Places Visit In Khajuraho

Kandariya Mahadev Temple,Khajuraho

The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, meaning "the Great God of the Cave", is the largest and most ornate Hindu temple in the medieval temple group found at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, India.

Overview

The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple meaning "the Great God of the Cave", is the largest and most ornate Hindu temple in the medieval temple group found at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is considered one of the best examples of temples preserved from the medieval period in India.

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is the largest, tallest and most beautiful Hindu Temple of the Khajuraho Group of Temples. This medieval marvel dates back to 1050 BC and was built by Raja Dhandadeva, a strong Chandela ruler. The temple is embellished with ornate carvings and sculptures. Its main spire (Shikhara) depicts Mount Kailash and stands with a height of 31 meters. Surrounding this spire are other 84 miniature spires (Urushringas). This temple is dedicated to Hindu Lord Shiva, and has a Shiva Linga made of marbel, as its sanctum. About 646 statues are installed in its boundary that looks even more appealing. The façade of this temple is east facing.

The entrance has staircase and porch that is adorned with garlands chiseled out of a single stone. It is estimated that Kandariya Mahdeva has about 870 sculptures, with one meter height each. On the inside is the deity of Lord Shiva, holding a trident and snake, with the deities of Vishnu and Brahma. The whole plan of this temple is somewhat similar to Lakshman and Vishwanath Temple; with all rooms arrayed from east to west and balconies on the south and north.

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is a famous western group of holy temples.The temple enterance consist of makara torana.The place has an adorable four-footed picture,named as Sadashiva.The Bhagvan Sadashiva is a way of Master Shiva that represents obvious as well as unobvious element and is regarded to be the greatest deity among the sacred Shaivaites.Along with the holy marble linga,the sanctum also houses diferrent types of shiva,that is subduer of the sightless devil,andhaka, the cosmic proffessional dancer natesha and sacred tripurantaka,ruining the three devil places.

Kandariya Mahadev Temple is the largest, tallest and the most ornate temple of the surviving temples at Khajuraho. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This stunning temple is around 31m tall, and is one of the western group of temples, apart from Matangeswara and Vishwanatha temples.

History

Khajuraho was once the capital of the Chandela dynasty. The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, one of the best examples of temples preserved from the medieval period in India,is the largest of the western group of temples in the Khajuraho complex which was built by the Chandela rulers. Shiva is the chief deity in the temple deified in the sanctum sanctorium.

The Kandariya Mahadeva temples was built during the reign of Vidyadhara.At various periods of the reign of this dynasty many famous temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva, Surya, Shakti of the Hindu religion and also for the Thirthankaras of Jain religion were built. Vidhyadhara, also known as Bida in the recordings of the Muslim historian Ibn-al-Athir, who is credited with building the Kaṇḍāriyā Mahādeva Temple, was a powerful ruler who fought Mahmud of Ghazni in the first offensive launched by the latter in 1019.This battle was not conclusive and Mahmud had to return to Ghazni. Mahmud again waged war against Vidhyadhara in 1022. He attacked the fort of Kalinjar.The siege of the fort was unsuccessful. It was lifted and Mahmud and Vidhyadhara called a truce and parted by exchanging gifts. Vidhyadhara celebrated his success over Mahmud and other rulers by building the Kaṇḍāriyā Mahādeva Temple, dedicated to his family deity Shiva. Epigraphic inscriptions on a pilaster of the mandapa in the temple mentions the name of the builder of the temple as Virimda, which is interpreted as the pseudonym of Vidhyadhara.Its construction is dated to the period from 1025 and 1050 AD.

All the extant temples including the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple were inscribed in 1986 under the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites under Criterion III for its artistic creation and under Criterion V for the culture of the Chandelas that was popular till the country was invaded by Muslims in 1202.

