Whether you are taking a transit break in Bundi, Rajasthan, or want to explore this offbeat place in Rajasthan, Bundi is a treasure trove of architectural spaces. 

While Jaipur and Udaipur are grander in size and places, Bundi is a small yet impactful version of what Rajasthan has to offer.

Bundi can be best explored at a slow pace on foot. The narrow streets and labyrinth alleys are waiting to be discovered with gems.

I stopped here for half a day while on the way back to Ahmedabad from Ranthambore. 

Bundi Tourist Places | Best Places to visit in Bundi

A Fort, palace, stepwells and the entire town painted in colors is how the town treats visitors. The best thing about this town is the opportunity to stay in a haveli from yesteryears. 

Known as the “city of step wells”, Bundi is home to over 50 stepwells, mostly dotted throughout the city and surrounds, and visiting the popular ones is one of the best things to do in Bundi.

Read more about places to visit in Bundi.

Walking Tour in Bundi

I love exploring new places on foot because that’s where you discover offbeat things. Unlike guided heritage tours like Ahmedabad Heritage Walk, a walking tour in Bundi is a self-walk.

Bundi encourages visitors to walk because honestly it is difficult to drive a car in those narrow lanes. 2 cars cannot pass parallel and there are other blockages like dogs, cows, and 2-wheelers on the road.

Bundi is a fascinating old town, situated under the imposing Garh Fort. It is best to explore the town in the late afternoons or early mornings to get the real flavor. A tea vendor boiling his finest ginger tea, dogs intermingling with the road traffic, women chit-chatting with each other about the latest television episode, monkeys looking for an opportunity to snatch food from unattended carts – all of this amongst the colourful painted houses.

If you are a street photographer or an artist, you are in for a real treat as there are ample opportunities to click and paint in Bundi!

The friendly locals also chat about the place you come from, casually asking about which places you have been to and will be visiting in Rajasthan.

Garh Palace, Bundi

Exploring the historic Garh palace complex is one of the best things to do in Bundi. The palace overlooking the city is a treat in itself.

Constructed by Rao Raja Ratan Singh in the early 16th century, this was a grand palace once a time. However, the Garh Palace of Bundi is presently in ruins. As compared to the other palaces in Rajasthan such as City Palace Jaipur, City Palace Udaipur, Udai Bhawan Palace Jodhpur, Bundi palace is not in great shape.

Some of the places have been restored while some still portray the bygone era – faded frescos, colourful walls, ruined sculptures, etc.

I recommend taking a guided tour of the Grah Palace and Taragarh Fort as this will provide you with a great understanding of the history and importance of the monument. Guides can be arranged at the entrance to the Palace, or at your hotel.

Some of the must-visit places in Garh Palace Bundi are:

Hathi Pol 

The first gate after getting the entry ticket in Hathi Pol. One has to climb a rather steep inclination to reach here.

The impressive entry to the Garh palace, Hathi Pol is made up of two elephants depicted blowing bugles. A security guard will check entry tickets and also enter details in a visitor’s diary such as name, contact number, and where you came from.

The courtyard is not very impressive and has plain walls with arches. It is actually a stable for nine horses and elephants.

Ratan Daulat

A royal court, built in a manner that it forms stables for nine horses and elephants.

Singhasan or Hall of Public Audience 

The Hall of Public Audience is a white marble coronation throne installed in a big hall of pillars. It overlooks the stables below.

Chhatra Mahal

The main attraction of Chhatra Mahal is the miniature murals in bright colours inside an arch. The side of the ceilings is also painted in beautiful frescoes with blue paint. Besides this, each pillar in this place has four wooden elephants on the top, and doors are made with glass and ivory work. The frescoes here reminded me of the Frescoes of Tambekar Wada, Vadodara.

Viewpoint

It is a vantage point from the palace that gives a bird’s eye view of the entire Bundi city along with the lake. On the other side, part of the fort wall is also visible.

Phool Mahal

Phool Mahal is divided into two storeys – the lower one is Phool Mahal and the upper one is Badal Mahal. Both were used by Queens of the Bundi state. Phool Mahal has exquisite paintings on the walls and ceiling of the palace – some of Bundi Palace’s finest miniature paintings. They’re the best-preserved paintings in the complex. There are even mirrors placed on the pillars and walls.

Badal Mahal  

The Palace’s crowning glory is the Badal Mahal. Depicting scenes from Indian mythology, the small room is filled with colourful and intricate murals from the ceiling to the walls. The paintings date back to the late 16th century. 

These wall paintings reminded me of Mattancherry Palace Museum in Fort Kochi wherein efforts are being taken to preserve them. I wish the same in done for the spectacular paintings in Badal Mahal in Bundi.

Chitrashala 

Although Chitrashala is part of the Garh Palace and Taragarh fort complex, entry to this place is separate and free!

Chitrashala literally translates to the art gallery, and one has to take major efforts to reach here. And it is worth it!

Visitors have to go down the slippery inclination of Garh Palace and climb the next to reach Chitrasala all the while being brave passing through the army of monkeys!

Chitrashala is hands down the best places to visit in Bundi. The entire hall is lined with murals, wall paintings, and artworks related to Hindu mythology, recreational scenes, and warfare.

As soon as I climbed the steps to enter this gallery, a security guard instructed me – no flash photography and no videos. I nodded as I started observing the paintings. Probably my inquisitiveness made him explain some of the depictions. 

