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Orchha is a historical town located at Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh. The town 18 Kms southeast ofJhansi is situated on the banks of Betwa River. Orchha, means a "hidden place" has the richness of its palaces, temples and cenotaphs. Today Orchha is a small town, but it was once the capital city of the Bundelkh and Empire. Setamidst scrubby Dhak forest, the monuments of the town reflect the architectural splendor. The historical monuments still retain their pastcharm and tell stories of war and peace and of love and destruction. Orchha is also famous for Bundela paintings and once it was a major center of such paintings. Orchha was founded by the Bundela chief, Rudra Pratap in the 16th century A.D. The Bundelas traced their ancestry to a Rajput prince of medieval era, who sacrificed his life for the mountain goddess, Vrindavasini. It is said that the Orchha Bundelas were the chiefs of the Bundela clan, settled all over the North Indian plains. Maharaja Pratap Singh who occupied the throne in 1874, devoted himself entirely to the development of the Orchha. But It was during the rule of Bir Singh Deoaround 52 forts, palaces and many of Orchha's finest buildings were built.
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Attractions in and around Orchha
Raj Mahal - The monuments in the fort complex was built by Madhukar Shah, the devoted religious predecessor of Raja Bir Singh Deo. Raj Mahal (King's Palalce) is a nice example of Mughal architectural style, depicted with stone Jali work and multifaced arches at the entrance.Raj Mahal is famous for its exteriors crowned with cenotaphs and murals on the interiors.
Rai Parveen Mahal -
The three-storeyed palace was built in 1618 A.D by Maharaja Indrajit Singh,in the honour of Rai Praveen. Rai Parveen also called as 'Nightingale of Orchha' was well known for her poetry and music.The art of Topiary has been in existence in Orchha for centuries that's why the height of the palace has been designed to match the height of the trees in the surrounding gardens.
Jahangir Mahal - The palace is located closer to Rai Praveen Mahal. Best known for its fine Bundela architecture.The palace stands as the reminder of long time friendship between the Mughals and Bundelas. The five-storyed Mahal with eight pavilions, has an aura of grandeur and opulence. The interior of the Jahangir Mahal is decorated with geometric patterns and paintings of peacocks and flowers.
Ram Raja Temple - The temple with its high spires and palatial structure, is one of the most unusual temples in India. The legend says that this is the only temple where Ram is worshipped as a king.
Chaturbhuj Temple - Chaturbhuj Temple was originally constructed to enshrine the idol of Lord Rama.Built upon a big stone platform a number of steps lead to the temple. The exterior of the temple is decorated with Lotus emblems and symbols of religious importance.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple - 
The Lakshmi Narayan Temple situated at a high altitude, presents a mixture of fort and temple. The architecture of the temple gives a feeling of ethnic Indian royal taste.
Chitrakoot - Chitrakoot is located in Banda District of Uttar Pradesh. Situated along the borders of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, the forest of Chitrakoot lies at an altitude of 50 m.According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama and his wife passed 11 out of 14 years of their exile in the forest around Chitrakoot.
Deogarh - Located on the right of the Betwariver, Deogarh enjoyed political importance right from the Gupta Age. The main attraction here is the Deogarh Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and nicely decorated with sculpted panels. Other attractions are the Karnali Fort and the Deogarh Archaeological Museum.
Jhansi Fort - The fort located on the top of the hill was built by Raja Bir Singh in the 17th century. In 1857 the mutineerssieged the fort and slaughtered all the occupants (mostly British). Jhansi fort houses the famous Karak Bijli Tank and a museum, which has a large collection of sculptures and other remains.
Barua Sagar - Located at a distance of 26 Kms.from Orchha, Barua Sagar comes under the neighboring state of Uttar Pradesh.Barua Sagar is a dam created on the banks of the Betwa River.The historic fort of Bundelkhand stands here and provides the magnificent views of the vast reservoir created by the dam.
Accessibility :
Orchha has not direct connectivity by Airways, Railways or Road link with the major cities of the country. One can reach there via Jhansi, Gwalior or Khajuraho.
» By Air - Nearest Airport from Orchha is Gwalior(120 Kms).
» By Rail - Jhansi Railway Station is major station, situated at a distance of 19 Kms.
» By Road - Orchha lies on the Jhansi- Khajuraho Road at a distance of 178 Kms from Khajuraho. Regular bus services connect Orchha with Jhansi (19 Kms).
Accomodation :
The hotels of the town offers a comfortable stay to tourists.The main hotels stand at the heart of the town are Betwa Cottage Orchha , The Orchha Resort (4 Star Hotel).
Best Time to Visit :
Orchha can be visited any time through out the year but the best time tovisit the town is in Winters between October to March.
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Basic Inclusions of the package :
- Assisted transfers from airport to hotel and back
- Accommodation in Hotels (as per the category selected)
- Daily Breakfast Buffet
- City tour + Drives by private car
- An English / Language speaking well mannered guide during sightseeing trips
- All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions :
- Any meal unless mentioned above, personal expenses like telephone /laundry bills etc.
- Entrance fees and still camera or video camera charges at various monuments and museums.
- Tips and gratuities to drivers, guides, and bellboys at hotels
- Departure taxes or Visa handling fees (A Visa is required to visit India)
- Any International Air fare, Airports tax and travel insurance etc. and other services not specified above.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Remarks
» All prices quoted per person in INR. on twin sharing basis. Rates subject to change without notice Rates are applicable for a minimum of two (2) persons travelling at one time.
» Rates are applicable for Indian market only.
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