The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a collection of stunning ancient temples located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. These temples are renowned for their exquisite and intricate erotic carvings, showcasing a remarkable blend of art, culture, and spirituality. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the “Seven Wonders of India.”
Brief History: Built between 950 and 1050 CE during the Chandela dynasty, the Khajuraho temples were dedicated to various deities, including Shiva, Vishnu, and Jain Tirthankaras. Originally, there were 85 temples, but only about 20 of them have survived the test of time. The temples flourished during the reign of the Chandela rulers but were later abandoned and forgotten until rediscovered by British officer T.S. Burt in 1838.
Architecture: The Khajuraho temples showcase an excellent example of Nagara-style architecture with intricately carved sandstone structures. The temples are divided into three geographical groups: Western, Eastern, and Southern. The Western Group, comprising the largest and most significant temples, is the most visited. The intricate carvings on the temple walls depict various aspects of life, mythology, and spiritual practices. The sculptures are particularly famous for their depiction of various aspects of human life, including sensuality and eroticism.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Western Group of Temples: Visit the main cluster of temples, including the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Lakshmana Temple, and Devi Jagadambi Temple.
- Eastern and Southern Groups: Explore the Jain temples in the Eastern Group and the Duladeo Temple in the Southern Group.
- Light and Sound Show: Attend the fascinating light and sound show in the evening, which narrates the history of Khajuraho and its temples.
- Khajuraho Dance Festival: If visiting in February, experience the Khajuraho Dance Festival, which showcases classical dance forms against the backdrop of the temples.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Varanasi.
- By Train: The Khajuraho Railway Station is connected to various major cities, including Delhi, Agra, and Jhansi.
- By Road: Khajuraho is well-connected by road to cities like Jhansi, Satna, and Mahoba. Regular bus services and taxis are available.
Location: Khajuraho is situated in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The exact geographical coordinates are approximately 24.8500° N latitude and 79.9333° E longitude.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Khajuraho is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring the monuments. The annual Khajuraho Dance Festival usually takes place in February, making it an ideal time to witness the cultural vibrancy of the region. Summers can be scorching, and monsoons bring heavy rainfall, which may affect travel plans.