Rani Mahal

Wrapped in elegance and magnificence that only befits the royalty, the Rani Mahal of Orccha is an enchanting fortification right from the pages of the history bygone. The fort is beautifully embellished with intricate carvings and colourful paintings which make quite the statement about the art and artists of Uttar Pradesh. Translating to 'the queen's palace', this destination once served as the royal quarters for the wife of Raja Madhukar Singh, and its last occupant was Rani Laxmi Bai herself. The palace has now been converted into a museum.

Spread over a vast area and surrounded by splendid gardens, the architecture and presence of the Rani Mahal is quite humbling. The entire palace is beautifully decorated with detailed stonework on the outside, while the inside holds mesmerising illustrations and murals of holy epics like the Ramayana.

Since the palace is now a museum, you can easily access these precious artefacts and learn more about the history of the place. The museum has paintings from the ninth and twelfth century and also houses various scriptures. Built against the backdrop of the beautiful Betwa river, the Rani Mahal of Orccha is a must visit for one and all.