Madhya Pradesh tourism has announced that the historical town – Orchha situated in Madhya Pradesh has been included in UNESCO’s tentative list of world heritage sites followed a proposal sent by The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to the UN body. Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a prime tourism destination on the national and international map and is considered as the tourism trendsetter in the country.
Orchha near Jhansi is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh and home to some unique architecture and buildings. Nestled on the banks of river Betwa, it was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput Chief, Rudra Pratap. The ancient town is also famous for its two elevated minarets called Saavan and Bhadon and its four palaces — Jahangir Palace, Raj Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Rai Praveen Mahal — and for its concept of open bungalows, stonework windows, and animal statues depicting the culture of Bundelkhand. It is the only place in India where Lord Ram is worshipped as a king with a dedicated temple in his name called Sri Ram Raja Mandir.
Orchha is more than the historic monuments and ancient temples it houses. It has offerings for visitors of all kinds – be it nature lovers or adventure junkies, or history buffs alike. While Orchha tourist places primarily comprise the historic monuments built in the erstwhile era, the place is also blessed with a scenic natural landscape.
The majestic River Betwa flows through the town of Orchha, enchanting visitors with a picturesque sunset view while they explore the ruined settlement. The town is also home to a wide range of fauna as the Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary houses exotic creatures, giving wildlife enthusiasts a nice experience.
The Responsible Tourism initiatives taken by the state’s several private and government organisations such as Pench Tree Lodge in Pench, Salban – the Kanha Homestay, Flame of the Forest & Kipling Camp in Kanha, Denwa Backwater Escape in Satpura, Art Ichol in Maihar has resulted in outstanding results and the state has emerged as a model destination in implementation of responsible tourism. Madhya Pradesh tourism has always taken new initiatives to promote the heritage of Madhya Pradesh keeping in mind the responsibility of protecting them.
As one of the initiatives for 2019-2020, the board plans to work forwards responsible tourism by maintaining essential ecological processes and conserving natural heritage and biodiversity of Madhya Pradesh for future generations.
