In the heart of Madhya Pradesh, cradled by the majestic Vindhya Mountain range, lies the enchanting town of Khajuraho, where the ancient stones of its temples seem to resonate with melodies untold. This heritage town is renowned for hosting a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a temple complex that stands as a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of India, showcasing Hindu and Jain places of worship.
The Khajuraho temples are celebrated for their exquisite sculptures, intricately carved to depict a myriad of life’s facets, including spirituality, love, friendship, sports, royalty, and, most notably, awe-inspiring artistry.
Divided geographically into three groups – Eastern, Western, and Southern – these temples are believed to have been constructed within a relatively brief period, spanning from 950 to 1050 AD. The complex initially comprised 85 temples, of which 22 structures have endured the test of time. Forgotten for centuries, the temples experienced a renaissance in the 1850s when they were rediscovered and subsequently restored.
Attributed to the vision of the Chandela dynasty, the temples reflect an era of ornate craftsmanship that elevates the life-like sculptures adorning the temple walls to the status of masterpieces. These intricate carvings serve as an eloquent ode to life, love, and joy, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
The town itself carries a fascinating tale behind its nomenclature. Legend has it that as the Chandela rulers embarked on the construction of these temples, they encircled the entire area with a protective wall. This fortification boasted eight gates, each flanked by khajur, or date palm trees, abundant in the region. Consequently, the temples came to be known as khajura vatika, signifying the presence of the date palms that adorned the landscape.
Here are the top attractions to visit in Khajuraho, conveniently situated near each other for easy exploration. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, heritage, and ancient traditions of Khajuraho by exploring these sites. Whether it’s the intricately designed temples or enlightening museums, there’s a wealth of marvels to discover in this historic city.
Explore the captivating architectural marvel of the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho, a must-see attraction. Constructed between 1025 and 1050 A.D., this temple is dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva. Renowned globally for its exceptional design, the temple’s walls showcase intricate carvings, including surprisingly erotic depictions of women, with some sculptures exceeding three feet in height. Step inside to find a sacred space with a Shiva Lingam, inviting those inclined towards spirituality or religion to participate in prayers within the sanctum sanctorum.
The Lakshmana Temple stands as one of Khajuraho’s prominent attractions, commissioned by the Chandela kings and revered as one of the city’s oldest religious structures. The main hall of the temple is adorned with images of Vishnu. Regardless of one’s belief or spiritual inclination, the external design of the temple is truly impressive. With over 600 statues depicting Hindu gods and goddesses, this temple is a must-visit. Additionally, visitors can find a serene space for meditation within the temple complex, offering a peaceful retreat.
Discover the Chausath Yogini Temple for a glimpse of one of Khajuraho’s ancient treasures. Dating back to the late 9th century, this Devi temple, though now in a state of ruins, still retains its shrine cells and other remnants. Notably, the site lacks sculptures, yet its national significance has consistently drawn tourists since its opening. If you have a penchant for history and revel in uncovering hidden gems, this location is ideal for you. It offers a unique opportunity to journey into the past and delve into the architectural style of the late 9th century.
Located in the Western Group of Temple Complex in Khajuraho, the Varaha Temple houses a colossal idol of Varaha, representing the incarnation of Lord Vishnu in the form of a boar. Crafted from sandstone, the sculpture features intricate carvings covering its entire body, with a specific depiction of Goddess Saraswati at a distinct location on the sculpture.
Situated in the Western Group of Temple Complex in Khajuraho, the Matangeshwar Temple is a modestly designed sanctuary devoted to Lord Shiva. Crafted from sandstone, the temple accommodates a substantial Shivalinga adorned with Nagari and Persian inscriptions. It stands as a favored destination for devotees of Lord Shiva.
The Chitragupta Temple in Khajuraho is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and originates from the 11th century. The main deity is portrayed riding a chariot drawn by seven horses. Adorned with carvings, the exterior walls of the temple feature depictions of various gods and scenes of amorous couples. This site is widely appreciated by both tourists and devotees.
The Vishwanath Temple stands out not only as a prominent attraction in Khajuraho for its remarkable architecture but also for its enchanting location, surrounded by lush greenery and under a vivid azure sky. Dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, this temple is part of the western group of temples. It is truly marvelous to witness, and visiting the temple is an experience not to be missed at any cost.