Most of the temples at Khajuraho were constructed between 950 and 1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty, who became the most powerful rulers of northern and central India from the 9th to the 12th century, achieving their zenith around 1030. According to historical records, during the 12th century the site had as many as 85 temples spread out over 20 square kilometers. Today, only about 20 temples are still standing. Of these, the largest surviving Saiva shrine is Khandarya Mahadeva, while the largest Vishnu shrines include those of Chaturbhuja and Ramachandra. Although still in active use in 1200, during the next century the complex was overrun by forces of the Delhi Sultanate, under the command of the Muslim Sultan Qutb-ud-din Aibak. Under Muslim rule, some temples were desecrated, while the remainder were left to rot. In the 1830s, a British surveyor, T.S. Burt, "rediscovered" the temples and brought them to the attention of the rest of the world.

Temple Entry Fees and Charges

Foreigners are charged 250 rupees to enter the western group of temples. The other temples are free.
Entry Fees for Children: Below 15 year's free entry

Fees of Sound and Light Show

English: 6:30 PM to 07:25 PM
Hindi: 7:40 PM to 8:35 PM

Lakshman Temple,Khajuraho

The Lakshmana Temple is a Hindu temple built by Yashovarman located in Khajuraho, India. Dedicated to Vaikuntha Vishnu - an aspect of Vishnu.

Overview

Lakshmana Temple Khajuraho is arguably the biggest and best temple in Khajuraho. Before you visit this temple, read our post to find out interesting facts about Lakshmana Temple, what scenes you can expect to see as well as the architectural details of its exterior and interior. These details will enable you to look out for these particular carvings which are considered to be quite ‘saucy’.

The Lakshamana temple ( Lat 21° 25' N 82° 10' E Long) is located in the village Sirpur in Mahasmand dt of Chattisgarh at a distance of 90 km from the state capital of Raipur. Sirpur is derived from the ancient name Sripura which was once the centre of power of South Kosalas during the rule of Sarabhapuriyas and Panduvamsis during 6th – 8th century AD.

The archaeological remains in and around Sirpur consists of both Hindu and Buddhist monuments in the form of temples and monasteries. Among them, the most well preserved magnificent temple is the east facing Lakshmana temple built by Vasata, the mother of Mahasivagupta Balarjuna in 7th century AD.

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this brick temple stands on a high massive platform accessible by steps in the north and the south. The plan of the temple consists of a garbagriha, antarala and a mandapa. The mandapa now in ruins was originally upheld by stone pillars in rows. The exquisitely carved doorframe depicts figures of Seshasayi Vishnu along with his other incarnations. This temple is one among the best examples of brick temples of ancient India.

History

Built by Chandela kings, Lakshmana Temple is one of the first magnificent structures established in Khajuraho. Known to be an architectural marvel, this beautiful shrine is amongst the largest temples set in the Western Wing of the Khajuraho complex. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu Lord Vishnu and houses an image of Vaikuntha-Vishnu.

The temple's architecture is simply marvellous and its exterior wall exhibits images of over 600 gods. The lowest platform called adhishthana, forms the base on which the imposing 25.9 m long Lakshmana Temple stands.

Its framework comprises an entrance porch, a mandapa, antrala, maha-mandapa and garbha graha. The rectangular frame of Lakshmana Temple is unique and features subsidiary shrines at the four corners of its platform.

Devi jagdamba Temple,Khajuraho

Devi Jagadambika temple or Jagadambika temple of a group of about 25 temples at Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India. Khajuraho is a World Heritage site.

Overview

The temples of Khajuraho were built by the rulers of the Chandella dynasty between the 10th and the 12th centuries. Apsara, Devi Jagadambi Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India. Devi Jagadambika temple, in a group to the north, is one of the most finely decorated temples at Khajuraho, with numerous erotic carvings. Three bands of carvings encircle the body of the temple. In the sanctum is an enormous image of the goddess Devi.

Devi Jagadamba temple is one of the ancient temples of India located at the north of Kandariya Mahadeo Temple. This is one of the major temples of Khajuraho which was the capital of Chandela Empire. With some exclusive sculptures the temple is dated back to the 10th and 11th century like other Khajuraho temples. Dedicated to Mother goddess this is one of the ancient temples which is marked by the beautiful and sensuous sculptures that remain amazingly fresh. While the Khajuraho temples are mainly divided into Western, Eastern and southern regions based on their location, this temple is located at the north of Kandariya Mahadeo Temple.

