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36-km from Kota is a tiny picturesque town, Bundi, which is one of the unexplored cities, with a rich historical wealth. Once a part of Kota, it was ruled by the Hada Chauhans - an off shoot of the famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer. In 1193 AD, when Prithvi Raj Chauhan was defeated by Sultan Mohammed Ghauri, some Chauhan nobles sought shelter in Mewar and became allies to the Rana while other young warriors moved towards the Chambal Valley and over powered the Meena and Bhil tribals - thus establishing their own kingdom of Hadoti. Later, two branches of Hadas formed two separate states of Kota and Bundi, on either side of the River Chambal.
Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on 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.
FORTS AND PALACES
Taragarh Or The Star Fort:
Built in 1354 AD, the fort is one of the most impressive forts of Rajasthan. Perched on a thickly wooded hill is a marvellous white fort, with a huge reservoir, which once supplied water to the palace.
Chhattar Mahal Or Palace Of Towers: A steep, paved carraife-way is the only way to reach the monument. Of special interest in the palace is the 'Hazari Pole' or 'Gate of the thousand', the Naubat Khana, the Hathi Pole with its old water clock and the Diwaan-e-Aam.
Ratan Daulat: Built by Rao Raja Ratan Singh, it is a very interesting structure forming a stable for nine horses and a HatiaPoi. (Prior permission required for visit.)
Chitrashala: A fascinating pavilion and a gallery of miniature murals embellish the palace. Ellaborate colourful paintings on the walls depict scenes from the 'Ragamala' and 'Raaslila' - the Radha-Krishna story.
Ranlji-Ki-Baori: It is 46 m deep stepped well with some superb carvings on its pillars and a high arched gate built in 1699 AD by Rani Nathavatji. This well is one of the largest of its kind.
Sukh Mahal: A magnificent summer palace on the Sukh Sagar Lake amid the lush surroundings of a beautiful garden. An underground tunnel is believed to run from the Sukh Mahal to the old palace.
The Palace: This magnificent edifice is a fine example of the Rajput architecture, housing some of the superb Bundi murals. 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.)
Shikar Buri: The royal hunting lodge set amidst the lush surroundings. It is a favourite picnic spot.
Eighty Four Pillared Cenotaph: An amazingly magnificent memorial with 84 pillars in a single cenotaph along with a Shivlingam. It was erected by Rao Anirudh.
GARDENS
Kshar Bagh: An ancient garden near the Shikar Burj with beautiful 'chhatri' of the Kshar Bagh, an ancient garden for the Bundi rulers and their queens - all examples of the town's rich architecture. (Prior permission required for visit.)
LAKES
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.