Temples make us believe in paradise on earth. The moment we enter a temple, we are full of emotions and curiosity about what, where, how, and why. One of the most beautiful temples in Madhya Pradesh is Khajuraho Temple in terms of architectural and aesthetic points of view. The city, which is in Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur district, is home to magnificent architecture and enthralling historical tales. While planning a visit to this superb temple, be assured to be astonished by the ancient textures and sculptures that will blow your mind.
The Hindi words "Khajura" and "Vatika" have the connotations of "Date" and "Bearing," respectively. Jejakabhukti is the term used historically to refer to the location known as "Khajuraho." The temple (Hindu and Jain) is located around 175 kilometres southeast of the brave city of Jhansi. The Khajuraho Temples, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were constructed by the Chandela Dynasty during the Middle Ages and are renowned for their Nagara-Style architecture and beautiful statues of nayikas (Hindu Mythological female characters) and deities.
These Khajuraho temples, which the Chandela Dynasty constructed between 950 and 1050 AD, utilise exciting art to portray many types of meditation, spiritual teachings, and relationships.
According to historical records, there were 85 temples in the Khajuraho temple site in the 12th century, covering 20 square kilometres. Only 25 of these temples—scattered throughout a six-square-kilometre area—have endured the passage of time. These temples were built during the Chandela dynasty's reign and feature sculptures with a lifelike appearance. The traditional way of life of women who lived in the mediaeval era is displayed in the Khajuraho temples.
When we visit a new place, we look for reasons to visit, looking for answers for ‘what else’! One of the things that makes this temple a well-liked tourist destination is the beauty of the ornate statues and the detailing of each of its parts. The temple is full of sculptures and magnificent illustrations of the Nagara Style throughout the architecture. The Nagara style was initially known to have been favoured during the Gupta Dynasty (3rd century CE to 543 CE), and it persisted in popularity in northern India until Muslim conquests in the 13th century CE. The Chandela Dynasty built the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during the Middle Ages. It is noted for its Nagara-Style architecture and lovely statues that will take you back to the eon of its construction with its lively ambiance.
The Western temples at Khajuraho receive the most visitors who want to view Kandariya Mahadev, Lakshmana, Mata Jagdamba, and Viswanath. The 11-foot-tall sandstone sculpture at Chaturbhuj Temple, which is located in the Southern section, is a must-see attraction. It has Lord Shiva's head, Lord Krishna's lower body, and Lord Vishnu's upper body. It is a must-visit location while coming to Khajuraho.
India is not for now only, but it's a land of epics since ages like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana are majors from India. There are native beliefs and stories in our veins. The belief states that the architects of Khajuraho were descendants of the moon god of Indian mythology. The tale of Hemavati, a Brahmin priest's daughter, is likely to be narrated. The moon god came to earth and pursued her one evening while she was taking a bath because he was drawn to her young beauty. He was powerless against her maiden charm's enchantment. Chandravarman, their son, was born, and soon the child rose to prominence as a monarch. His mother appeared to him in a dream and urged him to construct temples that would express human sentiments through art.
Hemavati emphasised the statement that passion is simply the strongest human longing for love. Chandravarman, moved by the emptiness of his mother's life, ordered the first collection of Khajuraho temples to be built. By his successors, the additional temples in Khajuraho Town were constructed. According to folklore, Khajuraho's temples represent the love of a mother and a son.
The moment we start judging a book by its cover we start missing absolute beautiful opportunities. Khajuraho temples were in the headlines for a quiet time because of their erotic art. But according to historians and archaeologists, only 10% of the sculptures on the exterior of the walls of the Khajuraho architecture represent sexuality as a form of art. The remaining sculptures show various people going about their daily lives, including farmers, potters, musicians, and carpenters from various social classes. Many people mistakenly refer to the erotic sculpture known as Kamasutra, which shows humans of different genders engaging in sexual activity. The sculptures at Khajuraho are works of exquisite art that portray sexuality without being crude or vulgar.
An annual celebration of dance and the civilizations that give rise to its many forms is the Khajuraho Dance Festival. The event, which lasts seven days and is hosted at the Khajuraho UNESCO World Heritage Site, honours the stage on which essential figures from the world of traditional Indian dance styles can express themselves in the month of February. Dancers from all around the world will enthral you with their performances, whether they are performing Kuchipudi, Bharatnatyam, Kathakali, or Odissi.