Devi Jagdambi Temple is famous for its Garbha Griha, which is a huge shrine that houses the image of goddess of the Universe, Jagdambi. Surrounded by walls beautifully carved with numerous figurines, the temple is referred to as a delicately balanced temple. The temple was originally dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which is evident from the figures represented in the form of beautiful stone carvings at the bands of the temple. Evidences for the same include intricately carved panels with the images of Lord Vishnu and his avatars on the two lower bands of the shrine.

Later the temple was dedicated to Goddess Parvati and then to Goddess Kali. It is believed that the idol in the temple is an image of Parvati, which was painted black to provide it an appearance of Goddess Kali. The temple is situated on the common platform and is believed to be slightly older than the Kandariya Mahadev Temple located in the destination. The temple possesses a three-part design, which resembles the designs used in Chitragupta Temple. Being similar in dimensions and design and decorative schemes, the temple is standing on the sanctum without any passage for walking.

History

Devi Jagdamba Temple is part of the Western Group of Temples of Khajuraho. This piece of architecture is one-of-its-kind in the world; hence it is often referred to as the chef-d'oeuvre. The temple showcases the typical triple panel of sculptures, wherein the topmost has some of the most erotic carvings. Despite being smaller in size, compared to other shrines in the western wing, it stands as an epitome of marvellous artistry.

This ancient shrine is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess of the Universe, Jagdamba and her statue can be seen in the garbha griha (the innermost sanctum). A visit to this temple is a must for any art aficionado as it features intricately carved sculptures showcasing brilliant craftsmanship.

Opening Closing Time

05:00 am - 12:00 pm
04:00 pm - 09:00 pm
Open all days

Vishwanath Temple,Khajuraho

The Vishvanatha Temple is a Hindu temple in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is located among the western group of Khajuraho Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Overview

The temple is believed to have been commissioned by the Chandela king Dhanga, and was probably completed in 999 CE or 1002 CE. Its architectural style is similar to that of the older Lakshmana Temple and the newer Kandariya Mahadeva Temple. It features several sculptures of various deities, surasundaris, couples making love, and mythical creatures.

Vishwanath Temple is located on the north-eastern corner of the western group complex. Housing beautiful marble Shivalinga as a prime deity, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Apart from the main deity, the interiors of the temples are adorned with the idol of Lord Brahma.

Famous for its sculptures, the temple was constructed in 11th century. History also states that the ancient temple at village had four shrines, out of which two can be seen by the tourists. Adding beauty to the shrine, images of lions and elephants can be seen on the southern as well as northern steps of the temple.

Another prime attraction of the temple is a 6 ft high Nandi bull, which is seated on top of a wide platform with a sphinx-like expression. The beautifully carved exteriors of the temple are decorated with images of Apsaras to enhance the charm and beauty of this huge temple.

History

A dedicatory inscription, now affixed to the porch of the Vishvanatha temple, provides information about the construction of a Shiva temple by the Chandela king Dhanga.The original date of the inscription is read variously as 1056 VS (999 CE) or 1059 VS (1002 CE).

The inscription mentions that Dhanga's descendant Jayavarman had it re-written in clear letters in 1173 VS. It states that Dhanga constructed a magnificent Shiva temple with two lingas (symbols of Shiva).One linga – Marakateshvara ("Emerald Lord") – was made of emerald. The other linga – Pramathanatha ("Lord of Pramathas or goblin-like spirits") – was made of stone.The inscription appears to have been issued after Dhanga's death: it states that after living for more than a hundred years, Dhanga attained moksha by abandoning his body in the waters of Ganga and Yamuna. some other Chandela temple inscriptions, it does not mention the Pratihara overlords of the Chandelas. This suggests that the Chandelas were no longer vassals of the Pratiharas by this time. The bit about the emerald linga (possibly an emerald-studded linga) also supports this theory. According to the Puranas, a jewel-studded linga is an appropriate donation to be made upon the fulfilment of a desire. This suggests that Dhanga built the temple after attaining a high political status as a sovereign.

