Taragarh Fort, Bundi - Timings, History, Architecture, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 6 km from Bundi Railway Station, Taragarh Fort is a formidable hilltop fortress located in the town of Bundi, Rajasthan. Situated on a steep hill at a height of 1426 feet, it is one of the prominent hill forts of Rajasthan, and among the prime places to visit as part of Bundi tour packages.

One of the most impressive places to visit in Bundi, the construction of the Taragarh Fort was commissioned by Rao Deva Hada in 1298 AD and Rao Raja Bar Singh Hada built it in 1354 AD. Successive rulers added their rooms to the palace, over the next 200 years, making it into one of the largest palaces in Rajasthan. Known for its robust architecture and panoramic views of the town, it holds historical significance as the site of battles and political events. 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.

Popularly known as the 'Star Fort', Taragarh Fort is a great example of Rajput architecture with a very little Mughal influence. Situated above the Bundi Garh Palace, the main entrance to the fort is through the Hathia Pol or Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate) which leads to the first main courtyard. It is painted in beige and the intricate carvings and architectural layouts of the fort is an outcome of Rajasthani-Rajput workmanship at its finest.

The Rani Mahal is situated inside the fort which was built exclusively for the wives and concubines of the rulers of those times. The ground floor of the palace has a massive and wide open hall that leads to the many rooms allocated for every queen of the king. A Baori or a stepwell, built from carving rock, is attached to the Mahal. An ancient temple and a garrison are also located near the palace. The place is at its peak of beauty when the sun sets and the entire city are immersed in the fading light of the setting sun.

Going up the hill from this fort, there is a huge tower which is called Bhim Burj. It harbours the largest 16th-century bastion of the fort popularly known as 'Garbha Gunjan' or the 'Thunder from the Womb'. This cannon was used several times in the sixteenth century. The fort also contains several tunnels used to escape from enemies in the ancient times.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Rs. 100 per Person, Rs. 50 for Camera, & Rs. 100 for Video