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!