Based on this inscription, scholars believe that the temple was completed in 999 CE or 1002 CE.However, according to art historian Shobita Punja, the temple referred to in this record may or may not be the Vishvanatha temple. According to her, there is a possibility that Dhanga built two temples, one with a stone linga and another with an emerald linga.The inscription names Chhichha (or Chiccha) as the architect of the temple. It states that the temple's torana (gateway) was designed by Vishvakarma (the patron deity of architects), who had entered the architect's body.

Dulhadev Temple,Khajuraho

The Duladeo Temple is a Hindu temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to the god Shiva in the form of a linga, which is deified in the sanctum. 'Dulodeo' means "Holy Bridegroom". The temple is also known as "Kunwar Math".

Overview

The temple is also known as "Kunwar Math".The temple faces east and is dated to 1000–1150 AD.It is the last of the temples built during the Chandela period. The temple is laid in the seven chariot plan (saptarata). The figurines carved in the temple have soft expressive features unlike other temples. The walls have a display of carved celestial dancers (apsara) in erotic postures and other figures.

Dulhadev or Dulhadeo Hindu Temple, situated on the banks of the Khurau Nala, is one of the most beautiful shrines of the Southern Group of Khajuraho Temples. Dulhadev Temple is the last temple of the Southern Group of Temples located in Khajuraho. Constructed in 1130, the temple features classic representation of Chandela art and architecture. Lying on the south of Ghantai Temple and north bank of the Khuddar stream, the temple is a small five chambered shrine with a closed hall.

Dedicated to lord Shiva, the interiors of the temple are decorated with images of Shiva and his wife, Parvati. The intricately carved jewellery work and the fine finishing of the idols portray the skills and workmanship prevalent during that period. The ceilings of the temple are decorated with stone carvings of the Apsaras and other ornamented sculptures.

The sanctum of the temple houses a beautiful Shivalinga in the interiors of a closed hall. Developed in traditional style, the temple has many subsidiary shikharas, which are grouped around the central shikhara. Possessing three bands of sculptures, the exteriors of the temple are also beautifully decorated with numerous stone carved images.

The images on the exterior band mainly include wizards flying alone and in pairs with their consorts. Swords, playing musical instruments, performing dance and expressions of face are also carved on the walls.

History

Duladeo Temple is one of the 22 temples to the Hindu god Shiva, which are among the 87 temples that were created by the Chandela rulers of Central India. The peak period of building activity was from 950-1050 AD in the small village of Khajuraho.The temples belong to the traditional religions of Hinduism and Jainism. They are identified under three groups or three zones - the western zone, the eastern zone and the southern zone. Ibn Batuta, the Moroccan traveller had attested to the existence of these temples even in 1335. The temples in the southern group are the Duladeo and Chaturbhujs. All the extant temples were inscribed in 1986 under the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites under Criterion III for its artistic creation and under Criterion V for the culture of the Chandellas that was popular till the country was invaded by Muslims in 1202.It is also said that Madanaverman (1128–1165) of the Chandela dynasty built this temple during his reign.

Duladeo Temple is one of the 22 temples to the Hindu god Shiva, which are among the 87 temples that were created by the Chandela rulers of Central India. The peak period of building activity was from 950-1050 AD in the small village of Khajuraho.The temples belong to the traditional religions of Hinduism and Jainism. They are identified under three groups or three zones - the western zone, the eastern zone and the southern zone. Ibn Batuta, the Moroccan traveller had attested to the existence of these temples even in 1335. The temples in the southern group are the Duladeo and Chaturbhujs. All the extant temples were inscribed in 1986 under the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites under Criterion III for its artistic creation and under Criterion V for the culture of the Chandellas that was popular till the country was invaded by Muslims in 1202.It is also said that Madanaverman (1128–1165) of the Chandela dynasty built this temple during his reign.

Light and sound show,Khajuraho

The town’s tourism department presents a sound and light show in the garden of the western part of temples every evening. The chairs are to be provided in the garden itself.

