Chaturbhuj Temple (Orchha)

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Heritage Overview

Temple

Situated in Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, within the Orchha Fort complex, the Chaturbhuj Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Originally intended to house the image of Lord Rama that is now in the Ram Raja Temple, it features a grand multi-storied structure blending temple and fort architectural elements. Its soaring vimana (spire) and spacious interiors are notable. Though the main idol is absent, the temple's imposing architecture and historical significance make it a major attraction for many visitors today.

Location

Orchha (Niwari District), Madhya Pradesh, India(Madhya Pradesh)

Year Built

1580

Visit Information

Visiting Hours

5:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Daily.

Entry Fee

Fee applicable (part of Orchha complex ASI ticket, approx. INR 35 Indians, INR 550 Foreigners).

Website

https://www.mptourism.com/destination-orchha.php

Heritage Status

Protected Monument of National Importance (ASI).

Preservation Status

Good, ASI maintained stone structure.

Historical Context

Its history is dramatic: built (late 16th C) by Bundela king Madhukar Shah for a Rama idol his queen Ganesh Kunwari brought from Ayodhya after a divine vision. However, the idol, temporarily placed in the queen's palace kitchen (now the Ram Raja Temple site), refused to be moved to the grand Chaturbhuj temple upon its completion. Consequently, Chaturbhuj was dedicated to Vishnu. Its architecture reflects Bundela ambition – massive scale, soaring shikharas resembling fort bastions, incorporating arches and domes influenced by prevailing Indo-Islamic styles, yet fundamentally a Nagara temple plan.

Archaeological Survey

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) - Bhopal Circle.

Location Map

Architectural Details

Bundela Architecture / Nagara Influence

Bundela Rajput Period

Built by

Raja Madhukar Shah (Orchha State, 16th century)

Materials

Stone, Brick, Lime mortar/plaster

Dimensions

Height31m

Width50m

Length70m

Area3500m²

Featured Image

Excavation Details

ASI protected monument. No major excavations reported. Archaeological significance lies in its imposing architecture (a blend of temple and fort styles), built by the Bundela Rajputs (Raja Madhukar Shah, construction started late 16th C). Conservation efforts by ASI.

Restoration Work

ASI conservation work including structural repairs and preservation.

Patronage

Bundela Rajputs (Orchha State)

Construction Technique

Masonry (stone and brick), Vaulting, Plastering

Architectural Influences

3 items

Building Techniques

Construction of tall shikhara, Use of arches, domes, vaults, Multi-storied structure

Coordinates

25.350600, 78.640600

Accessibility Info

{"notes":"Large structure with multiple levels accessed via steep, narrow stairs. Significant climbing required to reach upper levels.","restrooms":"Available nearby within Orchha complex","wheelchair_accessible":"Limited (ground floor exterior view possible)"}

Visitor Facilities

5 items

Best Visit Times

Winter (October to March) offers the most comfortable weather for exploring Orchha. Summers (April-June) are extremely hot. Visit during morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the harshest sun and capture better photographs.

Seasonal Events

2 items

Visitor Restrictions

Part of the Orchha ASI ticketed complex. Respectful attire suggested. Avoid touching or defacing structures. Photography generally allowed, videography may require a fee. Guides available for historical context.

View Count

Is Featured

Yes

Is Published

Yes

Completion Score

Completion Status

in-progress

Created By

68408625-44a5-46e3-b746-71290aac1079

Created At

2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00

Updated At

2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00

Inheritage Foundation

Chaturbhuj Temple (Orchha)