Khajuraho Temples

Description

Khajuraho temple sections and orientation.
The temple is located in the central Indian Vindhya mountain range. According to folklore, the Hindu god Shiva and other gods enjoyed visiting the Kalinjar area's impressive hill formation. Khajuraho, at the heart of the region, is surrounded by hills and rivers. The temple complex pays homage to the Hindu custom of constructing temples where gods might worship.
The temples are grouped together near water, which is a common feature of Hindu temples. Sib Sagar, Khajur Sagar (also known as Ninora Tal), and KhudarNadi are also the current water bodies (river).According to local folklore, the temple complex included 64 water bodies, of which 56 have so far been physically identified by archaeologists.
Except for one (Chaturbhuja), all temples face the sunrise, which is a common emblem in Hindu temples. The interdependence is highlighted by the relative layout of temples, which incorporates both male and feminine deities and symbols. The artworks represent the four life goals that Hinduism considers important and proper: dharma, kama, artha, and moksha.Six temples are dedicated to Shiva, eight to Vishnu and his affinities, one to Ganesha, one to Sun deity, and three to Jain Tirthankars, among the remaining temples. There is insufficient evidence for some remnants to attribute the temple to individual deities with certainty.
The Hindu symbolic mandala design idea of squares and circles is evident in each temple layout and design, according to an overall evaluation of the site. The region is also divided into three triangles that meet to form a pentagon. This, according to scholars, represents Hindu symbolism for three realms (trilokinatha) and five cosmic substances (panchbhuteshvara).Shiva, who destroys and recycles life and so controls the cosmic dance of time, evolution, and dissolution, is honoured in the temple.
The temples have a large number of intricately carved statues on display. Despite its reputation for erotic sculpture, sexual themes account for less than 10% of the temple sculpture. Furthermore, the majority of sensual scene panels are proportionally balanced with the non-sexual imagery, rather than being dominant or accentuated at the expense of the remainder. To find them, the viewer must look intently or rely on a guide. The arts encompass a wide range of human experiences and values in the Hindu pantheon.Furthermore, the images are arranged in a way that expresses Hinduism's key beliefs. In Khajuraho temples, the three themes from the gamas – Avyakta, Vyaktavyakta, and Vyakta – are beautifully portrayed.
The Beejamandal temple is being dug up. The Vaidyanath temple described in the GrahpatiKokalla inscription has been identified.
The Matangeshvara temple, more than any other, is still in use as a place of devotion. It's a square grid temple with a massive 2.5 m (8.2 ft) high and 1.1 m (3.6 ft) diameter lingam on a platform that's 7.6 m (25 ft) in diameter.Kandariya Mahadev, the most visited temple, is approximately 6,500 square feet in size and includes a shikhara (spire) that rises 116 feet.
 

Jain temples

The Jain temples are found in the Khajuraho monuments' east-southeast section. Ghantai temple has bells sculpted on its pillars, whereas Chausath yogini temple has 64 yogini.

