Things to Do in Bundi
If you are planning a trip to Rajasthan and thinking about the things to do in Bundi, you have landed at the right place! There is a wide range of exciting experiences in the town, ranging from exploring the Garh Palace and exploring the Jait Sagar Lake.
One of the most beautiful activities to do in Bundi is visiting the 150-foot stepwell called Raniji Ki Baori, which once served as a water source and a social gathering place. You can also discover Dhabhai Kund and admire Nawal Sagar from the Taragarh Fort. Art lovers can see the stunning miniature paintings of Ras Lila and Ragmala upon visiting Chitrashala. After exploring, you can shop your heart out at Sadar Bazaar for stone statues, lac bangles, and silver jewellery.
So, plan your Bundi adventure today and immerse yourself in these activities with your friends and family!
Must Do Things in Bundi
1. Visit Raniji Ki Baori:
One of the top things to do in Bundi is visit Raniji Ki Baori, which is the largest stepwell in the town. Built in 1699 by Queen Nathavati, this 150-foot deep stepwell has beautifully carved pillars and statues. It served both as a water source and a social gathering place. Exploring its multi-tiered structure and intricate carvings offers a glimpse into the rich history and architecture of Bundi.
Location: Bundi Rd, near k. N, Adisal Singh Colony, Gayatri Nagar, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Monday to Friday), Open 24 hours (Saturday), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sunday)
2. Explore Garh Palace:
If you want to visit the famous places in Bundi, you should consider exploring the Garh Palace, which is one of the largest palaces in India. Built over three centuries by different rulers, it showcases stunning Rajput architecture with intricate carvings. On your visit to the palace, you can see Chhatra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Badal Mahal, and Chitrashala, each one of them known for its beautiful miniature murals.
Location: 717, Sadar Baazar, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
3. Discover Dhabhai Kund:
Among the wonderful Bundi things to do, discovering the Dhabhai Kund allows you to see another of the largest step wells in the city. Shaped like an inverted pyramid, this 16th-century marvel is well-known for its unique geometric design and intricate carvings on the steps. Since it is situated near Raniji Ki Baori, it attracts many tourists and offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical architecture of Bundi.
Location: CJPQ+J99, Gayatri Nagar, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: Open 24 hours
4. Visit Sukh Mahal:
Sukh Mahal is a small two-story palace in Bundi, which was a summer retreat for past rulers and inspired novel, “Kim” by Rudyard Kipling. You will be surprised to know that a movie with the same name has been filmed here. Built during the reign of Umed Singh, Sukh Mahal stands by Jait Sagar Lake and has a white marble Chhatri on its roof. It is said to connect to the old palace via an underground tunnel.
Location: FJ3R+3QP, MDR 52, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 9.45 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5. Admire Nawal Sagar:
Admiring the Nawal Sagar is one of the best things to do in Bundi. It is a large manmade lake that can be seen from the Taragarh Fort. In the centre, there is a half-submerged temple that is dedicated to Lord Varun Dev. The lake is unique because you can see the reflections of nearby palaces and forts in its waters.
Location: Bundi, Rajasthan.
Timings: Open 24 hours
6. See the 84 Pillared Cenotaph:
If you love historical sites and structure, seeing the 84 Pillared Cenotaph or Chaurasi Khambon Ki Chattri is a must-do in Bundi. Commissioned by Maharaja Rao Anirudh, this impressive structure is a tribute to his beloved wet nurse, Deva. As the name suggests, this structure has around 84 columns and is decorated with carvings of deer, elephants, and apsaras.
Location: 84 pillared cenotaph (Chaurasi Khambhon-ki-Chatri), Devpura, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 8.45 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday to Saturday), 10.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sunday)
7. Explore Jait Sagar Lake:
Exploring Jait Sagar Lake lets you soak in the serenity near the Taragarh Fort in Bundi. Surrounded by hills and adorned with blooming lotus flowers, this picturesque lake offers breathtaking views. It is one of those Bundi things to do that allows you to relax, watch migratory birds, and enjoy the peaceful ambience. You can also take a walk and capture the beauty of nature in your cameras to cherish the memory forever.
Location: Bundi, Rajasthan.
Timings: Open 24 hours
8. Visit Chitrashala:
Art lovers can pay a visit to the Chitrashala, which is also known as Umeed Mahal. Upon visiting, you can admire its stunning miniature paintings that display scenes from Ras Lila and Ragmala. These intricate artworks depict cultural stories and royal life in vivid detail, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Bundi.
