Jhansi

The gateway to Bundelkhand, Jhansi is a city that is linked still with the legend of its fiery queen, Rani Laxmibai.

In the 1857 war against the British, she led her troops into battle, striking a blow for Indian independence and laying her life down for her cause. Jhansi is ideally located for various rewarding excursions in the area.

Jhansi was a stronghold of the Chandela kings. Balwant Nagar was the name of this place. But in 11th. century Jhansi lost its importance. In 17th. century under Raja Bir Singh Deo of Orchha Jhansi again rose to prominence. Raja Bir Singh Deo had good relations with the mughal emperor Jehangir. In 1613 Raja Bir Singh Deo constructed the Jhansi fort. He died in 1627. After his death his son Juhar Singh succeeded him.

Maharaja Chattrasal Bundela of Panna was a good administrator and a brave warrior. In 1729 Mohammed Khan Bangash attacked Chattrasal. Peshwa Baji Rao(I ) helped Maharaja Chattrasal and defeated mughal army. As a mark of gratitude Maharaja Chattrasal offered a part of his state to Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao(I). Jhansi was also included in this part.

In 1742 Naroshanker was made the subedar of Jhansi. During his tenure of 15 years he not only extended the Jhansi fort which was of strategic importance but also constructed some other buildings. The extended part of the fort is called Shankergarh. In 1757 Naroshanker was called back by the Peshwa. After him Madhav Govind Kakirde and then Babulal Kanahai were made the subedars of Jhansi.

In 1766 Vishwas Rao Laxman was made the subedar of Jhansi. His period was from 1766 to 1769. After him Raghunath Rao (II) Newalkar was appointed the subedar of Jhansi. He was a very able administrator. He increased the revenue of the state. The MahaLakshmi Temple and the Raghunath Temple were built by him. For his own residence he constructed a beautiful building Rani Mahal in the city. In 1796 Raghunath Rao passed the subedari in favour of his brother Shiv Rao Hari.

Excursion
Baruasagar
Baruasagar named after a large lake called Baruasagar Tal. This lake was created about 260 years ago when Raja Udit Singh of Orcha erected and embankment. A fort was built by him. The ruins of two old Chandela Temples, made of granite, are on the north-east of the lake. The older one is called Ghughua Math. Nearby is the later Gupta period temple called Jarai-Ka-Math. This is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati.

Paricha Dam
Paricha Dam is built on the river Betwa. Its reservoir - a placid stretch of water that runs to Notghat Bridge which is 34 Km. away. This is an ideal place not only for water sports but also for adventure seekers and picnickers. The whole area is rich in scenic beauty and holds the promise of an unforgettable holiday.

Todi Fathepur
The Todi Fathepur fort is built on a hillock. It covers an area of 5 acres and is surrounded by three massive stone walls. This fort is divided into four major parts known as Gusain Mahal, Ranwas, Rajgarh Palace and the Rang Mahal Palace.

Samthar
Samthar which was formerly know as Samshergarh. Samthar was an independent principality under the great Gujar warriors. The independent state of Samthar was created by Chandrabhan Bar Gujar and his grand son Madan singh, Governors of the state of Datia.

Orcha
Orcha, one of the ancient city situated on the bank of Betwa. This place is famous for Raja Ram Temple and various other historical monuments. Orcha was founded in 16th Century by the Bundela Chieftain, Rudra Pratap Singh.

The main historical are the Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, Rai Praveen Mahal, Laxmi Narayan Temple and the Chaturbhuj Temple.

Datia
Datia, an ancient town, mention in the Mahabharat as "Daityavakra". It is a pilgrimage spot for devotees of Siddhapeeth Shri Peetambra Devi. The other places of interest are seven-storied palace of Raja Bir singh Ju Deo built atop a hill and the Gopeshwar Temple.

Shivpuri
Shivpuri, the summer capital of the scindia rulers of Gwalior. It is famous for its forests, wild animals and natural surroundings. The place of interest are the Madhav National Park, Madhav Vilas Palace , George Castle and the Bhadaiya Kund.

Sonagiri
Sonagiri, the sacred Jain hill. There are about 77 Jain temples build along the hills and its slopes. Among these the most beautiful is the one which is dedicated to Chatranatha, the 8th of the 24 Tirthankaras.

Khajuraho
Khajuraho temples are a rare gift to the world. These temples were erected in a span of 100 years from 950 AD to 1050 AD these temples were constructed under Chandel Rajput.

The Kandariya Mahadev Temple is one of the most beautiful temple. It is 116 feet high having largest number of sculptures of alluring beauty. The other important temples are the Chausath Yogini Temple, Matangeshwar Temple, Varaha Temple, Vamana Temple, Adinath Temple, Chaturbhuj and Duladeo Temples.

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Getting There
By Road
Jhansi is situated on National Highways No. 25 and 26 and is well connected with the entire country.

By Air
Nearest airports are Gwalior - 103 km .and Khajuraho - 175 km.

By Rail
A junction along the Mumbai (Bombay) - Delhi route on Central Railway, Jhansi is well linked by rail.

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