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Khajuraho Temples (Madhya Pradesh)

• UNESCO-listed temples known for their erotic sculptures and intricate carvings.

Khajuraho Temples Travel Guide – The Iconic UNESCO Heritage Site

Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its stunning group of temples, known for intricate carvings, erotic sculptures, and spiritual significance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temples were built by the Chandela dynasty between the 9th and 12th centuries, showcasing exquisite Nagara-style architecture and artistic mastery.

 Top Tourist Attractions in Khajuraho

 Western Group of Temples (Main Attractions) – UNESCO Heritage Site

1. Kandariya Mahadev Temple
   • Largest and most spectacular temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
   • Features 900+ intricate sculptures, including celestial dancers & gods.
   • Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
2. Lakshmana Temple
   • One of the best-preserved temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
   • Features sensual carvings, mythical stories & deities.
3. Vishvanatha Temple
   • A Shiva temple, known for its spectacular shikhara (tower) and Nandi sculpture.
4. Chitragupta Temple
   • Dedicated to Surya (Sun God), featuring a 7-ft tall idol of Surya riding a chariot.
5. Matangeshwar Temple
   • Only active temple in Khajuraho, where worship still takes place.
   • Houses a massive Shiva Lingam (8 ft tall).

 Eastern Group of Temples (Jain & Hindu Temples)

1. Parsvanath Temple
   • Largest Jain temple in Khajuraho, known for detailed carvings of apsaras (celestial dancers).
2. Adinath Temple
   • Dedicated to Jain Tirthankara Adinath, with intricate stonework & floral motifs.
3. Vamana Temple
   • Dedicated to Lord Vamana, an incarnation of Vishnu, with elaborate sculptures.

 Southern Group of Temples (Less Crowded & Unique Architecture)

1. Duladeo Temple
   • Known as the "New Temple of Khajuraho," dedicated to Shiva.
   • Features romantic sculptures & intricate carvings.
2. Chaturbhuj Temple

• Houses a massive 9-ft tall statue of Vishnu, with no erotic sculptures.

 Cultural & Adventure Experiences

1. Khajuraho Sound & Light Show

• A spectacular light show narrating the history of Khajuraho.
• Timings: 6:30 PM (English) | 7:30 PM (Hindi)
• Entry Fee: ₹250 (Indians), ₹700 (Foreigners)

1. Raneh Falls & Ken Gharial Sanctuary (20 km from Khajuraho)

• A stunning canyon with waterfalls, perfect for nature & wildlife lovers.
• Spot Gharial crocodiles, deer & exotic birds.

1. Panna National Park (45 km from Khajuraho)

• Home to tigers, leopards, antelopes & exotic birds.
• Best time for safari: November – April.

1. Pandav Caves & Falls (35 km from Khajuraho)

• A mythological site linked to the Pandavas of Mahabharata.

 How to Reach Khajuraho

 By Air (Nearest Airport – Khajuraho Airport (HJR))

• Distance: 3 km from the main city.
• Flights available from: Delhi, Varanasi, Agra, Mumbai (limited).
• From the Airport: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental cars are available.

 By Train (Nearest Railway Station – Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ))

• Distance: 5 km from the temples.
• Major Trains:
  • Udaipur-Khajuraho Express (Connects with Jaipur & Udaipur).
  • Bundelkhand Express (Connects with Delhi & Varanasi).
  • Mahoba-Khajuraho Passenger Train (Connects with Jhansi & Kanpur).

 By Road (Bus, Car, Taxi)

• From Jhansi: 175 km, 4-hour drive.
• From Orchha: 170 km, 3.5-hour drive.
• From Varanasi: 400 km, 8-hour drive.
• Bus Services: Madhya Pradesh Tourism (MPT) & private buses available from major cities.

 Best Time to Visit Khajuraho

• October – March (Winter & Spring): Best time for sightseeing.
• April – June (Summer): Very hot, avoid outdoor travel during afternoons.
• July – September (Monsoon): Pleasant, but some temples may be slippery.

Special Events:

• Khajuraho Dance Festival (February-March) – A spectacular showcase of classical Indian dance forms against the backdrop of the temples.

 Entry Fees & Timings (Major Attractions)

 No photography fee for mobile phones, but ₹50-₹200 for professional cameras.

 Must-Try Foods in Khajuraho

✔ Khasta Kachori – Crispy, spicy lentil-filled kachoris.
✔ Bedai with Aloo Sabzi – A traditional breakfast in Madhya Pradesh.
✔ Poha & Jalebi – A local favorite breakfast combination.
✔ Dal Bafla – A delicacy similar to Rajasthani Dal Baati.
✔ Mawa Bati – A rich, sweet dessert.

Best Places to Eat:

• Raja Café – Best for international & Indian cuisine.
• Guru Kripa Restaurant – Authentic local food.
• Blue Sky Restaurant – Rooftop café with temple views.

 Best Shopping Places in Khajuraho

✔ Shilpgram – Handicrafts, brassware & textiles.
✔ Gole Market – Souvenirs, miniature stone carvings.
✔ Mrignayani M.P. Emporium – Traditional Chanderi & Maheshwari sarees.

 Travel Tips & Guidelines

✔ Wear Comfortable Shoes – The temple complex requires walking.
✔ Best Time for Photography – Sunrise & sunset for the golden glow on temples.
✔ Respect Temple Etiquette – Avoid touching carvings, and dress modestly.
✔ Hire a Licensed Guide – To understand the history & meaning of sculptures.
✔ Cash is Preferred – ATMs are available, but small vendors prefer cash.

Khajuraho is a timeless masterpiece, offering spiritual depth, artistic brilliance, and cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring the intricately carved temples, witnessing a sunset at Raneh Falls, or enjoying the Khajuraho Dance Festival, this destination guarantees an unforgettable experience!