The royal capital of India, Rajasthan not only boasts of its beautiful palaces, forts and wonderful places. This is also a land of emotions and relations, and the 84-Pillared Cenotaph in Bundi is one such example to showcase this. Commonly known as Chaurasi Khambon Ki Chhatri, the 84-pillared cenotaph is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Bundi. Located at Devpura at the south of Bundi city on Bundi-Kota road, Rajasthan, the 84-pillared cenotaph was built the year 1683 by Rao Raja Anirudh, the Maharaja of Bundi in the honor of his nurse, Deva, who gave him love and affection when he was a kid. Rao Anirudh was very attached to Deva and loved her a lot, so he had built this structure in her memory. It is also popularly known as Music Maharani's Chhatri. It is also said that one cannot count all the 84 beams or pillars at a time. This wonderful cenotaph is beautifully embellished with carvings of elephants, deer, dancers, and apsaras.
Architecture Of 84-Pillared Cenotaph:
The 84-pillared cenotaph is a two-storeyed structure and is comprises of 84 strong pillars or Chaurasi Khamba. The interiors of the Chhatri are lavishly designed and decorated with elaborated stylish patterns. On the upper level of this monument, 16 pillars are there to support the core cenotaph overpowered by a dome. This cenotaph consists of 4 chhatris placed on 4 sides or corners of the structure. At the lower part of the structure, one can find a large Shiva Linga, which is protected by a remarkably adorned rooftop that stands sturdy with the support of 84 pillars. With the passing time, a part of this elegantly built monument has been damaged. But still, it is a must-see sight in Bundi.
Nearby Attractions Here:
While visiting 84-pillared cenotaph, visitors can visit some popular tourist's attractions located near to the place such as Bundi Palace, Taragarh Fort, Nawal Sagar Lake, Sukh Mahal, Dabhai Kund, Main Bazar, Ratan Daulat, Raniji Ki Baori, Jait Sagar Lake, Ishwari Niwas, Haveli Braj Bhushanjee, etc.
Best Time To Visit Here:
The favorable time to plan a trip to Bundi and 84 Pillared Cenotaph is during winters, i.e. in the months of October to April. Winter days here are very pleasant and the summers are horrifying hot. While in the monsoons, Bundi commonly receives average to heavy rainfall.
How To Reach Here:
As Bundi has well-connectivity to major cities of the country, one can easily get here. Once you reach Bundi, you can easily get public transport which is abundantly available in all parts of the city to reach 84-pillared cenotaph.
• By Air- Nearest airport to reach Bundi is Kota Airport, which is nearly 39 km from Bundi.
• By Rail- Bundi railway station is the nearest railway station. Train links are from cities like Kota, Agra, and many other cities.
• By Road- Bundi town is easily accessible by the roadways from Kota. State buses or private buses are easily available to reach the place. Once you reach Bundi, you can also hire a taxi, cab or auto-rickshaw to reach 84-pillared cenotaph.
Additional Information For Visitors:
84-pillared cenotaph remains open for visitors from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. One can take a combined ticket for 84-Pillared Cenotaph, Raniji Ki Baori, and Sukh Mahal, which is Rs. 75/- for Indians and Rs. 350/- for foreigners.