The Group of Monuments in Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exquisite stone sculptures. These masterpieces of stone carving originate from the period between 950 AD and 1050 AD, during the Chandela Dynasty's rule.
While there were once around 85 temples in the area, only 20 of them remain today. These temples were constructed to honor Hindu and Jain beliefs and feature a wide range of themes, including meditation, family life, spiritual teachings, daily rituals, and royalty. Nevertheless, the primary emphasis is on the depiction of erotic art.
Khajuraho elicits a variety of reactions from its visitors, and there are also other attractions worth exploring in the area.
# Kandariya Mahadeo Temple
The Kandariya Mahadeo Temple stands as an essential historical attraction in Khajuraho. Within its sacred walls, you'll encounter a stunning array of 872 sculptures, featuring deities, goddesses, alluring women, erotic motifs, and musicians.
This grand and ancient temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, ranks among the largest and oldest in the region. Inside the innermost chamber, the Garbha Griha, you'll find a revered lingam symbolizing the supreme deity. The intricately designed temple is divided into five distinct sections: Ardhamandapa, Garbha Griha, Mahamandapa, and Pradakshina.
# Lakshmana TempleThe Lakshmana Temple is a visually captivating structure, featuring a Trimurti representation of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh at its primary entrance. Constructed between 930 and 950 AD, this revered edifice houses a collection of more than 600 sculptures depicting Hindu deities. Additionally, the temple's walls are adorned with figures of apsaras, as well as depictions of hunting, battles, and processions.
# Matangeshvara templeThe Matangeshvara Temple, featuring Lord Shiva as its principal deity, holds a prominent position among Khajuraho's renowned temples. It stands as the sole Hindu temple from the Chandela Dynasty that remains in active use for worship.
Designated as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India, this temple attracts a multitude of devotees during the sacred Shivaratri festival. On this auspicious day, the linga within the temple is ceremoniously bathed, adorned, and embellished to represent the splendid groom.
# Adinatha TempleAs a component of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Adinatha Temple was constructed to venerate the Jain Tirthankara Adinatha. While primarily a Jain temple, it displays depictions of Hindu deities on its outer walls. Explore the intricacies of Nilanjana's dance styles, a renowned dancer in the court of Lord Adinatha, in greater depth.
# Chaunsat YoginiExploring the Chaunsat Yogini Temple stands out as a thrilling activity in Khajuraho. Built in the 9th century, this tantric temple is dedicated to 64 yoginis, who were female attendants. Despite the temple being unoccupied, it exudes a mysterious and mystical ambiance. These 64 yoginis symbolize the fundamental elements of life, infusing Khajuraho with a palpable energy.
# Devi Jagadambi TempleThis temple, renowned for its Garbha Griha housing a substantial idol of the Hindu Goddess Jagadambi, is often described as a finely harmonized edifice. Throughout its history, the shrine has been consecrated as a sacred dwelling for Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati, and subsequently, Goddess Kali. Elaborate sculptures adorn the temple, spread across three tiers of carvings.