Chhatris or cenotaphs are among the most popular heritage sites in Orchha. They are the cenotaphs of the erstwhile rulers of Orchha, belonging to the Bundela clan. There are 14 of these cenotaphs or memorials, which date from the 16th to the 18th century. They make for a mesmerising sight standing on the banks of the Betwa river as cubical structures with temple-like spires. They are built like temples and have one chamber in the centre, and four others on the four corners of a courtyard. The cenotaphs have shikhars (spiral) on the top that closely resemble those of the temples built in the Nagar style. The most notable of these is Bir Singh Deo's chhatri, which is more like a palace, and draws admirers from across the country. 

 

As the sun sets, watch in silence while the silhouettes of the chhatris (cenotaphs) dramatically darken against an orange sky.

Other Attractions in Orchha