The mesmerizing temples as well as the ancient monuments and the abundance of folklore made Orchha a jewel in the crown of the state of Madhya Pradesh. This small pastoral village is popularly called the kingdom of Raja Ram, perhaps the only place in the country where Lord Rama is worshipped as a beloved king and not just as a god. The city of Orchha has a wonderful blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture dating back to the 16th century. It has been home to many important royal dynasties for nearly 300 years. The charm of this history lives on in the splendid monuments that dot this picturesque city surrounded by mystery and situated on the banks of the gently flowing Betwa River.
Add to this the sweet smell of flaming apples that permeates the air and you will begin to discover the bewitching charm of this “hidden place” (the meaning of Orchha).
At the heart of Orchha’s heritage is the Orchha Fort complex. It is located on an island in the Betwa River and is a maze of palaces, forts, and temples. It consists of three parts: Raj Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal, within the fort, are hidden secret passages, elegant murals, and the resplendent residential quarters of kings and queens.
The city of Orchha was established in 1501 by King Rudra Pratap Singh as the capital of the mighty Bundelkhand Empire, which was later ruled by several kings. The Betwa here divides into seven channels, also called Satdhara. It is claimed that this is often in honor of the seven ancient rulers of Orchha. As a tribute to its rulers, the intricately carved chhatris or cenotaphs are an icon of the city itself.