Architectural marvels of central India- Khajuraho- Orchha- Jhansi Circuit

The central Indian circuit of Khajuraho- Orchha- Jhansi is absolutely amazing for history/heritage lovers. One can start the trip either from Jhansi or Orchha; both the towns are well connected by train routes; Khajuraho has a small airport too. Let’s start at Khajuraho. Orchha is about 175 kms from Khajuraho, and Jhansi is just 15 kms away from Orchha.

In this article, I am briefly sharing a plan to visit the circuit; however, for a more elaborate article, please see our main blog: https://stampedmoments.com/grandeur-of-the-khajuraho-orchha-jhansi-circuit/

Khajuraho:

Khajuraho used to be a religious hub of the Chandelas during the 9^th century and 12^th century CE.  They had built about 85 great temples in an area of 20 square kms. These temples were devoted largely to Hindu Gods (2/3^rd) and Jainism (1/3^rd). 

Khajuraho temples are well known for their erotic sculptures depicting sexual themes, though there are only about 10% of such sculptures. One of the explanations of such erotic sculptures is that in those days with growing influence of Buddhism and Jainism, people were turning ascetic. The Kings, in order to stop such influence, depicted eroticism as part of sex education for masses. 

 

Considering the richness of architecture, the group of temples have been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. 

One can easily cover the group of monuments and a waterfall (Raneh falls) within a jungle trail nearby in the same day. Panna national park and tiger reserve is not far as well; it can be done as a day-trip.

Orchha:

Orchha was a seat of power, established by the King Rudra Pratap Singh and his successors of the Bundela dynasty in early sixteenth century CE. Orchha group of monuments situated on the bank of Betwa river look absolutely majestic.  

Take a walk around the most important monuments- Orchha fort complex, Jahangir Mahal, Royal Cenotaphs (Chhatris), Chaturbhuja temple, Rama Raja temple and Lakshmi temple.  

With Lina, my sister, at Jahangir Mahal

In the early evening walk over a small bridge across the Betwa river to go to the other side and have a stunning view of the monuments overlooking the flowing river. 

Jhansi:

From Orchha, Jhansi is just across the border in Uttar Pradesh. It was the capital of the Maratha empire in the 18th century. Sometime later, it became part of the British empire. Walk around the fort area and a museum nearby to soak in the historic vibes.