Bundi/Kota

BUNDI is greatly famous for the Palaces, Forts, Baolis, Temples, Chhatris and so on. Formerly known as Bunda Ka Nal, it means narrow ways which have been a witness to a large number of battles and tales of valour with a beautiful pattern of nature, rivers, lakes and also enchanting waterfalls.

KOTA, the third most populous city in Rajasthan, lies alongside the banks of River Chambal, the only perennial river in Rajasthan. Locals and tourists visit the river shores for watching crocodiles, sighting birds and for boat riding in general. Kota is famous for its thriving coaching culture for IIT-JEE and Medical entrance preparations and every year more than four lakh students visit and live in the city.

WEATHER

 

AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Rainfall (mm)	5.4	7.3	5.2	4.6	10.4	55.9	173.9	177.5	70.0	14.4	3.3	2.6

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT

October to March is the best time to plan a trip to Bundi/Kota as weather is cool and enjoyable. But April and May are very much dry and hot. Monsoons i.e. July and September are suitable for short trips.

CUISINE

The food of BUNDI provides no less than a celestial journey for the taste buds to revel in, with wholesome breads, exotic spices, lentils and sweetmeats thrown into the mix. Apart from the traditional Rajasthani spread involving dishes such Daal Baati, Moong Dal and Choorma, the cuisine of Bundi includes dishes exclusive to the Hadoti region. Principal ingredients include cereals such as Wheat, Bajra and Jowar; Besan, lentils, Ghee (clarified butter) and spices such as cilantro and cumin seeds.

Special Cuisine of BUNDI

Panchkuta is a mix of five vegetables, namely Dry mango, Kumti, Sangri, Ker and Ghoondha.

Laapsi is a sweet dish which looks a lot like Sooji (semolina) Halwa when prepared. It is made of wheat, ghee, cashews and raisins. It is also referred to as Shira.

Ghooghri: The Ghooghri recipe is easy, and hence used a lot as part of a traditional meal. It is made by pounding wheat into powder and mixing it with lentils such as Chana.

Bail-Gatte ki Subzi: Gatte ki Subzi is a dish which is an integral part of most Rajasthani Thalis, but here it is made with a slight twist.

Chaavdi is another very delectable subzi that is especially popular for its unique taste and wholesome mix of condiments that are sure to satiate your gastronomic urges.

There are a number of eating places around the town Bundi and one can get delicious food that delights every food lover.

Eating in the bustling city KOTA will be a delightful experience for all food lovers as one gets a chance to taste various mouth-watering delicacies. Leaving the city without eating the hot and spicy KACHORI will be an incomplete tour as these snacks are exclusively prepared in the town. The local food of Kota includes all tempting Rajasthani dishes along with a few traces of special Rajput delicacies.

Foodies must not miss tasting the most opulent and extremely delicious Rajasthani thali filled with traditional vegetables, Dal Baati Churma, Kadi, served along with hot Parathas and desserts. There are a number of places around the historic city Kota that offer Rajasthani dishes along with all other cuisines. The finger licking food is available all around Kota and one can taste the spicy food till the sweet snacks in the stalls on the market roads of the sprawling city.

SHOPPING

BUNDI can be a shopping paradise for you especially if you love art. Here you can find some of the best miniature paintings, Kota sarees and carpets. Miniature paintings of Bundi are very popular and are often given a green tint. And the cotton carpets are intricately designed add a lovely charm. Some markets of Bundi date back to the 17th century too.  Other items to buy in Bundi include stone statues, lac bangles, hand-painted items, metal-wares, murals, silver jewelleries, wooden toys, shawls (odhnis) and miniatures, among others. Famous markets in Bundi are Sadar Bazaar and Chaumaukh Bazaar.

The city of KOTA is known for gold jewellery, doria sarees, silk sarees and the famous Kota stone.

Some of the famous Markets & Shops in Kota are:

Main Bazar - This is one of the most visited markets of Kota and has a wide collection of traditional Rajasthani goods and products. One of the most popular buys of the Main Bazaar is the Kota sarees that include Kota silk and is very popular among the tourists.

Governement Emporia - For buying mementoes, a souvenir for your loved ones from Kota you can visit the Government emporium. It offers goods at a very reasonable price and most are of a fixed price. There are some local traders also where you can buy handcrafted fabrics, silk and many more.

LANGUAGE

Harauti (Hadoti), a dialect of Rajasthani, is widely spoken in Bundi and Kota with Hindi, Marwari and English being the other languages spoken.

