Bundelkhand

UTTAR PRADESHUTTAR PRADESHINDIAINDIA

BundelkhandBundelkhandBundelkhandBundelkhandegatireH lacirotsiH

egatireH lacirotsiH

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM, U.P.C-13, Vipin Khand, Gomti Nagar,

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, INDIATel.: 91-522-2308916, 2307028, Fax : 91-522-2308937

E-mail : [email protected], [email protected]

Amazing Heritage Grand Experiences

Temple at Chandpur (Lalitpur)Temple at Chandpur (Lalitpur)

The

rom

ance

of Bundelkhand

he romance of Bundelkhand is still alive today. Rugged Forts

and Palaces-the legacy of its chequered past echo with tales of

valour and chivalry that bear a silent testimony to the splendour

of an era long gone by.

Bundelkhand emerged from the mists of history during the 9th

century under the rule of the mighty Chandelas. The

Chandelas governed the destiny of Central India for nearly

three hundred years. The Bundelas who came to power six

centuries later were also to command influence in this region.

Bir Singh Ju Deo (1605-1627 AD) was a powerful ruler.

Centuries later during the First Freedom Struggle of 1857,

Bundelkhand produced another charismatic leader, the young,

valiant Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi - who led her troops to revolt

against the might of the British.

The area known as Bundelkhand is today identified with the

districts of Jhansi, Lalitpur, Jalaun, Hamirpur, Banda, Mahoba

and Chitrkoot in Uttar Pradesh and Sagar, Chhatarpur,

T i k a m g a r h , P a n n a ,

Damoh , Parts of Gwalior,

D a t i a , S h i v p u r i &

Chanderi in Madhya

Pradesh.

Bundelkhand's grandeur

and magnificence can be

explored in its ancient

r e l i g i o u s s i t e s a n d

glor ious monuments.

Hidden treasures all waiting to be discovered; an ideal for a

unique holiday of discovery and fun.

- 56' high rock-cut statue of Narsingh incarnation at Dudhai (Lalitpur)

Baruasagar (Jhansi)

T

- Cover Page : Jhansi

St. Jude's ShrineDandi March - Jhansi

T

ansh iJ ansh iJ ansh iJ

ansh iJ

he gateway to Bundelkhand, Jhansi is a city that is linked with the legend of its famous Rani Laxmibai. In the 1857 war of Independence against the British, she led her troops into battle at the age of 22 and sacrificed her life for the country.

Jhansi is ideally located for various rewarding excursions in the area. Within easy reach are fascinating destinations like Baruasagar & Jarai Math, Deogarh, Orchha, Talbehat, Datia, Shivpuri & Khajuraho.

In recent years another dimension has been added to this splendid destination - 'Ayurved Jhansi Festival', an annual event held in November/December every year: a display of art, craft, culture, herbals and Ayurvedic products.

Jhansi Fort :

Sound and Light Show

Rani Mahal :

State Museum :

Lord Ganesh Temple :

Karguan Jain Temple :

The Jhansi Fort atop a rocky hill, was built originally by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in 1613. The Fort has been a witness to the fiery battle led by Rani Laxmibai. The 'Karak Bijli' and 'Bhawani Shankar' cannons of the Queen are kept here. The temples of Lord Shiva and Ganesh are also inside the Fort. It provides an excellent insight into the eventful history of Bundelkhand.Reception office at Fort-Tel. 0510-2442325.

Entry ticket: Indian Rs. 5/- and Foreigner Rs. 100/-,

Visiting hours : Sunrise to Sunset.

(Son-et-lumiere) is held every evening at the Fort, depicting the story of the war of Independence in 1857 and the life and struggle of Rani Laxmibai.

Show timing: every evening 6.30 (winter), 7.30 (summer).

Tickets: Indian-Rs.20/- and Foreigner-Rs.250/-.

This was the palace of Rani Laxmibai. A fine collection of sculptures belonging to the period between 9th and 12th centuries has been displayed here by the Archaeological Survey of India. Entry ticket: Indian-Rs.5/- and Foreigner-Rs.100/-. Tel.:0510-2328220.

The Museum has collection of terracotta, bronzes, sculptures, arms, manuscripts, paintings and coins of gold, silver and copper. An exclusive gallery on Rani Laxmibai, Amar Shaheed gallery, animated visuals, children games are the attractions. Closed on Mondays & second Sunday. Tel: 0510-2330035, Visiting hours : 10:30am to 4:30pm, Entry Fee: Indian-Rs. 5/-, Foreigner-Rs.25/-

It is an old temple built by the Marathas. Rani Laxmibai's marriage ceremony rituals were performed here.

Situated on a foothill, it houses 14th century old idol of Lord Parshvanathji.

Other places of interest are Laxmital, Narayanbagh, Gangadhar Rao Chhatri, Goddess Kali Temple, Kaimasan Mata Temple, Lahardevi Temple, Murli Manohar Temple, Ram-Janki Temple, Jeevan Shah ki Mazar, St. Jude's Shrine, Laxmibai and Panchtantra Parks etc.

