Khajuraho,
often called as the “Temples of Love” were built by the rulers of
Chandela Dynasty over a span of 200 years from 950 A.D to 1150 A.D. Khajurho
has derived its name from a Sanskrit term “Kharjurvahaka” meaning
date palms. These are now designated as the World Heritage Sites by the
UNESCO. Khajuraho temples are the perfect testimony of history which stands
tall on the moist grounds of Madhya Pradesh.
Where Khajuraho is situated?
Khajuraho is a humble and rustic village, situated in the Chhatarpur
district of Madhya Pradesh in India.The divine sculptures in these temples,
are a tribute to life itself. Embodying everything that is sublime and
spontaneous. The murals depict the life and times of the Chandelas, while
celebrating the erotic state of being. They not only testify to the mastery
of the craftsman, as also to the vision of the Chandela Rajputs.
Why Khajuraho is famous for?
Khajuraho temples are famous across the globe as the largest group of
medieval Hindu and Jain temples and also for their erotic sculptures which
looks very realistic and have been a subject of study for many years. Due to
these erotic sculptures, Khajuraho is also a famously called as the “Kamasutra
temples.”
What to see in Khajuraho?
The major attraction of Khajuraho temples are their erotic sculptures
carved on the outside walls of the temples only. The Khajuraho temples,
constructed with spiral superstructures, influenced by the north Indian
Shikara temple style and often to a Panchayatna plan. Some of the temples of
Khajuraho are dedicated to Jain religion and rest to the Hindu God's-
Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and to various Goddess. One of the famous temple
which is dedicated to a Goddess is Devi Jagadambi Temple. All the temples
are divided into Eastern, Western and Southern group. Some of the famous
temples of Khajuraho are Chausath Yogini, Varaha temple, Lakshman temple,
Chitragupta temple, and Chaturbhuja temple.
What
is the best time to visit it?
Khajuraho has extremely tropical climate with temperature as high as 47°C
in summers and as low as 4°C in winters. So, the most suitable time to
visit Khajuraho temples is in between October to April.
What are the nearby excursion places?
Beside the erotic temples of Khajuraho, it has many more attractive spots
which can behold your attention and enthralled in your memories forever. The
nearby region of Khajuraho has some beautiful lakes, waterfalls, a Palace, a
Fort, a National park and a Sanctuary.
Rajgarh Palace: Located 25km south-east of Khajuraho, Rajgarh Palace is a
150 year old palace whose architectural designs are influenced by the
Bundela dynasty. It is famous for its military architecture.
Ajaygarh Fort: It is situated at a distance of 80km from Khajuraho. It was
the capital of Chandela dynasty and built at a height of 688m. Famous for
its military architecture and nearby area.
Panna National Park: It is situated at a distance of 30 minute drive
from Khajuraho. It is splendid region of lush green canopy which comprises
of dense teak forests. The fauna of the region includes Leopards, Wolves,
Gharials, Wild Boars, Sloth Bears, Cheetals, Chowsinghas, Indian Foxes and
Porcupines. Due to the scorching summer season it is closed for the months
June to October.
Ken Gharial Sanctuary: It serve as a natural home to the dreadful
Crocodiles. This Gharial sanctuary is only 24km from Khajuraho.
Pandava and Raneh Waterfalls: Both Pandava and Raneh waterfalls are
30km and 20km respectively from Khajuraho. Both of them are on the Ken
river. Pandava waterfalls are famous because it is believed that Panava of
Mahabharata stayed here during their exile whereas Raneh waterfalls are
famous for their lovely rock formations on the river Ken.
Benisagar and Ranguan Lakes: Lake Benisagar is 11 km from Khajuraho
while Lake Ranguan is 25 km from Khajuraho. Both these picturesque lakes are
perfect venue for a picnic and also have boating facilities.