THINGS TO DO

BUNDI

1. ADMIRE MINIATURE PAINTINGS

The Hada Chauhans, who ruled Bundi and the region around it, favored the arts. As such King Rao Chhatrasal (or Rao Chattar Sal) established the Hadoti School of Painting, one of four schools of royal painting during the 17th to 19th centuries. This school, created from the Mewar School of Painting in Udaipur, made Bundi known for its own style of Rajasthani miniature paintings. The paintings feature rich colors, and predominantly depict scenes from royal celebrations and daily life. They also incorporate Mughal elements, influenced by Rao Chhatrasal Hada's important position in the court of Emperor Shah Jahan.

Many of the paintings can be seen gracing the walls of Bundi's 17th century Garh Palace, and 18th century Chitrashala building (the Hadoti School of Painting's gallery) that's part of the adjacent Ummed Palace.

2. EXPLORE THE FORT RUINS

If you're feeling energetic, follow the steep trail 20 minutes uphill from the palace complex to the sprawling remains of Bundi's ancient Taragarh (Star Fort), which was constructed by King Rao Bar Singh in the 14th century. The fort's condition is also disappointingly dilapidated. Inside, it's overrun by monkeys (do carry a stick to scare them off) and overgrown with vegetation. However, the panoramic view across town from the fort ramparts, which encircle entire hilltop, makes the strenuous hike worthwhile. The fort is an enjoyable place to step back in time and spend a few hours. As you explore it, you'll come across numerous ruins and a serene Shiva temple. Do wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water to drink.

3. MARVEL AT ANCIENT STEPWELLS

Bundi is also renowned for its multitude of baoris (step wells), which were used for water harvesting and as social meeting places. About 50 of them are scattered across the town, including some that supplied water to the fort. The most spectacular one is Raniji ki Baori (Queen's Step Well). It gets its name from queen Rani Nathawati, the younger wife of ruler Rao Raja Anirudh Singh, who built it in the 17th century. The step well extends down three levels, and its stone pillars are accentuated with magnificent carvings such as elephants and the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Unfortunately, it's not possible to go all the way inside.

Raniji ki Baori is centrally located opposite the police station and Indira Market, just outside the old city's main Chogan Gate entrance. It's open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets cost 200 rupees for foreigners and 50 rupees for Indians. Bundi's other standout step well, Dhabhai Kund, lies to the south of Raniji ki Baori and is free to enter. The geometric pattern of its steps is an interesting sight to see. Head a block north of Raniji ki Baori, through the market, to find two more twin step wells known as Nagar Sagar Kund. Tickets aren't required to see them.

4. ENJOY A MONSOON FESTIVAL

Bundi is one of the top monsoon travel destinations in India, partly because of its special Teej festival celebrations in August (the town is also really quiet and refreshing during that time of year). The Teej festival is linked to the holy union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This makes it an important occasion for women, who invoke the goddess's blessing for a happy marriage. However, the focal point of the festival in Bundi is a peppy street procession with dressed up camels, elephants, musicians, dancers, folk artists, and the goddess on a palanquin. It winds its way through the old city, from Nawal Sagar to Azad Park. A lively local fair draws a crowd as well. Celebrations continue until Janmashtami, when Lord Krishna was born.

5. ATTEND THE BUNDI UTSAV

A similar street procession is also a feature of the Bundi Ustav, an annual cultural festival that takes place for three days in November just after the Kartik Purnima full moon. The festival is held to promote tourism in the region. Its eclectic events include traditional sports such kabaddi, horse and camel racing, an arts and crafts fair, folk music and dance performances. Of course, the festival would be incomplete without turban tying and mustache competitions too.

6. STAY AT A HERITAGE HOTEL

Many heritage properties in Bundi have been converted into hotels. Staying in one is recommended to fully experience the town's enchantment, and there are plenty of options to suit all budgets.

THINGS TO DO

KOTA

1. BOATING IN CHAMBAL RIVER

Enjoy the motorboat ride in the Chambal River with an amazing view of flora and fauna alongside the river.

2. WILDLIFE SAFARI

The Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the prime locations of wildlife safari in Kota which provides a chance to see the habitat of various species of animals including deer, sloth bears, wolves, antelopes, leopards, and nilgai.

3. ROCK CRAVINGS

Kota always remains a site which attracts Archaeologists and historians towards it. Its prehistoric cravings in Alnea are very much popular among prehistorians.

4. VISIT RAO MADHO SINGH MUSEUM

Seeing the valuable collection displayed at the Rao Madho Singh Museum and the Government Museum will be a great experience. Both the places preserve various precious royal items, silver furniture, armoury, paintings, sculptures, inscriptions and many more.

