Down Memory Lane: Orchha – Khajuraho – Gwalior

The Chhatris (cenotaphs), right on the banks of the Betwa River, living monuments that pay respect to Orchha’s past royalty, will take your breath away. Khajuraho of course needs no introduction.

Gwalior-home to history and spirituality with its mix of majestic forts and myriad temples, this erstwhile Princely state of the Scindias was also a hub of the revolt of 1857.

Madhya Pradesh, studded with gems has us coming back for more.

Orchha & Khajuraho akin to big outdoor museums will have you immersed in the town’s history and stories.

Orchha State was a kingdom situated in the Bundelkhand region and later a princely state in British India. It traces its ancestry back to the 16th century when it was built by King Rudra Pratap Singh of Bundela dynasty. Orchha quickly became of importance because of the impressive and opulent fort that was built there during his reign.

It is steeped in history and is famous for its palaces and temples built in the 16th and 17th centuries. The architectural splendour of the monuments reflects the glory of its rulers. One of the attractions is the Betwa River, on whose banks Orchha lies, and the forests that surround it.

What’s remarkable about Orchha is that, compared to other Indian towns and cities, it remains largely the same as its original formation. The town has a distinct medieval aura that woos you with its charm. Sure, modern daily life swirls around the town, but the building blocks of the town are clearly and delightfully historical.

Of course, the name Khajuraho conjures up many images in your mind!! The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a group of Hindu and Jain temples designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples are famous for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures. Built during the Chandela dynasty, only about 20 temples remain, striking a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture.

When these monuments were built, the boys in the place lived in hermitages, by being brahmcharis (bachelor) until they attained manhood and these sculptures helped them to learn about the worldly role of ‘householder’.

The trip ends at Gwalior- a modern city, historically rich in its evolution and people-from the magnificent Fort to a temple similar to the Sun Temple.

Join WeGoBond with an open heart and mind and prepare to be simply swept away-https://wegobond.com/trip/down-memory-lane-orchha-khajuraho-gwalior-2022/

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