Wh

at

to s

ee

:

Fort - Jhansi

Rani Laxmi Bai

2 3

Barua Sagar Fort & Lake (Jhansi)

Distances from Jhansi to major tourist centres :

Orchha(M.P.) -18 km

Baruasagar - 21 km

Datia(M.P.) - 28 km

Gwalior(M.P.) - 103 km

Deogarh(M.P.) - 133 km

Khajuraho(M.P.) - 178 km

Agra - 191 km

Kanpur - 220 km

Lucknow - 292 km

Delhi - 416 km

Jaipur(Rajsthan)- - 450 km

Varanasi - 680 km

Air -

Rail -

Road -

Local Transport :

Nearest airports are Gwalior (M.P.)-103 km and Khajuraho (M.P.)-175 km.

A junction; Jhansi is situated on Delhi-Agra-Jhansi Route. Important fast trains from all major cities of India are available. Railway Enquiry Tel.131, Helpline:0510-2440441.

Jhansi is situated on National Highways 25 and 26 and is well connected with the entire country.

Tourist taxis are available at Taxi Stand, Elite Crossing. Tempos and Auto Rickshaws operate on a point to point basis.

Where to stay :Hotel Veerangana (U.P.S.T.D.C), Shivpuri Road, Tel. : 0510-2441267

Fax: 0510-2449473.

Hotel Sita, Shivpuri Road, Tel. : 2444690, 2442956, Fax: 0510-2470259.

Jhansi Hotel, Civil Lines, Tel. : 2470360, Fax: 0510-2470470.

Apna Guest House,Elite Crossing, Tel. : 0510-2231914.

Yatrik Hotel, Elite Crossing-Allahabad Bank Road,Tel.: 0510-2370999, 6540999.

Tulsi Hotel, Chitra Crossing, Tel.:0510-6451533.

Samrat Hotel, Chitra rossing, Tel.:0510-2451290, 244993.

Apart from the above, Jhansi has other inexpensive accommodation also .

Tourist Information Centres :

* U.P. Govt. Regional Tourist office, Hotel Veerangana campus, Shivpuri Road, Jhansi. Tel. : 0510-2441267.E-mail : [email protected]

* Tourist Information Centre, Jhansi Railway Station.

* M.P. Tourist Information Centre, Jhansi Railway Station, Tel. : 0510-2442622.

Pahuj Dam: 8 km from Jhansi, the Pahuj Dam and waterfall on the Pahuj river is a beautiful picnic spot on Jhansi-Gwalior route.

Baruasagar Fort and Lake : 21 km from Jhansi, on the route to Khajuraho, Baruasagar is the historic spot where the battle between the Peshwa's troops and the Bundelas was fought in 1744. This is where Joti Bhau, the elder brother of Maharaja Madhuji Scindia was killed.

The place is named after the Baruasagar Tal, a large lake formed about 260 years ago, when an embankment was erected by Raja Udit Singh of Orchha. The embarkment structure is unique example of architecture and engineering. A fine, old fort built by him, picturesquely situated on an eminence, commands an excellent view of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

To the north-east of the lake are ruins of two old Chandela Temples. Built of granite, the older one is known as Ghughua Math. Nearby is the later Gupta period temple known as Jarai-ka-Math just on the Highway. It is dedicated to Shiva and Parvati. The eastern side of its shikhara is lavishly ornamented with massive stone sculptures.

How to get there :

Aro

und

Jha

nsi

Aro

und

Jha

nsi

Gangadhar Rao Ki Chhatri

4 5

Parichha :

Talbehat and Matatila:

Sukwa-Dhukwa :

Garhmau Lake :

Todi-Fatehpur Fort :

Samthar Fort :

Parichha Dam, built on the river Betwa, is about 25 km from Jhansi on the Jhansi-Kanpur National Highway No. 25. The whole area is rich in scenic beauty.

50 km from Jhansi. Here is a vast Mansarovar Lake situated on the Jhansi-Lalitpur-Deogarh highway at Talbehat. On the bank of the lake are Fort of Mardan Singh, Hazaria Mahadev Temple and Ghats. 10 km. away is Matatila water reservoir built on the Betwa river. The lake is ideal for water sports.

39 km from Jhansi, Dhukwa reservoir built in 1909. During rainy season, one can see about 1 Km. wide waterfall, from a tunnel below the Betwa river, behind the waterfall.

12 km from Jhansi. This is a 14 km. long lake surrounded by low lying hills, approachable from N.H. 25 on Kanpur road.

12 km from Jhansi. The fort, which is almost in ruins, covers an area of 5 acres, built on a hillock and is surrounded by three massive stone walls. It is divided into 4 main parts the oldest and the uppermost being Gusain Mahal, the next being 'Ranwas', the third, Rajgarh Palace and the fourth the Rangmahal Palace, which is a splendid four storied building embellished with paintings on the walls and ceilings.

