Orchha, a small town in Madhya Pradesh, sits 120 km away from Gwalior and approximately 20 km from Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh. Orchha boasts some of India’s most remarkable monuments and temples.
During our last trip to Madhya Pradesh, we had missed out on Orchha due to time constraints. However, during a short excursion to Gwalior Chaya, we made sure to include Orchha in our plans. It turned out to be a memorable visit, and I must say, Orchha is a hidden gem in India.
Our Itinerary
We embarked on a road trip from Gwalior, making stops at the Songiri Jain temples, Datia, and Jhansi before arriving in Orchha by evening. We spent two nights in the town, exploring its various attractions.
In this post, I’ll focus more on planning a trip to Orchha rather than our personal experiences. For detailed insights, you can watch the accompanying video.
Reaching Orchha
The nearest airport is in Gwalior, about 120 km away, while the closest railway station is in Jhansi.
Places to Explore in Orchha
Orchha Fort
The Orchha fort complex is usually the starting point for most tourists. Notable attractions within the complex include Raja Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, and the converted Sheesh Mahal hotel. Besides these main spots, consider exploring other monuments and temples around the fort trail, such as Rai Parveen Mahal, Hamman Khana, and Radhika Bihari Temple.
Chaturbhuj Temple
Initially built to house the deity of Lord Ram from Ayodhya, this temple now honors Lord Krishna and features India’s tallest gopura (tower).
Shri Ram Raja Mandir
A significant religious site housing the deity of Lord Ram, attracting a considerable influx of local visitors.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple
A scenic temple located on the outskirts of Orchha.
Betwa River Boat Ride and Rafting
Enjoy a boat ride along the Betwa River, offering views of the Chhatris (cenotaphs) lining its banks. For the adventurous, river rafting is also an option.
Orchha Sanctuary
Situated on an island in the Betwa River, this sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers.
How Long to Stay
While it’s possible to see the main attractions in a day, spending two days allows for a more leisurely exploration, especially if you plan on activities like river rafting or visiting the sanctuary.
Staying overnight also offers the chance to witness the Sound and Light show and see the monuments illuminated at night, providing a different perspective.
Accommodation
Several resorts are available in Orchha. We opted to stay at the Sheesh Mahal within the Orchha fort complex, managed by Madhya Pradesh Tourism, indulging in a bit of a “palace experience.”
Madhya Pradesh Tourism also offers another resort near the Betwa River, and based on our positive experiences with their properties, we recommend staying at MPT hotels.
Dining Options
Orchha is visited by foreign tourists. So, it caters to a diverse range of cuisines, including options for vegetarian diners.
Best Time to Visit
July to September offers a unique charm with the monsoon, while October to February boasts pleasant weather. Avoid the hotter months from April to June.
In Conclusion
Orchha is one of the few places in Northern India which was not ravaged by the invading forces. It is a hidden treasure in India, often overlooked by travellers. While Madhya Pradesh Tourism has made efforts to promote it, some areas of the fort require maintenance.
Nevertheless, Orchha’s historical significance and unspoiled beauty make it a destination worth visiting in Northern India.
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