Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
The Kamasutra Temples
A group of Hindu & Jain Temples
Located in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh, India
Temples are famous for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and a few erotic sculptures.
Cycling is another great way to explore the temples in Khajuraho
Temples are famous for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and a few erotic sculptures.
Khajuraho can be done in a budget of 10-12k
per person
Most Khajuraho temples were built between 885 CE and 1000 CE by the Chandeladynasty
Khajuraho is perfect for a 2-3 day trip while exploring Madhya Pradesh
Historical records note that the Khajuraho temple site had 85 temples by the 12th century, spread over 20 square kilometers
Accommodation is available in plenty around the temple complex
only about 25 temples have survived, spread over six square kilometers
temple complex was forgotten and overgrown by the jungle until 1838 when Captain T.S. Burt, a British engineer
Khajuraho is located 620km from the national capital New Delhi.
Khajuraho group of temples were built together but were dedicated to two religions, Hinduism and Jainism
Most temples were built during the reigns of the Hindu kings Yashovarman and Dhanga
The largest and currently most famous surviving temple is Kandariya Mahadeva built in the reign of King Vidyadhara.
Khajuraho temples were in active use through the end of the 12th century.
The Khajuraho temples feature a variety of artwork, of which 10% is sexual or erotic art outside and inside the temples
the temples that have two layers of walls have small erotic carvings on the outside of the inner wall.
Some scholars suggest these to be tantric sexual practices.
history of the
Kamasutra
, describes the sexual-themed Khajuraho sculptures as "the apogee of erotic art":
temples in Khajuraho are broadly divided into three parts: the Eastern group, the Southern Group and the Western group of temples
temples in Khajuraho are broadly divided into three parts: the Eastern group, the Southern Group and the Western group of temples
There is also an audio guided tour developed by the Archaeological Survey of India which includes a narration of the temple history and architecture
The best season to visit Khajuraho is during the winter months from November to March.