Amongst the various surviving relics of the glorious past that are dotted in every region of India, Orcha is one such destination. This beautiful town of Madhya Pradesh is one of the less explored tourist site of Central India.
Positioned near the World Heritage Site of Khajuraho temples, Orcha is place of immense historical significance. It was the capital of the Bundelkhand kingdom and was founded by the Bundela Rajput Chieftain Rudra Partap in 16th century.
This tranquil town of Madhya Pradesh is embellished with some impressive architectural masterpieces of both Rajputna and Mughal design. It has an endless array of architectural masterpieces such as Orcha fort, Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, Rani Praveen Mahal, Anand Mahal. Orcha fort is the pride of the Bundela rulers. This fort is one of the most formidable fort of India which was never conquered by any enemy. Another prime attraction of Orcha is the Jehangir Mahal, built by the Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in 1606 A.D. It was constructed to pleased the 6th Mughal Emperor Jehangir.
Beside these fort and palaces, Orcha has also some exquisitely carved temples like Chaturbhuj temple, Ram Raja Temple and Laxmmi Narayan Temple. Raja Ram Temple of Orcha is a palace turned temple. It is the sole temple of India where the Lord Rama is worshiped as a ruler. The idol of Lord Rama which is placed in this temple was brought from Ayodhya by king Madukar Shah of Bundela dynasty. With its palatial structure and soaring spires, Raja Ram Temple is the most unusual temple of India.
Some other attractions of Orcha are Phool bagh, a formal garden, Dinman Hardaul's Palace, Sunder Mahal Palace, a pilgrimage site for Muslims and some beautiful cenotaphs that belongs to the royal family of the region.
Apart from these exhilarating structures, “Mother Nature” has blessed Orcha with its enormous wonderful creations. The scenic beauty of this pristine town, which is built on the bank of the Betwa river is really remarkable.
Don't bother about transportation. Orcha lies on the Jhansi-Khajuraho route. You can board into any regular bus that connects Orcha with Jhansi.
So, whenever you are in a trip to Madhya Pradesh, spare at least one day to discover the hidden treasures of Orcha, which is a living testimony of medieval grandeur.
By Jolly Mazumdar
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