Orchha to be turned into global tourist spot

Bhopal, Feb 3 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh government plans to develop the ancient Ram Raja Temple in Orchha into a major pilgrimage and tourist attraction on the lines of Somnath Temple, Tirumala Tirupati and Golden Temple.Chief Secretary S.R. Mohanty has finalised plans for the next month's 'Namaste Orchha' festival where the plans for fast-tracked development of the historical town will be unveiled. The archaeological, forest and urban administrations have been working on a cohesive development project of Orchha. A master plan has been finalised on the lines of Somnath Temple and Golden Temple for the development of the Ram Raja Temple. Besides the entry and exit routes, the temple courtyard will be developed and given a grand appearance. This will also help in the economic progress of the people of Orchha.Top bureaucrats of the concerned departments have drawn up detailed plans for various venues for Orchha festival and to promote it as a tourist destination for overseas visitors as well. Over 8 lakh Indian tourists visit the temple town every year. The town draws nearly 25,000 foreign tourists.Mohanty said foundation for the development will be laid during the Orchha festival.
--IANS naidu/arm