Overview

The town’s tourism department presents a sound and light show in the garden of the western part of temples every evening. The chairs are to be provided in the garden itself. The recorded sound is played which gives the historical importance of this place in short to the visitors and then the show starts. The view of the laser lights on the temples of Khajuraho is breathtaking for an hour.

The Khajuraho temple complex offers a professional light and sound show every evening. The first show is in English language and the second one in Hindi. The show is about an hour long and covers the history, philosophy and the art of sculpting of these temples. It is held in the open lawns in the temple complex.

History

This fascinating light & sound spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10th Century to the present day.

The 50 minutes sound and light show is conducted by tourism department in the garden of western group of temples. The show is entertaining and informative about the construction, history and importance of the temples. The show runs in Hindi and English every evening.

The life and times of the great Chandela kings and the legend and grandeur of the unique temples from the 10th century to the present day are narrated in the voice of Amitabh Bachan – the Bollywood legend.

Timings of Sound & Light Show

• English: 06:30 pm to 07:25 pm.
• Hindi: 07:40 pm to 08:35 pm.

Entry fees of sound and light show

Rs.200 per person Indians
Rs.500 per person Foreign Nationals
Rs.100 per person Indian Children
Rs.250 per person Foreign Children

Parsvanath temple,Khajuraho

Parshvanatha temple is a 10th-century Jain temple located at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is now dedicated to Parshvanatha, although it was probably built as an Adinatha shrine during the Chandela period.

Overview

Parshvanatha temple is a 10th-century Jain temple located at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is now dedicated to Parshvanatha, although it was probably built as an Adinatha shrine during the Chandela period. Despite the temple's Jain affiliation, its exterior walls feature Vaishnavaite themes. The temple entrance has an inscription with a most-perfect magic square. This temple is part of UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other temples in the Khajuraho Group of Monuments.

Among all other Jain Temples in Khajuraho, the Parsvanath Temple is the most impressive. Categorized among the Eastern Group of Temples, the architectural pattern of the Parsvanath Temple, Khajuraho bears ample resemblance with the Hindu Temples of Khajuraho. The minute sculptural detailing on the body of the Khajuraho Parsvanath Temple makes it one of the chief Tourist Attractions in Khajuraho.

Parsvanath Temple is known as the biggest and the most beautiful Jain temple in the whole complex. Tourists visit this temple in huge numbers, to witness the architectural and artistic brilliance of craftsmen of the Chandela period. Inside the temple, there is a sanctum with a throne, which faces a bull (emblem of the first Tirthankara and the founder of Jainism - Adinath). It is believed that originally the main deity of the temple was Lord Adinath. However, later in the year 1860, a statue of Lord Parsvanath (23rd Jain Tirthankara) was installed here and since then, it is known as the Parsvanath Temple.

The main highlight of this shrine are the carvings on the outer wall, which are perhaps the finest in the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples. These fine carvings showcase everyday life activities, which signify artist’s deep understanding of various facets of life - big or small.

History

The temple is believed to have been constructed by a prominent Jain family between 950 and 970 CE, during the reign of the Chandela king Dhanga.A 954 CE (1011 VS) inscription on the left door jamb of the temple records gifts and endowments of gardens by one Pahila. The gardens are named Pahila-vatika, Chandra-vatika, Laghuchandra-vatika, Shankara-vatika, Panchaitala-vatika, Amra-vatika and Dhanga-vadi. The inscription describes Pahila as a devotee of Jinanatha, and states that he was held in great esteem by the king Dhanga.

The earliest idol enshrined in the temple appears to have been that of Adinatha. When the British archaeological surveyor Alexander Cunningham visited the temple in 1852, he found the main sanctum of the temple deserted. He described the temple as "Jinanatha temple", and wrote that it had been repaired by a Jain banker in 1847. In 1860, a Parshvanatha idol was installed in the main sanctum. An Adinatha statue was placed in a secondary shrine attached to the rear of the temple.

