Khajuraho Group of Monuments

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India, is one of the most significant archaeological treasures of the Indian subcontinent. Built between 950 and 1050 CE by the rulers of the Chandella dynasty, these temples represent the pinnacle of North Indian temple architecture and are famous for their stunningly intricate stone carvings.

The site consists of a group of Hindu and Jain temples that are renowned for their Nagara-style architectural symbolism. Originally a complex of 85 temples spread over 20 square kilometers, only about 23 temples survive today, clustered into three main groups:

• The Western Group: The most famous and largest cluster, featuring the magnificent Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands as the most ornate and tallest structure in the complex.
• The Eastern Group: Primarily composed of Jain temples, such as the Parshvanatha Temple, as well as some Hindu shrines. These are known for their refined and graceful sculptures.
• The Southern Group: Located slightly further away, this group includes the Duladeo and Chaturbhuja temples, notable for their dynamic poses and distinct artistic transitions.

The temples are built of sandstone and are characterized by their soaring towers called shikharas, which represent the peaks of the Himalayas.

---

Attraction

Khajuraho is a magnet for international travelers for several compelling reasons:

• Exquisite Artistry: The exterior and interior walls are covered in thousands of sculptures depicting gods, goddesses, celestial nymphs (apsaras), musicians, dancers, and mythical creatures.
• Erotic Sculptures: While they constitute only about 10% of the total artwork, the “Kama” or amorous carvings are world-famous for their unabashed depiction of human intimacy and Tantric philosophy.
• The Khajuraho Dance Festival: Held every February, this week-long festival brings together India’s finest classical dancers against the backdrop of the illuminated Western Group of temples, creating a mesmerizing cultural experience.
• Architectural Grandeur: The structural precision, where massive stone blocks are held together by gravity and interlocking joints without mortar, continues to fascinate engineers and historians alike.

---

Heritage

The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 under the following criteria:

• Criterion (i): The complex is a “unique artistic creation.” The harmonious integration of architecture and sculpture, particularly the expressive human forms, is considered a masterpiece of human creative genius.
• Criterion (iii): The temples provide an “exceptional testimony” to the Chandella civilization. They reflect the religious tolerance of the era (Hindu and Jain temples built side-by-side) and provide a window into the socio-cultural life of medieval India.

---

Gateway

• City/Town: The small town of Khajuraho itself serves as the immediate gateway.
• Airport: Khajuraho Airport (HJR) is a commercial airport located just 3 km from the main temple complex. It handles regular flights from major hubs like New Delhi and Varanasi.
• Lodging: Despite its small size, the town is extremely well-equipped for tourism. It offers luxury 5-star resorts (like The LaLiT Temple View and Radisson Jass), heritage hotels, and numerous budget guesthouses catering to international backpackers.

---

When

• Winter (October to March): This is the peak season. The weather is cool and pleasant (daytime temperatures around 20°C to 25°C), making it ideal for walking through the sprawling temple gardens.
• February: This is arguably the best month to visit to catch the Khajuraho Dance Festival.
• Avoid Summer (April to June): Temperatures can soar above 45°C, making outdoor sightseeing nearly impossible during the day.

---

Consideration

• Temple Etiquette: Like most Indian religious sites, you must remove your shoes before entering the inner sanctum of the temples. Wearing socks is usually permitted.
• Dress Code: While there is no strict “hijab” or “sari” requirement, dressing modestly (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended as a mark of respect for the religious nature of the site.
• Touts and Guides: Be prepared for persistent touts at the airport and temple entrances. It is highly recommended to hire an official guide certified by the Ministry of Tourism (they carry IDs) to ensure you get accurate historical information.
• Hydration: The sun can be intense even in winter. Carry plenty of water as the temple complexes involve a significant amount of walking.
• Photography: Tripods are generally not allowed inside the temple premises without special permission from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

---

Resources

1. UNESCO – Khajuraho Group of Monuments: The authoritative source for historical data, maps, and world heritage criteria.
2. Madhya Pradesh Tourism – Khajuraho: The official state tourism portal with event calendars and travel planning tools.
3. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): Provides official details on ticket pricing, opening hours, and conservation efforts.
4. Incredible India – Khajuraho: The national tourism portal’s guide to the site’s cultural significance.
5. GetYourGuide – Khajuraho Tours: A convenient platform for booking private guided tours and transfers from the airport or nearby cities.

---