Orchha

Orchha is a medieval settlement in Niwari district along the Betwa River, where temples, palaces, and memorial structures scatter across several quarters. Most buildings rise on both banks of a dry riverbed and connect through stone bridges.

The Bundela ruler Rudra Pratap Singh founded the settlement in 1531 and erected the first fortress on a river island. Later rulers added more palaces and memorial sites until the capital moved to Tikamgarh in the 18th century.

The name derives from the Sanskrit word for hidden place, and today narrow lanes attract pilgrims who experience daily life as it unfolded in earlier centuries. Many residents work in stonecraft and continue traditional patterns that their ancestors carved into temple reliefs.

The cooler months from October through March offer comfortable conditions for walking explorations, while summer heat suggests visits in early morning or late afternoon. The nearest railway station is in Jhansi, from where buses and taxis provide connections.

In one of the temples, the deity holds the status of reigning head, so daily military ceremonies take place as before a worldly monarch. Guards present arms and drummers accompany the rituals with marching rhythms.