A Hidden Gem - Orchha.

Now that I am writing something which is just not for me, I would like to start with something which actually shows my personality, which presents the kind of places i like to visit and what are the things that fascinate me enough to go in detail. I start with my favorite place Orchha. It isn't on most tourist maps, but with beautiful monuments, both big and small, revealing tales of battles between kings and emperors, Orchha deserves a trip of its own.

        Just 18 kms away from Jhansi, the cradle of Rani Lakshmibai is the forgotten town of Orchha. The Grandeur and the beauty of Orchha Heritage cannot be precisely described in words but can only be experienced. Though a small town, Orchha occupied an important place in the history of Bundelkhand.  Orchha is a land shrouded in mystery. Its very name, according to many, means ‘Hidden’ some believe that the land derives its name from the remark of a Rajput chief, who upon sighting the land, exclaimed ‘Ondche’ or ‘it lies low or far enough'. 

        Far from the madding crowd of cities, this Peaceful town Orchha, on the banks of Betwa River giving a glimpse of bygone era. Orchha is a town in Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh state, India.  It had the distinction of being the capital of one of the largest and most powerful kingdoms of Central India, established by Rudra Pratap singh as the seat of an eponymous former princely state of central India, in the Bundelkhand region. This medieval city seems to have frozen in time, its palaces and temples still retaining their grandeur.

        Orchha is one of the few places in India that combines natural beauty, the aesthetic legacy of history and a certain authenticity. Orchha is in transition from village to town and many of its smaller temples throne over well-tended fields. It's a paradise for bird watchers with a wide variety of colourful birds often making an appearance. Life in Orchha revolves around the Ram temple where one can see how vibrant Hinduism remains today. You will not have to dodge traffic, you will have to deal with the insistence of shopkeepers, at the same time, this place will provide insights into the challenges that young people, farmers and workers face in India today.

       This historic village on the banks of the boulder- strewn Betwa River showcases a supreme display of Mughal architecture, some of which is similar to that of nearby Khajuraho (albeit without such high-quality artistry) with much grander palaces and cenotaphs dotting the pastoral landscape as well. The atmosphere in Orchha, though is far more laid-back and hassle free, which makes for a relaxing stay. There are great homestay options as well as opportunities to enjoy the surrounding countryside, with walking, cycling, rafting all on the agenda.

This is just in very brief, I will be doing more posts about the beautiful Orchha, stay tuned! :)