Royal Chhatris of Orchha
छतरियाँ
A dozen or so memorial pavilions of the Bundela royal family on the banks of the Betwa River. At dusk they are reflected in the water, making them Orchha's most classic photo subject.
These chhatris are memorial pavilions of the Bundela royal family, about 14 in total, built gradually between the 16th and 18th centuries. Their design resembles temples, with North Indian-style spires, and they stand beside Kanchana Ghat on the south bank of the Betwa River. Within the grounds you can get close to the buildings, but the most classic view is from the opposite riverbank or from the stone bridge. At sunset, the silhouettes of the spires and their reflections in the river are at their most captivating. The cenotaph grounds require a ticket (included in the Orchha combined ticket). Near the ghats you can swim in the river, and there is also a Betwa River inflatable-raft rafting activity, though the current is stronger after the rainy season.
Opening hours
09:00–17:00 (riverside on the opposite bank open all day)
Nearby sights
- Phool Bagh & Sawan Bhadon
- Chaturbhuj Temple
- Ram Raja Temple
- Raja Mahal
- Jahangir Mahal
- Rai Praveen Mahal
- Laxmi Narayan Temple
- Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary