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Madhya Pradesh

Raja Mahal

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map

January

3.3 - 28.5 °C

February

10.9 - 32.6 °C

March

16.2 - 38.5 °C

April

21.7 - 43.2 °C

May

27 - 45.6 °C

June

28.8 - 45.4 °C

July

27.1 - 40.3 °C

August

26.2 - 36.7 °C

September

24.8 - 37.2 °C

October

19.3 - 37.3 °C

November

13.1 - 34.2 °C

December

8.5 - 29.9 °C

Major Airports :

Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Airport Gwalior (GWL), Gwalior

Khajuraho Airport (HJR), Khajuraho

Nearest Railway Station :

Virangana Lakshmibai Railway Station (VGLB)

Major Airports :

Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Airport Gwalior (GWL), Gwalior

Khajuraho Airport (HJR), Khajuraho

A fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture

Within the grand fort complex and adjacent to the iconic Jahangir Mahal stands the Raja Mahal as an impressive testament of exquisite craftsmanship from another age. Built by Madhukar Shah during the 16th century, this architectural marvel offers you an enjoyable and peaceful experience adorned with captivating architecture that allows you to immerse in timeless beauty. As soon as you step inside the Raja Mahal, its stunning blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture will captivate your attention. Its elegant arches demonstrate the craftsmanship and skill of its architects and artisans and leave you spellbound by its beauty. 

The palace's rich history and cultural significance make it a beloved landmark of the region, drawing visitors from near and far. Step inside its grand Durbar Hall where its towering arches support massive pillars. Step through and discover its mesmerising murals featuring scenes from Hindu mythology which create a mesmerising visual spectacle. Over the years, Raja Mahal has undergone meticulous conservation efforts and restoration, returning it to its former splendour. The State Archaeological Department has played an essential role in protecting this architectural masterpiece and assuring its continued significance as both cultural and historical landmark.

Incredible tales of Raja Mahal

Raja Mahal is not just an architectural feat, its walls are full of captivating tales. Bundela Rajput King Madhukar Shah was an avid devotee of Lord Krishna while Rani Ganesh Kunwari, Madhukar Shah's wife was dedicated to Lord Rama. According to legend, one day both King (Raja) and Queen (Rani) decided to undertake pilgrimages, the king preferred Mathura while Queen Ganesh Kunwari insisted upon visiting Ayodhya. After engaging in a heated debate over their pilgrimages' destinations, neither could change either party's mind. After becoming frustrated with the situation, the King became very infuriated and told the Queen to travel alone to Ayodhya and bring back her deity within 72 hours or face being barred entry at Raja Mahal.

The queen made her way to Ayodhya and began praying earnestly, yet Lord Rama did not appear after two to three months of waiting. Feeling despaired, she considered suicide by leaping into the Saryu River yet miraculously as soon as she made contact with water, Lord Rama appeared before her and expressed his pleasure with her devotion. Then Lord Rama agreed to accompany her but placed three conditions upon this offer.

At first, Ayodhya to Orchha had to be travelled on foot for 24 hours during Pushya Nakshatra when the queen brought Lord Rama to Orchha. Pushya Nakshatra proved most auspicious for this purpose. The second condition was that wherever Lord Rama dwelt, he should be treated as a monarch. At Orchha, Raja Madhukar Shah gave Lord Rama his crown and conducted his royal coronation ceremony; thus, creating this unique temple where Lord Rama is worshipped as an actual monarch with guards of honour being placed around it.

At last, Lord Rama's first seat in Orchha would become his temple. According to legend, Madhukar Shah began construction of Chaturbhuj Temple for Lord Rama; however, when Queen Arundhati arrived the construction remained incomplete, and she placed Lord Rama in her kitchen instead as per Hindu tradition where kitchens are seen as holy after temples are completed - thus giving Orchha its divine capital status and becoming home for Ram Raja Temple in kitchen.

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Timings

Opening time - The timings for Raja Mahal in Orchha are from sunrise to sunset, every day of the week.

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Activities to take part in

As evening falls, Raja Mahal comes alive with stunning illumination, offering an arresting view. To fully embrace its charms and experience all that Orchha has to offer, indulge in enjoyable activities like guided tours where you can gain further knowledge of its history, significance, and Hindu mythology with either a personal guide or group excursion.

Experience nearby attractions! Combine your palace visit with a trip to the iconic Jahangir Mahal, another marvel of Mughal architecture conveniently nearby. Unravel the history of Orchha Fort and watch its sound and light show during evening hours; don't miss the Ram Raja Mandir for their amazing aarti ceremony; it won't disappoint you.

Experience Orchha with locally made terracotta goods, ceramics, local silver jewellery, teakwood handicrafts, brassware and metal handicrafts; spices; incense sticks; traditional Chanderi sarees from nearby Chanderi as souvenirs from Orchha! Also discover its captivating paintings which celebrate Orchha's culture and heritage; take home something truly memorable from local establishments!

Let the Raja Mahal of Orchha whisk you back in time to an age of grandeur and opulence. Admire its architectural marvels, soak up its history, and hear its captivating tales resonating through its walls. Step into the realm of Bundela Rajput kings while appreciating this lasting historical treasure!

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