PLACES TO VISIT

BUNDI

1. RANIJI KI BAORI

Raniji ki Baori, also known as 'Queen's Stepwell', is a famous stepwell built in 1699 by Rani Nathavati Ji, the younger queen of the ruling king Rao Raja Anirudh Singh of Bundi. This multi-storied stepwell displays excellent carvings of Gajraj with his trunk turned inwards, giving the impression of having drunk from the baori on its pillars. Its high arched gate gives it an inviting appearance.

2. TARAGARH FORT

Constructed in the year 1354, the Taragarh Fort is one of the most impressive structures in Bundi. The state of Bundi was founded in this year by Rao Deva, and this was when the construction of this massive square began. Popularly known as the 'Star Fort', the attraction is located on a steep hill and offers a panoramic view of the entire city of Bundi situated in the Nagpahari of Aravalli ranges. The fort was described by the famous author Rudyard Kipling as "more the work of Goblins than of men". Sadly, time took its toll on this magnificent structure, and most of the majestic and fascinating architecture of the fort is now in ruins.

3. MOTI MAHAL

Moti Mahal is one of the unmatched attractions of the town. Along with the historic beauty of the Moti Mahal Palace, you can also enjoy the panoramic view of the arid Aravali hills in the backdrop along with the view of the ancient Nagal Sagar Lake.

4. BADAL MAHAL

The Badal Mahal, also known as the Palace of Clouds, is located within the Garh Palace. The majestic palace’s walls are covered in exquisite paintings which are engaging in their mien, and depict an early influence of the Chinese culture. The royal residence was built in two diverse time periods. In the first stage, the verandah and ground floor was built by Maharawal Gopinath, and the rest of the construction was done in 1609 – 1657 AD by Marahawal Punjraj. Made of Dawra stone, all three arches of the Mahal sport one half-ready lotus, with the longest vault of the Mahal having three half-ready lotuses. When visiting the Mahal, you get entrancing views of the inside and outside of the fortifications, making the palace a must-visit destination in Bundi.

5. 84 PILLARED CENOTAPH

As the name suggests, the 84 Pillared Cenotaph is a structure supported by 84 columns. Commissioned by Rao Anirudh, the Maharaja of Bundi, this cenotaph is a tribute to his beloved wet nurse, Deva, who he loved dearly. A popular tourist attraction, this impressive structure is decorated with carvings of deer, elephants and apsaras.

6. SUKH MAHAL

Sukh Mahal, a small, two-storied palace was a summer retreat of past rulers. Today, it is quite famous for being the place where Kipling wrote ‘Kim’. Many credit the palace as a having played muse to the renowned novel. In fact, part of a movie based on the novel was even shot here.

6. KSHAR BAG

Located near the Chhatra Vilas Garden, Kshar Bag, sometimes known as Saar Bagh, houses the memorial cenotaphs of the royal family of the Bundi state. It is located on the Shikar Burgh Jait Sagar Road.

7. GARH PALACE

The Garh palace has a number of petite palaces built encircling the central majestic residence. The various rulers of the city built these small palaces. The palace has many tales attached to it.

8. CHHATR PALACE

The Chhatr Palace in Bundi was once a spectacular garden palace that teemed with numerous fountains as well as pools that housed exotic fish. Chhatr means painting, and this palace’s name stems from the beautiful murals that adorn its walls. In older times, during the 18 th century, Bundi was a beehive for miniatures, and miniature paintings were highly encouraged. From gods and goddesses, battle scenes, and elephants to images of Radha and Krishna, these paintings depict a special delicacy that is known only in the region. There’s also a Chitrashala in the Chhatr Palace that was made under orders from Umed Singh. Being the innermost chamber of the Palace, sunlight and moisture hasn’t affected the paintings here, making the art glow with the originality of their painters. In its totality, the walls and ceilings of the Chhatr Palace form a dramatic panaroma that is always worth a visit.

PLACES TO VISIT

KOTA

1. SEVEN WONDERS PARK

Never been able to visit the seven wonders across the globe? Not to worry! You can now witness all of them in a single go. Seven Wonders Park in Kota comprises of miniatures of all the Seven Wonders of the World. These include Taj Mahal, Great Pyramid, Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower, Christ the Redeemer of Brazil, Colosseum, and Statue of Liberty. The project which was undertaken to build this garden was worth 20 crores by Urban Development Department. It took more than 150 workers to complete the project.

It has become a famous tourist spot and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. These miniatures have been built on the bank of the Kishore Sagar Lake thereby enhancing its beauty. People flock to the park to enjoy a lovely picnic with friends and family.

