Orchha
Orchha, situated in the Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh, boasts a rich and illustrious history. It is often referred to as the “Royal City of Madhya Pradesh” because it is located on the banks of the Betwa River. In ancient times, Orchha was known as “Urcha.”
This place is a confluence of Hindu and Mughal cultures in the Bundelkhand region and is home to several significant historical and ancient sites.
The city of Orchha was founded in the 16th century by Rudra Pratap Singh, who belonged to the Bundela dynasty, a Rajput ruling family that governed the Bundelkhand region. During the early 20th century, Orchha was the oldest and most prosperous state in the Bundelkhand region. Eventually, after independence, Orchha became a part of the Madhya Pradesh state in 1956.
Orchha, often referred to as the ‘Ayodhya of Bundelkhand,’ hosts religious events and festivals throughout the year, but from October to February, it experiences an influx of domestic and foreign tourists due to its pleasant weather. The city’s attractions, both historic and natural, draw visitors from around the world, making it a prominent tourist destination.
The magnificent historical buildings constructed during the royal era on one side captivate the imagination of people, while the natural beauty on the other side finds a special place in people’s hearts. For these reasons, Orchha is a renowned destination in India.
In Orchha, no VIP is saluted within the city's quadrangle. Here, it is the rule of Lord Ram's government that prevails. The Ram Raja government follows a unique tradition where aarti is conducted four times a day, and after that, a ceremonial salute is given.
For the salute, the state administration has deployed an armed guard consisting of 1-4 personnel. Only those designated to offer the salute are allowed to wear belts in the temple premises; others are not permitted to do so.
Visit to Orchha:
Ram Raja Temple:
The Ram Raja Temple in Orchha is one of the most beautiful and sacred places to visit on your journey. It is the only temple in the country where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king.
In the 16th century, Maharani Kunwari Ganesh of the Bundela dynasty brought the idol of Lord Rama from Ayodhya to Orchha. This temple used to be a palace for Maharaja Madhukar Shah for many years before it was transformed into a grand temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
The history and significance of this temple make it a remarkable place to visit, offering a unique and spiritual experience for travelers.
Orchha Fort:
The “Orchha Fort” located on the banks of the Betwa River is one of the best places to visit in Orchha. This fort is a crucial part of Orchha tourism and serves as a central attraction for tourists, history enthusiasts, and architecture lovers.
It’s worth noting that Orchha Fort was constructed in the 16th century by the Bundela ruler Rudra Pratap Singh. The construction of this fort took several years to complete.
When you visit Orchha Fort, you’ll have the opportunity to explore various structures such as palaces, temples, and historical landmarks. Besides these architectural marvels, the Orchha Fort journey offers visitors the chance to participate in the organized light and sound show, which is a major draw for tourists. This show attracts a large number of visitors and adds an extra layer of charm to your Orchha experience.
Jahangir Mahal:
The Jahangir Mahal in Orchha is one of the primary tourist attractions. It was built by the Bundela ruler Veer Singh, not for the Mughals, but as a garrison and fortification.
This place stands as an excellent example of Mughal architecture, with its domes constructed in the Timurid style. Moreover, the doors of the palace are so massive that even elephants can walk through them. The intricate stone carvings on the walls are remarkably beautiful.
If you’re planning a trip to Orchha with friends or family, make sure to include Jahangir Mahal in your itinerary. It’s a must-visit destination that showcases the rich history and architectural beauty of the region.
Chaturbhuj Temple:
This beautiful temple stands out with its towering spires that seem to touch the sky and can be seen from a distance. Built on a 4.5-meter-high platform, a long flight of stairs leads to the main temple.
Legend has it that this was the very place where an idol of Lord Rama was originally intended to be installed. However, King Madhukar, the ruler of Orchha at the time, decided to place an idol of Lord Vishnu here instead.
The Chaturbhuj Temple not only amazes with its architectural grandeur but also has an interesting history. It’s believed that the temple initially dedicated to Lord Rama was later recognized as the Chaturbhuj Temple after Lord Vishnu’s four-armed idol was installed here.
Betwa River Orchha:
One of the best places to visit in Orchha is the Betwa River. It offers an exciting escape for travelers who want to enjoy activities like rafting and boat rides in the Betwa River after exploring Orchha’s famous historical sites and temples. The tranquil riverbanks provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Phool Bagh:
Phool Bagh, is another beautiful attraction in Orchha, surrounded by lush greenery. It features several fountains that enhance its beauty. The garden was built as a memorial for Rajkumar Dinhardaul, who sacrificed himself to prove his innocence.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple:
The Lakshmi Narayan Temple is one of Orchha’s renowned temples, built in the 16th century by King Bir Singh Deo. It is not only a place of worship but also an architectural marvel, combining elements of both a palace and a temple. The temple’s intricate wall carvings and paintings add to its charm, and it’s interesting to note that the temple still lacks an idol of Goddess Lakshmi.
Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary:
The Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal place for those who enjoy observing wildlife up close. Established in 1994, it covers an area of approximately 46 square kilometers. When you visit the Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary, you can spot various species of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, monkeys, and a variety of migratory birds.
The best time to visit the Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is from November to June, with the winter months offering the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Raja Mahal:
Situated within the Orchha Fort complex, the Raja Mahal, or King’s Palace, is another significant part of Orchha tourism. Every year, it successfully attracts thousands of tourists with its 17th-century architecture that seamlessly blends intricate Mughal and Rajput styles. The palace features stunning minarets and exquisite wall paintings, making it a prime attraction for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Royal Chhatris:
The Royal Chhatris are a group of 14 chhatris or memorials dedicated to Orchha’s rulers from the 17th and 18th centuries. They are located on the banks of the Betwa River, and they offer a picturesque view from the river’s bridge.
How to Reach Orchha:
By Air: The nearest airport is Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia Air Terminal in Gwalior, located approximately 125 kilometers away from Orchha.
By Rail: The closest railway station is in Jhansi, which is about 17 kilometers away. Jhansi is well-connected by trains to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Indore, Thiruvananthapuram, Pune, Jammu, Lucknow, Bhopal, Ahmedabad, and more.
By Road: Orchha’s nearest bus station is in Jhansi. From Jhansi, you can find regular bus, tempo, and taxi services to Orchha.
These convenient transportation options make reaching Orchha a breeze, whether you’re traveling by air, train, or road.
So, whether you prefer to travel by air, train, or road, Bhopal is accessible from various parts of Madhya Pradesh and nearby cities. Enjoy your trip!