Khajuraho – The UNESCO SITE

Khajuraho is a town in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, located in the Chhatarpur district. It is famous for its ancient temples that date back to the 10th and 11th centuries. The temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract tourists from all over the world.

History of Khajuraho

The history of Khajuraho dates back to the Chandela dynasty, which ruled over the region from the 9th to the 13th century. It is believed that the temples were built during the reign of the Chandela kings, who were known for their love for art and architecture.

The temples were built over a period of 200 years, from the 10th to the 12th century, and were dedicated to the Hindu gods and goddesses. The temples were designed and constructed by the finest craftsmen of that time, who came from different parts of India.

Architecture of Khajuraho

The Khajuraho temples are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures, which are some of the finest examples of Indian art. The temples are built using sandstone and feature a unique blend of Hindu and Jain architectural styles.

The temples are divided into three groups, based on their location. The western group of temples is the largest and most famous, and includes the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, the Chaunsat Yogini Temple, and the Lakshmana Temple. The eastern group includes the Brahma Temple and the Vamana Temple, while the southern group includes the Duladeo Temple and the Chaturbhuja Temple.

The temples are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and everyday life. The carvings are so detailed that they even depict the different moods and expressions of the characters.

The Kandariya Mahadev Temple is the largest and most impressive temple in Khajuraho. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a towering shikhara, or spire, that rises 31 meters above the ground. The temple is decorated with over 800 sculptures, depicting various deities, celestial beings, and mythical creatures.

The Lakshmana Temple is another popular temple in Khajuraho. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features a large statue of the god inside. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings, including scenes from the Ramayana, one of the great Hindu epics.

The Chaunsat Yogini Temple is the oldest temple in Khajuraho and is dedicated to the goddess Kali. The temple is unique in that it is circular in shape, with no roof. It is said that 64 yoginis, or female attendants of the goddess, once surrounded the temple, but only a few of these statues remain.

Tourism in Khajuraho

Khajuraho is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, attracting visitors from all over the world. The temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered to be one of the finest examples of Indian art and architecture.

Tourists can explore the temples on foot, taking in the intricate carvings and sculptures at their leisure. The temples are open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, and an audio guide is available for those who wish to learn more about the history and significance of the temples.

In addition to the temples, Khajuraho is also famous for its local handicrafts, including textiles, jewelry, and sculptures. Visitors can shop for these items at the local markets, which are located near the temples.

Khajuraho is also famous for its annual dance festival, which takes place in February. The festival attracts some of the best dancers from all over India, who perform classical Indian dance forms in front of the temples. The festival is a celebration of Indian culture and attracts a large number of tourists every year.

Aside from the temples and the dance festival, there are several other places to visit in Khajuraho. The Panna National Park is located nearby and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and crocodiles. Visitors can take a jeep safari through the park to spot these animals in their natural habitat.

The Raneh Falls is another popular attraction in Khajuraho. The falls are located on the Ken River and are surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river to get a closer look at the falls and the surrounding scenery.

Khajuraho is also a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine. The town has several restaurants that serve traditional Indian dishes, as well as international cuisine. Visitors can also attend a cultural show, where they can experience traditional Indian music and dance.

Conclusion

Khajuraho is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into India’s rich history and culture. The temples are a testament to the craftsmanship and artistic talent of the Chandela dynasty, and are considered to be one of the finest examples of Indian art and architecture.

The town also offers visitors the opportunity to experience Indian culture and cuisine, as well as the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are interested in history, art, or wildlife, Khajuraho has something to offer everyone.