Scenes from Ramayana and Krishna Leela adorned the walls and ceiling with real gold and silver elements used in them. He even pointed out to the garden outside saying that one painting here depicts the same.

I was spellbound by the murals and mirrorwork on the walls and ceilings of the Chitrashala. They were very impressive and maintained quite well.

It was 5 pm by the time I finished observing every painting minutely in Chitrashala and tipped the guard for sharing his knowledge with me. I inquired if I should take up the hike to Taragarh fort and he asked me if I am alone. He advised me not to go alone as I won’t be able to guard myself against the monkey army, plus very few tourists would be there so it would not be safe as it would get dark soon. I agreed to his premise and skipped going to the top of the fort.

Taragarh Fort, Bundi

Taragarh Fort is the amalgamation of Mughal, Rajput, and colonial styles of architecture.

Located above Bundi Palace, the Taragarh Fort mostly lies in ruins. It provides the best views of the city. Although it’s also in a state of decay, it is worth the walk to look down upon the blue hues of this colourful city.

Nawal Sagar Lake

The first thing that every visitor will see while coming to Bundi is Nawal Sagar Lake and the reflection of Garh Palace in its pristine waters. It is a square-shaped artificial lake. There is a small temple in the corner of the lake.

There are many cafes and homestays around this offering a lake view. I feel visitors can take a walk and chill at the banks in the evening.

Raniji-ki-Baori 

Honestly, I had high expectations from Raniji-ki-Baori thanks to Instagram reels. The expectations were high because of my visit to the grander and amazing stepwells such as Rani-ki-vav, Patan, Panna Meena ka Kund, Jaipur, Agrasen ki Baoli, Delhi and Sevasi Vav, Vadodara. All of them have intricate carvings and are very well maintained.

However, I was taken aback by the stinking water as soon as I entered Raniji-ki-Baori. The unbearable stench from the rotting water was extremely unsettling and all I could think about was the neglect of such a beautiful place. This private bath of one of Bundi’s queens now lies in shambles. 

In spite of the stink, Raniji-ki-Baori is the most beautiful stepwell in Bundi. Constructed in the early 16th century by Queen Nathavati, the stepwell is multi-tiered and 150 feet deep. Depending upon the monsoon the level of water in the stepwell is low or high.

The stepwell has intricate arches with elephants on the corner pillars giving it a very royal look. There are a few intricate carvings in the shape of temples on the stepwell walls.

Dabhai Kund 

Bundi visiting places includes another stepwell called Dabhai Kund. I was excited about visiting this one because of the invested pyramid shape like the Suraj Kund of Modhera Sun Temple. Unfortunately, the recent excessive spell of rain had filled enough water that none of the inverted steps were visible.

The algae-laden water also had visible trash suggesting that this was also not maintained.

84-pillared Cenotaph

Talking about Bundi tourist places, one cannot forget the 84-pillared cenotaph. Constructed in the 16th century by the Maharaja Rao Raja Anirudh in memory of his foster brother Deva, the structure is covered by a decorated roof that has 84 pillars.

The structure as such does not have any carvings but the outer walls have interesting sculptures. The cenotaph has a Shivling in the middle of the structure.

The Cenotaph is lit up in the evenings which is when it looks the best.

Lakshmi Nath Temple

Shri Laxminath is one of the oldest temples of Bundi. It graces the sacred sanctum of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. Other than the beautiful idol, this temple has exquisite carvings on the outer wall.

Sukh Mahal and Jait Sagar lake

Sukh Mahal is one of the best places to visit in Bundi. It is said that the English novelist Rudyard Kipling spent a couple of days in this summer palace overlooking the Jait Sagar lake. Mr. Kipling spent a few days here and wrote parts of The Jungle Book in this palace.

The palace is a bumpy ride away from the town center but the views are worth the ride. Especially with the lotuses in full bloom in the Jait Sagar lake.

The complex has a garden with a sitting area and another seating place overlooking the lake and palace. The palace doesn’t have much to see other than some photos from yesteryears.

Bundi Government Museum

Situated in the Sukh Mahal complex, Bundi Government Museum has 3 small galleries – A sculpture gallery, a Miniature painting gallery, and a Weapon gallery.

It is a nicely maintained museum and can be visited when visiting Jait Sagar.

Places to visit near Bundi

Bhimlat falls

Things to do in Bundi and around include visiting Bhimlat waterfalls, a popular picnic spot for the locals as well as tourists. It is a welcome change from all the havelis, forts, and palaces of Rajasthan. 

The waterfalls look alluring from the viewing gallery as well as from the water pool. Go for a swim in the refreshing water.

Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve

While Ranthambore National Park is one of the most frequently visited and popular tiger parks in Rajasthan, Ramgarh Vishdhari is the 4th tiger reserve in state. Ramgarh Vishdhari wildlife sanctuary is located 45 km from Bundi town. 

The sanctuary is rich in biodiversity and also has good architecturally rich places such as havelis, chattris, and temples, making it a must-visit.

Best time to visit Bundi

The best time to visit Bundi is during the months of winter that is October to March. Bundi has a semi-arid climate with high temperatures throughout the year which makes the summers long, hot, and dry. Summers are extremely harsh and last from March to June. Monsoons are a bit pleasant but it is still humid and uncomfortable.