Samthar lies at a distance of 70 km. from Jhansi and 13 km. from Moth. Formerly called 'Samshergarh', it is now known as 'Samthar'. It was an independent principality under the great Gujar warriors of the 17th and18th centuries. Chandrabhan Bar Gujar and his grandson Madan Singh, governors of the state of Datia, are credited with the creation of the independent state of Samthar.

The Samthar Fort is well maintained. The royal gold throne, gilded palanquins displayed inside the Fort are the major attractions.

Jarai Math (On Highway to Khajuraho)

Protection Wall-cum-Ghat-cum-Jetty of Baruasagar Lake

6 7

Datia (M.P.) :

Sonagiri (M.P.) :

Pawagiri:

Kalpi:

Kedareshwar (MAURANIPUR) :

Rampura Fort :

Mahoba:

Chitrakoot:

Kalinjar Fort:

28 km from Jhansi,. Datia is an ancient town, which is mentioned in the Mahabharat as 'Daityavakra'. The main historical monument here is the seven-storied Palace of Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo, built atop a hillock with a splendid view over looking a lake. A temple with Mughal style frescoes and the Gopeshwar Temple are other attractions here. It is also a pilgrimage spot for devotees of Siddhapeeth Shri Peetambara Devi and a Shiva Temple of the Mahabharat era.

45 km. from Jhansi, this sacred Jain site has some 77 Jain temples, built along the hill and its slopes which date back to the 17th century. Of these, the temple dedicated to Lord Chhatranathaji, the 8th of the 24 Tirthankaras, is the most beautiful.

45 km. It is another famous Jain site.

142 km. Kalpi has been associated with the war of Independence in 1857. Mantrana Kaksha, Vyas Tila Temple, New Vyas Temple, Lanka Meenar are the attractions here.

70 km. Situated on the hillock. There are 600 stone steps leading to the temple which is situated on top of a hillock. It is a unique Shiva Linga placed on the back of VRASHAB- the Nandi of Lord Shiva.

A three hundred year old fort is now a Heritage Home Stay property approved by UP Tourism. For accommodation contact: Mob.no. 94150-32466. website: www.fortrampura.com, E-mail : [email protected]

170 km. from Jhansi. A heritage property having natural rural scenic beauty.

155 km. The ancient capital of the Chandela Kings, Mahoba is known for its lakes, temples and betel farming.

270 km. This hallowed center is famous for its religious importance and close association with Lord Rama.

280 km. This ancient fort is a reminiscence of glorious history and mythology.

Jagmanpur Fort (Jalaun district) :

Orchha (M.P.) :

Shivpuri (M.P.) :

18 km. from Jhansi, it was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela chieftain, Rudra Pratap Singh, who built this new capital on the bank of river Betwa. Today, remains of the fort and palaces speak eloquently of Orchha's time of glory and its splendid legacy of art and culture. Though little more than a village today, stepping back in time and exploring Orchha's fortress and palaces is an enjoyable experience.

The places of interest in Orchha include the multi-tiered Jehangir Mahal, within the fort, built in 1606, the Raj Mahal is noted for its fine murals and the Rai Praveen Mahal and also Anand Mahal a palace set in the gardens. Orchha has tall spired temples that are certainly worth a visit. Notable among them are the Ram Raja Temple, Laxminarain Temple with its exuberant frescoes, and the Chaturbhuj Temple. These shrines have some of the best preserved murals in Orchha. Across the river are Fourteen Chhatris - the cenotaphs or memorials built for the rulers of Orchha. Saket museum is worth seeing.

101 km. from Jhansi. The summer capital of the Scindia rulers of Gwalior. Shivpuri is located on the main Delhi - Mumbai highway, south of Gwalior. Shivpuri's dense forests were once used by the Mughal rulers as their hunting grounds and even today, it is famous for its reserved forests, wild life and natural surroundings.

Among the places of interest is the Madhav National Park - a wildlife sanctuary with the Sakhya Sagar Lake within it. The two royal residences the Madhav Vilas Palace, the summer residence of the Scindias and the turreted, stone hunting lodge-the George Castle built by Jiyaji Rao Scindia are worth visiting. The Bhadaiya Kund, a pretty area noted for its mineral springs is also a popular picnic spot.

Sukwa-Dhukwa Weir Water Fall (Jhansi)Betwa River

Sukwa-Dhukwa Weir Water Fall (Jhansi)Betwa River

Open Window Tunnel Below Sukwa-Dhukwa Water Fall (1909 A.D.)

Open Window Tunnel Below Sukwa-Dhukwa Water Fall (1909 A.D.)

8 9

What to see :Dashavatar Temple :

Jain Shrines :

This fine Vishnu temple of the Gupta period is the earliest known Panchayatan temple of north India. The terraced basement above the high temple plinth is adorned with a continuous row of sculptured panels. A highly carved doorway with Ganga-Yamuna figures lead to the sanctorum or garbhagriha. Three big Rathika Panels set in the side walls have Vaishnava mythological scenes carved in high relief - the Gajendra Moksha panel, Nara-Narayan tapasya and the Anantshai Vishnu. The Temple is noted for being the first north Indian temple with a Shikhara or spire. Only the lower part of the Shikhara remains today. Erotic panels are added attractions.