Architecture of the temples

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple's floor plan. It's built on a 64-pada grid. The 9, 16, 36, or 49 grid mandala plan is used in smaller Khajuraho temples.
Almost all Hindu temple designs, including those in Khajuraho, follow a grid geometrical design known as vastu-purusha-mandala. Mandala denotes a circle, Purusha denotes the universal energy at the heart of Hindu tradition, and Vastu denotes the habitation structure.
The design arranges a Hindu temple in a symmetrical, concentrically layered, self-repeating building around the garbhagriya, which houses the abstract principle Purusha and the temple's principal deity.The temple's shikhara, or spire, rises above the garbhagriya. Central beliefs, mythologies, cardinality, and mathematical concepts are used to create symmetry and structure in design.
The square is encircled by a mandala circle. The square is supposed to be heavenly because of its perfection and as a sign of knowledge and human thought, but the circle is supposed to be earthy, human, and seen in everyday life (moon, sun, horizon, water drop, rainbow). Each one is there for the other. Padas are flawless 64 sub-squares that make up the square.The 8x8 (64) padas grid MandukaVastupurushamandala is used in most Khajuraho temples, with pitha mandala, the square grid, incorporated into the spire design. The grid's Brahma padas house the principal deity or lingas.
The VastupurusamandalaManduka grid layout scheme (left) used in Hindu temples is used in Khajuraho temples. A Shikhara (Vimana or Spire) rises symmetrically above the temple's brahma padas, often in a circles and turning-squares concentric layering design (right), flowing from one to the other as it rises towards the sky.
Through its form, structure, and arrangement of pieces, the building is symbolic and represents major Hindu ideas. The mandapas, like the arts, are arranged in symmetrical repeating patterns in the Khajuraho temples, despite the fact that each image or sculpture is unique in its own ways.The relative positioning of the images is not random, but when they are combined, they represent concepts in the same way that connected words build phrases and paragraphs to represent concepts. In Hindu temples, this fractal design is widespread. Inscriptions can be seen on a variety of sculptures and panels. Many of the inscriptions on the temple walls are poems with several meanings, which the Sanskrit language's complicated structure allows for in creative works.
Except for one, all of the Khajuraho temples face the sunrise, and the devotee's entry is on the east side
The temple of Khajuraho is seen in this artwork. Concentric circle and rotating-squares principles were used to construct spires (Shikhara, Vimana). Above, four spires (left) are depicted, while an inner picture of one Shikara ceiling (right) demonstrates the symmetrical design.
Each temple has a Shikhara superstructure with a dome over the vastu-purusha-mandala (or Vimana, Spire). The different degrees rotated for the squares cause variations in spire design.Mount Kailash or Meru, the fabled residence of the gods, is related to the temple Shikhara in certain literature.
The central room at each temple is usually ringed by an ambulatory, which allows visitors to wander around and ritually sufficient training the Purusa and major deity. The four just and necessary pursuits of life - kama, artha, dharma, and moksa – are shown in very intricate carvings or figures on the pillars, walls, and ceilings around the room, as well as outside. Pradakshina is the term for walking around in a clockwise direction.
Mandapa, or pillared halls, are seen in larger Khajuraho temples. A waiting room for pilgrims and devotees is located at the entrance on the east side. Symmetry, grids, and mathematical precision are also used to organize the mandapas. The application of the same basic architectural principle can be observed in Hindu temples across India. Each Khajuraho temple is uniquely carved while also repeating the basic common principles found in nearly all Hindu temples, which Susan Lewandowski describes as "an organism of repeating cells."

Arts and sculpture

The sexual arts of Khajuraho temples are well-known. These works account for around 10% of the overall art on display at the monuments.
their lavishly sculpted and bejewelled bodies. These fleshy apsaras frolic on the stone's surface, donning make-up, bathing their hair, playing games, dancing, and knotting and unknotting their girdles incessantly. Serried ranks of gryphons, guardian deities, and, most famously, extravagantly intertwined maithunas, or lovemaking couples, surround the heavenly nymphs.
Over 90% of the temple's artwork depicts daily living and symbolic themes in ancient Indian culture.
Several thousand statues and artworks can be found in the temples, with Kandarya Mahadeva Temple alone boasting over 870. Sexual themes and varied sexual positions appear in about 10% of these iconographic carvings. A frequent myth is that the carvings represent sex between deities because the ancient structures with carvings in Khajuraho are temples.The kama arts reflect a wide range of sexual manifestations in different people. The vast majority of works of art show diverse aspects of daily life, mythical stories, and symbolic representations of many secular and spiritual values significant to Hindu culture. During the mediaeval era, for example, images feature women applying makeup, musicians playing music, potters, farmers, and other people going about their daily lives. As is traditional in Hindu temples, these scenes are located in the outer padas.
The artworks on show at Khajuraho temples include iconographic symbolism. Hindu ideals can be expressed in a variety of ways. Even the Kama scenes reveal spiritual topics like as moksha when viewed in conjunction with the sculptures that before and follow them. This situation, which is "like a man and woman in intimate embrace," according to Stella Kramrisch, is a symbol of moksa, the final release or reconnection of two principles, the essence (Purusha) and nature (Prakriti).— Stella Kramrisch, 1976
The Khajuraho temples are one example of the diverse styles of art that flourished in India's Rajput kingdoms from the 8th to the 10th centuries CE. Poems and drama like as Prabodhacandrodaya, Karpuramanjari, Viddhasalabhanjika, and Kavyamimansa were published contemporaneously with Khajuraho. In Khajuraho temples, some of the topics represented in these literary works are engraved as sculpture.The Vyalas, which are hybrid fictional animals with lions' bodies and may be found in various Indian temples, are among the sculptures at the Khajuraho monuments devoted to Vishnu. VrikVyala (hybrid of wolf and lion) and GajaVyala are two examples of hybrid legendary artwork (hybrid of elephant and lion). These Vyalas could reflect a syncretic, creative combination of capabilities intrinsic in both.
 