The Parsvanath Temple in Khajuraho, India was constructed in the middle of the 10th century during the reign of Dhangadeva. The temple was previously devoted to Adinath, who was the first Tirthankara (religious saint) of the Jains. However, in the year, 1860, the image of Parsvanath, as can be seen today, was put in.

While King Yasovarman constructed the Lakshmana temple, Pahila who was honored by King Dhanga, the son and successor of Yasovarman, took the task of constructing the Parsvanath Temple, Khajuraho.

Description of Parsvanath Temple, Khajuraho

The walls of the Parsvanath Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh depicts the images of elephants, lions and sea nymphs. Despite being a Jain Temple, the walls also bears the images of Hindu (especially Vaishnav) deities.

There are a couple of axial projections at the two ends of the Parsvanath Temple, Khajuraho namely the ardh mandap(hall) to the east and a small shrine behind the ‘garba griha’ to the west. The sculptural, architectural and inscriptional evidence on the Parsvanath Temple, Khajuraho indicate that Adinath had been a close successor of the Lakshman.

Adinath Temple,Khajuraho

Adinatha temple is a Jain temple located at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is dedicated to the Jain tirthankara Adinatha, although its exterior walls also feature Hindu deities.

Overview

There are two important Jain temples in the Chandi Bazaar area of Jamnagar – Shantinath temple and Adinath temple. These temples were built between 1574 and 1622 and hold religious as well as historical value. Adinath, originally called Rishabhanatha, is said to be the first Jain Tirthanker. The word Adinath can be interpreted as 'the first world teacher'. Story of Adinath is presented inside the temple in the form of colourful and beautiful paintings. Vibrant colours such as pink, orange, yellow and green have been used to brighten up the people, flowers, gods and objects displayed in each frame of story. Though the colours have faded with the passage of time, the place retains its meditative and spiritual environment intact. There are 52 small temples which are built around the primary structure.

From the outside, the shrine of Adinath looks grand yet tranquil, humble yet beautiful. Intricate work which adore the pillars, ceilings and walls of the temple showcase the hard work of the artisans.

I visited this temple three times with nine year intervals between each visit. Every time I go there, I cannot but get a fresh impression. It is a blissful combination of architecture, sculpture and crafts, sequential space abounding in variety, immaculacy of white all over, continuing halls covered by high-raised domical ceilings full of extremely minute carvings, that reminds us of a sense of the "Pure Land." The beauty of this temple is indeed beyond description. Ever since my first visit, the more I learned about the background of this temple, the more I was fascinated by it.

History

Adinath Temple, an important part of the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples, is a significant example of the Jain settlement in Khajuraho. This ancient shrine is dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankar Adinath - the founder of Jainism.

What catches the fancy of visitors are the beautiful carvings of Yakshis (female mythical beings and partner of Yakshas), on the entire structure. Moreover, the exterior of this temple showcases three bands of sculptures of graceful sura-sundaris that look truly amazing.

Lakshmi temple,Khajuraho

Lakshmi temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, consort of Lord Vishnu. This structure is one of the monument among Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a World Heritage Site in India.

Overview

Lakshmi and Varaha Temple, Khajuraho are two small shrines that are dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the most beautiful and picturesque temples in the city. Apart from the Lakshmi and Varaha Temple, Madhya Pradesh, the other temples in Khajuraho are Parsavanatha Temple, Ghantai Temple, Chitragupta Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, Vishwanath Temple, Lakshamana Temple, Adinatha Temple, Chaunsat Yogini, Matangeshwara Temple, Kandariya Mahadeo and Duladeo Temple. The greatest achievement for the beautiful city of Khajuraho is that the Khajuraho group of monuments has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho Temples, a series of both Jain and Hindu temples noted for their elaborate Nagara-style structures and collections of erotic art. The temples, dedicated to various Hindu and Jain deities, date back to the 10th century. Admire the architectural marvel and detailed carvings that adorn the temple structures, or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the complex. Exploring the temples, you can observe a staggering amount of intricate carvings and statues, 10% of which are erotic in nature. Plan your visit to Khajuraho Temples and a wealth of other attractions, well-known and undiscovered, using our Khajuraho family vacation planner.