The wife of Lord Shiva Goddess Parvati, is known by the name Jagdambi. A sculpture of Lord Vishnu has been skillfully crafted and is located on a platform inside the temple's sanctuary. Additionally, there are a few statues of sura-sundaris (celestial beauty) that are especially beautiful.
This temple honours the Sun God, Lord Surya. In the south of the temple, there is also a sculpture of Lord Vishnu with eight arms and eleven heads. The celestial couple deities' statues exhibit distinctive aesthetic qualities.
This temple is one of a few historic temples made of sandstone with a honey-coloured hue. This Jain temple, which was constructed between 950 and 970, also houses representations of Lord Vishnu, a deity of the Vaishnava religion.
Sound And Light Show Near Western Group Of Temples- Out of all the nighttime activities in Khajuraho, the Western Group of Temples' music and light extravaganza are one to see and remember for a very long time. The purpose of this sponsored event is to satisfy the visitors' intense interest while also illuminating different historical, religious, and cultural facts and customs of the aforementioned ancient ages.
Both the English and Hindi shows are well-organised. Visitors may discover a great deal about the temple's artwork, carvings, and some intriguing, previously untold stories that will astound them.
Timings (English) : 06:30 pm - 07:25 pm.
Timings (Hindi) : 07:40 pm - 08:35 pm.
Timings (English): 07:30 pm to 08:25 pm.
Timings (Hindi) : 08:40 pm to 09:35 pm.
Location: Western Group of Temples, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.
The only temple in Khajuraho without even a single erotic sculpture is Chaturbhuja Temple. The sculpture of Ganga and Jamuna at the temple's entryway is exquisitely sculpted.
Other temples in this group with noteworthy architectural and historical aspects are Adinatha Temple, Shantinath Temple, Ghantai Temple, and Brahma Temple.
We will make sure to make the journey smooth so that you can reach the temple in a good mood.
Note - Taxi fare some years ago was around Rs. 1500. Enjoy the journey that will happen through Panna Forest. Bargain confidently.
By Train: Five kilometres separate the main town from the Khajuraho railway station, which connects to a few Madhya Pradesh cities. The closest significant railhead to Khajuraho Temple, which is located around 78 kilometres away, is Mahoba. Regular trains depart from Mahoba for places including Mathura, Varanasi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Allahabad, Jabalpur, and Gwalior.
By Road: With a decent transport network, roads to Khajuraho are well-linked to all the major National and State Highways. Many buses travel to nearby cities. Buses, non AC and AC are available permanently. The option to book a private vehicle is always open.
By Air: Khajuraho is well connected to the majority of Indian cities with its domestic airport. Popular airlines with frequent service to Khajuraho include Jet Airways, SpiceJet, Air India, and JetKonnect.
The best time to visit Khajuraho is from July to March, however depending on what you want to do, below is a breakdown of the weather there by month so you can make travel arrangements:
Winter season in Khajuraho is best to explore outdoor activities and temple travels. Additionally, February is a fantastic month to schedule a trip because you may attend the eagerly anticipated dance festival then.
Summer season in Khajuraho is suitable for exploring the city. It can get warm in April and May, especially in the afternoons when the high can reach 47 degrees Celsius. To prevent tanning, it is advised to carry sunscreen and dress in lightweight cotton.
The monsoon season in Khajuraho has its own charm when the eye-soothing green area surrounding this small town turns into a real paradise. Eleven with the humidity, the evenings are pleasant. Because this is considered an off-season for tourists, this is a great time to avail discounts on luxury and boutique hotels.
Depending on your budget, you can select from a variety of resorts located across the city or, like me, stay at a low-cost hotel close to the Western Group of temples.
Poha, Rogan Josh, Mutton Kebabs, Chicken Biryani, Kheema, Sabudana Lassi, Moong Dal Halwa, Jalebi, Cashew Barfi, Kusli, Lavang Lata, and more dishes should not be missed while visiting this location. The best part of the region's famed Gulab Jamuns, Ladoos, and Bafla is that they are readily available throughout Khajuraho and close to the temple ground.