The group of 31 Jain temples, though of a later date, are no less remarkable. The site was a Jain centre from the post - Gupta times till the 17th century. Panels depicting scenes from Jain mythology, Tirthankara images, a Manastambha (votive pillar), Ayagpatta (votive tablet) Sarvatobhadra Pratima (Jain images visible from all sides) and Sahastrakuta (pillar carved with a thousand Jain figures) are found here. A row of more than 2000

Manast

am

bha -

Jain

Tem

ple

DeogarhDeogarh

133 km from Jhansi, Deogarh in district Lalitpur, is of great antiquarian, epigraphical and archaeological importance and has figured in the history of the Guptas, the Gurjara - Pratiharas, the Gondas, the Muslim rulers of Delhi & Kalpi, the Marathas and the British.

It is situated on the right bank of the river Betwa, at the western end of the Lalitpur range. The cliffs overhanging the bank rise to a height of 300 feet and form a long steep ridge of red sandstone. The river takes a deep curve to the west at this juncture and passes through an extremely picturesque country side.

Ho

w t

o g

et

there

: Air - Nearest airport is Gwalior (M.P.) - 235 km.

Rail - Nearest convenient railway station is Lalitpur - 33 km.

Road - Deogarh is connected with regular bus service from Lalitpur, Jhansi and Lucknow.

Where to stay :U.P.S.T.D.C. Tourist Bungalow. Tel. 05176-282681 e-mail: [email protected]

Jain Dharamshala : About 100 rooms. Veg. food only. Tel. 0517-6282533

Accommodation available at the nearest Lalitpur town (33 km.) :-

Shri Digambar Jain Dharamshala Tel. 282533, 293699

Hotel Good Luck. Tel. 274548

Hotel Aakash. Tel. 272371, 272428

Hotel Lalit Palace. Tel. 273624

Hotel Kapil

10 11

Ga

jendra

-Moks

ha P

anel

Nar-

Nara

yan P

anel

Dashavatar Temple

To Bombay

To Bhopal

ToNagpur

MADHYA PRADESH

Agra

Gwalior

Bhind

Rampura

Jagmanpur

Rive

r Yam

una

Sonagiri

Datia

SamtharKonch

Orai

Kalpi

Erich

Kaushambi

UTTAR PRADESH

River KenMaudaha

Hamirpur

Kanpur

River

Road

Railway Line

Tourist Places

Tourist Bunglow

Jalaun

River Betwa

Lalitpur

Deogarh Mahraoni

Tikamgarh

River Dhasan

Chattarpur

Bamitha

Panna

NagodSatna

Rewa

GarauthaShivpuri

Jhansi

Matatila Dam

Talbehat

Orchha

Barua Sagar Todi Fatehpur

MauRanipur

Mahoba

Charkhari

Chanderi Ajaigarh

Kalinjar

Khajuraho

NarainiChitrakoot

Karwi

Atarra

Rajapur MauAllahabad

Rath

BandaParichha

GUIDE MAP OF BUNDELKHANDDelhi

Lucknow

AllahabadVaranasi

12 13

- 145 Km. -

- 56 K

m. -

- 133 K

m. -

- 63

Km

. -

- 70

Km

. -

- 101 Km. -

sculptures can be seen at one place.

This temple, dedicated toVarah incarnation, is now in ruins. It is situated in the forest on the banks of Betwa river.

The museum has a fine collection of sculptures. Other attractions are Nahar Ghati, Raj Ghati, Siddha Gufa on Betwa river bank within the forest.

A town that is famous for its gossamer Chanderi saris has also some of the finest examples of Bundela, Rajput and Malwa Sultanate architecture. A magnificent Mughal fort dominates the skyline of this interesting old town.

Among the sites here are the Koshak Mahal, an old palace said to have been commissioned by Mahmud Khilji in 1445, the Badal Mahal Gate a victory arch, the imposing Jama Masjid, the Shahzadi ka Rouza, a building with decorative arches and the Parmeshwar Tal. Chanderi has also a number of ancient Jain Temples.

25 km. There is an ASI protected Neelkantheshwar Mahadev Temple on a hillock, having a three headed unique Shiva sculpture each in a different aspect of Lord Shiva. The place is also known for betel growing.

25 km. Reachable via village Dhaurra. ASI protected Ranchhoreji Temple, on bank of Betwa river is the major attraction.

5 km. from of Dhaujari and 30 km. from Deogarh it is approachable by forest road. Natural caves which are situated in the valley attracts sadhus. It is believed that Saint Muchkund lived and meditated here and Lord Krishna had also visited here during the Mahabharat era.

A 56 feet high rockcut sculpture of Narsimha Avatar is carved in a hillock in the forest area 40 km. from Deogarh.

