Orchha is a town situated in the district of Bundelkhand in Madhya Pradesh. Lying on River Betwa, Orchha is separated from Jhansi by a mere 19 km. The name ‘Orchha’, meaning hidden, is probably indicative of the numerous tourist attractions in Orchha that have remained veiled in the realm of the unknown history of the place. The most significant among these attractions are the holy places in Orchha.
Historically, Orchha has experienced a remarkable amount of Hindu influence brought about by the generations of Bundela rulers (belonging to the Rajput clan), who ruled over the region from the 16th century A.D. One of these rulers by the name of Rudra Pratap Singh, founded the city of Orchha and hence became its first sovereign. This period marked the establishment of many religious places in Orchha, Madhya Pradesh (owing to the strong influence of the Hindu kings.)
Some distinctive features distinguish the temples in Orchha. First, the interiors of these temples are adorned with traditional symbols and emblems. Further, the paintings depict colorful murals on spiritual but secular themes that highlight the religious tolerance of their makers.
Here Are The Major Holy Places in Orchha
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Shri Ram Raja Mandir
Also known as Orchha Temple, Shri Ram Raja Mandir is the best tourist place in Orchha. Devoted to Lord Rama, the temple holds immense religious significance because it is the only temple in India where people worship Lord Rama as King Rama. It is believed that the temple’s structure earlier used to be a citadel in Madhukar Shah’s kingdom, but he later changed it to Rama Temple after the lord appeared in Madhukar’s dream and asked him to install his statue at the very spot. The temple was built in the 16th century and continues to make thousands of devotees visit, especially on the occasion of Ram Navami.
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Lakshmi Narayan Mandir
As the name suggests, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu (also known by one of his many names – Narayan). The temple is among Orchha’s biggest structures and the city’s three most important temples. Bit Singh Deo built this beautiful temple in 1622 with a splendid temple and fort architecture. Inside, there are exquisite murals that delight pilgrims as well as sightseers. They tell the lessons and form the life incidents of Lord Rama. Hence, many history buffs and Hinduism followers visit Lakshmi Narayan Mandir to seek blessings. Another thing to note is that despite being dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, her idol is not installed here.
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Khajuraho Temples
The architectural masterpieces of Khajuraho Temples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, alluring history buffs worldwide. Built in the medieval century by the Chandela Dynasty between 950 and 1050 AD, ‘The Khajuraho Group of Monuments’ displays excellent Nagara-style architecture and sculptures of nayikas (Hindu Mythological female protagonists) and deities, leaving the visitors in awe and wonder. These temples are divided into Eastern, Western, and Southern. The temples represent different forms of spiritual teachings, meditation, and relationships through impeccable art. Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Jagdambi Temple, and Chitragupta Temple are some of the must-visit Khajuraho Temples in Orchha.
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Chaturbhuj Temple
Impressing visitors with its magnificent structure and architecture, Chaturbhuj Temple is one of the top holy places in Orchha. Situated in Jatakari village near Khajuraho, it is also called Jatakari Temple and is counted among the Southern Group of Temples in Khajuraho. Unlike the rest of the Khajuraho temples, Chaturbhuj has no erotic carvings. Chandela dynasty rulers constructed this temple in 1100 AD and dedicated it to Lord Vishnu. ‘Chaturbhuj’ means ‘one with four arms’ as Lord Vishnu also has four arms. The temple’s entrance through the doorway has elegantly carved figures of Brahma, Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.
Now that you know the best holy sites in Orchha, it’s time to book an Orchha tour package with Indian Holiday. We offer custom-made tours to Orchha as per your requirements. So why wait? Drop a query and connect with our travel experts.
