Orai Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and picturesque city of Orai in Uttar Pradesh, India with our comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Orai, a city in the Awadh region of Uttar Pradesh, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by travelers. This unexplored city may not be on everyone’s bucket list, but it has a lot to offer, from history to adventure activities. In this comprehensive travel guide to Orai, we will take you on a journey through the must-see attractions, tasty local cuisine, and cultural customs of this beautiful city.

Introduction to Orai

Orai is a city located in the Awadh region of Uttar Pradesh, India. Located in the plains of the country, the city is known for its rich history, culture, and outdoor activities. With an estimated population of over 200,000, it is the second-largest city in the Jalaun district after the city of Kalpi.

List of Places to Visit in Orai

There is a lot to explore in Orai, so here is a list of the must-visit attractions in the city.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Karua Jheel - This lake is a famous tourist spot in Orai, known for its beauty and the migratory birds that visit it during the winter season.
  • Rama Temple - This temple dedicated to Lord Rama is located in the heart of the city and is visited by devotees from all over the country. The temple’s architecture is a sight to behold.
  • Kadim Diwan-e-Khas - It is a palace built during the reign of the Maratha Empire and is now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. This place has great historical importance, as it was used as a residence by the famous Maratha Peshwa, Baji Rao II, during his last days.
  • Jalaun Fort - The Jalaun Fort located on the banks of Pahuj River is an important historical monument in Orai. The fort has great historical importance as it was built during the reign of the Chandela dynasty.

Natural Attractions of Orai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pahuj Dam - The dam provides a scenic view of the Pahuj River and is an ideal place for a half-day picnic with family and friends.
  • Kurra Adventure Camp - This campsite located on the banks of the Betwa River is an ideal place for adventure activities such as rafting, kayaking, and camping. The campsite offers a unique outdoor experience that you should not miss.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Orai

Orai has some excellent hiking and biking routes that you can explore during your visit. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Orai-Ait Khera-Kalpi Circuit - This route starts from Orai and covers the scenic villages of Ait Khera and Kalpi, where you can witness traditional farming practices and small-scale cottage industries.
  • Karua Jheel Trail - It is a circular trail around Karua Jheel that provides scenic views of the lake and is an ideal place for birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Orai: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the local markets - Orai is known for its local markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts and textiles such as Banarasi silk sarees, Chanderi suits, and Maheshwari sarees.
  • Attend a cultural event - Orai hosts many cultural events throughout the year, such as the Dussehra festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show.
  • Visit the local food joints - The city is home to some of the best street food joints, where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine such as chaat, samosas, and kachoris.

Week-Long Itinerary for Orai

Day 1: Arrival, check-in at hotel, and local sightseeing. Day 2: Visit Karua Jheel, Rama Temple, and Jalaun Fort. Day 3: Explore local markets and try local cuisine. Day 4: Go for a short hike around Karua Jheel or visit nearby villages. Day 5: Visit Kadim Diwan-e-Khas and Pahuj Dam. Day 6: Indulge in adventure activities at Kurra Adventure camp. Day 7: Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Orai

Orai has a vibrant food culture and is famous for its street food. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chaat - Orai’s chaat is famous for its unique sour and spicy flavor, made with mashed potato, chickpeas, and a variety of spices.
  • Samosas - Orai’s samosas are different from the rest of India, as they are bigger in size and have a filling of spiced potato and peas.
  • Kachoris - It is a deep-fried snack that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and is usually served with aloo ki sabzi.

Local Beverages

  • Thandai - A refreshing cold drink made with milk, almonds, and spices such as cardamom, fennel, and black pepper.
  • Bhang - A marijuana-infused drink that is traditionally consumed during the Holi festival.

Where to Stay in Orai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Orai has many accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top recommendations:

  • Brij Vilas Palace - It is a luxury heritage hotel that provides a regal experience to its guests.
  • Hotel Raj Mahal - It is a budget-friendly hotel that offers all the basic amenities and is located in the heart of the city.
  • Madhav Villa Guesthouse - It is a homestay that provides a warm and welcoming experience to its guests.

What to Buy in Orai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Orai is known for its textiles and handicrafts. Here are some souvenirs that you can take back home:

  • Banarasi Silk Sarees - The city is known for its high-quality Banarasi silk sarees, which are handwoven on traditional looms.
  • Chanderi Suits - Chanderi is a small town near Orai, known for its traditional handwoven cotton and silk fabrics, which are used to make elegant suits and sarees.
  • Maheshwari Sarees - It is a type of cotton and silk saree that is handwoven in the nearby town of Maheshwar and is known for its unique designs and colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Orai

Orai has a vibrant local culture that is deeply rooted in the traditions of Uttar Pradesh. Here are some customs and traditions that you should know before visiting:

  • Respect for elders - It is a common custom in Orai to show respect to the elders in the community by touching their feet.
  • Dress modestly - Dress modestly when visiting religious places or attending cultural events.
  • Hospitality - People in Orai are known for their hospitality, so be prepared to be welcomed with open arms when visiting.

Best Time to Visit Orai

The best time to visit Orai is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without any discomfort.

Do’s and Don’ts of Orai

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and explore the city’s markets.
  • Carry a valid ID proof with you at all times.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter public places.
  • Don’t disrespect religious places.
  • Don’t visit the city during the monsoon season.

Safety and Health

Safety in Orai

Orai is a safe city for tourists, but it is advisable to take some precautions, such as not venturing out alone late at night and avoiding deserted areas.

Health in Orai

The city has good medical facilities, but it is always advisable to carry a basic first aid kit with you. Ensure that you drink only bottled water and avoid eating street food that is not hygienic.

Getting to Orai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Orai is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are some options:

Airports Near Orai

The nearest airport to Orai is the Kanpur Airport, which is located about 150 km away from the city.

Bus Stations Near Orai

Orai has its bus station, and regular bus services are available from nearby cities such as Kanpur, Jhansi, and Lucknow.

Other Options

One can also take a train to Orai, as it is well-connected to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

How to Get Around in Orai

Orai has many transportation options, ranging from taxis and auto-rickshaws to local buses. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before boarding any vehicle.

Where to Go Next from Orai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Orai is surrounded by many tourist destinations that are worth a visit, such as:

  • Kanpur - It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city known for its leather industry, historic buildings, and delicious street food.
  • Jhansi - A historic city known for the famous queen Rani Lakshmi Bai, Jhansi is home to many historical monuments and temples.
  • Gwalior - It is known for its rich history and is home to many magnificent forts and palaces.

Conclusion

Orai is a city that has something for everyone, from history buffs to adventure seekers. With this comprehensive guide, you can now plan a trip to this beautiful city and explore its hidden treasures. Don’t forget to try the local food, shop for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Have a safe trip!