Mahoba, 140 km from Jhansi, is associated with the Chandela kings who ruled over Bundelkhand between the 9th and the 12th century. The Chandelas, best remembered for the temples they built at Khajuraho (M.P.), were also great warriors. At Mahoba, the impregnable hilltop fort and the lakes they created are considered to be engineering feats. The wonderful water management system of the Chandela period can still be seen here. Mahoba was also a prominent cultural centre. Ballads praise its days of glory and narrate the inspiring saga of Alha and Udal, the two legendary warrior brothers who sacrificed their lives for the honour of their land. There are many places of historical and archaeological interest, besides the numerous lakes that dot the rocky islets. The temples of Mahoba are built in the same style as the Khajuraho temples. There are also some Jain shrines, built around the 12th century A.D.