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The fort
complex accessed from an arched causeway leads to a large gateway
followed by a large quadrangular open space which is surrounded by
palaces such as Raja Mahal or Raja Mandir, Sheesh Mahal, Jahangir Mahal,
temple, gardens and pavilions. The fort walls have battlements, which
have ornamentation. Notable architectural features seen in the fort
complex consist of projected balconies, open flat areas and decorated
latticed windows.
Raj Mahal
The Raj
Mahal, also known as ‘Raja Mahal’ is the princely accommodation of
former kings of Orchha. The palace was founded in the 17th century by
Madhukar Shah, a holy ancestor of Bir Singh Ju Deo. The most prominent
feature of this palace is the big towers crowned by ‘Chhatris’ situated
in its outer premises and the coloured mural paintings present in its
interiors.
Sheesh
Mahal
Sheesh
Mahal is flanked on either side by the Raja Mahal and the Jahangir Mahal.
This has royal accommodation, which was built for king Udait Singh. It
has now been converted into a hotel. The interior of this edifice
consists of a huge impressive hall with high ceiling, which is the
dining hall. Its recent colour scheme renovations are an eyesore. But
staying in two of its royal suites on the upper floor, which provide
scenic view of the town, gives the guest a feeling of royalty.
Jahangir
Mahal
Jahangir
Mahal in Orchha is the brainchild of Raja Bir Singh Deo-1. Built between
the years 1605 and 1626, in honour of Mughal emperor Jahangir, the
decorative palace today occupies a distinct position in the chapters of
Orchha's history. The confluence of Hindu and Islamic architectures
reflected on its domes, rooms, gates, terrace and corridors is a living
example of the harmony between two diverse religious communities, Hindus
and Muslims.
Its immense rectangular mass supporting the eight graceful domes
relieves the qualities of a medieval castle. Not only is its splendid
architecture charming and alluring, but its natural setting is also
something marvellous to stare at. Jahangir Mahal rests on the bank of
Betwa river and the bordering green forest offers picturesque vistas of
the entire surrounding. A perfect blend of natural splendors and human
brilliance define Jahangir Mahal as one of the most revered tourist
attraction sites in Orchha.
Phool
Bagh
Phool Bagh is an elegantly laid out garden in the fort complex which has
a line of water fountains that terminates in a "palace-pavilion" which
has eight pillars. Below this garden is an underground structure which
was used by the royalty as a cool summer retreat. This cooling system
consists of water ventilation system that is linked to underground
palace with "Chandan Katora", which is in the shape of a bowl from where
fountains droplets trickle through the roof creating a rainfall.
Getting There
Orchha
town is approximately 80 kilometres (50 mi) away from Tikamgarh town,
which is the district headquarters of the district of the same name.
Jhansi town is 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) away.
Orchha is well-connected by road
to the places like Jhansi, Gwalior and
Khajuraho. You can hire a taxi or bus
to reach Orchha from these places. The nearest railway junction to Orchha is
in Jhansi that is 16 kms away.
Rented taxis and cycle rickshaws
are the common modes of transportation in Orchha. The more energetic can
hire bicycles. Orchha is easily crossed on foot so simply walk around and
enjoy this historic town.
The nearest airport to Orchha is
Gwalior Airport
that is 113 kms from Orchha and
Khajuraho
Airport that is 155 kms away. You can hire a taxi or bus to reach Orchha
from these Airports.
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