Khajuraho, an ancient city renowned for its magnificent temples (Mandir) and intricate sculptures, is situated in the Chattarpur district of Madhya Pradesh. This city encapsulates captivating historical tales and architectural grandeur. Historical records indicate that during the 12th century, the Khajuraho temple site housed 85 temples spread over 20 square kilometres. Today, only 25 temples have endured, covering six square kilometres.
THE HISTORY OF KHAJURAHO GROUP OF TEMPLES
Constructed in the medieval century by the Chandela Dynasty, the UNESCO site ‘Khajuraho Group of Monuments’ is celebrated for its Nagara-Style architecture and graceful sculptures depicting nayikas (Hindu mythological female protagonists) and deities. Erected between 950-1050 AD, these temples represent various forms of meditation, spiritual teachings, and relationships through stimulating art. The temples are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, featuring splendid sculptures and exceptional architectural prowess, making them one of the most stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.
PLACES TO VISIT IN KHAJURAHO
Beautiful, detailed, and expressive, the sculptures of the Khajuraho temples (Mandir) will leave you in awe. These temples are divided into three groups: Eastern, Western, and Southern.
THE WESTERN GROUP OF TEMPLES
The Western group, located close to the archaeological museum, includes temples like Lakshmana, Matangeshwara, Varaha, Kandariya Mahadev, Chitragupta, Parvati, Vishwanatha, and Nandi. With approximately 870 marvelous sculptures adorning the interior and exterior walls, this group is a testament to the rich history of Khajuraho. Notable attractions include:
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple: Built between 1025 to 1050, the temple rises in successive towers like a range of hills, featuring a four-armed Shiva, Lord Brahma, and Lord Vishnu on its lintel.
Jagdambi Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, sculptures of Lord Vishnu adorn the temple’s sanctum, along with appealing sura-sundaris (celestial beauty) sculptures.
Chitragupta Temple: Devoted to Lord Surya, the Sun, it houses a sculpture of eleven-headed and eight-armed Lord Vishnu, as well as divine couple deities.
ASI Museum: Displaying amazing sculptures and artifacts, the museum offers insights into Khajuraho’s rich architectural heritage.
THE EASTERN GROUP OF TEMPLES
Vamana Temple: Dedicated to the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, built between 1050-75, this temple features erotic carvings and a four-armed standing Lord Vishnu on its lintel.
Javari Temple: Constructed between 1075 and 1100, the temple showcases a delicately carved Makara Torana arch, exemplifying the stone carving skills of the era.
Parsvanatha Temple: Built between 950-970, this Jain temple constructed with honey-colored sandstone holds images of deities from the Vaishnava faith, including Lord Vishnu.
THE SOUTHERN GROUP OF TEMPLES
Duladeo Temple: Also known as Kunwar Math, this temple features impressive celestial carvings on its Shikhara tower. Built between 1100-1150, it showcases artistic skill in the carved jewelry of female figures.
Chaturbhuja Temple: Unique for its absence of erotic sculptures, this temple boasts beautiful carvings of Ganga, Jamuna, and Lord Vishnu at its entrance.
THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND KHAJURAHO
Explore Adivart Tribal and Folk Art Museum
Immerse yourself in the unique traditions and diverse communities at the Adivart Tribal and Folk Art Museum. With 12 traditional houses representing major tribal communities and five regions of the state, visitors can explore the fascinating tribal culture of Madhya Pradesh.
Panna National Park
Located 96 kilometers from Khajuraho, Panna National Park spans the northern districts of Panna and Chhatarpur. Home to a variety of bird species, wild cats, tigers, deer, and antelopes, the park offers thrilling safari experiences through beautiful canyons and dense teak trees.
Raneh Fall
Situated 21 kilometers from Khajuraho, Raneh waterfall creates a 30-foot-deep canyon with captivating waterfalls. A rainbow often hovers over the falls, adding to the scenic beauty.
Pandav Fall
Located on the route between Khajuraho and Panna, Pandav Fall is 34 kilometers from Khajuraho. The waterfall has a maximum height of 30 meters and is associated with the legendary Mahabharata caves.
Maharaja Chhatrasal Museum
Situated 62 kilometers away, the Maharaja Chhatrasal Museum, also known as the Dhubela museum, showcases the rich history of the region.
Jain Museum
Located one kilometer from the Khajuraho bus station, the Jain Museum features exquisite sculptures of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras and provides insights into Jain tradition and culture.
KHAJURAHO DANCE FESTIVAL
Plan a trip to Khajuraho around February to witness the grand cultural extravaganza of the Khajuraho Dance Festival. This event showcases mesmerizing classical dance performances by renowned artists, blending art and architecture seamlessly.
HOW TO REACH KHAJURAHO?
By Train:
Khajuraho railway station is five km away and is linked to several cities in Madhya Pradesh. Mahoba is the closest major railhead, around 78 km away, with regular trains from Mathura, Varanasi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Allahabad, Jabalpur, and Gwalior.
By Air:
Khajuraho has its own domestic airport, two km from the temple sites, with flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, and Varanasi. Local cabs are available for transport.
By Road:
Well-linked by roads to major National and State Highways, Khajuraho is accessible by public and private buses. Regular buses, both AC and non-AC, operate to nearby cities, and private cabs are also available for hire. Explore the enchanting heritage and vibrant culture of Khajuraho, a timeless destination offering a blend of art, history, and natural beauty.