55 km. It is a big water reservoir on Betwa River.

Varah Temple:

Archaeological Museum:

Chanderi (M.P.) :

Pali :

Dhaujari :

Muchkund Cave :

Dudhai :

Raj Ghat:

Around Deogarh :

MahobaAir -

Rail -

Road -

Where to stay :

What to see :Lakes of Mahoba :

The nearest airport is Khajuraho (M.P.) - 63 km.

Mahoba is well connected with rail service.

It is linked with the major cities of

U.P. and M.P.

U.P.S.T.D.C. Rahi Tourist Bungalow, Bajrang Chowk, Gandhi Nagar, Mahoba. Tel.: 05281-244108 E-mail:[email protected]

Atithi Hotel, Alha Chowk Tel. 255111

Shivam Hotel, near U.P.S.R.T.C. Bus Stand

Paras Hotel, Near Udal Chowk Tel.:244181

Trishul Hotel, near Khauk Bazar

An account of Mahoba in the Chandela period would remain incomplete without the mention of its magnificent Lakes. These were formed by building massive embankments across

shallow valleys.

The Lakes include Rahila Sagar, built by Rahila (885-905 AD), the 5th Chandela ruler,

T

Sun Temple at Rahila Sagar

Ho

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o g

et

there

:

he ancient capital of the mighty Chandelas, Mahoba, lying at a distance of 140 km. from Jhansi, is another fascinating destination. The Chandelas, who were great warriors and builders, left behind an extraordinary legacy here. The impregnable Fort on top of a hill and a series of Lakes created by them are brilliant engineering feats and their successful water management systems are still to be seen today. Mahoba was once a centre for art and culture. Bards still sing praises of its glorious days and of the saga of Alha and Udal, legendary brothers who sacrificed their lives for the honour of their land. Today, the town is also known for the excellence of its Paan (Betel) and various variet ies of paan-leaf are despatched to all parts of the country from here.

Mahoba

Rock Cut on Bank of Betwa River, Deogarh14 15

who also built the Sun Temple; the Kirat Sagar, built by Kirtivarman (1060-1100 AD) and Vijay Sagar, built by Vijay Pal Chandela (1035-1060AD). The Madan Sagar, built by Madan Verma (1128-1165 AD), is also a picturesque sight.

Near Madan Sagar is the famous granite Lord Shiva temple known as Kakramath, built in the Khajuraho style of temple architecture. The Madan Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu also stands nearby. On an island in the lake stands Majhari, the ruins of another Lord Vishnu temple. Along the northern embankment is an old Chandela Fort known as Qila Mismar along with the ruins of Parmal's Palace. The celebrated Maniya Deve Temple, the massive stone pillar known as Deewat or Alha-ki-Gilli and the Dargah of Pir Mubarak Shah, the tomb of a Muslim saint from

Arabia, who settled in Mahoba in 1252 AD, also stand in the Fort area.

A roof less, granite-pillared Baradari, known as Alha's Baithak, stands on the south-east end of the embankment. Near the southern end of M a d a n S a g a r a r e Te m p l e s o f B a r i Chandrika Devi, the Lord Shiva cave temple of Katheshwar and on the adjoining hillock, 24 rock-hewn images of Jain Tirthankaras.

The Sun Temple, among the rare few still to be found in northern India, is located at Rahila Sagar. Though in a ruined state, it is still an excellent example of Chandela architecture.

Besides the tanks, Mahoba has two famous Chandela period Kunds (pools) lined with granite slabs in a reverse pyramid shape. Ram Kund is located to the west of Madan Sagar, while Suraj Kund is near Rahila Sagar. Both originally served as Havan Kunds (Pits for sacrificial fires) for the great yajnas performed by the mighty Chandela rulers.

This hill, where Guru Gorakhnathji resided with his disciple Sidho Dipak Nath, is dramatic with massive granite rocks perched atop one another in a striking manner. A huge, carved Gajantak Shiva sculpture in the foothills can also be seen. The spot is ideal for picnics and rock climbing.

20 km. from Mahoba on N.H. 86, Charkhari is noted for Mangal Garh Fort on the Mulia Hills. Guman Bihari Temple, Govardhan Temple and lakes which form a unique scenic water body. The erstwhile Maharaja's palace is a heritage home stay. Contact: 05283-266138. Govardhan Mela, celebrated during the month of Kartik, Oct./Nov. draws a large number of devotees from far and near.

Temples and other monuments :

Kunds :

The Gorakhgiri Hill :

Charkhari:

Ram Ghat, Chitrakoot

Bari Chandrika devi

Air - Nearest airports- Allahabad - 145 km. and Khajuraho (M.P.)-185 km.

Rail - Nearest railway station- Karvi - 8 km. and Banda - 70 km.

Road - It is well connected with the main cities of U.P. and M.P.

Tourist Information Centre

U.P. Govt. Tourist Office. U.P.S.T.D.C. Tourist Bungalow Campus, Chitrakoot.

Tel. : 05198-224219, 224218 Fax:224652.

