Overview of Khajuraho Temples
Khajuraho temples are the largest group of around 25 medieval temples in Madhya Pradesh, India.
These temples were built between 950 AD and 1150 AD. There are Hindu and Gain temples. These temples were covered in thick forests and were discovered in the 18th Century by a British soldier. Khajuraho temples are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
These temples are India’s unique gift of love to the world. The temples here are famous for erotic stone carvings on the main walls. These carvings may have been made to educate the youth. These petroglyphs show the greatness of Indian art and architecture. These are considered to be the pinnacle of love and passion. These temples were built during warrior kings of the Chandela Dynasty. Each of the 25 existing temples differs from one another.
Khajuraho group of Monuments have a theme: that of women. Celebration of womankind, her myriad moods and facets are well captured in the artwork.
Kandariya Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the highest temple, 31 meters tall, with exquisite detailed intricate carvings. Chaunsath Yogini Temple is the oldest temple, built in the 9th century. Most of the temples are built of sandstone. Interior rooms inside the temples are interconnected. There is enough walking space separating each temple.
Another temple was discovered during excavations at Bija Mandal in Jatkara village, near Khajuraho, which dates back to the 11th century. It is believed that there were 85 temples, out of which only 22 have been unearthed till now.
How to Reach Khajuraho Temples?
Khajuraho Railway Station is the nearest railway station, five kilometers from the temple city. UP Sampark Kranti Express, a long-distance Express train, goes to this railway station. It is a daily train from the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway station in India’s capital city of New Delhi.
Jhansi Railway station is the nearest major railway station, with code JHS at railway ticket booking site irctc.co.in, with frequent train connectivity to other parts of India, around 200 kilometers away.
City Airport at Khajuraho is close to the temples, two kilometers away. This ancient temple town is well connected by roads to all parts of India.
What are the Temple Visiting Timings?
Khajuraho temples are open to visitors from Sunrise to Sunset.
How Much is the Entry Fee?
The entry fee is INR 10 for Indian citizens and INR 250 or US $ 5 for foreigners. Entry is free for children up to 15 years of age.
Are there any Good Khajuraho Hotels?
Hotel Chandela (from Taj Group of Hotels), Radisson Hotel, Ramada, The Lalit Temple View, etc., are some of the other leading 5-star Khajuraho hotels.