Location: In the state
of Madhya Pradesh in central India.
Tourist Attractions: Temples of Orchha, Phool Bagh, the
Chhattris, The Jehangir Mahal, The Sheesh Mahal.
Best Hangout : Phool Bagh, the Betwa River side.
Nearby Tourist Destinations: Khajuraho, Gwalior, Jhansi.
When to Visit : October to March
About Orchha
Orchha means 'hidden', it is situated 16 kms away from Jhansi, on the banks
of the river Betwa in the state of Madhya Pradesh, is surrounded by charming
hills and greenery. This small village was once the capital of the region (
Bundelkhand). The historical monuments of Orchha still retain their pristine
charm and narrate stories of war and peace, of love and destruction.
There are huge palaces and with pleasant views of the countryside from
their upper levels. Orchha was established in the 16th century by the
Bundela Rajput chieftain Rudra Pratap who chose this land along the Betwa
river as an ideal site for his capital. Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo one of the
succeeding rulers built the elegant Jehangir Mahal, a tiered palace crowned
by graceful chhattries. This provides some very exotic views. Orchha is now
an abandoned land but not forgotten. The enchanting exteriors and interiors
are decorated by beautiful Bundela school of painting.
Orchha is a photographer's delight with architectural gems abounding this
town. Beautiful Monuments in this region are not bare stone but have a
plastering on them.
The beauty of the town increases during evenings.
Major Tourist attractions in Orchha
Temples of Orchha
Orchha has a series of temples that date back to 17th century. These
temples are still visited regularly by thousands of devotees. The Ram Raja
Temple and the well-preserved Lakshmi Narayan Temple are especially worth a
visit.
The Jehangir Mahal
The most admired palace of Orchha's, the Jehangir Mahal, was built by Bir
Singh Deo. It was built as a present to welcome Mughal emperor Jehangir when
he paid a state visit in the 17th century.
The Sheesh Mahal
Sheesh Mahal ("Palace of Mirrors") was built during the early
18th century, long after Orchha's demise, originally intended as an
exclusive country retreat for the local Raja, Udait Singh. After India's
independence the property was inherited by the state government. The low,
rather squat palace stands between the Raj Mahal and the Jehangir Mahal, at
the far end of an open-sided courtyard.
Phool Bagh
The walled Phool Bagh or Flower Gardens is a cool summer spot. A sight you
must not miss.
The Chhatris
Fourteen beautiful Chhattris (cenotaphs) or memorials are lined up on the
Kanchana Glut of the river Betwa. A sober row of pale brown weed-choked
domes and spires, the riverside Chhattris are Orchha's most sought after
ruins. These fourteen chhattris, are the memorials to Bundelkhand's former
rulers and best viewed from the narrow road bridge (on the Betwa) or from
the boulders on the opposite bank, where one can see the full effect of
their reflection in the still waters of the Betwa.
Getting There
Air : Nearest airports from Orchha are Gwalior (25Kms) or Khajuraho
(1732 Kms.).
Rail : The nearest railway station is at Jhansi (18 km from Orchha).
As Jhansi is located on the main Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai route, many
trains pass and stop here.
Road : Orchha lies on the Jhansi - Khajuraho road. Regular bus
services connect Orchha with Jhansi. There is regular bus service from
-Jhansi (25Kms), Delhi, Gwalior, Agra, Bhopal and Varanasi. Autorickshaws
are also available on hire from Jhansi.
Accommodation
Orchha offers several luxury accommodations along with budget hotels
matching to your requirements.