Where to stay in Bundi

The best thing about Bundi is that it is a small town. There are hardly any hotels here but old family mansions (locally known as Haveli) turned into homestays or AirBnBs.

I chose to stay at Dev Niwas which was recommended by a lot of travelers and had good ratings online. The best part about the homestay is the view from their restaurant and terrace.

As it is in the small alleys of the town, the homestay owner provides a shuttle service from the palace parking area where one can park their car. 

Situated in one of the most humble alleys, it is impossible to imagine that a small alley gives way to a huge 2-storeyed haveli with over 10 rooms. The courtyard has ample space overlooking the rooms and reception area. There are 2 kinds of rooms – Standard and Deluxe and both have enough space. The rooms and bathrooms are extremely clean and comfortable.

The homestay is artistically well-maintained with beautiful Rajasthani artifacts, weapons, and paintings.

A restaurant on the top floor overlooking the Garh Palace and Taragarh fort is the highlight as well as the distance – it is located only 500 meters from the fort. Basically, most attractions are within a walking distance from the homestay.

I highly recommend staying here. It can be booked here.

Other homestays worth staying are – Bundi Inn, The Castle View Homestay, Haveli Katkoun

How to Reach Bundi

Bundi is not a typical tourist place and that is exactly why there are no direct flights or trains to the town. 

By Road

The best way to get to Bundi is via bus, with connections to Kota which is a bigger city. Kota is further connected to Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ajmer.

If you’re heading to Bundi by road from Ranthambhore, take the route via Bijoliya and not Kota. the roads are very smooth and good without any traffic congestion. One can reach it easily within 2.5 hours.

By Train

Bundi station is located 4 km from center of town but has less connectivity. The best way to connect is via the town of Kota, which is  40 km away. Kota is on the main train line from Delhi to Mumbai, so getting a proper connection is much easier. Visitors can hire a taxi from Kota railway station to Bundi. Alternatively, local buses also ply the road.

By Flight

The nearest airport to Bundi is Jaipur (215 km) which has domestic and international connections. From Jaipur, one can take a train to Kota and then a taxi to Bundi or a direct bus. 

Getting around Bundi

Bundi is an easy and inexpensive city to get around if you’re staying close to the center of town. While it is ideal to explore the town on foot, the open gutters and vehicle obstruction may suck the joy out of traveling.

Auto rickshaw

Auto rickshaw is an easy and inexpensive way to get around Bundi. Since I only had half a day to explore the town and certain highlights to visit, I decided to hire an auto.

He agreed to take us to 7 places in Bundi which would approximately take 2.5-3 hours (including waiting time) for INR 500. We were 4 people so it was a good deal for us. He dropped us at the Garh Palace and we decided to walk back from there.

FAQs for Places to visit in Bundi

Is Bundi worth visiting?

Bundi is definitely worth visiting if you are looking for authentic Rajasthani culture and bespoke architecture. Although it is beautiful, Bundi places lack maintenance so be warned that there be a lot of ruins, stinking water, open grey-water gutters and an army of monkeys. This does not deter tourists to come here.

Do’s and Don’ts for Things to do in Bundi

• Bundi and its nearby areas are extremely hot and humid during the day. I visited at end of October which is monsoon and yet it was not pleasant. It is best to carry a cap/hat/stole and sunglasses. 
• Wear clothes that are loose, comfortable, and sweat-absorbing.
• Wear a pair of comfortable footwear as you will walk a lot covering all the places to visit in Bundi.
• Carry a bottle of water and some snacks for a quick hunger bite. Keep the snacks tucked in a bag so as not to be visible to the resident monkeys. They will snatch it away!
• If you want to see both the Garh Palace and the fort, buy the extra ticket right at the entry, because no one will tell you to. 
• Flash Photography and videography are prohibited in certain rooms of the palace so please respect them.
• The Bundi Festival (‘Bundi Utsav) is held in November or December every year, depending on the Hindu calendar. It is a great time to visit.
• There are many locals selling tea and snacks in Bundi. A refreshing cup of chai can do wonders after all the walks around the town. Highly recommend trying at Sanwariya Restaurant. 

Sustainable tips for Places to visit in Bundi

• Respect the sculptures by not sitting on them. 
• Do not harm the sculptures by carving, writing, or spitting on them.
• Do not enter places that are closed off, there’s a reason why they are closed.
• Dispose of garbage in the dustbins located at specific points.
• Treat these monuments with respect and do not use them for picnics.

Read More posts from Rajasthan

• Places to visit in Mount Abu
• Kumbhalgarh
• Ranakpur Jain Temple
• Eklingji Temple and around
• Jaipur Blue Pottery
• Shopping in Jaipur

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Amidst the rich cultural heritage of Madhya Pradesh, there is a jewel which shines bright and also accounts for the unmissable tourist attractions of the state. While Pachmarhi is nature’s haven, Mandu is architecturally brilliant.

Mandu also known as Mandavgarh is a place carved in the times of history for its forts, palaces, cultural diversity and poignant love story. 

Mandu in Madhya Pradesh boasts of around 40 monuments in the form of palaces, places of worship or tombs, each narrating different stories from the past and feeling proud of all that they have seen and been a part of. A few other important places on the list include Lohani caves, Dai ka Mahal, Nilkanth Mahal, Champa baoli and Hammam. 

About Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Mandu was actually called Shadiabad by its Mughal rulers which literally means ‘City of Joy’. 

Located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, Mandu takes us to the ancient times of happiness and joy through its architectural extravaganza. It is a major tourist attraction in Malwa region along with Ujjain and a perfect one day trip from Indore. 

Mandu in Madhya Pradesh is located at an elevation of 634 Metres from sea level and is at a distance of around 60 km from Indore, their commercial capital. It is protected by the Vindhyachal range of mountains and the Narmada River which during ancient times blocked the entrance of enemies to this town and is manually fortified by three gates mainly known as Alamgir Gate, Bhangi Gate and Delhi Gate. 

Mandu is also famous for its love story of Baaz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. The beautiful and serene landscapes of Mandu have enchanted many couples to spend their honeymoon days here.

During the trip here one experiences great architectural masterpieces and amazing monuments which leave the tourists in the awe of the science and mathematics involved in their construction.

Unmissable places to visit in Mandu Madhya Pradesh

This small town of Mandu holds around 40 monuments which are etched in history as important and notable places. The monuments, palaces and ruins here are spread across the perimeter of approximately 20 sq. km.

Jahaz Mahal 

Mandu in Madhya Pradesh offers the best of genius work in architecture found in India. Jahaz Mahal, is an engineering extravaganza built during the reign of Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji the then-ruler of Mandu in the late 15th century who was known to have a royal consortium of 15,000 women. 

Jahaz Mahal was built to accommodate a large number of women’s family members. It is double-storeyed and is located between two artificial lakes (Munj Talao and Kapur Talao) on a narrow strip of land. 

The reflection of Jahaz Mahal can be seen on the water of the lake giving an impression to people that it is floating like a ship and hence the name Jahaz Mahal as Jahaz in Urdu means ‘A ship’. 

Jahaz Mahal is open from 6 am to 7 pm with a nominal entry fee and an extra charge, especially for video shooting.

Hindola Mahal 

Built by Hoshang Shah in the 14th century, Hindola Mahal was reconstructed by Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji by the 15th century. 

The palace gets its name Hindola which means ‘swinging’ because of its sloping side walls. It was constructed in a way to transfer voice from one end to another, especially during the time of royal discussions. 

The Mahal or palace forms part of a larger set of buildings of the royal fort complex comprising Jahaz Mahal, the Hindola Mahal, the Taveli Mahal, and the Nahar Jharokha. 

Have you been to Orchha Fort? There is a similar complex named Orchha fort complex quite similar to this one on the banks of river Betwa. 

Hindola Mahal is T-shaped and was believed to be used as an audience hall or an open-air theatre. In the evening, after the tourists have visited the fort complex, the Hindola Mahal opens for the light and sound show. 

The love story of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati is narrated by renowned actor Ashutosh Rana through a wonderful theatrical execution. It takes us back in time offering emotions of love, happiness and sorrow, tragedy both. It plays in both the languages English and Hindi.

Rani Roopmati’s Mahal 

There is a poignant love story attached to Rani Roomati Mahal from where the name is derived. 

Baz Bahadur was the last independent ruler of Malwa region. Once he was on his hunting expedition and he came across the shepherdess who was a great singer too. Baz Bahadur, who was an ardent lover of music and arts was smitten by her voice and fell in love with her. He told her to accompany him to Mandu his place and she agreed on the condition that she will only live in a palace from where her beloved Narmada river is visible. The palace was built for Rani Roopmati to have a view overlooking her favourite Narmada river. 

However, their love story was short-lived as Baaz Bahadur had to fight a battle with Adham Khan, who was Akbar’s General and ultimately had to flee to save his life as his troops were outnumbered by Akbar’s. 

Roopmati poisoned herself thus ending her life and also the love story. 

Rani Roopmati Mahal shows beautiful patterns of Afghan architecture and was built in phases during different periods.

Rewa Kund

Rewa Kund, built as an extension of Rani Roopmati Mahal and the pavilion, was an artificial lake built to ensure proper water supply to Rani Roopmati Pavilion. 

Rewa is another name for the sacred river Narmada in which the Rani had a deep faith and was a great worshipper. Rani often came here to worship and to pay respects to the divine mother river Narmada. 

Today, it is used as a resting place for tourists as it gives beautiful and serene views to rest, relax and take photographs. Because of the famous love story and the beautiful surroundings, this place becomes an unmissable place to visit in Mandu.

Baaz Bahadur’s Palace 

Baaz Bahadur palace happens to be a twin-storied structure, located on top of the hill and built by Khilji Sultan Nasir-ud-din for the last ruler of Malwa, Baaz Bahadur. 

It houses big courtyards, large halls and terraces giving photography-worthy looks from all angles. It is placed in the vicinity of Rewa Kund which was located as an extension of Rani Roopmati Mahal which she often used to visit. 

The palace depicts an amazing blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. There is also an octagonal porch which overlooks the beautiful garden. 

When we walk through the palace it speaks about the tales of history and shows us the time from how far we have come from the ancient days of Baz Bahadur to today.

Hoshang Shah’s Tomb 

Mandu, Madhya Pradesh is an outstanding example of Afghan architecture and this tomb is greatly known for its latticework and dome as it is the first ever structure fully made of marble, in India. 

It was constructed before the Taj Mahal and Shah Jahan sent the chief architect to study this tomb and to understand the beauty and intricacies of Afghan architecture. 

