Orchha

26th December 2004.

Orchha was a very quick stop inbetween some nasty transport connections. This was a big mistake, as it is one of the most peaceful and beautiful towns in India and easily deserved a couple of days. Orchha's golden age was in the 17th century. It has this ruined town kind of feel to it, so you almost feel like you are exploring.

The Chhatris, Cenotaphs to Orchhas rulers, are perched on the river banks. It was beautiful.

Saddhus hang out by the river.

The Chaturbhuj Temple looms large over town. Only a small part at the front is open to the public.

A bit of climbing gets Jason into the back of the ruined temple.

The main palace complex sits on a fortified Island in the middle of the Betwa River.

The faded glory of the old palace was a great place to get lost.

Murals of queens and concubines entertaining the royalty.

These huge birds were hanging around.

The Ram Raja Temple was originally another palace.

We are on the look-out for leprosy!

This is a typical view of the hazy countryside.

Green trees, brown earth, clear blue water, and some sort of architectural masterpiece.

We spoke to people who would just wander for hours at a time and would bump into another amazing palace.

Guns....

Everywhere in India are security guards / police etc with wooden handled guns that look like they belong in a museum.

We had to leave Orchha for a taxi, to a train, some 3 hours earlier than we would have liked. Our misery was compounded by the train being 2 hours late.......but we are getting used to it now.
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