The Sheesh Mahal, also known as the Palace of Mirrors, is a historical monument located in Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, India. This stunning palace was built in the 17th century by the Bundela Rajput ruler, Raja Udait Singh, as a part of the Orchha Fort complex. The Sheesh Mahal is renowned for its intricate mirror work, which adorns its walls and ceilings, creating a mesmerizing effect when light reflects off the mirrors.
The Sheesh Mahal is open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day of the week.
The entry fee to visit the Sheesh Mahal is INR 10 for Indian nationals and INR 250 for foreign tourists.
It takes approximately 1-2 hours to explore the Sheesh Mahal thoroughly. Visitors are not allowed to carry food, pets, or large bags into the Sheesh Mahal premises.
The architecture of the Sheesh Mahal is a fine example of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. The palace features a blend of delicate marble carvings, colorful frescoes, and intricate mirror work. The mirrors used in the Sheesh Mahal were imported from Belgium and Italy.
The best time to visit the Sheesh Mahal is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the beauty of the palace is enhanced by the clear skies.
Orchha is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Jhansi Junction, which is located around 15 kilometers away from Orchha. Visitors can also reach Orchha by road via regular bus services from nearby cities like Jhansi, Gwalior, and Khajuraho.
The Sheesh Mahal was built by Raja Udait Singh in the early 17th century as a summer retreat for the royal family. The palace was later used by his successors for various ceremonial functions and gatherings.
Inside the Sheesh Mahal, visitors can admire the intricate mirror work that covers the walls and ceilings of the palace. The Sheesh Mahal also houses a beautiful courtyard and a small temple dedicated to Hindu deities.
It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear while visiting the Sheesh Mahal as visitors need to walk a fair bit to explore the entire palace. It is also recommended to carry a water bottle and a hat or sunscreen to protect oneself from the sun.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Sheesh Mahal where visitors can stay during their visit to Orchha. Some of the popular hotels near the Sheesh Mahal are Hotel Orchha Palace, Amar Mahal, and Orchha Resort.
There are several other tourist attractions near the Sheesh Mahal that visitors can explore, such as the Orchha Fort, Ram Raja Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, and Jahangir Mahal. These historical sites offer a glimpse into the rich heritage and culture of Orchha.