Bundi

Set in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan state, Bundi is a district, which is home to magnificent palaces and imposing forts. The district is bounded by Tonk District in north, Bhilwara District in west and Chittorgarh District in south-west.

Spread over an area of 5,550 sq. km, the district encompasses around five tehsils, six towns, four panchayat samitis and around 890 villages. The headquarters of the district is based in the town of Bundi, which is renowned for its forts, palaces, and step well reservoirs known as baoris.

History of the region dates back to ancient time, when Parihar Meenas, the local tribe, inhabited the region. Bundi owes its name to the former Meena king, Bunda Meena. In the 12th century, this region came under the administration of Hada Rajputs. They ruled over the region for around 200 years and developed close alliance with the Sisodias of Mewar. The reign of Hada Rajputs came to an end, when Rao Surjan, who was governing the Ranthambore Fort on the behalf of the Sisodias, surrendered to the Akbar in 1533.

In 17th century, during the reign of the Emperor Jahangir, Rao Rattan Singh defeated Prince Khurram at the battle of Burhanpur and showed his loyalty towards the Emperor Jahangir. In the same battle, the 14 years old son of Rao Rattan Singh, Madho Singh proved himself as a courageous warrior.

 In 1580, independent principality of Kota was created out of Bundi for Madho Singh. Later in 1838, the Jhalawar State was carved out of this principality of Kota. On 10 February 1818, the region of Bundi came under the reign of British rule.     

People of Bundi mostly belong to Rajput clan known for its chivalry and heroism. As music is an integral part of the culture of this region, several vocalists and musicians inhabit the district. Another integral part of the Bundi culture is Bundi School of Painting, which draws influences from Mughal painting and Ragmala painting. Kajli Teej is the most important festival, which is celebrated in the region. The celebrations start on the third day of the Hindu month of Bhadra (July to August) and last for two days.  

Besides the Kajli Teej Festival, Taragarh Fort, Bundi Palace, Raniji ki Baori and Nawal Sagar are the other major attractions of the district. Nagar Sagar twin step wells, Sukh Mahal, Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri, Jait Sagar Lake and Phool Sagar are also frequently visited attractions in the region. Jaipur International Airport, which is the only international airport in the state of Rajasthan, is the main gateway to the destination.  

Located at the distance of 2 km south of the old city, Bundi Railway Station is the nearest railhead. Trains from Jaipur, Dehradun, Agra, Chittoor, Banaras and Mathura pass through this station. By trains, Gwalior, Baroda, Kota and Thiruvananthapuram are also connected to this station.

Express bus service to and from various destinations in Rajasthan, including Sawai Madhopur, Bikaner, Jaipur and Kota, is available for Bundi. Buses from Udaipur, Bijolia, Ajmer, Jodhpur and Chittorgarh are also available for Bundi. The best time to visit Bundi is from October through March.