History of Khajuraho

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Khajuraho, previously known as Kharjuravahaka, is an ancient city in Madhya Pradesh. It was built during the medieval times by the Chandela Dynasty. The city’s intricate sculptures and majestic temples make it one of the most significant historical sites in the country. The grandiose of the statues and temples makes Khajuraho one of the most popular tourist places in Madhya Pradesh.

Most of the monuments of Khajuraho were built between 950 and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty and represent a beautiful demonstration of relationships, spiritual teachings and meditation via stunning art. The temples are divided into three different clusters - the Eastern, Western and Southern Khajuraho group of monuments. These remaining clusters of temples represent the quality and originality of the Nagara-style architecture.
 

Among the 20 remaining temples, the largest and most famous one is the Kandariya Mahadeo temple. Built in the early 11th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a three-dimensional structure and has a spectacular set of towers, also known as ‘shikharas’. This temple is elegantly decorated with 226 figures on the inside and 646 figures on the outside. Most of these figures are of Hindu Gods including Brahma, Ganesha and Vishnu, along with figures of several celestial maidens, known as ‘sarasundaris’, and lovers known as ‘mithuna’. The erotic sculptures on the south wall of the temple are carved with figures depicted in numerous acrobatic poses. The purpose of this temple is to represent happiness and fertility and is therefore, considered auspicious.

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Another famous temple at Khajuraho is the iconic Lakshmana Temple. To celebrate the independence from the Gurjara-Pratihara rulers, Lakshmana Temple was built in 954 CE by King Dhanga. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. While its layout is similar to that of Kandariya Mahadeo, Lakshmana Temple features walls decked with carvings of Hindu Gods and other awe-inspiring demonstrations that make it stand out among the rest.

Devi Jagdambi is among the most erotic temples at Khajuraho. Situated north of the Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, this temple was built between 1000 and 1025 AD. Initially, the temple was dedicated to Lord Vishnu which is evident from the representation of Lord Vishnu and his avatars. However, Devi Jagdambi Temple was later dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Goddess Kali. The idol in the temple is of Goddess Parvati which is painted black to make it look like Goddess Kali. One of the most interesting sculptures at the temple is of a warrior fighting a lion barehanded!

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Ekattarso Mahadeva Temple, also known as Chausath Yogini Temple, is the oldest Khajuraho temple in India. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the temple is the only one that was built using granite and is among the very few preserved Yogini temples in the country. This circular temple consists of 65 chambers, 64 for the yoginis and one for Goddess Kali.

Some of the other prominent temples at Khajuraho are the rectangular Parshvanatha Jain Temple which features a unique shrine and the single-towered Chaturbhuj Temple, the only one which lacks erotic sculptures.

On your visit to the Khajuraho Temples, stay at our 5-star hotel - Clarks Khajuraho. With opulent accommodations, warm hospitality and premium facilities, we are among the best hotels in Khajuraho. For the convenience of our guests, our hotel is situated at a short drive of about 5 minutes from Khajuraho Temples.Clarks Khajuraho and tourist attractions.