Taragarh Fort (Bundi)
The Star Fort Brooding Above Bundi
Overview
Taragarh, the 'Star Fort,' crowns the hill above the old town of Bundi in Rajasthan and dates from the 14th century. It is a rugged Rajput stronghold of massive ramparts, huge bastions, and rock-cut water reservoirs, reached by a steep climb from the Garh Palace below. Much of it is overgrown and semi-ruined, patrolled by monkeys, which gives it a wild, atmospheric character quite unlike the polished forts of the tourist trail. The views over Bundi's blue houses are superb. MyTripMyTravel plans the ascent for the cool hours with a guide who knows the safe route up.
Taragarh Fort is for travellers who like their history raw. Rising above Bundi, one of Rajasthan's most atmospheric small towns, the fort dates from the 14th century and was a key Hada Rajput stronghold, its walls hugging the contours of a steep hill.
Where many Rajasthan forts have been restored and commercialised, Taragarh remains largely wild: creepers swallow the ramparts, deep reservoirs cut into the rock still hold water, and troops of monkeys hold the ruins. Its great bastion once mounted a famous heavy cannon. The reward for the sweaty climb is a sweeping view over the Garh Palace and Bundi's tumble of indigo-washed houses.
MyTripMyTravel schedules the climb for early morning or late afternoon, provides plenty of water, and arranges a local guide who keeps you on the sound path and at a respectful distance from the monkeys.
At a glance
Taragarh Fort (Bundi) in brief
What to see
Highlights
Bhim Burj
The fort's great bastion, historically mounting a large cannon, commands the approach and the plains beyond.
Ramparts
Massive stone walls follow the hill's crest, much of it now cloaked in vegetation and wonderfully wild.
Rock reservoirs
Deep tanks cut into the rock supplied the garrison with water and still catch the monsoon rains.
Views over Bundi
From the walls the blue-painted old town and the Garh Palace spread out below in a memorable panorama.
Garh Palace below
The climb passes the tiered Garh Palace, famed for its Bundi-school murals, well worth pairing with the fort.
Visitor information
Our tips
Wear proper walking shoes; the path is steep and rough.
Carry water and a hat; there is little shade on the climb.
Keep bags closed and give the monkeys a wide berth.
Combine with the Garh Palace and its murals on the way up.
Good to know
Taragarh Fort (Bundi), your questions
How hard is the climb?
It is a steep, uneven ascent on foot from the town; allow time and go in cool hours.
Is it restored?
No, it is largely a wild, overgrown ruin, which is a big part of its atmosphere.
Are the monkeys a problem?
They are numerous; keep food and bags secure and do not provoke them.
What is Bhim Burj?
It is the fort's largest bastion, historically the mount for a heavy cannon.
Can I combine it with the palace?
Yes. The Garh Palace, famed for its murals, sits on the way up and pairs perfectly.
Visit with us
See Taragarh Fort (Bundi), properly.
A private, chauffeured visit with a licensed expert guide, timed for the best light and the smallest crowds. We fold Taragarh Fort (Bundi) into a wider Bundi and Rajasthan Escapes itinerary, built entirely around you.
- Skip the queue where possible, at the right hour
- Licensed local guide who brings the story to life
- Private car and chauffeur, door to door
Plan your trip
Plan a visit to Taragarh Fort (Bundi)
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