India

Bundi

Intro

Bundi is located halfway between Udaipur and Jaipur. The preserved aspect of its architectural heritage immerses you into a timeless frame. Formerly known as the “City of Sources”, now known as the “blue city “, Bundi seems to be nestled in the foot of its palace and its fort, then gradually spreading to its bazar. This remarkable city which is still untouched by mass tourism constitutes a perfect location to explore India.

History

In 1193, after Prithviraj Chauhan surrendered to Mohammad Ghori, a part of the Chauhan nobility went to Mewar in search of safe heaven. However, other brave leaders decided to set out to conquer a new region. In the valley of Chambal, the latter succeeded in subduing Bheel and Meena tribes before exercising their dominion in the kingdom of Hadoti. Long after, during the rule of Jahangir, Bundi was divided into two regions: Kota and Bundi. And although the city lost its prestige, eclipsed by Kota, Bundi remained independent within the English administration. Later, after the declaration of India’s independence, the city was integrated into the state of Rajasthan.

Today

Bordered by hills strewn with ramparts, Bundi is a part of Rajput territory and is still a booming tourist destination for boaters. Here, life quietly pursues its course in a convivial atmosphere. Enjoy strolling in this calm city, unlike other Indian cities which are always congested with traffic. You will not be disturbed by the noise of sellers and rickshaw drivers in the heart of this small city. The Indians will simply look at you and occasionally exchange a smile with you. Dressed in dhotis, heads covered in colourful turbans, moustaches tapered, Rajputs of this region presents a proud look. On streets, you will find them with their heads held high and bulging chests. You will find them sipping chai with bidis in their hand, in the corners of this old city. Their presence and their body language will not fail to amaze you. Undoubtedly, the Rajputs, together with the Sikhs, represent the quintessence of Indian elegance. Their leader, Raja of Bundi resides in a small palace. Although it is less imposing as compared to the buildings in Jodhpur, the palace and its fort will impress you with its history and architecture. At the foot of these monuments, the old stables of elephants have been redesigned into cheap hotels, unusual accommodations, but their comfort is impeccable. In these small inns, you will have an opportunity to taste the local gastronomy during a candlelight dinner. In Bundi, apart from the noble Rajputs and farm animals, your neighborhood will also include monkeys. You will see them gamboling on the rooftops of the city, but if you really wish to meet those, head to the surrounding hills. As you walk along the alleys bordering the ramparts, the monkeys will jump from one place to another above the fortifications. With a stick, a must-have accessory when hiking in Bundi, have fun tapping in the ground to attract their attention while being careful not to frighten them. If you do not have the heart to play with animals, admire the idyllic panorama of the region. Being a tiny version of Jodhpur, the blue city reveals itself to you in its entire splendor. These are the homes of the Brahmans who offer this tint to the region. In a region which is subject to steppe climate, the colour blue is supposed to reduce heat while protecting from mosquitoes. Back in town, you find this enchanting atmosphere in the narrow streets crisscrossing Bundi. Enjoy a moment in peace to satisfy your dreams of escape and change of scenery, well protected from peddlers of large Indian agglomerations.

After visiting the forts, palaces and ramparts, wander around the alleys. Then after introducing yourself to primates and bovids, you can opt to do some souvenir shopping. At Sadar Bazar, you will not only find the best chai of India but also you will find a plethora of craft products that will not fail to brighten up your home.

Climate

Bundi has a climate of steppe classified BSh according to the climatic map of Köppen-Geiger. Throughout the year, rainfall is rather low, with an average of 772mm. The average temperature of the region is 26.5°C.

How to get there

Even though it is not crossed by main railway lines, Bundi has at least one train daily to reach Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Delhi and Agra. By road, city is an hour’s drive from Kota from where you can take other trains for Delhi and Jaipur. All you need to do is to check the timetables available from the dedicated services.

How to get around

The best way to get around Bundi is by walking. For this, be ready with suitable shoes, a hat and a stick for hiking.

What to do in Bundi?

• Visit the Bundi Fort
• observe monkeys in the alleys
• Enjoy tea with villagers
• Take a walk in the heart of picturesque lanes
• Enjoy shopping at Sadar Bazar etc.