After exploring the temples during the day, visitors can indulge in a spectacular light and sound show at the same complex in the evening. Lasting 50 minutes, the show breathes life into the history of the temples, narrating the compelling tale of their creation. Held at the Western group of temples, it delves into the art, architecture, and sculptures, with each temple illuminated one by one. The show is a daily event after sunset, excluding the Khajuraho Dance Festival in winter, presented in English for international tourists and Hindi for domestic visitors. It is a paid event.
Panna National Park, situated approximately 40 km from Khajuraho, served as the capital of Maharaja Chhatrasal’s kingdom in the 17th century AD. The town, named after the emerald, is renowned as a hub for diamond mining. Additionally, it is famed for housing Panna National Park, one of India’s most sought-after wildlife sanctuaries, featuring a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers.
The Park, adorned with the meandering Ken River and breathtaking waterfalls, captivates both wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can witness the impressive gharial, a massive reptile belonging to the crocodile family and unique to the Indian subcontinent, along with a plethora of flora and fauna. Spending a day or two in the park, one can embark on exploration either in a jeep or atop an elephant.
Historically, the park served as the hunting ground for the erstwhile rulers of Panna, Bijawar, and Chhatarpur states. Notably, Panna National Park holds the distinction of being India’s 22nd Tiger Reserve.
Raneh Falls, situated almost off the conventional tourist path, stands as one of the undiscovered gems in this region. Merely 22 km from Khajuraho and 44 km from Panna, these magnificent falls come to life as the Ken River cascades down a 30-meter-deep canyon, carved from pure crystalline granite in vibrant hues such as pink, green, red, and grey. The sunlight dancing on these colored stones during the water’s descent creates a truly surreal scene.
Nestled within a tranquil, green forest, Raneh Falls attains its utmost beauty during the monsoon season. Due to its relatively hidden status, this paradise offers numerous quiet and peaceful spots, allowing visitors to revel in the serenity. The falls feature both small and large cascades, some of which exhibit a powerful flow during the rains. Positioned at the commencement of the Panna National Park, the falls are complemented by the prominent Ken River, a crucial location for crocodile conservation, hosting an alligator park along its banks.
A visit to Raneh Falls is incomplete without a camera in hand, as the scenic views promise captivating photographs for those fortunate enough to explore this picturesque locale.
For those planning to experience the architectural marvels of Khajuraho, the winter season stands out as the most ideal time. During this period, the town enjoys pleasant weather, making it comfortable for visitors to explore the intricate temples and other attractions without the challenges of heat or humidity. The cool and refreshing climate enhances the overall sightseeing experience, especially during outdoor visits to the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
In the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho stands as a living testament to the artistry and cultural richness of ancient India. The intricate sculptures of the Khajuraho temples, delicately carved to portray the multifaceted aspects of life, continue to mesmerize visitors with their timeless beauty. The town’s historical narrative, from its Chandela rulers to the rediscovery of the temples in the 1850s, adds layers of significance to its heritage.
As visitors explore the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, they step into a realm where spirituality, love, and artistic brilliance converge. The light and sound show, a captivating blend of history and visual spectacle, provides a unique perspective on the temples’ genesis, accompanied by the legends woven around each structure.
Beyond the temple walls, Khajuraho offers a wealth of experiences, from the tranquil Panna National Park, where the echoes of wildlife mingle with the flowing Ken River, to the hidden gem of Raneh Falls, where nature’s palette paints a vivid picture in the heart of pristine greenery.
Khajuraho, with its tales etched in stone and vibrant landscapes, beckons travelers to immerse themselves in a journey through time. As the sun sets on the enchanting town, it leaves behind a legacy of art, culture, and natural splendor, inviting all to witness the enduring charm of Khajuraho—a treasure trove of India’s heritage.
The information presented on this page about Khajuraho, including descriptions of its historical monuments, attractions, travel tips, and seasonal guidance, is intended to provide visitors with a general overview of the key sites and experiences in the town. While we strive for accuracy and up-to-date information, please be aware that certain details—such as temple timings, accessibility, local events, or other operational aspects—may vary due to unforeseen circumstances or changes in local regulations.
We recommend that you confirm specific details, including opening hours, ticket prices, and any possible restrictions, directly with local authorities, official websites, or tour operators before finalizing your travel plans.
