Orchha

The city of Orchha in Madhya Pradesh is like a buffet for the tourist. It has everything from a beautiful river flowing by the city to the ancient palaces and temples which add to the historic value of the place. Tourists flock to this region for a taste of the variety on offer and they are never disappointed because the natural beauty and the heritage of the city make it worth paying a visit.

Historical Background:

Orchha has a rich history since it was once the capital of the Bundela Dynasty. The word Orchha means the hidden place. It later came under Mughal dominance and during the reign of Jahangir, the Jahangir Mahal was constructed here. Eventually, it was a part of British India and finally, it was inducted into independent India.

Things to Do and Major Attractions:

Raja Mahal and Jahangir Mahal are two of the most famous forts in this region that are frequented by the tourists. The buildings have stood the test of time and still stand strong and amaze the tourist with their grand and sturdy construction. Chaturbhuj Temple and Ramraja Temple are both ancient temples and important religious sites in Orchha. Sunder Mahal and Dauji ki Haweli are more historical sites which are popular tourist attractions.

Travelers to Orchha always stop by Phool Bagh which is an ancient garden from the time of the Bundelas. The design of the garden is impressive and shows the aesthetic concerns in those times. The Rani Mahal is another historic building that you must not miss out during your trip. For some relaxation, you can stop by the Ayurvedic massages that are provided here at Amar Mahal or Orchha Resort. You can also go for some boating and rafting at River Betwa which is also a pleasant place to swim around.

People and Culture:

Dusshera and Diwali are popular festivals in Orchha. People here are simple and traditional and follow the rules and customs of the Bundelas. The primary language of Orchha is Hindi and the majority of the population is Hindus.

Local Food and Popular Shopping Items:

There is no dearth of eateries in Orchha and these serve various cuisines. But remember to try out some local specialties such as Mawa-Bati, Bhutte-ki-kees, and the famous kebabs. A popular local dessert called Malpua is sure to tickle your taste-buds at the right spot. If you want a souvenir from Orchha, pick from the numerous options such as handicrafts, gem-stones, and beaded gems.

Best Time to Visit:

As long as you can avoid the summer season, you can visit any time of the year in Orchha. The ideal time for a visit is from October to March when the temperatures are pleasant and roaming around is comfortable.

Availability of Accommodation Type:

You can stay in hostels such as Sunset Backpackers Hostel for a very meager amount. There are options for a Farm Stay and Bread and Breakfast as well in Orchha. Besides these, there are popular tourist choices such as Nilayam Heritage where you will enjoy all sorts of comfort and amenities.