A beautiful town located in Hadoti district of Rajasthan, Bundi finds a picturesque location. The town is well known for its historic and stunning palaces and forts. The town comes to life during the celebration of Bundi Utsav. The festival is held every year in the Hindu month of Kartik between the months of November and December. Bundi Utsav is among the most awaited festivals of the Hadoti district. It is organized by the State Tourism Department of Rajasthan and is one of the most important festivals of the state. The festival offers a wonderful amalgamation of the original art, handicrafts and royalty of Rajasthan.

Bundi Utsav is celebrated over two days and involves several religious and traditional rituals and customs. The festival is not only important to Rajasthan but is also among the important festivals celebrated in India. Bundi usually remains isolated but during Bundi Utsav it becomes a bustling destination. Several tourists from India as well as abroad visit the town during this festival; the display of art and crafts during the fair is an important part of the festivities.

Bundi finds a picturesque location and is surrounded by rocky gorges. The Chamba River flows neighbouring the town and is the perfect place for conduction water sports during Bundi Utsav. For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Bundi is an excellent destination to visit. Tourists can take a good look at the traditional Rajasthani art and architecture; Bundi boasts of its own painting style. The portraits at the Chitrashala in Bundi are famous throughout the world. There are over 50 step wells in and around Bundi that were built in the late 17th century. The Rani ji ki Barol is one of the most beautiful step wells that should be visited by tourists. The other attractions in Bundi include the Bundi palace, the Sukh Mahal and the Chaurasi Khambon ki Chatri.

The Utsav

The entire time of Bundi Utsav is a perfect representation of the culture and tradition of the locals. The local people actively take part in all the celebrations of the festival. The festival is started with a Shobha Yatra, which is a colourful procession taken out in the town. Locals are dressed in their best dresses. The procession is followed by traditional sports competitions, cultural exhibitions, arts and crafts fairs and also several folk performances.

Apart from these activities there are several other programs that can be witnessed by tourists. Some of these programs include the Deep Daan or donating of lamps, the turban tying competition, sightseeing, music competitions, firework displays, etc. A beautiful bridal apparel show is held during Bundi Utsav. The festival is the most ideal showcase of the Hadoti region and offers a memorable experience for anyone taking part or witnessing the event.

Worship and Offering

The worship and offerings during the Bundi Festival can be seen on the morning following the full moon night of the month of Kartik. Tourists can see men and women dressed in traditional and colourful clothes lighting diyas along the banks of the Chambal River. The locals also pray to get blessings while lighting the diyas.

The nearby town of Keshorai Patan turns into a pilgrimage site on the full moon night during the Bundi Festival. The town is often compared to Pushkar during the famous Pushkar Cattle Fair.

Cultural Programme or Activities in Bundi Utsav

Bundi Utsav sees several religious and traditional rituals. The different cultural programmes include a Shobha Yatra and arts and crafts fair. There are also cultural exhibitions and several folk dance and music programs.

The cultural programs and activities start right from the morning in different parts of the town. It is best for tourists to start their day early and take a walk across to town to catch the different events and performances. Photography enthusiasts have several opportunities to capture the different aspects, activities and colours of the festivals.

How to Reach

By Air

The Jaipur airport is the closest airport to Bundi at about 206Km.

By Road

Bundi can easily be accessed from cities like Kota 40Km away and Jaipur 206Km. The state government operates buses from different cities to Bundi.

By Rail

The closest railhead is at Kota about 40Km away. Kota is connected by broad gauge line and is located on Delhi-Mumbai track. Tourists can get buses, taxis and car rentals from Kota to Bundi.