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History
Revisited: Architecture, Forts & Temples - Orchha, Madhya Pradesh,
India
Orchha is a beautiful
heritage town that lies on the banks of the Betwa River
and is located on the Jhansi - Khajuraho road, (approx 16 - 18 kms
from Jhansi) in Madhya Pradesh, India. One look at this culturally
rich town is all it takes to see glimpses of its significant history,
architecture and splendour, evident till today. This
is the reason why, Orchha is quite popular with tourists who are
simply awe-struck by its beautiful palaces, temples, forests
and the Betwa River.
Orchha’s
History:
It is believed that Orchha was
founded by Bundela Rajput Chieftain Rudra Pratap around the 16th
century and was known as the capital city of the then ruling Bundela
dynasty.
Popular Tourist Spots & Places to See in Orchha, Khajuraho,
MP
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1.
The
Jehangir Mahal, Orchha: Built in the 17th
century, the Jehangir Mahal is an important historical monument
that was built by Bir Singh Deo to welcome the Mughal Emperor
Jehangir to Orchha. The most striking feature of this Mahal
is its beautiful entrance with a facade covered with turquoise
tiles, innumerable windows, terraces, onion shaped domes and
spacious balconies.
2.
Raj Mahal, Orchha:
A part of the Orchha fort complex, the Raj Mahal is
well known for its beautiful murals that act as a strong reminder
of Indian religious beliefs.
3.
Rai Parveen Mahal, Orchha:
Beautified by green and lush gardens, the Rai Parveen Mahal
is an architectural dedication to the well regarded poetess
& musician of the 17th century.
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4.
Sunder Mahal, Orchha: Today,
a pilgrimage site, the Sunder Mahal became the residence of the
Prince of Jhujhar after he married a Muslim girl and converted to
Islam.
5.
Ram Raja Temple: A trip
to Orchha is incomplete without visiting the Raja Ram Temple
where Lord Rama is worshipped as a King. Legend has it that the
temple was earlier a palace of the ruler Madhukar Shah. Lord Rama
appeared in the ruler’s dream, following which Madhukar Shah brought
an idol of Lord Rama into his palace. However, to everyone’s amazement,
the idol did not move from its original place when the time came
to install the idol within a temple. Shah realised that Lord Rama
had indicated that the idol would remain in its original place (where
it was first kept). Hence, the palace was made into a beautiful
temple and till date, it is revered as a sacred shrine and thousands
of devotees come here to pray to Lord Rama.
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6.
Dinman Hardaul's Palace in Orchha:
Just like all other palaces and monuments in Orchha, the Dinman
Hardaul's Palace, too has a rich history and past that evokes
tremendous interest among visitors and tourists. The Palace
was built after Hardaul who was a saintly prince.
7.
Laxminarayan Temple:
This is an architectural masterpiece which is connected with
the Ram Raja Temple and stands out for its attractive wall
paintings and murals.
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8.
Chaturbhuj Temple:
This temple was originally built on a large stone platform to install
the idol of Lord Rama. However, after the idol was kept in the palace,
the temple became home to a four armed God, Chaturbhuj.
9.
Phool Bagh: As is evident from
its name, the Phool Bagh is a beautiful flower garden which served
as a comfortable and beautiful resting place for the Bundela rulers.
Situated next to the Palki Mahal in the city of Orchha in Tikamgarh
district of Madhya Pradesh, the Phool Bagh includes features such
as fountains and pavilions.
10.
Chhatris:
If you are in
Orchha, make sure to take time out and visit the 14 Chhatris which
were created in memorial of the rulers who left their mark on Orchha
town. You will find these famous Chhatris near the Kanchan Ghat
on River Betwa.
Some of the other palaces
in Orchha include the Sheesh Mahal which has now been converted
into a Hotel. Other places to stay in Orchha include Government
run small hotels, guest houses and
the Bundelkhand Riverside hotel which is one of the finest hotels
here.
How
to Get to Orchha
Orchha
is well connected by road, rail and air. The nearest airport is
situated at Gwalior and Khajuraho. A major Railway junction is located
at Jhansi.
Here
are some of metropolitan cities & places of Interest in India,
each having its own specialty and presence -
Contributing
Author: Team of travel writers @ contentwriter.in
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