Jhansi

Jhansi is situated about 100 kms. south of Gwalior and 30 kms. from Datia. Jhansi is the gateway to Bundelkhand. Jhansi is mainly known for the Jhansi fort and its ruler the Rani Laxmi Bai. Jhansi is a tiny finger of the state of Uttar Pradesh and extends into Madhya Pradesh.

The main tourist attractions in Jhansi are the Jhansi fort, Jhansi Museum, Rani Mahal and Chhatri of Gangadhar Rao. The Jhansi fort was built by King Bir Singh Judeo of Orchha in the 17th century on the top of a hill, as an army stronghold. The Jhansi Fort offers excellent views from its ramparts. The palace of Queen Laxmi Bai or Rani Mahal is a fine piece of traditional architecture, which has now been converted into a museum. The chhatri or cenotaph of Gangadhar Rao, the Rani Laxmi Bai's husband stands in a walled enclosure. This cenotaph is centred around a pavilion and devoid of frescoes.