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Khajuraho, a city in Madhya Pradesh, is rightfully known as one of the most beautiful cities. Almost ethereal in its splendour, this place is sure to blow your mind. The ancient city is famous all over the world for its divine temples and the ornate sculptures that adorn the walls of its temples. These temples, a marvellous symbol of the rich culture, heritage and history of India, were built by the Chandela Dynasty during the period between 950-1050 AD. At the time of their creation, an impressive eighty-five temples were built, to begin with. However, today, only twenty or so temples remain, spread over an area of six kilometres. The temples are covered with some of the most elaborate sculptures. The Khajuraho sculptures, as they are called and the temples have all been rightfully declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Making for one of the most spectacular World Heritage Sites in India, these Khajuraho sculptures are very well-known and celebrated for their Nagara style of architecture. These famous sculptures depict Hindu deities and Nayikas, female mythological protagonists, through their art. Different forms of meditation, relationships and teachings of life and spirituality were depicted through the stimulating art of these Khajuraho sculptures.
9 must-visit places in Khajuraho
1. Khajuraho Temple
You will be completely mesmerised by the beauty of the Khajuraho temples. Stunning sculptures, intricate carvings, and simply amazing architecture are the pride of these temples. Other-worldly in their beauty, they are one of the most beautiful World Heritage Sites for the right reasons. The sensual sculptures symbolise the sheer confidence that women of that time possessed. According to local tales, the sculptures are a testament to the women’s confidence and sensuality, embracing their erotic side. These sculptures were also considered to be a symbol of prosperity during the time they were built.
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: Rs 40 for Indian visitors, Rs 600 for foreign visitors
2. Lakshmana Temple
The Lakshmana temple was among the first ones built by the Chandelas. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, more specifically his ‘Vaikuntha’ incarnation, which was a three-headed form. The temple was built in typical Nagara-style architecture. The building of this temple was started by Yashorman, the Chandela ruler. The reason was his wish to build a temple to symbolise his takeover of the area from another dynasty. The temple is adorned by stunning sculptures showcasing daily life, war, and also the sensual practices of a couple. The reason for these sculptures, however, was not a titillating one, but rather a part of the belief that such carvings were considered to be auspicious.
Timings: 6 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs 30 for Indian visitors, Rs 500 for foreign visitors
3. Kandariya Mahadev Temple
Considered to be one of the most intricate temples among the temples of Khajuraho, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is the largest as well as the tallest temple out of all the remaining Khajuraho temples. The architecture of the temple was such that it is an ever-rising structure, resembling the mountains. The walls of the temple are covered in beautiful sculptures depicting celestial females, classic daily life descriptions with sculptures of humans and animals in various depictions as well as the symbolised knowledge of the four stages of life, known as Moksha, Dharma, Kama and Artha.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: Rs 30 for Indian visitors, Rs 500 for foreign visitors
4. Raneh Waterfalls
Located at a distance of some twenty kilometres from Khajuraho, the Raneh Waterfalls are a stunning piece of natural beauty. The rock formations surrounding the waterfall add to the beauty of the spectacle. The whole scenery of the waterfalls, surrounded by the rock formations against the backdrop of a beautiful forest backdrop is a sight to behold. It is advised to visit this waterfall in the monsoons to experience its full beauty. The sunset views here are not to be missed, with the multi-hued granite giving off a shine and adding even more to the splendour.
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Starting from Rs 50
5. Panna National Park
Counted among the well-known tiger reserves of India, Panna national park is home to several species of animals and birds alike. Although there is no accommodation to avail of a jeep safari from the park’s end, wildlife lovers are encouraged to rent a car personally and travel around the park. Visitors are almost guaranteed an adventurous and exciting time visiting the park as animals like leopards, wolves, hyenas and more are always being sighted. A trip to this park is sure to be a memorable and enthralling memory.
Timings: 6 am to 10.30 am, 2.30 am to 5.30 am (Closed during monsoon season from July to September)
Entry fee: Rs 250 for Indian visitors, Rs 250 for foreign visitors and Rs 125 for children
6. Ajaigarh Fort
Located at a height of about two hundred feet, the Ajaigarh Fort is situated on the Vindhya range of mountains. Statistically located in a flattened area, the fort offers some grand views of the nature around it. It depicts the architectural excellence of the Chandela dynasty. Although said to be built when the empire was starting to proceed towards its downfall, according to the local tales, the fort is nevertheless a magnificent monument. It still stands as a symbol of the grandeur of the Chandela dynasty.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: None
7. Archeological Museum
This museum was built by W.A Jardine in the year of 1910. He was the local British officer of Bundelkhand at the time of the creation of the museum. Many sculptures that have come loose from the temple buildings are carefully preserved in the museum. It was duly taken over by the Archeological Survey of India in the year 1952 and has thus been under their care. The team at the museum now guards and protects the ancient sculptures, a symbol of the Jain, Buddhist and Brahmanical faiths and their history since ancient times.
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm (Friday closed)
Entry fee: Rs 5 (Free entry for children up to 15 years of age)
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8. Devi Jagdamba Temple
Nearby to the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, is the Devi Jagdamba Temple. Originally a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it came to be eventually dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Kali. The temple is not as ornate as the Kandariya Mahadev Temple and also does not seem to have as many carvings of sculptures as the rest of the temples. Therefore, it is thought to be a bit older than the other temples. The temple is just as beautiful and mystical as the other temples and you are sure to be amazed by the magnificent idols of Lord Vishnu as well as Goddess Parvati and Goddess Kali. It is said that although the sculptures adorning the temple may be slightly fewer, they are said to be some of the most sensual sculptures among the Khajuraho temples.
Timings: 6 am to 5 pm all days of the week
Entry fee: Rs 30 for Indian visitors, Rs 500 for foreign visitors
9. Javari Temple
Regarded as one of the most beautiful temples of all Khajuraho temples, Javari temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. A popular site amongst tourists, the temple is interestingly said to be named after the owner of the land at the time the temple was built, instead of a Hindu deity, as was the norm. exquisite sculptures adorn the walls of the temple, making it seem resplendent. The inner sanctum of the temple houses an idol of Lord Vishnu, famously headless, due to damage over the years.
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm all days of the week
Entry fee: None
A special mention has to be made of the Khajuraho Dance Festival. This week-long festival is held in February every year. Considered to be one of the top-most dance festivals in India, the Khajuraho dance festival celebrates the traditional dance forms of India such as Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Odissi, etc. If you happen to be visiting Khajuraho around the time of the Khajuraho dance festival, you should witness its beauty. The Khajuraho dance festival is sure to become a very special experience and memory for you.
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