Bundi is 36 km from Kota is and is one of the unexplored cities with a rich historical wealth. Once a part of Kota, it was ruled by the Had Chauhans- an offshoots of the famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer.

In 1193 A.D. when Prithviraj Chauhan was defeated by Sultan Mohammed Ghauri, some Chauhan nobles seeked shelter in Mewar and became allies to the Rana while other young warriors move towards the Chambal valley and overpowered the Meena and Bhil tribals-thus establishing their own kingdom of Hadoti. Later, two branches of Hadas formed two separates states of Kota and Bundi, on either side of the river Chambal. Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on the three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways.

Interesting monuments including impressive medieval forts, palaces, havelis, temples with beautiful stone idols and chattris with carved pillars, along with a picturesque lake in the heart of the town, add to its charm. Bundi is very famous for its intricate carvings and murals.

Places to Visit

Taragarh or The Star Fort: Built in 1354 A.D., the fort is one of the most impressive forts of Rajasthan. Perched on a thickly wooded hill is a marvelloous white fort with a huge reservoir which once supplied water to the palace.

Chhattar Mahal or Palace or Towers: A steep, paved carafe-way is the only way to reach the monument. Of special interest in the palace is the Hazari Pol or Gate of the thousand, the Naubat Khana, the Hathi Pol with its old water clock and the Diwann-e- Aam.

Nawal Sagar: Visible from the fort is the square artificial lake of Nawal Sagar,broken up by islets. A temple dedicated to Varuna, the Aryan god of water,stands half submerged in the centre of the lake. The reflection of the entire city and its palaces can be seen in the lake -making it a unique attraction of Bundi.

Chitrashala: A fascinating pavilion and a gallery of minature murals embellish the palace.Elaborate colourful paintings on the walls depict scenes from the 'Ragmala' and 'Raaslila'-the Radha-Krishna story.

Raniji-ki-Baori: It is 46 m. deep stepped dwell with some superb carvings on its pillars and a high arched gate built in 1699 A.D. by Rani Nathavatji. This well is one of the largest of its kind.

Sukh Mahal: A magnificient summer palace on the Sukh Mahal Lake amid the lush surroundings of a beautiful garden. An underground tunnel is believed to run from the Sukh Mahal to the old palace.

Phool Sagar: The 20th century palace with an artificial tank and picturesque gardens. Presently, it is the residence of the former ruler (Prior permission of Secretary is required for a visit.)

Excursions

Jait Sagar Lake(3 km): A picturesque lake cradled in the hills, built by Jaita Meena. The swirling fountain at night a visual delight.

Keshavraipatan (45 km): It is an ancient city famous for the temple of Keshavraiji(Vishnu). The architecture and sculpture at this temple is unique. It was constructed in the year 1601 A.D. by Maharaja Shartusal of Bundi. A famous Jain Temple is also there.

Ramgarh (45 km): The Ramgarh Sanctuary is located on the Nainwa road. One needs to take permission of the State Forest Department prior to a visit to the sanctuary.

Bijolia (50 km): An ancient fort and the city of Bijolia is situated on the Bundi- Chittaurgarh road. A high paved courtyard on the side of the fort has a large temple of Lord Shiva in its centre with a fine image of Lord Ganesha standing as a guardian at the entrance. A carved archway leads to the temple