Ancient India was known for the Rajas (Kings) and the architecture in their period. It was a time when kings used to show their royalty through the art and architecture of the dynasty.
Orchha is one such town which has many monuments and forms a major part of Madhya Pradesh tourism. It was created by the Bundela Rajput, Rudra Pratap Singh (the first King of Orchha). The town was the capital of Bundelkhand province.
The monuments of Orchha in Madhya Pradesh was built during 16th - 17th century. The fine architecture in this ancient town is intricate and enchanting.
Orchha, situated on the banks of river Betwa, is picturesque and rich in art. The design of each building, fort and temple just glow with aesthetic charm.
Raja Mahal and Chaturbhuj Temple are two of the earlier buildings in the Orchha fort complex. There are several buildings in the Orchha complex which have been built by different Bundela rulers.
The town is filled with cenotaphs (empty tombs) and temple spires which is a visual treat. As you enter, the town welcomes the visitors to a stream of ancient legacies. This heritage site is a must visit place under Madhya Pradesh tourism.
Let us take a tour around the ancient town of Orchha!
Cenotaphs on the banks of Betwa River
There are many Chhatris or Cenotaphs (empty tombs) built as a homage to various rulers of Orchha.
Photo Courtesy: Henry Flower
Raja Mahal
Raja Mahal was built by the Madhukar Shah in 17th century. Madhukar Shah is believed to be religious and there are many mural paintings on religious themes inside the palace.
Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers
Jehangir Mahal
It was built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo and it is a fine example of Mughal architecture.
Photo Courtesy: (WT-en) Jpkozura
Chaturbhuj Temple
Chaturbhuj Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the architecture is a blend of temple, palace and fort structures. It is one of the ancient temples in Orchha complex (9th C).
Photo Courtesy: Yann
Betwa River
The town of Orchha is built on the banks of the Betwa river and it adds to the beauty of this heritage site.
Photo Courtesy: Manuel Menal
Lakshmi Narayan Temple
The Lakshmi Narayan Temple is a unique architecture; a blend of fort and temple. The frescoes inside the temple are most amazing to see.
Photo Courtesy: Manuel Menal
Ram Raja Temple
Ram Raja Temple in Orchha is a famous one; here Lord Rama is worshipped as a king and the temple is inside a palace.
Photo Courtesy: Yann
Cenotaph of Bir Singh Ju Deo
One can find cenotaphs for each ruler of Orchha. This one is dedicated to Bir Singh Ju Deo who ruled from 1605 - 1627 AD.
Photo Courtesy: Dennis Jarvis
Mural Paintings
Mural painting inside Jehangir Mahal. Frescoes and mural paintings are a main part of the interiors of the buildings in Orchha complex.
Photo Courtesy: dalbera