Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a group of temples situated in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is about 175 kilometres southeast of Jhansi. Nagara-style architectural symbolism and erotic sculptures are notable features of the temples. Khajuraho’s exotic temples are both highly ornate and strikingly beautiful. The site has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
How to reach Khajuraho?
By Train: There are only a few towns connected to Khajuraho railway station, including New Delhi. There is a daily Khajuraho-Hazrat Nizamuddin Express that travels from Khajuraho to Hazrat Nizamuddin. Taxis and autos are available outside the railway station. Mahoba Junction, which is approximately 75 kilometres away from Khajuraho, is the second nearest railhead, which is well-connected with some Indian cities.
By Air: There is a domestic airport in Khajuraho that is well connected to most of the Indian cities, such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bhopal. Air India and Jet Airways are the popular carriers that fly to Khajuraho regularly. You can hire a cab or a taxi to your hotel once you reach Khajuraho’s airport since it is a very small town.
By Road: Khajuraho is connected to neighbouring cities like Jhansi by several private and state-owned buses. Regular buses, non-air-conditioned buses, air-conditioned buses, semi-deluxe buses, and deluxe buses are all available.
Amazing things to do and places to visit in Khajuraho
The town of Khajuraho has much more to offer than its famous temples. You will find enough things to do and places to visit in Khajuraho. You can try your hand at one of the many treks offered throughout the area or visit one of the nearby waterfalls.
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
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The largest and most well-known temple in Khajuraho city is the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple. It is located about 2 km from the city centre and can be reached by bus or taxi. The sculptures on this temple are among the best preserved in Khajuraho. Two enormous stone elephants stand on either side of the entrance, with a frieze below depicting elephant riders capturing wild elephants, which was used as part of a ritual sacrifice during Vedic times.
Lakshmana Temple
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The Lakshmana Temple is located about 2.5 kilometres from the city centre of Khajuraho. To reach the temple, you can either take a rickshaw or walk. The temple is situated within the boundaries of the ancient city and is one of the largest temples in the area. It was built in 950 AD by the Chandela dynasty and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple has several sculptures and carvings on its walls, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
Light and Sound Show
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The Light and Sound Show is located in the heart of the city centre and can be covered by foot or public transport. The show tells the story of the city’s history and is a must-see for any visitor. Afterwards, you can explore the many shops and restaurants in the area. During the winter months of October through February, the timings are 6.30 pm to 7.25 pm. During the summer months of March to September, the timings are 7.30 pm to 8.25 pm. For Indian visitors, the entry fee is Rs 250, while for foreign visitors, it is Rs 700.
Manjeshwar Temple
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The Manjeshwar Temple is located in the city centre of Khajuraho, about a kilometre from the Eastern Group of Temples. You can walk or take a rickshaw from the city centre to reach the temple. The temple is located on a small hill, so it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes. The temple is surrounded by a garden, and there are plenty of photo opportunities.
Javari Temple
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The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and is one of the largest temples in Khajuraho. Inside the temple, you’ll find a statue of Vishnu, as well as many carvings and paintings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The Javari Temple is located about 2 km from the city centre and can be reached by foot, bike or rickshaw.
Chaturbhuj Temple
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The temple is located on a hill, so you will need to walk up a flight of stairs to reach it. Once you are at the top, you will be able to see the beautiful views of the surrounding area. The Chaturbhuj Temple is located about 10km from the city centre. To reach the temple, you can take a bus or taxi from the city centre.
Vishvanatha Temple
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The Vishvanatha Temple is one of the most famous temples in Khajuraho, and for a good reason. The temple is just a short distance from the city centre and can be easily reached by bus or taxi. Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to a beautiful view of the temple complex, as well as a variety of activities to keep you busy. Be sure to check out any sculptures and carvings on the temple walls, and take some time to explore the surrounding area.
Jagadambi Temple
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The Jagadambi Temple is located about 2km from the city centre and is easily reachable by auto-rickshaw or cycle-rickshaw. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Jagadambi and was built in the 11th century. It is one of the largest temples in Khajuraho, and its striking architecture is a must-see.
Shantinatha Temple
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The Shantinatha Temple is one of the most popular temples in Khajuraho, and for a good reason. The temple is located just a short distance from the city centre and can be easily reached by foot or by car. The temple is also one of the most well-preserved temples in Khajuraho, and its intricate carvings are a sight to behold.
State Museum Of Tribal and Folk Art
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The State Museum Of Tribal and Folk Art is located in the city centre of Khajuraho. Buses or taxis are available to take from the airport or the railway station to get there. The museum’s timings are from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, and on Saturday, from 9 am to 1 pm. For Indians, the fee is 10 per person; for foreign tourists, the fee is 250 per person.
Duladeo Temple
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The temple was built in 1150 AD by the Chandela dynasty. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has beautiful sculptures on its walls. The highlight of the temple is the 6-metre-tall statue of Lord Shiva in the sanctum sanctorum.
Parsvanath Temple
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The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has beautiful architecture. There are many things to see and do in the temple complex, such as taking a dip in the holy water tank, offering prayers at the shrine, and taking a look at the beautiful sculptures. The Parsvanath Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Khajuraho. It is located about 2 km from the city centre and can be reached by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
Archaeological Museum Khajuraho
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The Archaeological Museum Khajuraho is located about 10 kilometres from the city centre. To reach the museum, you can take a bus or a taxi from the city centre. The museum’s timings are from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, and on Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm. Entry is free for kids and Rs 100 for adults.
Raneh Falls
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Raneh waterfalls are one of the ideal places to visit near Khajuraho as they are situated in a valley made of crystalline granite. There is no other waterfall like it in the world, situated 20 km from Khajuraho in a deep canyon. This valley is known for the Raneh Falls, a series of waterfalls that flow from it.
Beni Sagar Dam
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Beni Sagar Dam is situated in Khajuraho and is built over the Shetrunji River. You can enjoy several recreational activities at this dam or plan an outing for the whole family. A peaceful and serene atmosphere surrounds this dam, which is ideal for picnickers and people who enjoy unwinding and relaxing.
FAQs
When and by whom were the temples of Khajuraho built?
Chandela rulers constructed the rock-cut temple of Khajuraho in 900 AD.
How big is the total area of all the temples in Khajuraho Khaare?
Khajuraho used to have 85 temples covering almost 20 square kilometres, but after the destruction, only 25 synagogues remained, covering 6 square kilometres.
Khajuraho was discovered by which British officer?
Khajuraho was discovered in the 19th century by TS Burt, a British surveyor.
Khajuraho is best visited during what time of year?
To explore Khajuraho, October to February is the right time.
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