Frommer's Review
This is without a doubt the best place to stay in Bundi, and -- despite the small size of the rooms and basic facilities -- one of the most authentic heritage properties in India. Situated on a narrow lane inside the walled city, just below the palace, it also happens to be one of the most professionally run guesthouses in India, managed by the discreetly proud Braj Bhushanjee brothers (four of whose ancestors were prime ministers of Bundi State in the 19th c.). Many of the walls are covered with exceptional-quality murals, again typical of the Bundi school of miniature painting, and though each room (like those in so many other guesthouses) is traditionally decorated, the choice of objects, fabrics, and carpets (all sourced from Bundi and surroundings) shows a great deal of thought and innate flair. All the rooms are beautiful (though those overlooking the lane are a tad noisy at times) and feature en-suite "shower rooms" -- mostly small, but freshly whitewashed and gleaming. An adjacent building was commandeered and restored in 2002, and in late 2006 two fairly lavish super-deluxe rooms were introduced. Still, our favorite choice is big, lovely white-marble-floored deluxe room no. 22; it has large windows and a massive shower and is decorated with gorgeous silver statues and an antique gramophone player. No alcohol is served -- you can bring your own, however -- and meat is definitely not permitted on the premises. Though garlic and onion are rarely used in the cooking, dining is of exceptional quality. Rather than choosing from a menu, you are served a selection of simple, flavorful, home-cooked dishes, either in the Darikhana -- akin to a carpeted temple, where images of ancestors glower and large colored glass baubles hang from the ceiling -- or on the terrace, from where you have a picture-perfect view of the illuminated palace at night. The brothers are a wealth of information about the area and can arrange wonderful sightseeing tours on request (they will, for instance, pack a picnic and carry it up to the fort for you). They also have an excellent (and extensive) collection of miniature paintings and other tribal and traditional crafts for sale -- you may pay a little more than you would if you purchased directly from the artist, but be assured that the brothers know the difference between a pretty souvenir and a real investment. At press time, a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and sauna were being added.
Facilities:
Dining hall; pool; travel and transport assistance; artwork shop; 24-hr. room service; laundry; doctor-on-call
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
