Orchha

Orchha is a little village on the bank of the Betwa river in Madhya Pradesh. Otherwise, a usual village in rural India comes alive only when tourists flocks here. Orchha houses one of the largest and most well-preserved forts in Madhya Pradesh. A village whose history dates back to the 13th century and has been the capital of Bundelkhand for centuries. Surrounded by lush forests, it has forts, palaces, temples. Still, somehow it managed to stay off the radar of mainstream tourism. In fact, the largest section of the tourists coming to Orchha is non-Indians barring local crowds from nearby towns. Orchha meaning a hidden place in Buldenkhandi language lives up to its name. I immediately placed it into my bucket list the moment I read about it.

Before planning, I read all rave reviews about the place. But honestly did not expect a lot. I tell you that it is truly a hidden gem. Ruins and monuments are scattered throughout the village. It said the original fort used to be much larger. Localities made it to reduce the current size. Now it is maintained by ASI. The view of numerous ruined towers amidst the lush forest from the palace terrace is a treat to watch. If you have been to Bagan in Myanmar, you will guess what I am talking about. Sadly we visited here on a foggy winter day. Our camera couldn't do justice to what we saw. It still remains on my bucket list to visit on a bright clear day.

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Love,

Ankita