In Bundelkhandi, Orchha means hidden and derives the name because it was discovered from a dense forest. Established by Maharaja Rudra Pratap Singh, the town is home to royal palaces, ancient temples, monuments and lush green forests. Situated on the beautiful banks of Betwa, it welcomes you to a relaxed and hassle-free life that is completely far away from the maddening crowd. You can rest, unplugged for infinite hours as nothing disturbs your solo revelry. I was completely besotted after landing at my home stay, which was a modest accommodation but the hosts went out of their way to make me feel comfortable.

I was all for studying the quaint village and hence, asked the hosts for arrangements and they helped me readily. The cycle was ready and I went paddling around the sleepy hamlet. Resting at intervals and interacting with the locals, I got to know about the rich heritage of the place. The people talked with a gleeful pride about the rajas and their battles. So arresting were the accounts that the very next day I found myself heading towards the palace safari.

Jahangir Mahal is a fabulous architectural piece built in Mughal style but more fascinating is the camel shelter near to the fort which gives a panoramic view of the town from the roof top. Unlike other palaces, the mahal has a sublime charm, soaked in modesty. The Raja Mahal also possesses a similar ambience and you will find it majestic but in an elegant way. Nearby sits the Ram Raja Temple and Chaturbhuj temple, designed in an ancient style. Many chatris, umbrella like structures grace the banks and you will be easily enamored by their unique brilliance.

Having had enough of sightseeing, my heart was aching for adventure but nothing in Orchha seemed to suggest such a venture. I casually mentioned it to my host. Lo and behold! My host suggested river rafting that takes place in Betwa. It is organized by MP Tourism board and I must say it is worth trying. I signed up for the 90-min package, starting from Kanchana Ghat and culminating at Shiv Ghat. Thoroughly exhilarating, it gives you a great view of the exquisite beauty spread around the river.

All I can say is that Orchha is a gem of a tourist destination that should not remain hidden from any traveler’s eyes. Do go and explore the wonder. It definitely deserves to be delved into.

Well, a lot was to be explored and I am truly grateful to her for having made me visit such a wonderful place. Full of information and spirituality, the enlightening tour is still alive in my mind and more so because of our amazing home stay. Our hosts treated us like their own guests and it never felt as though we were strangers. The trip to Sanchi was meeting with the old ancestors, who were waiting with a deep longing in their hearts, to enlighten their progenies and introduce them to the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

The Sanchi Stupa

Standing on a hill, the Stupa was built by the great emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. It bears testimony to the penance of the king who embraced Buddhism along with his wife and son, and thousands of people at this historical spot. The domed edifice stands majestically with four gateways that depict the life of the founder of Buddhism. Home to religious relics, it transports you centuries back in fraction of a minute and you can hear the reverberating chant of the monks, meditating and meandering into the folds of enlightenment.

The Ashoka Pillar

A shining symbol of the Greco Buddhist style architecture, the pillar is a bit dilapidated but its sacred aura still glows. Similar to the pillar at Sarnath, the four lions standing back to back do not have the Dhramchakra on the base but the statue is a powerful reminder to uphold dharma. Representing the national emblem, it ignites and inspires in great measure.

Archaeological Museum

This museum possesses many Buddhist statues, paintings and photos. The collection of sculptures from Ashoka Pillar 10 forms the center piece and there is also Sir John Marshall’s bungalow, located nearby, who played a pivotal role in the restoration of Sanchi. Both the places evoke emotions of pride and gratitude. The marvels of the past encourage one to aspire for lofty goals and also advises to stay grounded. 

The Gupta Temple

Situated on the slope of the Sanchi hill, the temple is an architectural wonders from the Golden Age. Time seems to have made them immortal and you can feel both the religious as well as historical fervor here.

Sanchi stole my soul and serenaded my senses. I loved every second here and thanked Shikha thoroughly for having me accompany her in this revelation of the past.