MPT Sheesh Mahal, Orchha

We stayed in the second week of April, just at the start of the off season, and had an 18th century palace almost entirely to ourselves. The staff were courteous and attentive, the rooms were clean, and the value for money is almost unbelievable given that you’re sleeping in the heart of an active fort complex.It’s clear that Madhya Pradesh Tourism takes genuine pride in this place ’ not just maintaining it, but actively restoring the vast array of historic buildings across the temple grounds. Concrete walkways with lighting, stone signage, and a real attention to detail. Orchha is one of India’s most well-kept secrets, and they seem to know it.The double deluxe room left us feeling like royalty. Breakfast was included and generous, and the ginger chai was fantastic.A few tips: Don’t rush Orchha. Take the Khajuraho Vande Bharat from New Delhi and budget at least two nights. Slow down, walk along the Betwa River in the Orchha Nature Reserve, and sit quietly for a while ’ we spotted Nilgai (Indian antelope) here for the first time. Spend 90% of your time within the palace complex itself; it’s vast and endlessly rewarding. Then walk out to the river confluence.If you want privacy and stillness in India, this is genuinely it ’ and you’ll have a palace to do it in.

Visited : Jan, Aug 2021Sheesh Mahal is perfect for those who want to experience living like royalty while exploring Orchha’s rich history and culture.Even ideal for tourists seeking heritage experience, peaceful stay, and cultural vibes.Really Good food and dinning ’After dark fort is closed for visitors .. after feel the vibe of the place ’ it’s just awesome ’

Both the Maharaja and Maharani Suites and another room opposite the Maharaja Suite on the terrace are the only rooms worth staying, best to avoid all other excuses of a room. Our second visit this year, house keeping and service, both could be much much better. Food is OK. The sound and light show needs an immediate overhaul, it seems not to have been upgraded since the 1960s and while the story is capturing, the show itself is passable.

Without any doubt, the Hotel Sheesh Mahal is the best location for a sightseeing visit to Orchha, and the hotel itself is one of the sights. The view from the rooftop is spectacular. We stayed in the AC Deluxe room--which was large and clean--and were delighted by the historic furnishings. (The wifi wasn't great, but if that matters, maybe stay home?) The restaurant was very good, and the staff tried hard to please. The whole experience was a little bit redolent of an earlier time, but all the more charming for that reason.

It’s a part of orchha fort. We didn’t stay here but went for a quick break for evening tea. We ordered paneer pakoda, grilled sandwich, tea and cold coffee. Everything ordered was super tasty especially paneer pakoda and chutney.Good food experience