If you want to enjoy small Indian town but only have a week to ten days in India add Orchha to your itinerary a rural town only 4 hours from Agra.
Check out the Mystical Triangle for examples of itineraries.
Orchha is a medieval town situated along the banks of the Betwa River. Founded in the 16th Century, by the Bundela rulers, the builders dotted the landscape with palaces, fortresses, temples and chhatris.
Major sights
Ram Raja Mandir
This temple was originally built as a Palace. It is the only temple in India where Rama is worshipped as a king (Raja). There is a legend that Madhukar, Shah’s wife, brought a statue of the god which required a specially built temple to house it. When the Chatturbuj temple was ready the idol proved impossible to move so stayed in the Palace. (No bags, cameras, leather or fire arms inside)
Chatturbuj Mandir (Vishnu Temple)
This was the temple built to enshrine the image of Rama. Lotus emblems and other religious symbols provide exterior ornamentation. A climb up the dark corner staircases rewards with fantastic views.
Palace Complex Entry Charge
Located on a fortified island are three 17th Century palaces set in an open quadrangle.
Jehangir Mahal
This palace was built by Raja Bir Singh Deo, to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir. Beautiful finely carved ochre sandstone with intricate floral and geometrical patterns.
Raj Mahal
The builder Madhukar Shah was deeply religious and this is reflected in the Hindu murals on walls and ceilings inspired by the Ramayana, Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Location of Hotel Sheesh Mahal is in a former guesthouse. The rooms are spread over several floors to separate males and females.
Raj Praveen Mahal
Built for the poet and musician Rai Praveen, this palace is designed so that the height matched that of the trees in the surrounding gardens of Anand Mahal.