Where to stay :

U.P.S.T.D.C. Tourist Bungalow, Chitrakoot. Tel. : 05198-224219, 222218 Fax:224652. E-mail: [email protected]. Tourist Bungalow, near Ramghat. Tel.: 07670-265326Matoshri Jaidevi Anand Ram Jaipuria Smriti Bhawan. Tel.: 05198-210204Kamad Giri Bhawan, Near Ram Ghat. Tel. : 05198-224313Annapurna (Vinod Lodge), Near Ramghat. Tel. : 05198-224415Roopali Lodge, Railway Station, Karvi. Tel. : 236248Hotel Panchvati, Arogyadham Campus. Tel. : 07670-265609Ram Darbar, Near Arogyadham

The famous Pan of Mahoba

Chitrakoot, the celebrated pilgrimage town is 8 km. south of Karvi town and 70 km. south-east of Banda district on the road to Allahabad.

A tranquil retreat, it is located on the northern spur of the Vindhyas. Chitrakoot, 'the hill of many wonders', is a gift of nature and the gods. A city with more than one legendary significance, according to the epic Ramayana it was the abode of Lord Ram and mother Sita for eleven years during their exile; the place where Sage Atri and Sati Anasuya also lived. This holy city, the abode of the gods, is set in sylvan surroundings on the beautiful river Mandakini. It is dotted with innumerable temples and shrines.

Ho

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o g

et

there

:

ChitrakootChitrakoot

16 17

What to see :

Ram Ghat :

Kamadgiri :

Hanuman Dhara :

Janki Kund :

Sphatik Shila :

Ramdarshan :

Around Chitrakoot :

Sitapur :

With the very first rays of the sun that gleam upon the river Mandakini, Ram Ghat stirs into life. Devotees of all ages take the rituals, purifying dip in the waters and invoke the blessings of the gods. The activity builds up to a crescendo of colour and to spontaneous expressions of faith through the day. The evening 'Arti' at Ram Ghat is a unique experience for the devotees as well as for the tourists. Raja Matagayendranath Temple, Bharatji Temple, Tulsidasji Temple, Budhey Hanumanji Temple and nearby Lord Tirupati Balaji Temple are the attractions.

2 km. away from Chitrakoot, lies Kamadgiri - a place of prime religious significance. A forested hill - it is a skirted all along its base by a chain of temples and is revered even today as the holy embodiment of Lord Ram. Lord Kamtanathji Temple is one of the most important temples of Chitrakoot. The Bharat Milap Temple is the spot where Bharat is said to have met brother Ram, to persuade him to return to the throne of Ayodhya. Many worshippers even today perform the holy Parikrama, the ritual circuit, of the sacred hill to ask for a boon or a blessing.

Located on a steep hillside, it is approachable by a flight of 360 steps. Here, the waters of a spring tumble down over an image of Lord Hanuman.

3 km. from Chitrakoot, this cave over the Mandakini river has always astounded visitors. It is said that mother Sita took her bath at this spot

during her stay in Chitrakoot.

This unique and picturesque spot is located on a huge rock. It is said that

Lord Ram and mother Sita used to sit here and enjoy the scenic beauty of

the place.

Here different aspects of Lord Ram have been attractivily exhibited through the status.

Located on the left bank of Payaswini river. Sitapur is closely connected with both Chitrakoot and the sacred Kamadgiri, which is just 2 km to the south-west of

the town. Pilgrims first bathe in the Payaswini river at Sitapur

and then move on to do the Parikrama of Lord Kamtanathji.

Originally the town was known as Jaisinghpur. In 1739, Aman Singh, Raja of Panna gave Jaisinghpur to Mahant Charan Das, who changed its name to Sitapur in honour of mother Sita.

11 km from Chitrakoot, on the Karvi-Devangana road, near Siddhapur Banari village, is Ganesh Bagh. Here an exquisitely carved Lord Shiva temple, ruins of a residential palace and a seven storied baoli built during the reign of the Peshwa Vinayak Rao, stand in mute testimony to the splendid forms of art and architecture that once flourished in the area. Near by are Banke Siddha Koti Teerth and Devangana Valley.

13 km. from Chitrakoot, Sati Anasuya Ashram is located further upstream. It was here that Sage Atri, his wife Anasuya and their three sons (the three incarnations-Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh) are said to have meditated. The Mandakini is believed to have been created here by Anasuya through her meditation. A winding road through densely wooded hills leads to the spot.

19 km. from Chitrakoot, the Gupt-Godavari is a tiny rivulet flowing into a tank at the end of an underground cave. It is believed that Lord Ram and his brother Lakshman held court in the cave, which has two natural throne like rocks.

Just 36 km. from Chitrakoot, is the village where great saint Goswami Tulsidas, the illustrious poet of Sri Ram Charit Manas, was born.

22 km. from Chitrakoot lies Bharat Koop believed to contain the holy waters of the sacred rivers brought by the younger brother Bharat, to celebrate the Rajyabhishek (coronation) ceremony of Lord Ram.

