BUNDI

BUNDI-THE JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

Bundi, romantically overlooked is located right in the gorgeous “Land of Kings”. Remaining to be explored by a majority of people, it provides great opportunities for those who are interested in historical knowledge, architectural excellence together with unique characteristics of charm. Envisioned as a tranquil place, surrounded by fortifications, elegant mansions, and stepwells, called simply the “bundi”. A retreat to seek inner serenity in the past of the Rajputs of Rajasthan. If the pink city of Jaipur and other cities decorated with all the royal regalias might exemplify the grand lineage of the region, Bundi symbolizes a softer, more intimate image of the place, away from the touristy spots.

Coming up next is a visit to some of the top sights that make this incredible city unique, such as the Chitrashala (Ummed Mahal), Taragarh Fort, Raniji-ki-Baori, Garh Palace, Bijasan Mata Temple, and (of course) the picturesque Step Wells. In every corner of the city, you can feel the perfect harmony between the native architecture and the earth itself. Paddling around the lake, make sure to visit the white temple on the green-painted hill or take a quick day trip to the yellow temple in the valley to get the most out of the weekend.

Chitrashala – Ummed Mahal: A Gallery of Royal Art

The Chitrashala, which is a part of the Ummed Mahal (Bundi Palace), is to Rajasthan an art that arouses hearing and feeling. The Chitrashala was constructed by the then-ruler of Bundi Rao Ummed Singh in the 18th century. The Chitrashala was designed in the form of an open gallery that is decorated with a series of frescoes and murals that depict scenes from mythology, royalty, and natural beauty.

The Chitrashala is the most typical example of the Bundi School of Art, which is well-known for its original painting style. The paintings of the Bundi style were characterized by high-quality work, a wide range of colors, and an unusual way of showing humans and nature. The murals lay out many scenes of daily activities in the royal court, thrilling moments from Ramayana and Mahabharata, lively interactions between humans and gods, and drawings of birds, trees, and animals that are the result of the beauties of nature. Each painting unveils a story that draws the attention of the fans of art and history.

Before Chitrashala, the tourists will see and appreciate the long-running and life-like artwork with courtly life, hunting scenes, festivals, and the divine love of Radha and Krishna. These paintings with vibrant colors, such as the ones which used indigo color, have been lucky enough to be preserved despite several years experiencing them. One can see a glimpse of the art that once was the favorite genre of the royal family in Bundi.

Taragarh Fort: The Star Fort of Bundi

Located on a hill, Taragarh Fort is a sight that can not unnoticed especially the travelers who like visiting old and ancient forts one of them seeing the oldest in Rajasthan. It has been built for more than 600 years, in 1354, and this historical heritage can be observed from its still standing structure. This ancient fort is clinging to the edge of a steep hill in such a way that you would have a panoramic view of the surrounding area, standing on top. This western state situated monument is rich with ancient history that can be seen through the works of the Chauhans. The longest reign of this dynasty was from approximately 890-1311 CE.

The aura of the fort is increased by its big walls that offer access through the main entrance and its system of tunnels with some that have not been entered yet. Scenes featuring bravery, battle losses, and a challenging maze, capture the visitors’ imagination. The Queen’s palace is a favorite for those who want to have a firsthand experience of its historical past that has frescoes and images of its form in the fort.

People heading out to Taragarh should not miss the sight of Bhim Burj, the most magnificent turret of the fort on the northern side. In its interior, a huge revolver was erected, which was known as the Gargi Gonglin (i.e. the “Thunder from the Womb”). 

Raniji-ki-Baori: The Queen’s Stepwell

The main feature of the unique ones in Bundi, locally known as baoris, is Raniji-ki-Baori, also called the Queen’s Stepwell, that was built in 1699 by the queen. of Rao Raja Anirudh Singh. This stepwell which is so majestic is saying the most about the skills and artisanship that the inhabitants of ancient Rajasthan posses under the guidance of their architects.

This stepwell consists of a few floors, while at every floor, there can be found big steps leading through the cool and shaded water-storage tank. In the decorated columns and the sculptured figures, we recognize Hindu gods and symbols. Raniji-ki-Baori is the art to reuse the collected water, to engrave heritage and develop the blessed grounds. Such underground structures were his sources of drinking water, irrigation, and bathing, and also served as places for cool relaxation on hot desert days.Furthermore, the stepwell showcases the brilliant work Rajasthan did in developing water resources and is also a unique spiritual and cultural center.

As of now, Raniji-ki-Baori is a wonderful example of Bundi’s heritage of architecture, and by walking down its steps, people get to feel the history and skill.

Garh Palace: A Royal Abode

One of the riches of Rajasthan, is the Garh or Bundi Palace which is the most striking among the palaces in the Rajasthan region. It was made in all these years by the various Bundi kings and queens, is a combination of many different architectural styles, every ruler giving it a personal touch. This palace is found on a hill which is one of the reasons why it has a very good strategic position toward the city of Bundi, and it’s famous for the murals and frescoes whose quality matches those of Chitrashala.

The Phool Mahal (Palace of Flowers) is one of the most interesting parts of Garh Palace. It is a hall that features a lot of detailed murals that showcase Bundi’s style of painting. The Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds), which has beautifully painted ceilings, as well as the big courtyards and tiny jharokhas (balconies), are all in the exhibition.

It isn’t only the palace’s dimensions that make it splendid, but the details, like the interior designing, too have them. The tourists are free to walk from room to room inside this palace, admiring the magnificent murals, the illustrious chambers, and the splendidly made portals, while they are able to step back in time and imagine the lives of the rulers who once ruled over the Bundi throne.

Why Visit Bundi?

Bundi isn’t just a place to visit, it’s the location where you can not only explore, but relate to, history, art, and culture in an uncommon and personal way. It is different in that it gives a peaceful and electronic look at your life. The original idea was to make the town look one color but that was not to be when a few houses chose to remain white. The town was physically structured and organized to Dumas, Imhotep, and other Egyptian deities in the architectural style known as the gradual slope-down of the pyramid design with terraced walls that look as if they are moving. This architectural style was the distinguishing feature of the town although many of the houses are currently being restored they may remain as they have been for centuries.

This place is like paradise for artists due to its incredibly intricate frescoes and paintings, history fans will not stop telling the stories of valour, traditions, and royalty which are reflecting on the forts and palaces of Bundi. The place has many of the most fascinating things at the same time and one of them is the ancient wells and kunds. While the town’s old development has been renovated over time, many of the stepwells that were located on the rivers that flowed into the sea are still present.