The monument has a well-built dome with intricate marble work. The doorway also has bearings of lotus and blue-enamelled stars. 

Jama Masjid, Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

Jama Masjid was built during the reign of Hoshang Shah and completed during the reign of Mahmud Khilji in the 15th century. It places itself near Mandu Bazar and is adjacent to Hoshang Shah’s tomb. 

It has three large domes, a courtyard and fifty-four smaller domes and because of its majestic look and opulence, it is said to be inspired by the Mosque of Damascus. Important monuments like this mosque in Mandu are looked after well by the Bhopal circle of the Archeological Survey of India.

Asharfi Mahal 

Asharfi palace was built during the reign of Mahmud I, the first of the rulers of Khilji dynasty. It is located opposite Jami Masjid and to reach the place there is a flight of steps which becomes distinct in recognizing the place mirroring itself with the placement of a mosque. 

It houses three distinct buildings built at three different times. The first one was a madrasa or a school, the second was a mausoleum and the third was Asharfi Mahal which was commemorated as a tower of victory against the Rana of Chittor. 

Most of the towers and buildings of this place have collapsed and its structure is in ruins now. Locals say that it was built hurriedly and carelessly which led to this breakdown. 

It falls under the reign of the Archaeological Survey of India.

Echo point 

En route Rani Roopmati’s Pavilion, is a tourist point in Mandu which has become very famous among tourists. Visiting echo point is one of the most looked forward to places to visit in Mandu, Madhya Pradesh.

Kakra Koh Waterfall 

Photographers and trekkers, Kakra Koh waterfall is for you. 

This waterfall is 7-8 km before Mandu. It garners excellent views during monsoons as the waterfall is at its full capacity giving a picturesque view of the mountains. 

The waterfalls go through the deep ravine and look absolutely beautiful and scenic. 

Here, in Mandu, Madhya Pradesh, one can find many such places which are oozing natural beauty and one can fully enjoy them to relax and unwind with friends and family.

Taveli Mahal 

Located towards the south of Jahaz Mahal, it forms a part of the Mandu Fort complex. It is a two-storied building once used as a stable and house for guards during the Mughal rule. It is now the office of the Archaeological Survey of India and houses a small museum too.

Places to visit around Mandu 

Maheshwar 

Maheswar is located at a distance of 40 km from Mandu and takes approximately an hour to reach by road. Known to be the capital of Holkar state during the 18th century, it is a destination which attracts pilgrims, tourists and shopaholics. 

Along with beautiful ghats on the bank of the river Narmada, it showcases a historic fort which interests history buffs. The Maheswari weavers are famous for their silk and cotton sarees and dress materials as also the accessories made out of it and date back to the 5th century. 

Mhow 

Also known as Ambedkar Nagar, Mhow is an Army Cantonment and is the birthplace of Sh. Bhimrao Ambedkar the author of our Indian constitution. Located around 23 km from Indore, its distance from Mandu is approximately 70 km and it takes one and half hours by road to reach there. It has beautiful pathways and walking areas. 

Once can have a look at the army installations lined on the roads giving a different look to the town. Mhow boasts of great shopping opportunities with smocking (a type of embroidery) dress materials and gowns as also home furnishings at the shops located in the main market.

Omkareshwar 

Omkareshwar is a religious place is associated with Lord Shiva and is amongst the famous 12 Jyotirlingas and considered very sacred. Read about Trimbakeshwar Temple – another jyotirlinga that is located in Maharashtra.

It is located at a distance of around 100 Kms from Mandu along the banks of the sacred river Narmada. There are two jyotirlingas here Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar. The views of ghats and the river are breathtaking and house many temples and shrines. 

One of the biggest tourist attractions here is the Jhula Pul which gives an amazing view of the Narmada river and the temple which is built quite akin to the Laxman Jhoola of Rishikesh.

Also Read about another Shiva temple in Madhya Pradesh – Bhojeshwar Shiva Temple, Bhopal

Dhar 

Dhar city is located in Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh like Mandu. This ancient town was founded by Udaji Rao Puar who was a Maratha General and was given the responsibility to expand the Maratha empire here. Dhar houses an amazing fort, a palace, a beautiful mosque and a serene lake making it worth visiting for tourists to spend some time here.

Choral Dam 

This is a great attraction amongst tourists owing to its tranquillity and serenity. It is located at a distance of around 80 km from Mandu and the cool and clear water here along with the greenery and the surrounding hills make this place complete. One can go boating too. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind with one’s friends and family.

Best time to visit Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Summers are scorching in Madhya Pradesh. The heat hinders the energy required for sightseeing. While in monsoon, the palaces and fort complexes become mesmerizingly beautiful during this time and the area around is lush green. The waterfall and the reservoirs etc are in full bloom during this time of the season. Winters are cooler here and give that zeal and energy to go through so many monuments which are the essence of tourism here.

The best months to visit will be from July to March which comprises mainly the monsoon and winter seasons. The average temperatures in these months are quite comfortable for tourists to sightsee.

Must try food in Mandu

Dal Paniya 

This is a local delicacy quite similar to that of Daal Baati. Wherein the baati here is first boiled in hot water and then roasted in tandoor. Many restaurants and hotels serve this local food which they are proud of.

