Saturday, July 7, 2007

My Days In Bundi

Namaskar! I am Sachin Shah from Ahmedabad, running my own export business. For business purpose, I use to visit various places of India frequently. Very recently, for finalizing a business deal I had to visit Bundi town of Rajasthan. After fulfilling the business formalities, I wished to pay a visit to main attractions of the town. From local people I enquired me about the popular destinations of the town and set out on a sightseeing tour.

Bundi is a historical town and it also remained a important centre for famous Rajput warriors of Rajasthan. Like other historic places of Rajasthan, Bundi is also home to a number of forts and palaces. However, what makes Bundi different from other places is its marvellous landscape. I found the town is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on the three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways. Besides, the cool Chambal river flowing in her own mood add more charm to the town.

Right from the beginning of the trip, I come across a number of deserted fortress, that describe the stories and a bygone era. I began my Bundi trip form the famous Bundi Palace. A marvellous example of Rajput architecture, the palace has carved brackets, pillars and balconies. In Chitra Shala, I found a rare collection of exquisite paintings of the Bundi school. Besides Chitra Shala, in the palace premises the conspicuous decorations of Chattar Mahal and Badal Mahal enthralled me lot. While exploring the various parts of the Bundi Palace, I came across the imposing 84 pillared cenotaph. After passing half-day inside the fort, I moved further to visit other attractions of the town.

Raniji ki Baodi, a step well designed in the medieval era, astonished me totally with its wonderful decorations, carved pillars and ornate archways. From here, I went to the famous Shiva temple complex. Local people informed me that the temple was built during the Gupta period. Phool Sagar Palace was my next destination. An artificial tank in the flower garden conveyed me a charming feeling. Apart from that, I also visited the beautiful collection of royal cenotaphs at Sar Bagh and the hunting lounge at Shikar Burj. I took many snaps all of those places that are still with me as a symbol of remembrance. When I see those photographs, the pleasant experience of the Bundi tour becomes fresh in my mind and I plunge in the ocean of happiness.