The Khajuraho group of temples is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, famous for its fascinating erotic sculptures. Located in Madhya Pradesh, this group of temples includes few dominated by the Jain religion whereas some are dedicated to Hindu religion. Khujaraho was declared as the 1st capital of Chandelas, who ruled Bundelkhand during the 10th to the 14th centuries. Khujaraho gets its name from the date palm tree (the Khajur tree), found in abundant in this area. Presently, the Khajuraho group of temples included 22 temples, which initially included 85 temples. It almost took 100 years for the construction of the temples, mid of 9th century to the early 12th century and were constructed following the Nagara style of architecture. Every temple is unique in its own way and each reflects the magnificence of prosperous era of Indian art & architecture.
The temples of Khajuraho are different from each other as there are no deities, religion or worshipping traits to follow, temple is about looking up to the spectacular architecture, art and sculpture of that particular period. In the 19th century, these magnificent were revived and restored after being deserted and susceptible to natural forces.
Best Places to Visit in Khajuraho
- Kandariya Mahadev Temple
- Lakshmana Temple
- Devi Jagdamba Temple
Kandariya Mahadev Temple
Kandariya Mahadev Temple is the largest of all of temples in Khajuraho. Also, it is the tallest of temples with a height of 31.5 meters. It is well-known for its mesmerizing architecture. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and built on a high platform. The temple owes its name to a name of Lord Shiva, Mahadev. There are some great sculptures in the temple which are enough to leave you spellbound. The carvings are beautiful and they make this temple, one of the most ornamented temples of the city. One can witness the different forms of art through the figures which are engraved inside and outside the walls of the temple.
Lakshmana Temple
A part of the Western Group of Temples, Lakshmana Temple is one of the oldest temples of Khajuraho. The temple was built by a Chandela ruler, Yashovarman in 930 – 950 CE. Pure medieval Indian architecture can be seen in this temple. The key highlight of the temple is the main chamber which is in the form of a chariot. The chariot is also known as the Pancharatha. There are around 600 Hindu Gods which reside in the temple. There are many beautiful carvings of Hindu Gods at the entrance of the temple. Inside the temple, there is a big image of Vaikuntha-Vishnu.
Devi Jagdamba Temple
A major part of the Western group of Temples, Devi Jagadamba Temple is well-known for its beauty and symbolism. The temple is further divided into three different bands. The first one has sculptures of the creator, Brahma. The second has carvings of Lord Shiva as the destroyer and the last one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu who is the sustainer. There are different carvings and sculptures in the temple which depict different themes like union, war and peace. Inside the temple, there is a big statue of Goddess Parvati. People from different parts of the world visit the temple to have a look at its beautifully carved sculptures.