Ganesh Bagh :

Sati Anasuya :

Gupt Godavari :

Rajapur :

Bharat Koop :

Gupta Godawari

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Baruasagar Fort & Lake

280 km. from Jhansi, the Kalinjar town and the Fort, which have had strategic importance since the earliest of times, are located in the ancient land of Jejakbhukti which was an integral part of Bundelkhand. The Fort, a stronghold of the Chandelas from the 9th to the 15th century, remained an invincible citadel, prized for its location, right upto the time of the Mughals.

During its eventful career, the Fort was subject to numerous wars. Mohammed Ghazni, Qutb-ud-din Aibak and Humayun, all invaded this stronghold of the Chandelas. It was Akbar who finally conquered it in 1569 and bequeathed it as a gift to Birbal, one of his "nine jewels". From Birbal it went to Chhatrasal, the legendary Bundela warrior and then to Hardev Shah of Panna. In 1812 it fell into the hands of the British. This Fort with its romantic and extraordinary history is an excellent destination to visit.

The township of Kalinjar was once enclosed within a high rampart wall with four gateways, only three of which exist today. These are popularly known as the Kamta Dwar, Panna Dwar and Rewa Dwar.

Air : Nearest airports are Khajuraho(M.P.) - 130 km. and Allahabad (Bamrauli) - 210 Km.

Rail : The nearest railway station are Atarra - 38 km. and Banda - 56 Km.

Road : Kalinjar is linked by road to the important centres.

Where to Stay :

Govt. Forest Rest House

Hotel Comfort Inn, Banda (57 Km.)

Tel.: 05192-290300

Hotel Sarang Intercontinental, Banda Tel.: 05192-227799

Hotel Sindha Saurabh, Banda Tel.: 05192-227166

UPSTDC Tourist Bungalow, Chitrakoot ( 78 Km.)

Tel.: 05198-224218-19

KalinjarKalinjarKalinjar

Kalinjar Fort-Kal Bhairav

Kalinjar Fort- Nilkantheshwar Temple

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KalpiKalpiKalpiWhat to see :

Kalinjar Fort : Situated on a high hillock in the Vindhyan ranges, the fort was approached through seven gates or check posts before entering the main fort area. These splendid gateways are the Alam Darwaza or Alamgir Darwaza, Ganesh Dwar, Chandi or Chauburji Darwaza, Budha Bhadra Darwaza, Hanuman Dwar, Lal Darwaza and Bara Darwaza. Within the fort are the remains of two palaces, the Raja Mahal and the Rani Mahal.

Among places of interest within the main fort area are Sita Sej, a small cave containing a stone bed and pillow for use of hermits; Patal Ganga the reservoir cut in rock; Pandu-Kund, where water trickles from the horizontal rock strata's crevices; Bhairon-ki-Jharia, with the colossal figure of Bhairon carved on the rock face - more popularly known as Manduk Bhairav and Mrigdhara or 'antelope's spring'-a small pool in the inner chamber of the rampart, where mriga figures can be seen under trickling water. Koti Tirth and the Budha-Budhi Taal - said to possess great healing powers, are among the important pilgrim centres at Kalinjar. Other places of interest are the Nilkanth Temple built by Chandela ruler Parmardideva, with the rock-cut Swarga Rohan Kund, where in a niche stands the colossal 18 armed, 17 feet broad and 24 feet high figure of Kal-Bhairav, ornamented with a garland of skulls. The Vankhandeshwar Mahadev Temple located at the source of the Shivasari Ganga is also well worth a visit.

Numerous fine pieces of sculptures, spread all over the front area, can be seen here.

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A Temple in Kalinjar Fort

Air : Nearest airport is at Kanpur-70km.

Rail : Kalpi lies on the Jhansi-Kanpur route, Kanpur - (70 km.) and Jhansi (145 km) are the closest important railheads.

Road : On National Highway No.25, Kalpi is well linked to major towns in the area.

What to see :Kalpi is believed to have been originally founded by Kalib Dev, a ruler of the area in ancient times. One of the eight great Forts of the Chandelas, the earliest authentic

mention of Kalpi is found in the annals of its capture by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, in 1196. After this Kalpi saw long days of struggle for its possession not only by the Sarqi kings of Jaunpur, but also by successive rulers - Daulat Khan Lodhi, Hoshang Shah of Malwa, Behlol Lodhi and Babar. Under Akbar, Kalpi became the 'gate of the west' and the starting point for expeditions to Central India. In the 17th century, the famous Bundela chief Chhatrasal made Kalpi his stronghold. Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi also held possession of the Fort for some time. Finally it fell into the hands of the British in 1857.

The important remains at Kalpi are the Tombs of Madar Sahib, Ghafur Zanjani, Chol Bibi and Bahadur Shahid and the great enclosure commonly known as the Chaurasi Gumbaz, attributed to the Lodhis.