History

Lakshmi Temple and Varaha Temple are the two small shrines located in the ancient city of Khajuraho. These temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth. Belonging to the western group of temples, the shrine depicts moderate sculptures and was built during 900-925 AD. While entering the temple, tourists can witness images of two guards carved on the supporting pillar of the temple.

The temple stands at a 10 ft high plain plinth, whose lower half is made of granite ashlars and the upper half is of sandstone. The interiors of the temple are adorned with huge, solid and intricately carved figure of the boar, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The idol is carved out of yellow sandstone and is finely finished into a glossy lustre. The temple is dotted with rows of figures of gods and goddesses more than 674 in number. Possessing ancient architecture and artistic values, the temple is also added in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Khajuraho Dance Festival,Khajuraho

Khajuraho Festival of Dances is celebrated at a time when the hardness of winter begins to fade and the king of all seasons, spring, takes over. The most colorful and brilliant classical dance forms of india with their roots in the ling and rich cultural traditions across the country, offer a feast for the eyes during a weeklong extravaganza here.

Overview

Khajuraho Festival of Dances is celebrated at a time when the hardness of winter begins to fade and the king of all seasons, spring, takes over. The most colorful and brilliant classical dance forms of india with their roots in the ling and rich cultural traditions across the country, offer a feast for the eyes during a weeklong extravaganza here. Since times immemorials, myriad forms of dance have been adsorbed into the classical dance styles. Watching these performances reveal the age-old trends, trits and nuances that are firmly estabilished in dance in various regions of india.

The aura of these masterpieces has not dimmed over many centiries; nor have the living traditions of these styles lost their fluidity and charm over the long passage of time. Indian traditions of dance have been considered to be divine in origin. In indian mythodilogy, the gods and goddesses are great lovers of music that comproses vocal singing, instrumental music and dance.

Some of the gods are great dancers themselves. Shiva's cosmic dance, the Tandava, Lord Krishna's Rass Leela with the Gopis (female partners), and the legendry beautiful and most skilled dancers known as apsaras, such as Menaka, Urvashi and Rambha, in the celestical court of Lord Indra, the King of Gods, are well versed in the heavenly art of music and dance. These dances of the mind and soul pervade all aspects of life and bring color, joy and gaiety to the festivals and ceremonies of this country.

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is the celebration of the traditional dance forms against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The cultural presentation is an intriguing spectacle of art and traditions of India presented in the form of dance. The site being testimony to India culture and traditions is ideal to present the classical forms of dance. As the winters pass to make for spring, the Dance Festival is organized. Spectators from all over the world attend the demonstration of art in the dance form.

History

Khajuraho is an ancient site of India. The temples of the area were built during the rule of Rajput Chandela Dynasty dating back to the 10th century. For around 200 years there were numerous beautiful monument erected by the rulers. The temples had exquisite treasure of carvings. The carved art ranges from day to day lifestyle to karmic sexual activities. The site was lost in the changing wheels of time. After being rediscovered, Khajuraho and its rich heritage appealed to tourists.

Dance is a celebrated art in Hindu Mythology. Hindu myths have various narrations of great dancers. Shiva's cosmic dance, Tandava, Lord Krishna’s Raas Leela with the gopis (female partners) and the legendary apsaras such as Menaka, Urvashu and Rambha are the most narrated tales of powerful and mesmerizing dances. The practice to organize the festival started from 2002. The dances fascinated crowds and became a tradition. The festival became a popular tradition paying tribute to classical dance, music and art of India.

Celebrations of Khajurao Dance

Khajuraho Festival is organized by the Kala Parishad under the Madhya Pradesh government whereby many popular classical dancers from all over India perform. Discover the glamour of Indian traditions, dance and music. The best known dance forms in India are presented in the festival. Performances of the intricate footwork of Kathak, highly stylized and sophisticated Bharathnatyam, soft lyrical temple dance of Odissi, the dance dramas of Kuchipudi and Manipuri, the ancient civilization and Kathakali stage fights with elaborate masks keeps the audiences spellbound.