surrounded by hills and offering stunning views.
8. Dabhai Kund: A stepwell built in the 18th century, featuring intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere.
9. Raniji ki Baori: A stepwell built in the 17th century, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
10. Bundi Bazaar: A bustling marketplace offering local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
11. Phool Sagar: A picturesque lake surrounded by hills and offering stunning views.
12. Gopal Niwas: A beautiful palace built in the 19th century, featuring stunning gardens and a serene atmosphere.
13. Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri: A stunning cenotaph built in the 17th century, featuring intricate carvings and sculptures.
14. Shikhar Burj: A watchtower offering stunning views of the town and surrounding hills.
15. Bundi Fort: A 14th-century fort offering stunning views of the town and surrounding hills.

These are just a few of the many places to visit in Bundi. The town has a lot to offer, and exploring its hidden gems can be a truly rewarding experience.

Natural Beauty

It is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, making it a haven for nature lovers. The town is dotted with lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, offering ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and trekking. The nearby hills are perfect for hiking and camping, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Culture and Cuisine

Its culture is a vibrant mix of traditional Rajasthani customs and modern influences. The town is famous for its colorful festivals, folk music, and dance performances. When it comes to cuisine, Bundi offers a delicious array of local dishes, including dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and kachoris.

Unique facts about Bundi:

1. It is known as the “City of Stepwells” due to its numerous baoris (stepwells) built to conserve water.
2. Bundi Palace has over 50 rooms, each with its own unique architecture and decor.
3. The town has a unique blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, reflecting its rich history.
4. It is home to the world’s second-largest baori (stepwell), the Raniji ki Baori.
5. The town has a strong tradition of miniature painting, with many local artists still practicing this ancient art form.
6. It is famous for its sweets, particularly the “Pedas” and “Jalebis”.
7. The town has a unique festival called the “Bundi Utsav”, which celebrates its rich cultural heritage.
8. It is home to the ancient “Shikhar Burj” watchtower, which offers stunning views of the town.
9. The town has a strong tradition of craftsmanship, with many local artisans skilled in woodcarving, pottery, and textiles.
10. It is a popular destination for trekking and hiking, with many trails offering stunning views of the surrounding hills.
11. The town has a unique cuisine, which combines Rajasthani and Mughal flavors.
12. It is home to the ancient “Kamleshwar Mahadev Temple”, which dates back to the 14th century.
13. The town has a strong tradition of music and dance, with many local performers skilled in traditional folk arts.
14. It is a popular destination for birdwatching, with many species of birds found in the surrounding hills.
15. The town has a unique tradition of storytelling, with many local storytellers sharing tales of its rich history and culture.

These are just a few of the many unique facts about Bundi. The town has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination to explore.

Things to Do in Bundi:

1. Explore the Bundi Palace and Taragarh Fort
2. Take a boat ride on Nawal Sagar Lake
3. Trek to the nearby hills
4. Attend a traditional folk performance
5. Try local cuisine at a street food stall or restaurant
6. Visit the Bundi Museum to learn about the town’s history and culture

Getting There:

The city is well-connected to major cities in Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Udaipur, and Kota. The nearest airport is in Jaipur, and the town has a railway station and bus stand.

Accommodation:

Bundi offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury heritage hotels. Some popular options include:

1. Bundi Palace Hotel
2. Taragarh Fort Hotel
3. Kasera Paradise Hotel
4. Haveli Braj Bhushanjee Hotel

Conclusion:

Bundi is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an offbeat experience. So, pack your bags and explore this charming town in Rajasthan!

Read and explore more: Kurukshetra: 15 Best Places to Visit