Orchha, 120 kms from Gwalior is a medieval town, looks today much as it must have in the 16th and 17th centuries. It was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela king, Rudra Pratap, on the banks of the sparkling Betwa River and was the capital of Bundela kings until 1738, when it was abandoned in favour of Tikamgarh. Orchha means 'hidden' in Bundelkhandi language. It was named so because it was completely covered by forests before being found. Crumbling palaces, pavilions, hamams, walls and gates, connected to the town with an impressive 14-arched causeway are all that remain today.
Orchhha cenotaphs are an exception as they not same like cenotaphs of temples. Fifteen cenotaphs of the Bundela rulers and members of their family stands proudly on the southern bank of the Betwa river. The chhatris rise on a square platform with the sanctum having a similar shape. The sanctum holds the ashes of the cremated princes and princesses. As you enter you the first chhatri greets you with a marble statue of Madhukar Shah and his wife. As you stroll down to the far end, by the riverside, you would witness the square chattri dedicated to Bir Singh Deo.
Jehangir Mahal was built in the 17th century by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo. The mahal commemorates Jehangir's, a Mughal Emperor, visit to Orchha. The palace is characterized by beautiful trellis work and elegantly designed chhatris.
Lakshminarayan Temple was built in 1622 on the orders of Bir Singh Deo but has needed extensive renovation over the centuries. It displays a unique and perfect mix of fort and temple architecture. It is an octagonal central tower inside a triangular temple within a square compound that has bastions at each corner. In line with this eccentricity, the entrance gate is set in a corner rather than the wall. Though the temple is dedicated the Goddess Laxmi, there is no idol of the Goddess kept inside the temple.
Hardaul, son of Bir Singh Ju Deo, killed himself to prove his innocence. In the memory of prince Hardaul Dinman, this palace was built. Prince Hardaul Dinman is worshipped as a God in Orchha.
Orchha,India
The Bundelkhand Riverside is built on 50 acres of land on the banks of the River Betwa in Orchha and the old house, which still exists, was used as a hunting lodge cum guest house. The present retreat is an addition to the old construction that dates back to 1895.
The Guest Rooms are large (22 Ft by 20 Ft) with attached bathroo...
Orchha,India
Situated on the banks of river Betwa, away from the hustle –bustle of town, is located the Orchha resort. A small meeting or training session can be organized in the board room which is fully equipped with all conference facilities. Children can enjoy rides at the garden with outdoor games .It also offers tented accommodat...
Population: 11,511
Average Climate:
| Summer: | 23° C – 42° C |
| Winter: | 12° C – 24° C |
Best time to visit: October to March