Baobab Trees 

Mandu is home to these trees native to Africa and locals call it Khorasani Imli. It is a kind of fruit and can be added to curries for its tangy taste. Local vendors can be seen selling these outside the fort complex and other sightseeing places too.

How to reach Mandu 

By Flight

The nearest airport to Mandu is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Indore. Indore is very well connected to all the metros and major cities of India through various flights which commute on a regular basis. From Indore, one can hire a taxi to Mandu or take a bus from the Sarvate bus stand or Gangwal bus stand. It takes around three hours to reach the place. 

By Train

Mandu does not have its own railway station. The nearest railway station to Mandu is Ratlam, about 124 Kms. It is a major train junction located on the Delhi-Mumbai mainline. From Ratlam too, one can either take a bus or book a taxi to reach Mandu.

By Road 

Mandu is very well connected to major cities of Madhya Pradesh through a good road network.

Where to stay in Mandu

There are a few options if you prefer to stay in Mandu. However, being a one-day trip from Indore, Mandu has fewer choices. Madhya Pradesh Tourism has a lovely resort called MPT Malwa Resort that provides a comfortable stay.

If you are staying in Indore, then these are some of the options:

Luxury: Sayaji, Radisson Blu Indore, Indore Marriot

Mid-range: Ginger, Avadh Residency, Hotel Ambassador

Budget: Krishna Residency, Malwa Inn, Atithi Niwas

FAQs for Places to visit in Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Why is Mandu famous? 

Mandu is a famous town near Indore that is popular for one-day trips. Mandu has myriads of interesting places to be visited including forts, gateways, palaces, caves and temples. There are many waterfalls and beautiful nature all around Mandu.

Is Mandu a hill station?

Mandu is a fort town located in the Vindhya mountain range. It is not a typical hill station but if you love architecture and history then there are many places to visit here. It is an easy one-day trip from Indore.

Is Mandu worth visiting?

Mandu, or the ”City of Joy”, is a beautiful hilltop fort, deserted, dramatic and full of history. It is a must-visit in Madhya Pradesh!

Sustainable tips for Places to visit in Mandu Madhya Pradesh

• Carry a bag to store the wrappers and plastic packets. Take it back to the city for disposal. DO NOT under any circumstances throw the plastic in water tanks or kund in the fort.
• Do not dispose of leftover food. 
• Take food only in the quantity that you will consume.
• Do not carry liquor – it is banned to consume it on the fort premises.
• Do not write on or distort the rocks of the fort. You are witnessing a portion of history so respect it.
• The structures of Mandu have stood the test of time. It’s good to respect them by not writing names or scratching the surface.

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Madhya Pradesh is a treasure trove of a royal city like Bhopal, a smart city like Indore, and nature-based places such as Pachmarhi. Orchha is a fort city which was the headquarters of the Bundelkhand kingdom, once upon a time. 

Orchha in Madhya Pradesh is a place of interest for people belonging to various fields. A history buff, a spiritually oriented person, a backpacker, an explorer or a person just wanting to have thrill and adventure while travelling, this place offers something for everyone. For people interested in architecture, the monuments are a treat. It shows a beautiful cultural blend of Bundelkhand and Medieval architecture and is greatly appreciated for its engineering work too. Orchha tourist places give an experience of a mix of history, architecture and thrill.

Places to visit in Orchha

Orchha settled on the banks of the river Betwa and was discovered by the Bundela Rajput King, Maharaja Rudra Pratap Singh in the 16th century. It seems that the town is still dwelling in the grandeur of the past as the monuments here are fresh and still speak about the history they have witnessed and have imprints of all the former rulers, who have contributed immensely to the evolution of this place. 

Places to visit in Orchha include beautiful palaces and temples depicting mediaeval architecture, each narrating the story of their grand past of which they were once a part.

Orchha Fort Complex 

Orchha fort is a complex comprising many structures. Orchha fort complex overlooking the Betwa river sure paints a beautiful picture. It houses the fort, palaces, temples and other important architectural structures. 

The Orchha fort complex is different from the ones in Rajasthan like Kumbhalgarh or the ones in Maharashtra like Lohagad Fort. Rajasthan’s forts were built on Mewar architecture however this one is a blend of local Chandela, Mughal and Mediaeval architecture. It was built by Maharaja Rudra Pratap Singh and more features were added to it by its subsequent kings to beautify it. 

The fort of Orchha depicts the grandeur and stories of valour of Rajput Bundela Kings. One of the major tourist attractions in Orchha is the light and sound show which starts only after the fort is closed for visitors during both the summer and winter seasons. 

The sound of running horses in the background, the lions, war-like situations and the narration of Orchha’s glorious past take visitors deep into history, experiencing it today. It is operational in both Hindi and English languages and has different timings as per the season.  

Raja Palace 

Raja Palace forms a major part of the Orchha fort complex. As the name suggests, it is the main palace where the King and the Queens resided. It was constructed by Raja Rudra Pratap Singh in the 16th century and was later completed by King Madhukar Shah in the 17th century. 

The exterior of the palace is very simple and bare, however, the interiors are very lavish and grand. It is decorated with beautiful architectural designs and murals and has various theme-based works of art about the Gods, Mythical creatures and people. 

A part of this temple has been converted into Ram Raja Temple, dedicated to Lord Ram. As Lord Ram is worshipped here within the palace, this place is the only shrine of Lord Rama in the country where the Lord is worshipped as a King, making it to the list of important places to visit in Orchha.