Khajuraho is now considered one of the top destinations in Madhya Pradesh to see ancient India's architectural prowess. For its exceptional creative splendour, the temples of Khajuraho were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. These temples are divided into three groups: Eastern, Western, and Southern. Only the Western group of temples offers an audio-guided tour among these three. Every year in February, the Khajuraho Dance Festival takes place for one week within the temple grounds. This festival features performances by some of India's most accomplished classical dancers. AtKhajuraho, there's also an Archaeological Museum. 

Khajuraho Light and Sound Show

A beautiful light and sound display is held at the Khajuraho temples in the evenings, in the open lawns and against the backdrop of magnificent historical temples, and it is one of India's best light and sound performances. The presentation takes visitors through the temples' wonderful history.

• Duration: 50 minutes

• Timings:

• From October to February, the hours are 6:30 p.m. to 7:25 p.m. (English); 7:40 p.m. to 8:35 p.m.  (Hindi)

• 7:30 p.m. to 8:25 p.m. (English); 8:40 p.m. to 9:35 p.m. (Hindi) from March to September

• Tickets: ₹ 300 for Indians; ₹ 700 for foreigners

Lesser Known Facts about Khajuraho

·         Khajuraho is among the 4 important religious locations associated with Lord Shiva. Kashi, Kedarnath, and Gaya are the other destinations.
·         Even now, the Matangeshwara temple in Khajuraho remains a busy centre of prayer.
·         The Bhand Deva Temple, built in the 10th century in Rajasthan, is modelled after the Khajuraho temples. As a result, it is referred to as Little Khajuraho.
·         The Kandariya Mahadev temple in Khajuraho is the most visited shrine in the area, with over 870 statues.
·         While erotic sculptures are well-known in Khajuraho, they only account for about 10% of the temple's sculptures.

Khajuraho Museum

Khajuraho's Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of sculptures and carved masterpieces. The museum, which opened in 1967, contains five galleries. The museum houses almost 3000 sculptures, but only 110 of them have been presented for the public.

Museum Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays

• Entry Fee for Museum: ₹ 20 for Indians; ₹ 100 for foreigners

Attractions near Khajuraho

• Beni Sagar Dam (6.4 km)

• Jain Museum (3.2 km)

Khajuraho is without a doubt one of India's most fascinating destinations to visit. Visit the temple to discover about its rich architectural history and to marvel at the craftsmanship of the ancient craftsmen who created these magnificent works of art.

Celebration/Festivals

Temples as a backdrop.
Every evening, the Khajuraho temple complex hosts a son et lumière (music and light) performance.The first episode is in English, while the second is in Hindi. It is conducted on the temple complex's open lawns and has gotten mixed reviews.

