Capturing Orchha: The Madhya Pradesh Town with Big Photography Moments

Orchha Fort Complex

One of the most iconic places in Orchha is the Fort Complex. This awe-inspiring fortress is a testament to the signature architecture of the area; the intricate design and sheer scale are truly unmatched by other architectural landscapes across India.

The interplay of light and shadow on the fort’s many turrets and archways makes it a perfect study for photographers looking to experiment with different solar orientations. We highly recommend using a range of different light sensitivity camera lenses and a great photo editor to experiment with saturation and shadow when photographing this architectural marvel.

The Chhatris of Orchha

Also known as the royal cenotaphs, the Royal Chhatris of Orchha marks the ceremonial cremation place of the Bikaner royal family. Both the chhatris themselves as well as the surrounding scenery provide amazing opportunities for photographers, as the landscape offers a wide range of subjects to choose from.

Take panoramic landscape shots across the plains. Climb the towering spires to get breathtaking views of the town. Or even take close-up macro shots of the weathered stone and rock of the chhatris themselves! The contrast between the detailed architecture and breathtaking landscapes is a perfect chance to capture the best of Orchha.

The Temples

Alongside the Fort Complex and the chhatris, a photography expedition to Orchha is naturally going to be incomplete without capturing some snaps of the town’s other temples too. In fact, Orchha is actually world famous for its eye-catching temples, which are spread across the city. The towering spires of Chaturbhuj Temple in particular are a must-see for anyone traveling to Orchha. The 105m tall temple is adorned with lotus symbols and intricate detail across the outside of the temple. Anyone with a keen eye for precolonial South Asian architecture will appreciate the unique style of Orchha’s temples.

Natural Wonders

Orchha’s natural environment is sure to impress photographers of all backgrounds. The Betwa River adds a tranquil peace to the busy town. It's an ideal place to relax and take a moment to enjoy yourself. This serene atmosphere that is created by the river sets a wonderful backdrop for photos of all kinds.

The Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is another great place for nature enthusiasts to get up close and personal with some of the region's native plants and animals. Here, you will be able to see langurs, peacocks, turtles, and crocodiles, amongst other animal species. Bird watchers should aim to go in the winter months as migratory birds arrive back in the region. Depending on the time of year, you can expect to spot owls, swans and geese, Indian vultures, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and speedy little jungle bush quails. For wild bush quail sightings, consider following trails along the Betwa River. These will be sure to test nature photographers looking to capture Orchha’s wilder natural wonders.

Busy Streets

The town’s streets are narrow, winding, and bustling with activity virtually year-round. Orchha’s old-world industrial charm will provide travelers with plenty of opportunities for interesting street photography. Around every corner, something is waiting to be discovered. The ancient town is packed with history, and the locals are often very willing to share it with curious travelers. From snaps of market stalls to farmers out in their fields, the daily activities of Orchha truly do provide some striking contemporary imagery.

Tips For the Best Pics

Orchha is a photographer’s dream. Its combination of natural and architectural wonders will have you snapping pics all day long, no matter what styles you’re looking to emulate in your photography portfolio.

To get the most from your trip, however, take some time to understand your environment and equipment. A little bit of preparation now can help prevent disaster later.

Experiment with Lighting

Getting the lighting right is key to any photography. Too much light and your photos will appear over-saturated, not enough light and you risk your subject becoming washed out and lacking detail. When shooting outside in natural light, you cannot control light sources.

To get the best outdoor shots, plan your photoshoots around sunrise and sunset. Known as the golden hour, this time of day gives a nice balance between light volume, angle, and tone. Suffice to say, maximizing your golden hours will give you the best chance to capture all the many beauties of Orchha.

Gear Up

To get the most out of your photography experience, you are going to want to equip yourself with some high-quality gear. A wide-angle lens is a must for photographers looking to capture the natural and architectural wonders of Orchha. A macro lens is a great complement to the wide angle for capturing detailed close-ups.

A Lightweight travel tripod is also a good idea, as it can help stabilize difficult shots without being cumbersome. A set of different filters is also a great addition to your camera bag. Filters block out certain kinds of light that may be disrupting the photo. For example, a polarising filter will help manage glare in sunny locations.

Capture Orchha in all its Dynamic Beauty

Orchha is an amazing place for travelers who are looking for a unique experience. Photographers of all skill levels will find abundant opportunities for stunning shots. The architecture is one of a kind and needs to be seen from all angles day and night to be truly appreciated.

The diversity of local wildlife adds to the experience that can be had on a day in Orchha. Make sure to take some time to explore the bustling streets filled with culture and history as well. With the camera equipment and a bit of planning, capturing Orchha’s best moments will be easy. For those with a curiosity for adventure and a keen eye for photography, Orchha is the dream destination.