Trip Overview:
| Travel time | November |
| No. of days to travel | 1 day |
| No. of Travellers | 9 |
| Accommodation | None (Day trip |
| Best Places to visit | Ram Raja Temple, Hardol Ji Temple, Sawan Bhado Pillars, Chaturbhuj Temple, Jahangir Mahal, Ghat |
| Food Highlights | Puri Sabzi with sannata raita (Rs. 40 per plate), Street food near the ghat |
| Total Budget | Approx. Rs. 2000 for food, Rs. 50 entry fee for Jahangir Mahal, Rs. 100 per person for boating (Total estimated budget: Rs. 2,150 for the day) |
For a detailed itinerary and accommodation contact us.
Hello fellow travellers, Surabhi here!!!
My friends and I planned a quick trip to Orchha, skipping our classes for a day out in this nearby city. Even though it wasn’t monsoon season, the weather looked like it might rain, so we packed extra clothes just in case.
In November, a day-long road trip to Orchha, a town of rich heritage and religious significance. Nestled along the Betwa River in Madhya Pradesh, Orchha is known for its magnificent palaces, temples, and scenic beauty. Also, with a group of nine friends, we decided to ditch our routine and opt for a day trip that would take us back in time, exploring the secrets of Orchha’s historical sites.
How we reached Orchha :
We set out from Jhansi around 9 am, travelling by car and bike. Also, Orchha is just about an hour’s drive from Jhansi, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway. As we neared the town, the weather appeared cloudy, threatening rain, so we prepared by bringing extra clothes.
First Stop: Ram Raja Temple
Our first destination was the famous Ramayana Temple. This temple is unique as Lord Ram is worshipped here as a king rather than as a deity. Also which is quite rare in Indian temples. After seeking blessings, we made our way to Hardol Ji Temple, which holds immense local significance. Also, right next to it stand the Sawan Bhado pillars, believed by locals to be two brothers who “embrace” each other on the last night of the Sawan month every year. Moreover, this bit of folklore added a sense of mystery to the experience.
Chaturbhuj Temple: A Story of Faith
By 11:30 am, we reached the Chaturbhuj Temple.The story behind this temple has always fascinated me because it reflects the deep devotion of Orchha’s rulers. Also, the temple was built by the queen with the hope that she could have a darshan (viewing) of Lord Ram from her palace.
However, fate had a different plan, and the idol of Lord Ram chose to stay in a nearby hut, where it remains enshrined to this day. I had visited Orchha multiple times, but this was my first time inside Chaturbhuj Temple, and its grandeur and history captivated me.
We spent an hour here, soaking in the atmosphere and history.
Exploring Jahangir Mahal:
Around 2 pm, we visited Jahangir Mahal, one of Orchha’s iconic landmarks. Also, the palace’s architecture is stunning, and from the top, we enjoyed beautiful views of the Betwa River and the landscape. With its intricate balconies, domes, and courtyards, Jahangir Mahal showcases the grandeur of the Mughal era. Moreover, we spent about two hours (4:00 pm) exploring its beauty and peaceful surroundings.
Rain and Ghat Adventure:
Leaving Jahangir Mahal, it started raining, but we were thrilled. Thankfully, we had extra clothes, so it didn’t spoil our trip. After the rain stopped, we visited the ghat by the Betwa River. The place had fresh air and calm water made the moment magical.
Boating and Street Food:
Our final stop was the ghat, where we took a peaceful 15-minute boat ride for Rs. 100 per person (which we extended a bit). Also, it was a relaxing way to end the day. Afterwards, we enjoyed street food near the Ghat, spending around Rs. 2000 for the whole group.
Local Food Delights of Orchha
By early afternoon, we were hungry. We found a local eatery near the temple that served a delicious plate of puri sabzi with a special type of raita. Humorously called sannata (meaning silence), for just Rs. 40 per plate. Also, the simple yet flavourful meal gave us the energy to continue our journey.
Tips for Future Travelers
Orchha is a great place to explore during the monsoon. It offers a mix of heritage and religious sites that reveal many fascinating stories from the past. Also, make sure to carry extra clothes if you expect rain, as it can enhance your experience!
Our journey was filled with laughter and a sense of satisfaction. Also, Orchha may be a small town, but it offers a wealth of experiences for those willing to explore.
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