Sheesh Mahal 

Places to visit in Orchha cannot be complete without visiting the Sheesh Mahal. Once a residential palace of Maharaja Udait Singh, King of Orchha, it was built to give the king a peaceful and private place to rest and retreat. Much like the palace of mirrors in Jaipur and Bhuj, this is similar and opulent. 

A part of this grand palace has also been converted into a modern-day hotel with all the lavish amenities and is accounted as one of India’s major Heritage Hotels. It has Deluxe, Super Deluxe and a Suite for the guests to enjoy the grandeur of a royal stay during their visit. It also helps to organise conferences and destination weddings at the hotel. 

Jahangir Palace 

Orchha in Madhya Pradesh is a place which speaks volumes of friendship and hospitality. The Jahangir palace was built during the 17th century, by Bir Singh Deo for the emperor Jahangir, his friend, on his maiden visit as a gesture of warm welcome. It’s an architectural marvel and is a three-storied structure built around a square with marvellous sculptures, hanging balconies and delicate chhatris. 

Palace depicts beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture and is marked by different courtyards, rooms, intricate balconies and domes. This palace marks evidence of a friendship between two rulers of different communities. It is now under the aegis of the Madhya Pradesh Archeological Department.

Raja Ram Temple | Orchha Temple

It is also known as the Orchha temple and is one of the oldest temples in India and is considered to be very sacred. Built-in the 16th century, this is the only place in India where Lord Rama is worshipped as a King and that too in a palace. A guard of honour is given to the Lord every day and police personnel are deployed as the guards of the King. The food provided to the Lord too is royal in nature. Armed salutation is given to the Lord every day. 

This Orchha temple was built by Raja Madhukar Shah for his queen Ganesh Kuwari. The legend says that Ganesh Kuwari went to Ayodhya to get an image of Lord Rama to enshrine in her new temple in Orchha. However, as the construction of the temple was not complete, the idol of the Lord had to be placed in the palace temporarily. 

When the construction got completed, the idol was to be moved to Chaturbhuj Temple however the idol refused to be removed from its place. As such, the palace was converted into a temple and Lord Rama was worshipped as King. Here, Lord Rama is sitting in Padmasana and spotting his left foot is considered to be very auspicious. This is amongst the unmissable places to visit in Orchha and one of its kind in India. 

Also Read about the unique temple in Madhya Pradesh: Bhojeshwar Shiva Temple, Bhopal.

Chaturbhuj Temple

As the name suggests ‘Chaturbhuj’ means one who has four hands. This temple refers to Rama as an avatar of Vishnu. It was originally built to house an idol of Lord Rama which was brought from Ayodhya to be enshrined here. However, the idol refused to be removed from its place and hence Raja Rama Temple was built within the Palace. The image of Radha Krishna is worshipped here. 

Architecturally, this temple has tall spires in the shape of spine cones four in number resembling the four arms of the Chaturbhuj. It resembles the Basilica in its looks.

Royal Cenotaphs

The purpose of building cenotaphs is to remember and commemorate the great rulers of the Bundela dynasty who gave grandeur and magnificence to this place. 

These are fourteen of the kinds built on the bank of the river Betwa. They were built from the early 16th to 18th centuries. Here too like other structures the architecture is a fine blend of Mughal and Bundela (Rajput) styles and speaks greatly of the cultural influences of that time. 

These are built on a raised platform usually and designed as tall and square shapes with chhatris on the top. Orchha in Madhya Pradesh offers an enigmatic combination of history with spiritualism which marks it boldly on the tourism map. 

Laxmi Narayan Temple

It is built at a place around 2 km from the Orchha Fort Complex, this temple is dedicated to goddess Laxmi, who is the Hindu goddess of wealth. It was initially built by Maharaja Bir Singh Deo in the year 1622 however because of low maintenance it was in a bad shape. 

Later it was reconstructed by Maharaja Prithvi Singh in the year 1793. Like other monuments in Orchha, this temple too is an architectural beauty which is rectangular in shape and the walls depict beautiful paintings and murals. The themes of these paintings are mostly from the Ram Charit Manas and from India’s first struggle for independence in the year 1857. 

Phool bagh 

As the name suggests, Phool bagh is a garden which fascinates visitors with its greenery. It maintains all the aesthetics of the Bundela kingdom. 

It houses beautiful fountains in the centre of the place which has an amazing system of water ventilation and it keeps the area cool. There are two wind-catching towers which are named after the Indian months of Saawan and Bhaddon which are perforated on the top to catch air and the bottom of these towers are connected to the reservoir. The aeration and the water systems are such that it helps the area to cool and hence these are called the cooling towers of Orchha. These are the lone examples of the Persian system of cooling in India.

Rai Parveen Mahal 

Rai Parveen was a great poet and singer and was known as the ‘Nightingale of Orchha’. The palace has three stories and the central hall the palace has beautiful paintings showing the various moods of Rai Parveen. The architecture of the palace is such that it ensures cool temperatures even during heated summer days. It has been seen that the temperature inside the palace is said to be ten degrees lower than the outside temperature. Alongside the palace, there is a beautiful garden, also known as the Anand Mahal Bagh.

Other Attractions in Orchha 

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary 

Out of the many places to visit in Orchha, Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary offers amazing opportunities for wildlife spotting, birding and photography. It was established in the year 1994 and lies within the area where the Betwa river flows. 