Visitor Guide

Khajuraho, in northern Madhya Pradesh, is known as the home of the Khajuraho temple. Every year, a large number of travellers visit just for this important tourist destination. Because of this, Khajuraho is easily accessible and has its own airport, which is rather close to the site. The quickest method to go to Khajuraho is via flight; the airport is approximately 2 minutes away. They can also take a bus from Chhatarpur if necessary. Khajuraho is 44 kilometres from Chattarpur district, 281 kilometres from Gwalior, 375 kilometres from Bhopal, 565 kilometres from Indore, and 355 kilometres from Ranchi. Harpalpur (94 km), Satna (117 km), Jhansi (175 km), and Jabalpur (258 km) are the closest cities to Khajuraho.

ROADWAYS

The Khajuraho Bus Stand is one kilometre from the Khajuraho Temple. From Delhi to Khajuraho, Agra to Khajuraho, Indore to Khajuraho, Bhopal to Khajuraho, and other places, buses are accessible.

RAILWAYS

Khajuraho Railway Station, located in the Chhatarpur district, is 5 kilometres from the Khajuraho temple. Trains are running from Delhi to Khajuraho, Agra to Khajuraho, Varanasi to Khajuraho, and other cities. To get to town, take the Khajuraho-Hazrat Nizamuddin Express, the UP Sampark Kranti Express, or the Bundelkhand Link Express.

AIRWAYS

The Khajuraho Temple Complex is only a kilometre distant from the Khajuraho Airport. It has flights from both Delhi and Varanasi.

METRO

Although both Indore and Bhopal have metro rail networks, there is no metro station in Khajuraho.

Nearby Temples

Nearby Tourist Places

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple

The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Khajuraho. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is well-known for its vibrant architecture and sexual carvings of men and women on the walls. Visitors can also locate a Shiva Lingam within the temple grounds, which has a strong spiritual tendency toward religious beliefs.

Lakshmana Temple

Khajuraho is mostly known for its temples as a cultural destination. Among the other well-known and beloved temples is the Lakshmana Temple, which was built by the Chandela dynasty. It is a significant and one of the oldest temples in Khajuraho. The architecture will enthral them even more with 600 engravings of Hindu deities.

Light and Sound Show

The Light and Sound Show, which explains the folklore around the temples, adds to the grandeur and enjoyment of a visit to Khajuraho. Amitabh Bachchan, in his baritone, narrates the entire show. The engaging stories are highly engaging and would undoubtedly capture the curiosity of visitors. Tourists should put this on their list of things to do in Khajuraho.
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Manjeshwar Temple

Another magnificent temple built by the Chandela dynasty kings in the ninth century. The temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is also one of the top attractions to visit in Khajuraho. It is one of the few temples in Khajuraho that does not feature erotic sculptures on its outside. Visit the temple and take in the morning aarti.

Javari Temple

The Javari Temple is located in the extreme east of the Khajuraho collection of temples. One of the great spots to see in Khajuraho is the breath-taking views of lush green grass surrounding the rock temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features sensual carvings of men and women on the walls.

Chaturbhuj Temple

The beautiful Chaturbhuja Temple is nestled among the temples of Khajuraho. The temple was built by Chandela monarchs in the 12th century and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, with a four-handed statue. As a result, the goddess was given the name Chaturbhuja. The sculptures of men and women that cover the temple walls make it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Khajuraho.

Vishvanatha Temple

The Vishvanath Temple, built as a homage to Lord Shiva, is nestled amid tropical gardens and a beautiful setting. The magnificent interiors of the temple, which house close to 101 lesser lingams and one large Shiva Lingam, will astound visitors. It is situated in the western portion of the Khajuraho temple complex. They'd enjoy being here in the open air.

Jagadambi Temple

While many people believe Jagadambi Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, some believe it was built to honour Goddess Parvati and Maa Kali. The temple was built between the years 1000 and 1025 AD. It is definitely one of the top sites to see in Khajuraho due to its stunning site. Make sure to completely tour the temple grounds, as they will be astounded.

Shantinatha Temple

Shantinatha Temple is located near the Khajuraho complex of temples on the eastern side. It is also regarded as one of Khajuraho's most popular tourist attractions. They would be awestruck by the magnificent carvings and sculptures that can be found on the temple's outer walls. Not to mention the presence of a nearly 12-foot-tall Lord Shantinatha idol.