Additionally, the weather conditions, transport availability, and the status of any attractions can fluctuate, especially in relation to seasonal variations or public holidays. Therefore, we advise checking current updates to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
This website does not accept any liability for any inaccuracies, changes, or disruptions to the information provided herein. By visiting Khajuraho, visitors acknowledge that travel experiences may differ, and all travelers are encouraged to do thorough research and planning to ensure a safe and fulfilling trip.
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Pujya Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, known as Bageshwar Dham Sarkar, carries forward a legacy of humanitarian service and welfare initiated by Sanyasi Baba 300 years ago. Recognized as the divine envoy chosen by Lord Balaji, he expands this noble endeavor with divine grace. As a revered devotee of Shri Balaji and a disciple of Jagatguru Shri Tulsi Peethadheeshwar Swami Shri RamBhadracharya Ji Maharaj, Pujya Gurudev, also known as Pujya Guruji, is a globally renowned young saint dedicated to spreading the essence of Sanatan Dharma. His divine connection with Shri Balaji and Sanyasi Baba has brought relief to countless individuals, liberating them from physical, divine, and worldly troubles.
Born on July 4, 1996, in Gadha village, Chhatarpur district, Pujya Gurudev’s spiritual journey began with devoted service at the ancient Bageshwar Temple. His commitment to religious practices, rituals, and contribution to family livelihood through alms and donations showcase his dedication to Sanatan Dharma. Initiated into mantra by Jagatguru Shri Ram Bhadracharya Ji Maharaj, Pujya Gurudev’s unique gift of intuitively documenting past, present, and future inspirations, along with his efforts in temple construction and maintenance, reflects his commitment to Sanatan principles. Empowered by spiritual achievements, Pujya Gurudev, through divine storytelling, impacts lives and connects people to the rich heritage of Sanatan culture, offering solutions to life’s challenges through the grace of his Siddhis.
To partake in this sacred process, devotees traditionally tie a coconut at the revered shrine of Shri Bageshwar Dham or meditate on Lord Balaji while placing a coconut in the temple at home. The color of the cloth used to tie the coconut varies based on the nature of the concerns—red for physical ailments, yellow for obstacles in auspicious events, and black for negative forces affecting life. This ritual, known as “arji lagana,” enables devotees to present their troubles before Lord Balaji, fervently praying for their resolution.
Shri Bageshwar Dham witnesses daily gatherings of devotees, creating a festive atmosphere. Throughout the year, four significant festivals are organized, with Mahashivratri being the grandest. Under Pujya Gurudev’s guidance, the Bageshwar Dham Jan Seva Samiti conducts a mass wedding ceremony for underprivileged families’ daughters during Mahashivratri, accompanied by discourses, cultural programs, and the celebration of Shri Hanuman Ji Maharaj’s appearance festival. The annual Gurupurnima festival, featuring guru diksha, saintly discourses, and cultural presentations, is another highlight, along with special yajnas and narrative events conducted during Pujya Gurudev’s presence at the Dham.
Shri Bagheshwar Dham Janseva Samiti, guided by Pujya Gurudev, has embarked on a nationwide campaign for the propagation of Sanatan Dharma and extensive social welfare. Several commitments have been made to various services, benefiting both society and the nation. Key initiatives include operating the Annapurna Rasoi, providing sanctified food to thousands daily; the Girl’s Marriage Initiative, solemnizing weddings of underprivileged girls annually; the Cow Care Initiative, advocating for active participation in cow care; and a Pledge for Environmental Conservation, involving the planting of 11 lakh saplings. Additionally, efforts towards reviving Hindu unity, empowering healthcare through an Ayurvedic hospital, and cultivating wisdom through the establishment of a Gurukul showcase the multifaceted commitment of the Samiti.
Devotees aspiring to receive the continuous grace of revered Gurudev and become part of the disciple community seek mantra initiation from Pujya Gurudev. Periodic diksha ceremonies are organized for this purpose, providing devotees the opportunity to seek refuge in Gurudev and receive mantra initiation. These ceremonies take place during storytelling events at Shri Bageshwar Dham, where Pujya Gurudev imparts the sacred mantras to dedicated disciples from across the country. Information about these events is effectively communicated through various channels and the official website, ensuring devotees can stay informed and actively participate in these spiritually significant ceremonies.