2. KISHORE SAGAR AND JAGMANDIR PALACE

Kishore Sagar is an artificial picturesque lake dating back to 1346 constructed by the Bundi Prince Dehra Deh. It located by the side of attractive Brij Vilas palace museum.

A palace named as Jagmadir is located at the heart of the museum. The enchanting palace is a red sand stone monument of the grandeur days of Kota. The reflections of the exquisite palace walls and domes in the azure water of the Kishore Sagar Lake are breathtaking. A treat for photo fanatics and nature lovers.

3. GARADIA MAHADEV

Situated in Daulatganj near Kota, Garadiya Mahadev Temple is not just a revered Hindu temple but also a popular tourist spot because of its location at the scenic Chambal gorge. Perched at a height of 500 feet from the mean sea level on a picturesque cliff, the temple is enshrined by Hindu God Shiva. Boasting of immense scenic beauty, views of the virgin green plains sprawling all over and flanked by river Chambal on the side, the place is one of the most ideal picnic spots in the region. The presence of several peacocks and other avian species attract a lot of birdwatchers and photography buffs. Considered to be the best place to relax and unwind, the vantage point is surely a must- visit.

4. KOTA BARRAGE

Kota Barrage is the fourth construction in the Chambal Valley Project over River Chambal. It was built to store the waters stored by the three previous dams of the project Gandhi Sagar Dam, Jawahar Sagar Dam and Rana Pratap Sagar Dam, and then channelize it to the dry areas of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh for irrigation purposes via canals. At present, it helps in agriculture in around 20,000 acres of land. The 19 gate long barrage forms a bridge over River Chambal at Kota, on which people gather to enjoy the fascinating view of frothy white water being thrusting out in full force.

During the monsoon, when the lock gates are opened, it creates a magnificent view with its raging and gushing water. The water roars like the ocean and the sound of it resonate in the entire area. The rumble can be heard from a distance, and the pulse of it can be felt on the bridge as well. The bridge is quite crowded all around the year by onlookers, picnickers and those who halt by to have a look on their way to somewhere else.

5. CHAMBAL GARDEN

Located on the bank of river Chambal, this place is one of the most beautiful picnic spots in the city of Kota. At Chambal Garden, visitors can enjoy peace in the lap of exquisite greenery. The major attraction here is the wonderful boat ride that you can take on the Chambal river nearby forest office jetty. Considered to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the river itself is a part of the National Chambal Ghariyal (Gavial) Sanctuary. The sanctuary was established in 1983 with the express purpose of conserving the fast depleting population of marsh crocodiles and ghariyals, which are a type of thin-snouted crocodile. It is also famous for its diverse bird population and scenic natural beauty.

6. KHADE GANESH JI TEMPLE

The Ganesh temple is situated in the southern part of the city. What makes this temple unique is that this is the only temple in India that has a standing idol of Ganesh. One can also visit Rangbadi Balaji temple on the way there.

7. MAHARAO MADHO SINGH MUSEUM

Situated within the walls of the Garh palace, Maharao Madho Singh Museum houses a splendid collection of Rajput miniature paintings of the Kota school. Visitors can spend hours taking in the fascinating sculptures, arms and other valuable antiques.

8. GARH PALACE

The foremost tourist attraction in Kota is the 'Garh'. This large complex, also known as the City Palace, is built in a predominantly Rajput style of architecture. The palace is a sprawling complex of suites and apartments built by different rulers of the Rajput dynasty at different times in history.

9. ABHEDA MAHAL AND ABHEDA BIOLOGICAL PARK

Located 8 kilometres away from Kota, on the banks of a tank, this medieval palace was the recreation spot of the rulers of Kota. It is where they went to enjoy the wildlife and natural beauty of the region. Close to Abheda Mahal is the temple of Karni Mata, the reigning deity of Kota. Abheda biological park situated on Nanta road near Abheda Mahal Kota. It is newly constructed by forest department. The biological park of kota is eco friendlier place for wild animals.

10. GODAWARI DHAM

Godawari Dham is a Hanuman temple situated at walking distance from Chambal Garden. This temple is located beside the Chambal River. It is a beautiful shrine, made entirely of white marble. The towers of the temple are quite high and impressive. It has a huge marble swan built at the top of the entrance gate.

11. KAITHOON

Kaithoon is renowned for the specialized designer hand woven saris named as Kota Doria saris. These saris are hand woven with real gold threads. The textile weaving rules this place.

The majestic dress materials from Kaithoon are of high quality cotton fabrics. These are made exquisite and richer by designer styles and embroidery with real gold and silver threads. Tourists can purchase excellent export quality Saris and other dress materials from this place. A live view of the hand weaving with fast and attractive hand movements will be an amazing experience in Kaithoon.