Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha

Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha History, Timing & Best time to visit

Constructed in 875 AD under the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty, this well-known temple honours Lord Vishnu. In certain Hindu writings, Lord Vishnu has been referred to as Chaturbhuj, which literally translates to “the one with four arms.”

This temple features a porch, a vestibule, and a sanctum with pancharatha Sikhara. Its architecture is exquisite. There is another curved tower with a little porch at this temple.

Chaturbhuj Temple is an old Hindu temple located close to Ram Raja Mandir in Orchha town, Madhya Pradesh, one kilometre from Orchha Fort. One of the most visited heritage sites in Orchha is Chaturbhuj Temple, which is renowned for its magnificent architecture. The Archaeology Survey of India is in charge of the temple.

“One who has four arms” is the literal meaning of the name Chaturbhuj, which alludes to Lord Rama, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. It is thought to have been constructed between 1558 and 1573 by Raja Madhukar Shah, the monarch of Orchha. This temple was constructed by Madhukar Shah for his wife, Rani Ganesh Kuwari, who was a devoted follower of Lord Rama.

History of Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha

The original purpose of the temple was to house Lord Rama, who was still housed at the Ram Raja Temple. This temple is said to have been created after the queen Ganesh Kuwari had a dream in which Lord Rama urged her to build him a temple. The queen travelled to Ayodhya to get a picture of Lord Rama to be housed in her new temple after the Chaturbhuj Temple was approved for construction. Since the temple was still being built, she first housed the idol of Rama at Rani Mahal when she returned from Ayodhya. When the temple construction was completed, the queen decided to enshrine the idol at the Chaturbhuj Temple but the idol didn’t move from the palace. Hence, an idol of Lord Vishnu with four arms was kept in the temple and came to be known as Chaturbhuj Temple.

Architecture of Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha

The temple is a stunning example of a fusion of palace, fort, and temple architecture. The temple has the imposing appearance of a multi-story castle with defences, a massive central tower, an arcaded entryway, and other features. Built on a huge stone platform, the Chaturbhuj temple is accessible via a steep set of steps. Its beautiful external decoration is derived from lotus emblems and other religious symbols. The sanctum’s towering, vaulted walls and chastely unadorned interior highlight its profound holiness.

How To Reach Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha

A journey in and of itself, getting to Chaturbhuj Temple gives visitors a variety of choices to fit their tastes.

By Air: Gwalior Airport, which is about 120 km distant, is the closest airport. From there, one can travel to Orchha by bus or taxi.

By Rail: For those preferring rail travel, Jhansi Junction, about 18 km from Orchha, is the closest major railway station. Jhansi and Orchha are connected by regular bus and taxi services.

By road: Road connectivity to Orchha is excellent, with well-maintained highways linking it to major towns in Madhya Pradesh and surrounding states. Orchha is accessible by regular bus from places like Jhansi, Gwalior, and Khajuraho.

Best Time To Visit Chaturbhuj Temple

When the weather is suitable for outdoor activities, October through March is the ideal time of year to visit Chaturbhuj Temple and Orchha. During this time, temperatures usually range from 10°C to 25°C. Even while it can get chilly in the nights during the winter months, particularly in December and January, it’s still a good idea to bring some warm clothes for a more pleasant trip. The area is visually beautiful due to the rich foliage brought forth by the monsoon season (July to September), although exploration may be hampered by sporadic severe rains. It can be very hot throughout the summer (April to June), with highs of over 40°C, making outdoor activities difficult.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

Entry Fee: Fort Complex Entry Fee