The rivers reflect the domes of the fort. The steps leading up from the river stand as platforms to witnesses of history. As you walk up the river steps, you come closer to the exquisite paintings that adorn the chatris or cenotaphs of the fort.
Standing gracefully on the banks of river Betwa in southern Madhya Pradesh. Lesser known than the bustling Khajuraho, this destination offers a relaxed, refreshing and hassle-free travel experience.
Orchha was once capital city of the mighty Bundelkhand Empire. Founded in 16th century A.D. by the Bundela chieftain, Rudra Pratap, the fort is a supreme display of Mughal-influenced Rajput architecture in the shape of spectacular palaces, temples and royal chhatris (cenotaphs).
The projecting windows at Ram Raj Temple, the graceful balconies of the Jahangir Mahal are singular specimens of the synthesis of Mughal and Rajput influences on Indian architecture.
As you walk amidst this idyllic town to each site, you can easily lose sense of the present, and imagine the glory that must have reigned this Bundelkhand site. The Bundelas were one of the strongest native forces that the Mughals had to contend with in the acquisition of India, and the site is a strong testament to one of the proudest rules in Indian history.
You can also visit the 9th century Chaturbhuj temple and stay on in the fort as the light and music shows come on every evening.
Prince DinmanHardol is venerated as a hero in Bundelkhand for committing suicide to ‘prove his innocence’ over a supposed affair with his brother’s wife. His memorial stands in the Phool Bagh. This is a traditional Persian garden arranged in four quarters.
In several rooms of the 16th-century Raj Mahal, deities such as Brahma, Vishnu, the Buddha, Rama, Krishna, Sita and Ganesh, plus Orchha royalty, wrestle, hunt, fight, dance, sit and lie their way across walls and ceilings in vivid, colourful murals. The upper floors give great views across the town through their pretty jali (stone lattice) windows.
You can also try the local cuisine at the numerous homestay accommodation available at Orcha. Orcha is most easily accessible by rail, via Jhansi.
So, plan a visit to this lesser known fort to immerse yourself in the glory of the bygone era.
