The magnificent Taragarh or the Star fort was constructed in 1411 AD by Rao Raja Bar Singh. The Fozdar Dalil of Jaipur constructed the outer fort wall, when this state was governed through Jaipur state, in the 18th century.
This white fort perched over the top of a thickly wooded hill at the height of 1426 feet, is one of the major tourist attractions in India.
The fort is wonderful and extraordinary from the point of safety, it construction is unique and strong. It has a huge tank, which once supplied the palace with water.
There are many places of interest inside the fort like the Bheem Burj situated in the middle and is the highest Burj of the fort. Just near the Bheem Burj is a cenotaph resembling the 84 columned cenotaphs, which was constructed by Bhai Deva, the brother of Bheem Rao Anirudh Singh. Taragarh is reached by a steep road leading up the hillside to its enormous gateway. The views over the town and surrounding countryside from the top are magical, especially at sunset.
Striking features of the fort are the Chhatra Mahal, Badal Mahal and Ratan Daulat - Diwan-I-Aam, built by Rao Raja Ratan Singh (1607-31). The Chhatra Mahal was founded by Raja Chhatrasal in 1660 the famous Bundi Kalam miniatures can be found here. The Zenana Mahal and the Badal Mahal also have an excellent collection of miniatures.
The famous Chitrashala, built by Rao Raja Umed Singh (1739-70) has open galleries running around it and have the best of Bundi wall painting depicting the Raas Leela, court life and beautiful women. To view the other frescoe-covered palaces, permission is required form the royal family as the fort is private property. The Chhatra Mahal, Phool Mahal and Badal Mahal and Bundi miniatures have been recognized, world wide, for their superb quality.