State Museum of Tribal and Folk Art

They would be fascinated not only by the temples, but also by the antiquities and folk art found in the Khajuraho temple complex. The Khajuraho temple complex contains a variety of artefacts, cultural items, traditional and religious components of the temples. Tourists should visit the museum to understand more about the history and cultural significance of the temples in Khajuraho. The museum attracts visitors from all around the world.

Duladeo Temple

The Dulhadev temple, built in 1130 and home to the enticing Shiva Lingum, is a beautiful greyscaled temple with sculptures of Lord Shiva and his wife, Goddess Parvati. The temple structure has been embellished with beautiful carvings, adding to the ambiance's attractiveness. There are also places to stay in the region so that people can spend more time exploring the area during their vacation to Khajuraho.

Parsvnath Temple

The Parsvnath Temple is one of the most prominent temples in Khajuraho's premise, known for its magnificent architectural styles and beautiful sculptures. The combination of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist-styled decorations on the buildings is what makes the temple complex so beautiful. It's exquisite and lovely, and it should be on their list of places to see in Khajuraho.

Archaeological Museum Khajuraho

The Archaeological Museum Khajuraho is part of the temples on the Western wing of the Khajuraho group of temples. The museum is amazing, with over 2000 antiques and relics depicting the great history of the 10th and 12th centuries. Jardine Museum houses some exquisite Hindu and Jain relics that were discovered in temples. Tourists would be enthralled by the area's rich heritage.

Raneh Falls

They would be entertained not only by the temples, but also by some enjoyable natural beauty. One of the most beautiful spots to visit near Khajuraho is the Raneh Falls, which is located close to the temple complex. The waterfall is set in a valley made of crystalline granite with red, grey, and pink tones. It is incredibly beautiful and serves as a landmark in Khajuraho.

Beni Sagar Dam

The Beni Sagar Dam is another well-known attraction in Khajuraho that should be on your list of sites to visit. The dam was built directly across the Khuddar River, which is near to Khajuraho's major city. The location is known for recreational activities and should be a destination for them. The tranquilly of the dam and the gorgeous backdrop would surprise visitors.

Dhubela Museum

The Dhubela Museum, also known as the Maharaja Chhatrasal Museum, is about 62 kilometres from Khajuraho's main city. It is recognised to be one of Khajuraho's most fascinating sites to visit. Along with the fascinating artefacts on display, the museum is bordered by breathtaking views of the Dhubela lake. The museum houses beautiful sculptures and paintings that are shown in eight galleries.

Jain Museum

The Jain Museum, located in Khajuraho's eastern collection of temples, houses some of the best Jain cultures. The museum has various unusual and beautiful exhibits to enjoy, ranging from pictures of MakraTorana's legendary animals to stunning sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras. This is one among the places in Khajuraho that visitors should have seen.

Nandi Temple

The Nandi Temple is a notable attraction in the Khajuraho temple complex. The stunning structure, which is located in Khajuraho, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nandi, Lord Shiva's bull, is honoured in this temple. It is open to the public, as are the other temples in the Khajuraho complex. The statue is well-sculpted and interesting.

Chausath Yogini Temple

The Chausath Yogini Temple is one of the oldest temples in Khajuraho and one of the top sites to visit in Khajuraho. The temple, which was built in the late 9th century, is considered to be of national importance. Tourists can take a stroll around the temple complex and take in some of the fascinating things that the ruin has to offer. Continue to explore this gorgeous area.

The temples in Khajuraho are organized into three groups: the Eastern group, the Southern group, and the Western group of temples, with the Western group being the only one that offers an audio-guided tour of the seventy-eight temples. The Archaeological Survey of India has also created an audio guided tour that includes a narration of the temple's history and construction.

Every year in February, the Khajuraho Dance Festival takes place. It contains a variety of ancient Indian dances placed against the Chitragupta or Vishwanath