This massive palace was built by Raja Rao Ratan Singh Hada between 1607 AD and 1631 AD. The palace is visible from a long distance and is easily recognizable by the elephants built at its entrance. When it is approached, the first object of interest happens to be a carving of the horse of Maharao Raja Ummed Singh. Next is a stone-carving of an elephant, commemorating Shiv Prasad, a famous elephant given by Shah Jahan to Rao Chhatrasal in recognition of his loyalty. The palace is approached by a steep ramp leading to two gateways. One enters the Bundi Garh Palace through a gigantic gate, being escorted by stone-built elephants on either side, into Ratan Daulat. Ratan Daulat was built by Maharao Ratan Singh. Ratan Daulat is a very interesting structure forming a stable for nine horses. The second, which is decorated with two great stone elephants, was built at the beginning of the 17th century by Rao Raja Ratan Singh. This gateway is known as Hathiya Pol and there is an old water clock here. Note, the each pillar rests on four elephants in the Hathiya Pol and the wooden doors are inlaid with ivory. Opposite the gateway is the throne-room, known as Ratan Daulat Darikhana, which still houses the throne upon which the infant Ram Singh was installed as king by Tod.
The Garh Palace of Bundi is considered one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. Placed near the Taragarh Fort, the Garh Palace resembles a clinging structure when seen from the top. Overlooking the city, this imposing building, somewhat decrepit, actually houses three palaces built during 17th & 18th centuries. Beyond the initial palace built by Rao Raja Ratan Singh, the extension of the palace was made by Rao Chhatrasal. Chhatra Mahal was built by Maharao Chhatrasal Singh. It has beautiful murals in turquoise green, blue and yellow tones. Near the Chhatra Mahal Chowk is the Hatiasal, in which are stored the astronomical instruments of Maharao Raja Ram Singh. Opposite to the Hatiasal is a chamber which has beautiful mural paintings. Upstairs, a magnificent white marble throne dominates the courtyard.
Garh Palace houses miniature paintings belonging to Bundi School of Painting. There is a Phool Mahal and a Badal Mahal in the vicinity of the palace. A visitor can see beautiful wall paintings, including a wonderful Chinese inspired ceiling, divided into petal shapes and decorated with peacocks etc. As one ascends a flight of steps, one comes to the Rang Vilas, a lovely small garden over which towers the Chitrashala, surmounted by the Anirudh Mahal. The Anirudh Mahal was built in 1679 AD and was later used as a Zenana Mahal. The Chitrashala, a pavilion, the walls of which are covered with beautiful paintings, depicting religious, historical, and hunting scenes in soft blues and greens, was built in the first half of the 18th century. A corner of this pavilion is railed off and is held sacred, for, here passed away King Ummed Singh, the saint ruler of Bundi in 1804 A.D. Rudyard Kipling, when visited Garh Palace, said that it seemed to be built by goblins rather than men. Its poor state of preservation gives it a decadent and romantic air. A visit to Bundi Palace is worth the time, money and endeavor.