Bundi

Bundi boomed in the 12th century, during which time it was the princely capital of Hadoti, a picturesque former fiefdom in eastern Rajasthan. Sadly the good times have long since passed, but the area still showcases some majestic, ornate, architecture, and remains ripe for leisurely-paced exploration. The town has charm in abundance with a mess of tight alleys, bustling bazaars, welcoming locals, and several staggering Baori stepwells. The urban area is small, wrapped around the placid Nawal Sagar, encased by steep hills, and looked over by the partly-decrepit (but extremely photogenic) Bundi Palace. For the time being Bundi has yet to find a firm place on the Rajasthan tourist circuit, and thus retains a genuine charm to match its historical prestige.