Dhubela, the kingdom of Maharaja Chhatrasal (4 May 1649 – 19 December 1731) is a historical place situated on Orchha- Khajuraho Road near Nowgong (Mau Saniya Village) in Madhya Pradesh. Maharaja Chhatrasal was a medieval Indian warrior who fought against the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and established his own kingdom in Bundelkhand, becoming a Maharaja. He was one of the great warriors of Central India and his Empire had alliances with Maratha Empire and Mewar Empire. Great female warrior Mastani Bai (Second wife of Bajirao Peshwa) belongs to Dhubela.
Dhubela comprises of various historical monuments related to Maharaja Chhatrasal and his family members, which reflects the glorious past of his kingdom. Dhubela Museum is Madhya Pradesh’s first Museum. Around Dhubela, there are numerous freshwater bodies and lush green forest which make it always fresh.
Recently, I got a chance to visit Dhubela. It is located in the Bundelkhand region, nestled between two significant historical destinations—Orchha and Khajuraho. Initially, I planned to visit the Orchha temple, but then a relative from Chhatarpur encouraged me to extend my journey and visit Chhatarpur. He assured me that I would discover something fascinating—remarkable hidden gems of Bundelkhand.
I agreed with him and he directed me to stop at Mau Saniya (a place between Chhatarpur and Nowgong). He accompanied me to explore Dhubela.
Historical sites in Dhubela
Dhubela Taalab (Lake)
It is the fresh water lake surrounded by historical monuments related to Bundela Empire. State Tourism Board constructed theme based sitting areas and interpretation centers from where tourist can enjoy the beauty of the lake.
Maharaja Chhatrasal (Dhubela) Museum
IMaharaja Chhatrasal built the palace on the bank of Lake Dhubela, which now houses the Dhubela Museum. As the first museum of Madhya Pradesh, it opened its doors on 12 September 1955, when then Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated it.. There are about 8 galleries in which two on the ground floor and rest on the First floor.
All these galleries showcase the inscriptions, copper plates, sati pillars, lingas, inscribed images, garments, weapons, and paintings related to the era of Gupta, Kalachuri, and Bundela period. Most of them were collected from the excavation in entire Bundelkhand region. Statue of Maharaja Chhatrasal in open air gallery on the first floor attract most of the tourists. Museum maintained by Archeological Department.
Paintings in Museum
Sculptures in Museum
Household things in Museum
Weapons in Museum
Open Art Gallery
Mastani Mahal
Maharaja Chhatrasal built the beautiful palace around 1699 A.D. for Mastani, his graceful dancer. After defeating Bangash, Bajirao Peshwa arrived here and married Mastani. The region holds many stories about her, though none have been definitively proven. Mastani Mahal connects to the museum building, and as beautification efforts continue in full swing, these monuments appear even more stunning.
Cenotaphs of Maharani Kamlapati
This cenotaph was built in the memory of Maharaja Chhatrasal’s first Queen Maharahi Kamlapati. The monument is having a beautiful collection of 180 paintings made up of Fresco technique. It is an octagonal structure situated on a high platform on the bank of lake Dhubela. This 17th-century Octagonal structure is a fine example of Bundeli architecture of style. Forty- Eight petaled lotus flowers spread over seven domes. It is one of the important tourist attractions of Dhubela. The monument is really good but needs some restoration work.
Sheetal Garhi (Fortress)
In memory of Maharaja Chhatrasal’s first Queen, Maharani Kamlapati, builders constructed this cenotaph. The monument showcases a stunning collection of 180 fresco paintings. Standing on a high platform along the bank of Lake Dhubela, its octagonal design exemplifies 17th-century Bundeli architectural style. Forty-eight petaled lotus flowers spread elegantly across seven domes, enhancing its grandeur. As one of Dhubela’s key tourist attractions, the monument remains impressive, though it requires restoration work to preserve its beauty.
Maheba Dwar (Gate)
Maheba gate is a huge architecture comprises of two gateways, and small rooms, Rooms might be used by security guards. It was built in 1678 A.D when Maheba Town was founded by Maharaja Chhatrasal. It showcases the rich Bundeli art was one of the main gates to connect Maheba and Dhubela.
Mahabali Teli Ki Samadhi (Tomb)
It is the Tomb of Mahabali Teli. He was one of the best friends of Maharaja Chhatrasal who helped him to make an army for fighting against Mughal Empire.
Maharaja Chhatrasal’s Cenotaph
In 1736 A.D., General Baji Rao Peshwa (I) of the Maratha Empire built this stunning example of Bundeli architecture to honor Maharaja Chhatrasal.Tourists from all over the world visit to see the Bundeli architectural beauty of Cenotaph of Maharaja Chhatrasal. This symmetrical architecture comprises of beautiful gates, windows, balcony etc.
The Horse’s Cenotaph
Next to the Cenotaph of Maharaja Chhatrasal is his beloved horse Bhale Bhai’s Cenotaph. It is said that, After Maharaja’s final journey, his loyal horse abandoned his body.
All monuments are really amazing but are in shabby condition. It really needs rejuvenation for their better future.
Hridyashah Palace
It is the biggest monument but in very bad condition. Hridayashah was the son of Maharaja Chhatrasal and this palace belongs to him. This property really needs some restoration from responsible department. Ruins of the palace still trying to tell their pride history.
Other Places to see in Dhubela
Shri Krishna Pranami Mandir, Ganesh Temple, Shani Temple, Old Fort, Badal Mahal etc.
These tourist attractions in a single destination highlight Dhubela as a hidden heritage gem of Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh. Visitors can explore its rich history, learn about the bravery of King Chhatrasal and Mastani, and experience its cultural significance firsthand..
How to reach Dhubela
Airways: Nearest Airport is Khajuraho (60km) which directly connected with New Delhi and Varanasi.
Railways: Nearest stations are Chhatarpur (20km) and Harpalpur (20km) but have very few trains run on this route.
Roadways: Dhubela is situated on Orchha- Khajuraho highway i.e Bundelkhand Expressway. Buses can easily available from Nowgong and Chhattapur to all nearby cities.
Where to Stay in Dhubela
Tourist can stay in Dhubela Resort of MP Tourism and other options are available in Chhatarpur which is 15 km from Dhubela.
Places around Dhubela to explore
Khajuraho, Orchha, Janwaar, etc.
Great post. Happy to know about this place. Thanks for sharing