Location: Garh Palace, 717, Sadar Baazar, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
9. Shop at Sadar Bazaar:
If you are still wondering about the things to do in Bundi, you can shop at the bustling market of Sadar Bazaar, which is known for its variety of artefacts. This market caters to the needs of every art lover and shopaholic. From stone statues and lac bangles to hand-painted items and silver jewellery, you will find a treasure trove of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts.
Location: Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Monday to Saturday), 5.30 a.m. to 12 a.m. (Sunday)
10. Visit Hathi Pol:
The impressive Hathi Pol is the entrance to the Garh Palace. Commissioned by Rao Ratan Singh, this monumental gate has two majestic elephants sculpted in an arc, as if announcing the names of visitors into the palace. The gate stands as a symbol of grandeur and architectural power that welcomes you into the historical heart of Bundi.
Location: FJ2P+8QW, Kala Mahalo Ki Gali, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Timings: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The white marble coronation throne and beautifully carved coaches in the stable are significant attractions. The architecture shows incredible innovations in design. The palace houses some of the notable tourist places in Bundi, Rajasthan including Phool Mahal, Badal Mahal, Hathi Pol, and more.
Location: Bundi, adjacent to Taragarh Fort.
Entry fee: Rs. 80/-
Timings: 8 am – 6 pm.
This 300-year old construction is 46 meters deep and dotted with pillars featuring sinuous carvings. The massive gate or toran has intricate murals typical of Bundi. If you climb down the zig-zag staircases, you will reach below-ground landings containing places of worship.
Location: Bundi Rd, near k. N, Adisal Singh Colony, Gayatri Nagar.
Entry fee: Rs. 75/-
Timings: 10 am – 4 pm.
Taragarh Fort, located in Bundi, Rajasthan, is a formidable hilltop fortress built in the 14th century. Known for its robust architecture and panoramic views of the town, it holds historical significance as the site of battles and political events. The fort houses structures like Rani Mahal and Garh Palace, featuring intricate frescoes and sculptures. Taragarh Fort is a captivating testament to Rajasthan's martial past and architectural grandeur, attracting history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Adding to the aesthetics of this charming edifice are the lotuses that bloom in the lake after the monsoons. This is also famous among the places to visit in Bundi because the celebrated author Rudyard Kipling stayed here while writing the novel Kim.
Location: MDR 52, Teerath, Bundi, Rajasthan 323001.
Entry fee: Rs. 20/- (Covered in the composite ticket for Raniji-ki-Baori).
Timings: 9:45 am – 5 pm.
The exquisite Sheesh Mahal (Glass Palace) is inlaid with mirrors. The Chhatra Mahal contains a collection of awe-inspiring pictures. A gallery in this complex displays the formal attires of the illustrious kings, arms and ammunitions used in battles, and other interesting artefacts. Chitrashala and Badal Mahal are other places of interest here.
Location: Sadar Bazar, Teerath, Bundi.
Entry fee: Rs. 100/-
Timings: 8 am – 6 pm.
At its centre, the square, artificial lake has a half-submerged temple dedicated to Lord Varuna, the Hindu God of water. Several stepwells surround the lake, and it was the primary source of water for those wells. Today, it offers a peaceful ambience to spend quality time with loved ones.
Location: Balchand Para, Bundi.
The subsequent rulers added steep stepwells and gardens that continue to pull visitors even today. Brilliant mirror works embellish the interiors of the palace. Rumour has it that when it was first built, 80 pounds of gold was used in its beautification, along with expensive marbles. A massive Shiva temple near the fort is another major draw.
Location: Teerath, Bundi.
This historic mansion was home to Maharao Raja Umed Singhji in the sunset years of his life and now has a haunting quality of old-age charm. It still features a vegetable garden called Char Bagh that has a well at the centre. The garden also houses a temple and a pond where tigers used to drink from in the bygone days.
Location: MDR 52, Akoda.
The artwork on the ceiling is heavily influenced by Chinese culture. It is shaped like lotus petals adorned with frescos of Lord Krishna and peacocks. The style of the faces and the flowers hints of the opium trade with China. Below this structure lies the Zenana Mahal, the domain of the queens. It is also decorated with paintings showing glimpses of the royal life and court scenes.
Location: MDR 52, Teerath.
Timings: 9:45 am – 5pm.
Historians claim that the number 84 signifies the cycles of rebirths that humans must pass through before reaching salvation. This two-storey structure erected on a high podium contains a shivling with engravings of dancing figurines, elephants, and deer on the base.
Location: Devpura, off Kota road.
