Bundi Palace, Rajasthan, India.

Rajasthan

Bundi Palace

The Bundi Palace (Garh) viewed from Bundi Old Town in Bundi, Rajasthan, India
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Bundi Palace at sunrise, Rajasthan, India
Bundi Palace, Rajasthan, India.
The Bundi Palace (Garh) viewed from Bundi Old Town in Bundi, Rajasthan, India
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Bundi Palace at sunrise, Rajasthan, India
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Major Airports :

Jaipur International Airport (JAI), Jaipur

Nearest Railway Station :

Bundi Railway Station (BUDI)

Major Airports :

Jaipur International Airport (JAI), Jaipur

Kipling's dream palace: Where heritage meets majesty

In the heart of Rajasthan, India, lies the historic town of Bundi, renowned for its magnificent citadels and rich cultural heritage. Among its marvel stands Bundi's crown jewel, the ‘Bundi Palace’ or the ‘Garh Palace’. A captivating blend of building styles, vibrant murals, and a fascinating history, the Bundi Palace isn't just a single structure, but a constellation of smaller palaces. Wander through these "petite palaces" and witness tales of love, bravery, and sacrifice whispered through the very walls.

Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling is believed to have penned parts of his novel "Kim" in Bundi. He was particularly struck by the palace, describing it as "the work of goblins rather than of men," hinting at its unique and dreamlike architecture compared to other Indian palatial complexes.

Step into the enigmatic history of Bundi's royal past

Counted amongst the largest palatial residences in India, the Bundi Palace boasts a rich history, with construction beginning in the 17th century under the reign of Rao Raja Ratan Singh Hada. Over the next three centuries, successive rulers added their own aesthetics, resulting in the magnificent complex we see today. Bundi Palace is a masterpiece not just of architecture but also of art and its walls serve as a canvas for spectacular Bundi frescoes.

Bundi Palace is a fascinating fusion of Rajput and Mughal design influences. Jharokhas (ornate balcony windows) and intricately carved pillars, many featuring elephant motifs, are hallmarks of the Rajputana style. However, Mughal influences are also evident in the palace's layout and the intricate floral and geometric patterns adorning the complex’s walls. The inclusion of courtyards, gardens, and water features reflect similarities to the Mughal Garden.


Bundi Palace at sunrise, Rajasthan, India
Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

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Discover Bundi's crown jewel

Awaiting you at the culmination of the climb to Bundi's Garh Palace are two grand entryways. Among these, the most celebrated is the Hathi Pol, a majestic structural feat commissioned by Rao Ratan Singh. Two colossal elephants, adorned with trumpeting details, flank the gate, instantly evoking a sense of grandeur and marking the official entrance to the complex. It is not a singular structure but rather a collection of palaces built by different rulers over time. Some notable examples include the Chhatra Mahal, known for its exquisite murals, and the Badal Mahal, aptly named "Palace of Clouds" due to its location atop a hill offering breathtaking views.

Bundi Palace is also home to the Chitrashala, a renowned art gallery showcasing a collection of miniature paintings belonging to the Bundi School of Art. These paintings depict not just historical events and courtly scenes but also offer a window into the lives of ordinary people during that era. This later construction, along with the Rang Vilas and Anniruddha Mahal, all built by Rao Aniruddha Singh, showcases a shift in styles and techniques.

As you dive more into the beauty of the Palace, you are also struck by its layout which reflects both practical and aesthetic considerations. Courtyards, essential for providing natural light and ventilation in the hot Rajasthani climate, became a recurring element. The roof garden in the form of Chaharbagh is built on a high artificial terrace that serves as a parterre to the Chitrashala. The Hatiyansal, a large hypostyle hall with a grid of structural posts and beams, exemplifies this focus on functionality. Grand staircases provided access to different levels of the palace, while the ornately decorated Hathipol served as a ceremonial entrance.

Legend has it that Bundi Palace was once connected to the Taragarh Fort, a formidable hilltop fort overlooking the city, by a secret passage. This passage is said to have been used by the royal family in times of danger.

Time travel awaits: Bundi palace, your portal

As you step into the bygone era of Bundi Palace, be prepared to be swept away by its captivating charm. The whispers of history echo through its halls, the vibrant murals come alive with forgotten stories, and the sheer grandeur of the palace leaves a lasting impression. It is not just a museum, it's a portal to a bygone era, waiting to be explored. So, pack your bags, unleash your inner explorer, and embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of Rajasthan's regal past. Bundi Palace awaits!

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