Compared to other wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh, this one is small, around 45 sq km. Wildlife enthusiasts may not be able to spot the big cats like Tigers and Leopards however animals like Jackal, Sloth Bear Nilgai and Blue Bull are among the most seen. 

There are around 200 species of birds including the in-house as well as migrant birds which can be seen here. One can spot peafowls, Swan, black swans, peacocks, Jungle bush quail and many more. 

Shahid Smarak of Chandra Shekhar Azad 

Orchha becomes relevant to this legendary hero as he spent a few days here during his days of exile and made a creditable contribution to India’s freedom struggle. It is situated around 4 km from Orchha and gives a comprehensive account of his life spent here.  

Rafting in Orchha 

Amongst all Orchha tourist places, which are bound by history and architecture, rafting gives a different experience and is meant for all the tourists and backpackers who are looking for some adventure during their trip. One can go rafting on the rapids of the Betwa river. There are many institutes in Orchha which arrange and facilitate rafting. Some names are Ram Raja Adventures and Orchha Adventure Camp.

Places to visit near Orchha 

Jhansi 

Located at around 13 km from Orchha and just half an hour’s drive, Jhansi town is well known for India’s struggle for independence. Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi played an epic role in the freedom struggle. It was ruled by Chandela kings in the early 11th century and later was ruled by Peshwa I. Having importance in history, Jhansi houses a magnificent fort, beautiful gardens and Chhatris (Cenotaphs) of its rulers which forms an important part of sightseeing. 

Khajuraho 

The place is known for its beautiful sculptures on temples. There are around 85 temples here, each built in sandstone with various shades of pink, buff and yellow. Located at a distance of around 185 Kms from Orchha, this place is a must-visit for people who are connoisseurs of art.  

Gwalior 

Another historic town closeby to Orchha ka Kila is Gwalior which is located at a distance of 120 Kms or a two hours drive. Being the birthplace of the great Sangeet Samrat Tansen, this city not only boasts of royalty but also is rich in history and cultural heritage. It is famous for grand palaces, temples and a fort. The city has given many leaders in Indian politics like Late Shri Madhav Rao Sindhia and Jyotiraditya Sindhia.

Best time to visit Orchha 

Orchha has hot weather. The temperatures in summer can go up to 45/47 degree celsius making it very difficult and exhausting to go sightseeing.

From September, the temperatures begin to fall making it pleasant. These temperatures keep Orchha vibrant till the month of March. One can visit Orchha between these months.

Ideal months to visit are October and November when the temperatures are cool and the weather clear thus making it ideal for moving around places and sightseeing.

How to reach Orchha 

The approximate distances from various important cities of Madhya Pradesh to Orchha are:

Orchha to Jhansi – 13 Kms (27 min)

Orchha to Gwalior – 120 Kms (2 Hr 25 min)

Orchha to Khajuraho – 183 Kms (3 Hr 12 min)

Orchha to Bhopal – 335 Kms (6 Hr 54 min)

Orchha to Indore – 490 Kms (8 Hr 35 min)

By Flight

The nearest Airport from Orchha is Gwalior and it is connected to all the metros via rail, road and air. From Gwalior, one can take a taxi to reach Orchha.

By Rail 

The nearest railway station to Orchha is Jhansi. It is one of the busiest and largest railway stations in India and falls under the main railway line of the Delhi-Chennai and Delhi-Mumbai Line. 

By Road 

By road, the nearest place is Jhansi. One can take an autorickshaw or hire a taxi to reach Orchha. 

There are many tour operators who can arrange transportation from Jhansi and Gwalior by pre-arranged taxis to reach Orchha. One can also contact Madhya Pradesh Tourism for any queries.

Where to stay during the Orchha fort visit

There are few options to stay in Orchha but all of them are cosy and comfortable. There is a lovely Madya Pradesh tourism resort, right by the riverside while there are other private resorts too.

Luxury Resorts in Orchha

Bundelkhand Riverside is a luxury property spread over 50 acres of scenic land on the banks of the River Betwa. The 4-star property in Orchha features an outdoor pool and a games room.

Hotel Rajwada Palace is another great property in Orchha.

FAQs about Places to visit in Orchha and Orchha Fort

Is Orchha a world heritage site?

Orchha is a living cultural site which is why this historical fort city Orchha has been included in the list of UNESCO world heritage cities. Another fort town in Madhya Pradesh is Mandu which is also worth the visit.

Is Orchha worth visiting?

Orchha is a stunning place and well worth a visit due to its culture and architecture. There are palaces, temples, forts and many other amazing places to visit.

What is special in Orchha?

While Orchha has many attractions like a palace, fort and temples, there are many offbeat things to do in Orchha such as visiting a wildlife sanctuary, water-rafting and a shahid smarak.

How many days are sufficient for Orchha?

Orchha is a small town but offers many places to visit. Ideally, the entire town of Orchha can be covered in 2 days. 

Sustainable travel tips for Places to visit in Orchha

• India is a conservative country with hot weather so wear the right clothes. The skirt and pants till knee level are good. Avoid spaghetti and tank tops. Cover your shoulders with a scarf if necessary.
• Choose local food wherever possible.
• Do not litter tourist places. Always use a dustbin.
• Do not harm the palace, forts and temple structures by carving or writing on it

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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