Entry fee: Rs. 50/- (Included in the Rs. 75/- composite ticket for Raniji-ki-Baori and Sukh Mahal).
Timings: 9.30 am – 5 pm.
Bundi is a paradise for ardent shoppers offering exquisite pieces of art. You can find miniature paintings in the distinctive Bundi style, comfortable Kota sarees, and cotton carpets with intricate detailing.
Approachable via a steep stone ramp, this gateway is adorned with carved pillars and panels. It features marvelous arches and projecting balconies with latticed windows, examples of Rajasthan's distinctive architecture that evokes a sense of regal grandeur.
Location: Garh Palace, Sadar Bazar, Teerath, Bundi.
Entry fee: Rs. 80/- (covered in the ticket to Garh Palace).
Timings: 8 am – 6 pm.
The geometric construction has elaborate carvings, typical of ancient Rajasthan's structural design. If you climb down the staircase, you can reach the water level below. Outside the Chauhan Gate, the twin stepwells of Nagar Sagar Kund are located.
Location: Gayatri Nagar.
Timings: 8 am – 7 pm.
Flanked by towering walls with four entryways, this 1.5km-long stretch of water body gets filled with lotuses in the rainy season and winter, creating an attractive sight. On the eastern fringes of the lake is the Kshar Bag featuring cenotaphs of previous Bundi rulers and their consorts. The structures feature intricate carvings.
Location: 2km from the town centre.
Located inside the Bundi Palace, this palace contains murals featuring green backgrounds, white human bodies, and traditional attires in jewel shades of red, blue, and black. The paintings transport you to the ancient courts of Rajputana and also depict the life of Lord Krishna, like his cosmic dance rasamandala with gopis.
Location: Garh Palace complex.
Entry fee: Rs. 100/-
Timings: 8 am – 5 pm.
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Bundi Things To Do FAQs
What are the things to do in Bundi with kids?
Here are some great activities to enjoy with kids in Bundi:
1. Hike to Taragarh Fort: Explore this historic Taragarh fort and discover the fascinating 16th-century Moti Mahal. The hike offers adventure and history, making it an educational and fun experience for kids.
2. Enjoy Views at Nawal Sagar Lake: After exploring Taragarh Fort, take in the peaceful scenery of Nawal Sagar Lake. The lake's picturesque setting is perfect for a relaxing family outing.
3. Visit Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri: This architectural marvel, also known as the "84 Pillared Cenotaph," offers a glimpse into Bundi's rich history. Kids will enjoy exploring the intricate carvings and learning about its significance.
What is Bundi famous for?
Bundi is famous for its palaces, forts, and fairytale-like charm. It is surrounded by orchards, rivers, and fields. The town has a bluish hue in its architecture, which helps keep houses cool. It is also renowned for its traditional handicrafts like paintings, pottery, and silver jewellery. Once ruled by the Hada Chauhans, Bundi was part of the Hadoti Kingdom. Despite its decline after Kota became independent in 1624, Bundi still has a grand medieval look.
Is Bundi worth visiting?
Yes, Bundi is absolutely worth visiting for its rich history, culture, and architecture. There are plenty of things to do in Bundi like visiting the Taragarh Fort, exploring the colourful Rajput palace, and seeing the Badal Mahal. You can also shop for traditional handicrafts like pottery, paintings, and silver jewellery. The locals are friendly, the food is great, and staying at a heritage hotel offers the best experience.
How many days are enough for Bundi?
A minimum of three to four days is enough to explore Bundi. Within this time frame, you can visit places like Taragarh Fort, Garh Palace, and Shikar Burj. You can also see the beautiful Nawal Sagar Lake, Hathi Pol, and Bhoraji Ka Kund. Moreover, enjoying the traditional handicrafts and soaking in the deliciousness of the local food are some other great Bundi things to do during this time.
What is Bundi known as?
Bundi is known by several names. It is called “Choti Kashi” because of its many old temples and stepwells. The city is also known as “The City of Stepwells” due to its more than 50 stepwells with unique paintings. Bundi is even called “The Blue City of Eastern Rajasthan” because its buildings have a bluish hue, which helps keep houses cool during hot summers.
When is the best time to visit Bundi?
Bundi is an all-year-round tourist destination in Rajasthan. However, the best time to visit the place is during the winter season, from October to March. During this time, the weather gets chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5 degrees Celsius. The lovely climate and lively atmosphere during this time make it a great season to explore the attractions of Bundi, like Garh Palace, Raniji Ki Baori, and Jait Sagar Lake. You can also attend festivals, such as Bundi Utsav in November and the Mini Pushkar festival in October.
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