Khajuraho Group of Monuments in India

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
The Official Website of Ministry of Tourism

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1986
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 79,922°
Latitude: 24,852°

Summary

The temples at Khajuraho were built during the Chandella dynasty, which reached its apogee between 950 and 1050. Only about 20 temples remain; they fall into three distinct groups and belong to two different religions – Hinduism and Jainism. They strike a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture. The Temple of Kandariya is decorated with a profusion of sculptures that are among the greatest masterpieces of Indian art.

Location on Map

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Khajuraho Group of Monuments

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is renowned for its stunning collection of ancient Hindu and Jain temples, which are known for their intricate and explicit carvings depicting various aspects of life, spirituality, and sexuality.

History

The Khajuraho temples were built during the Chandela dynasty, which ruled the region from the 9th to the 13th century. It is believed that the construction of these temples began around the 10th century, during the reign of King Yasovarman. Over time, a total of 85 temples were built, but only 22 have survived the test of time.

The temples were constructed using sandstone, and their architectural style is a blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles. The intricate carvings on the temple walls showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans of that era. These carvings depict gods, goddesses, celestial beings, mythical creatures, animals, and scenes from everyday life.

It is believed that the explicit sexual imagery depicted on some of the temple walls represents the celebration of human sexuality and the union of male and female energies. These carvings have attracted much attention and intrigue from visitors and scholars alike.

Current State

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is now a major tourist attraction and a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage. The temples have undergone extensive restoration and conservation efforts to preserve their architectural beauty and intricate carvings.

Visitors to the site can explore the various temples, each dedicated to different deities. The most famous temples include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Lakshmana Temple, and Chausath Yogini Temple. These temples are not only architectural marvels but also hold immense religious significance for Hindus and Jains.

The Khajuraho Dance Festival, held annually in February, is a celebration of Indian classical dance forms. Renowned dancers from across the country perform against the backdrop of the magnificent temples, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the site.

Efforts have been made to promote sustainable tourism and protect the surrounding environment. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and local authorities have implemented measures to ensure the preservation of the site, including restrictions on vehicular traffic and the establishment of visitor centers.

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural brilliance of ancient India. Its intricate carvings, religious significance, and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and spiritual seekers from around the world.

Hotels and places to stay

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Radisson Jass Hotel Khajuraho

Address
Distance: 0,7 mi
BY PASS ROAD MADHAYA PRADESH
471606 Khajuraho,Rajnagar
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Syna Heritage Hotel

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Near PWD Circuit House, Beside Youth Hostel Power House Road, taj raj nagar, m.p
471606 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Hotel Zen

Address
Distance: 0,3 mi
Jain Temple Road, Khajuraho (M.P.) India Pin : 471606
471606 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Yogi Asharam Guest House

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
Sevagram
47160 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Hotel Green House

Address
Distance: 0,3 mi
Hotel Green House, Infront of Khajuraho Bus Stand, Khajuraho(MP)
471606 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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HOTEL PAYAL KHAJURAHO

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Hotel Payal , By Pass Road, Khajuraho, Sevagram , Madhya Pradesh , 471606
471606 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Hotel Euro Star Inn

Address
Distance: 0,9 mi
Near HP petrol Pump,Airport Road, Khajuraho
471606 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 10:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Hotel Yogi Lodge

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
man Temple road, Khajuraho
471606 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Zostel Khajuraho

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
Lal Bangla in front of Shiv Sagar Lake
471606 Khajuraho
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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RAMADA KHAJURAHO

Address
Distance: 0,7 mi
AIRPORT ROAD
471606 Khajuraho,Rajnagar
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Parsvanath Temple Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh

Published: February 09, 2011
Length: 52:27 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: indiavideodotorg

Parsvanath temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh state of India. For more details click on - http://www.indiavideo.org/madhyapradesh/travel/parsvanatha-temple-khajuraho-5566.php.