Khajuraho temples are located in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, and are also known as the Khajuraho group of monuments or temples. It forms one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India since 1986. The Indian city of Khajuraho is home to the famous Khajuraho temples. Built-in the 10th and 11th centuries, they are excellent examples of traditional Indian architecture and sculptures. Each temple has its unique features, but they also share some common elements and traits.
Some of the most beautiful temples in India were constructed during the Chandela period between 950 and 1050 AD in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh state. The temples were built during the reign of Raja Chandela, who was known to be a patron of arts and literature.
How to reach Khajuraho?
By air:
Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi, Bhopal, and Mumbai are just a few of the major cities connected to Khajuraho airport. Mumbai and Delhi have flights for international travellers.
By train:
Khajuraho’s nearest railway station is Mahoba, which is 63 km away. Located 90 km from Khajuraho, Harpalpur is another major railhead connected to most of the country’s railheads.
By road:
The Khajuraho railway station is connected by both public and private buses to many other major destinations. Luxury AC and non-AC buses, Volvos, and other types of buses are available between Khajuraho and other major cities. There are regular buses that travel within the city and to other cities. Travellers can also take advantage of taxi services.
Impressive Khajuraho temples you must visit
Vamana Temple
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Located in the small village of Khajuraho, this temple is an ideal starting point for a tour. The Vamana Temple is famous for its elaborate carvings and erotic sculptures. It was built in the 10th century AD by Chandela rulers and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The temple can be reached via India’s National Highway 75, which connects Delhi to Jabalpur. The temple is situated on the outskirts of the town and is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Javari Temple
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Javari Temple has a very erotic sculpture of a couple making love on the temple’s wall. There are carvings depicting gods, goddesses and other rituals. The sculptures depict Indian lifestyle, culture and traditions.
Brahma Temple
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The Brahma Temple is probably the most famous of all the Khajuraho temples and was built in 1027 AD and dedicated to the Hindu god of creation. This temple is one of the best-preserved and most visited in Khajuraho. Located 2 km from the main Khajuraho, it can be reached by auto or taxi.
Ghantai Temple
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The Ghantai temple is a popular tourist attraction, but there are other equally attractive sites you can also visit. You can find the following at the site: a four-pillared open pavilion in front of the temple, an underground water tank and a two-storeyed porch on its eastern side. To reach this temple follow these directions. When you reach Khajuraho bus stand, take bus no. 4 or 5 and get off at the Gantai Temple stop.
Adinath Temple
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The Adinath Temple is the oldest of the Khajuraho temples, and it is also one of the most famous. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and contains a large statue of him which was once used for human sacrifices.
Parsvanath Temple
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Also known as the Temple of 1000 pillars, the Parsvanath Temple is one of the best Khajuraho temples to visit. Built in 1026 by King Lakhmana’s son, King Dhanga, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a huge courtyard that was once roofed with stone slabs. The exterior walls are decorated with intricate carvings and elaborate friezes of scenes from Hindu mythology.
Shantinath
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One of the best Khajuraho temples is Shantinath. It is located in Khajuraho village, which is around 52 kilometres from Panna. You need to reach Khajuraho by bus or by road and then you can visit this temple. The temple has beautiful architecture and was built during the 8th century AD. There are carvings on its walls that show scenes from Hindu mythology and it has been one of the most visited temples in India for centuries.
FAQs
Why are Khajuraho temples famous?
UNESCO site Khajuraho Group of Monuments was built in the middle ages by the Chandela Dynasty. It's noted for its architecture in Nagara style and graceful sculptures of nayikas, Hindu mythological female protagonists and deities.
How were the Khajuraho temples built?
During the Chandela dynasty, between 950 and 1050, most Khajuraho temples were built.