Orchha is a city in Madhya Pradesh and it is located on the banks of Betwa river. The city is known for its beautiful medieval architecture. It has several palaces, temples and chhatris . The town was established by Bundela rajput ruler Rudra Pratap Singh in 1531 who became the first King of Orchha, and also built the Fort of Orchha. While Orchha tourist places primarily comprise the historic monuments built in the erstwhile era, the place is also blessed with a scenic natural landscape. The majestic River Betwa flows through the town of Orchha, enchanting visitors with a picturesque sunset view while they explore the ruined settlement.
Places to visit in Orchha
Jahangir Mahal
It was build on the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jahangir. This place is a classic example of Mughal architecture. The domes are built according to Timurid customs and the gates or Iawns are large enough to allow entry of War elephants. Also, the relatively higher position compared to surrounding area made this palace a very important palace for the Mughals.
Raja Mahal Orchha Fort
It was build in the 17th century by Raja Madhukar Shah. The palace is constructed beautifully with impeccable architecture and breathtaking grandeur. Resided by the erstwhile kings of Orchha, the palace has kept the soul of the India’s most eminent royalty intact through all these years. The palace has magnificent towers and spectacular murals which will make a visit here an absolute delight for any art enthusiast.
Chaturbhuj Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This Temple was built by King Madhukar during 1558-1573. It is divided into three main parts, and the central position of the temple is four-storey high. It is believed that the temple was initially dedicated to Lord Ram. However, the Lord Rama idol in Rani Niwas refused to move to the temple, where the idol of Lord Vishnu with four arms established itself and gave the temple its identity.
Ram Raja Temple
Lord Rama is worshipped as a king here. It is a special and spiritual place. It is one of the finest Orchha tourist places and countless people visit this place for pilgrimage. The evening Aarti is one of the most spiritual experiences that add to the place’s reputation of becoming one of the best Orchha visiting places. Ram Raja temple gets very crowded during Ram Naumi celebration, which is the busiest time of the year in Orchha.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple
It is one of the huge structures in Orchha. This temple was Built by Bir Singh Deo in 1622, Lakshmi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and is a blend of temple and fort architecture. There are beautiful paintings inside the temple depicting the life of Lord Rama. The temple attracts a lot of history buffs and followers of Hinduism owing to its religious importance. Despite the temple being dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, there is no idol of her in the temple, and this uniqueness makes it one of the interesting places to visit in Orchha.
Cenotaphs (Chhatris)
The Orchha River Side Cenotaphs or Chhatris are one of the most beautiful tourist place. There are 14 cenotaphs on the banks of River Betwa surrounding the fort complex. They provide a beautiful view during the sunsets. The Chhatris stand tall and speak of the glorious past of the erstwhile rulers.
How to reach Orchha
By Air
There is no direct flight connectivity to Orchha. The nearest airport is in Gwalior, which is around 140 away, One has to book a taxi from there or drive your own car. Buses also ply between Orchha and other nearby places like Khajuraho, Gwalior, Bhopal, Delhi and Varanasi.
By Train
Orchha has its own railway station, but the nearest major railway station is at Jhansi (15 km). From Jhansi you can easily get taxis or autorickshaw to reach Orchha.
By Road
Orchha is well-connected by road to places like Jhansi, Gwalior and Khajuraho. You can hire a taxi or bus to reach Orchha from these places.
Where to stay in Orchha
There are many options available to stay in Orchha. One can easily book them.
Conclusion
With plenty of excellent walking and cycling, plus river rafting on the Betwa River it is great for travellers who appreciate the great outdoors and want to experience an authentic slice of rural India.