
Brief History of Jhansi
The historic town of Jhansi flourished around the walled Jhansi Fort when the Bundelas had a stronghold on Jhansi from 11th century. Till the 17th century it continued to be under the rule of various rulers including the Peshwas. The kingdom rose to prominence during the British era when the Maharaja of Jhansi died in 1853, without leaving behind any male heir to succeed the throne. The British forcibly retired the Raja's widow Lakshmi Bai by applying the rules of Doctrine of Lapse. The Rani led her army in the forefront during the First War of Independence of 1857 and destroyed the British Army by reinstating the kingdom of Jhansi, she became the heroine of the First war of Independence. Jhansi came under the British rule in 1858 after the queen fled to Gwalior, where she was later killed.
Geography of Jhansi
Jhansi is located 297 kms from Lucknow, and is 414 kms from Delhi. The River Pushpavati flows through Jhansi making the region conducive for growing citrus fruits and wheat, pulses, oilseed, etc. Due to it's strategic location and easy access to many cities, it is a popular destination for visitors en route Khajuraho, Gwalior and Orchha.
Climate
Due to it's location, Jhansi is prone to extremities in climatic conditions.During peak winters, the temperature can be as low as 4 degrees, while during summer season, the mercury soars up to 47 degrees.
Places of Tourist Interest in Jhansi
Jhansi is dotted all along with places of historical importance. The main landmark of Jhansi is the Jhansi Fort, which even today bears sign of the tormented past. Occupying the center stage is the statue of Rani fleeing away with her adopted son on the horseback. The fort, extends up to 15 kms, also houses two temples namely Ganesh Temple and Shiva Temple within the garrisoned walls. The view of the Fort during night is quite a spectacle.
Other places of interest in Jhansi are:
- Karak Bijli Took - the canon that was used during the First War of Independence is displayed inside the Gangadhar Rao Ki Chathri
- Jhokan Bagh
- Jhansi Government Museum
- Rani Mahal
- St. Jude's Shrine
Festivals and Events in Jhansi
Jhansi Mahotsav is held every year during Febrauary and March. It showcases the rich culture and tradition of Bundelkhand. It is held in the open air auditorium close to the Archaeological museum and the nearby parks.
Shopping in Jhansi
Jhansi offers a wide range of shopping avenues for clothes, footwear and handicrafts. Some of the popular picks among the tourists to Jhansi are the brassware, rugs, and silk which even caters to the export market too. The main shopping areas of Jhansi are the Sadar Bazaar, Manik Chowk, Sipri Bazaar and Civil Lines.
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Food in Jhansi
Jhansi is dotted with many eateries and restaurants serving veg and non-veg food to suit every pocket.
From choices of sweets to spicy namkeens, thali joints to chaat corners they are found in every quarter of the town. Some of the popular eateries in town are Shrinath Pav Bhaji and Pulao Centre, Dehliwala Chat store, Narayan Chaat Bhandaar and Geeta Bhojanalay. Some of the fine dining options in the city include Jhansi Hotel, Hotel Shrinath Palace and Hotel Chanda.
How to Reach Jhansi
As Jhansi is centrally located it serves as Junction point to four Broad Gauge routes. They have great connectivity to all the major towns of Lucknow, Gwalior, Delhi, etc. All major trains like Shatabdi Express, Duronto Express, Kushinagar Express, etc are linked via Jhansi. The nearest airport is Gwalior, 95kms away, and Khujraho, 175kms from Jhansi. Since it is a junction point to five National Highways, the road connectivity to other towns is phenomenal.
Quick Facts about Jhansi
Population(as per 2011 census)Mega city 1,998,603
Area 5024.00 Square Kms
Time Zone: IST(+5.30)
STD Code 0510
Official Languages Hindi and Bundeli