The Chaurasi Gumbaz is built of blocks of rubble set in lime mortar. The whole building is

divided into square spaces, rather like a chess board, by eight lines of pillars

that are linked by arches and topped by a flat roof. The rather dilapidated structure has a lofty dome that rises to a height of 60 feet. Its architectural style and stucco ornamentation clearly reveal its Lodhi origin. Vyas Temple is lauded as the place where Sage Vyas dictated the Epic Mahabharat to Lord

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Kalpi is situated at a distance of about 35 km. east of Orai, between Jhansi and Kanpur on National Highway No.25.

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Ganesh. Lanka Minar, made of stone, carries the descriptions of a Lanka Kand from the Sri Ram Charit Manas in the form of various figurines, which are embossed on the Minar. Mantrna Kaksha where Queen Laxmi Bai stayed for consultation with her lieutenants during 1857 war of Independence.

Around Kalpi :

Rampura : 59 km. from Jalaun, Rampura was once a small principality under the Kachwaha Rajputs of Jalaun and their ruler Raja Ram Singh. The fortified palace of Rampura which is about 350 years old, is a massive handsome structure, well worth a visit. It provides paying guest Heritage Home stay accommodation to tourists. For reservation contact Tel. 05168-285480,467, www.fortrampura.com

Jagmanpur : 9 km. from Rampura, Jagmanpur, once the headquarters of the Sengar Rajput clan under Raja Rup Shah, also houses a large masonry Fort. The confluence of five rivers nearby, known as the 'Pach Nada' is an added attraction.

The two Forts can be visited with due permission from owners.

Forts in Bundelkhand

Kalinjar Fort (Dist. Banda, U.P.)

Jhansi Fort (Dist. Jhansi, U.P.)

Samthar Fort (Dist. Jhansi, U.P.)

Todi Fatehpur (Dist. Jhansi, U.P.)

Fort Rampur (Dist. Jhansi, U.P.)

Talbehat Fort (Dist. Jhansi, U.P.)

Ajaygarh (M.P.)

Garhkundal (M.P.)

Tikamgarh (M.P.)

Orchha Fort (M.P.)

Datia Fort (M.P.)

Convenient CircuitsFor a tourist the convenient itinerary for Bundelkhand begins from Delhi, from where one can start for Gwalior proceeding to Jhansi - Orchha - Khajuraho - Mahoba - Kalinjar - Chitrakoot - Allahabad and back to Delhi. From Jhansi one can also choose the alternate route - Jhansi - Matatila - Lalitpur - Deogarh - Chanderi - Datia - Sonagiri - Gwalior and Delhi.

From eastern India one can start from Kolkata go via Varanasi and Allahabad, stepping into Bundelkhand through Chitrakoot moving on to Mahoba - Khajuraho, Jhansi - Gwalior - Delhi and back to Kolkata. From western India, starting from Mumbai, a convenient itinerary would be Bhopal - Deogarh - Lalitpur - Jhansi - Orchha - Khajuraho - Mahoba - Chitrakoot - Allahabad and Back to Mumbai.

For visitors from the South, Bhopal - easily accessible from Hyderadad, Chennai, Bangaluru or Thiruvananthapuram would be the ideal start for a visit to this area. An interesting route to choose would be via Bhopal to Deogarh - Lalitpur - Jhansi - Orchha - Khajuraho - Mahoba - Chitrakoot - Jhansi and back.

Jhansi is the Gateway to Bundelkhand for travelers coming from central, western and southern India. Jhansi railway station is a major railway junction for tourists coming from any direction.

Itineraries :

1. Jhansi-Baruasagar-Jarai Math- Kedareshwar (650 steps)- Khajuraho (1 Day)

2. New DelhiI - Etawah - Rampura Fort - New Delhi (2 Nights - 3 Days)

3. Jhansi - Sukwa : Dhukwa - Tal Behat : Matatila - Lalitpur-Deogarh (2 Nights - 3 Days)

4. Jhansi - Unao Balaji Sun Temple - Datia - Sonagiri - Gwalior - Agra (2 Nights - 2 Days)

5. Pune - Jhansi - Kalpi - Kanpur (Bithoor) - Lucknow - Pune (1857 Circuit) - (3 Nights - 4 Days)

6. Jhansi - Kargawan - Sonagiri - Jhansi - Pawagiri - Deogarh - Aharjipaporaji(Jain Circuit) (2 Nights - 2 Days)

7. Jhansi - Mahoba - Charkhari (1 Night - 2 Days)

Rampura Fort

Samthar Fort

State Museum, Jhansi

Talbehat FortCharkhari Lake Todi Fatehpur

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Lucknow : Central Reservation Centre UPTours, Hotel Gomti, 6, Sapru Marg, Lucknow. Tel. : 91-522-2615006, 2614284, Fax : 91-522-2612659, 2614708 Email : [email protected], [email protected] : UPTours, Hotel Veerangana, Shivpuri Road, Jhansi. Tel. : 91-510-2442042 Fax : 91-510-2449473Email : [email protected] Website : www.up-tourism.com