Hey Lykkers! The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most remarkable collections of temples in the world.

Built between 950 AD and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty, these temples are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from all over the globe.

How to Get There

By Air:

Khajuraho has a small domestic airport, Khajuraho Airport, with flights from major cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Agra.

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Khajuraho Railway Station, which is well-connected to cities like Jhansi, Agra, and New Delhi.

By Road:

Khajuraho is accessible via a network of roads connecting it to nearby cities. You can hire taxis or buses to reach Khajuraho from cities like Jhansi (175 km) and Satna (117 km).

Exploring the Temples of Khajuraho

Western Group of Temples:

The Western Group is the largest and most well-preserved section of temples in Khajuraho, and it's where you'll find the most famous temple—Kandariya Mahadev. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple stands out for its elaborate sculptures that adorn the walls, featuring celestial nymphs, gods, and scenes of everyday life. The precision and detail of the carvings are mesmerizing, making it a must-visit.

Lakshmana Temple:

Another highlight in the Western group is the Lakshmana Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple's sculpted panels depict episodes from Indian mythology, including stories from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The temple's sanctum holds an image of Vishnu's incarnation, Vaikuntha, making it a revered spot for devotees.

Eastern Group of Temples:

While the Western group is more popular, the Eastern Group of temples offers a quieter and equally captivating experience. The Parshvanatha Temple, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, is the most prominent in this group. The temple features striking sculptures of Yakshis, mythical creatures, and other figures of spiritual significance.

Southern Group of Temples:

The smaller and more secluded Southern Group includes the Duladeo Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Though the carvings are less detailed compared to the Western Group, this temple stands out for its subtle beauty and tranquility.

Symbolism and Erotic Art in Khajuraho

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Khajuraho temples is their depiction of erotic art. These sculptures, which have drawn both admiration and intrigue, represent a celebration of life, human emotions, and the divine connection between earthly desires and spiritual liberation. Contrary to popular belief, only 10% of the carvings are erotic, while the rest illustrate everyday life, deities, and celestial beings. The erotic carvings are seen as a metaphor for the Tantric practices that aimed at achieving spiritual enlightenment through physical union.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Khajuraho is between October and March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the open-air temples. The Khajuraho Dance Festival, held in February, is a spectacular event where classical dance forms are performed against the stunning backdrop of the temples, adding another dimension to your visit.

Accommodation and Dining

Khajuraho offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury hotels. Budget options start at around ₹1,000 per night, while mid-range and luxury hotels like The Lalit Temple View and Ramada Khajuraho offer stays starting at ₹5,000 per night.

Dining options are plenty, with local restaurants offering North Indian and Madhya Pradesh cuisines. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like dal bafla and poha, available at local eateries for as low as ₹150 per meal.

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments offers a unique glimpse into India's ancient heritage, where art, architecture, and spirituality blend harmoniously. If you're fascinated by the historical significance or the intricate details of the carvings, Khajuraho promises an enriching experience that stays with you long after your visit.