Cosmos in Stone
A captivating exploration of Khajuraho's art, architecture, and philosophy, a UNESCO gem beyond its renowned legacy.
The Builders: Age of the Chandelas
The tale of Khajuraho traces the rise of the Chandela dynasty, mapping their path from local vassals to grand patrons of an architectural marvel, and their decline, which ironically safeguarded their heritage.
Rise of a Power (c. 9th - 10th Century)
Originating as vassals under the Gurjara-Pratiharas, early Chandela leaders such as Nannuka strengthened their hold over Jejakabhukti. Yashovarman (c. 925–950 CE) signaled their ascent to independence by building the majestic Lakshmana Temple, a testament to growing power.
The Golden Century (c. 950 - 1050 CE)
Under King Dhanga's rule, the Chandelas rose as an independent force, sparking a remarkable era of construction. This period witnessed the creation of Khajuraho's iconic wonders, such as the Vishvanatha and grand Kandariya Mahadeva temples, showcasing their power, devotion, and prosperity.
Decline & Rediscovery (c. 11th Century onwards)
Amid invasions and strife, the Chandelas relocated their capital, leaving Khajuraho to decline into obscurity. Its isolation shielded the temples from ruin. Hidden by dense jungle for centuries, the site was rediscovered in the 19th century by British officer T. S. Burt, securing its cultural heritage.
The Blueprint: Building the Cosmos
Khajuraho's temples transcend architecture, serving as cosmic diagrams shaped by sacred geometry. Discover their structured design, leading seekers from the earthly to the divine.
Hover over a section
Explore the role of each section in a Khajuraho temple, from the main gateway to the holy inner shrine.
The Carvings: A Universe in Stone
Khajuraho's sculptures transcend decoration, embodying a cosmic vision. Renowned for erotic art, this forms just a small part of its rich symbolic tapestry. Tap the chart to discover its vast thematic diversity.
The Complete Vision
The temple walls convey a unified vision, weaving together every facet of existence. Deities, celestial figures, medieval daily life, mythical beasts, and earthly passions are portrayed as threads in a vast cosmic tapestry. This artistry declares that all aspects of human life, sacred or worldly, belong to the divine whole.
The Masterpieces: A Connoisseur's Tour
From the 85 original temples, about 25 remain, grouped into three clusters. Discover the best of each, from the Western grandeur of Chandela artistry to the Eastern celebration of religious harmony.
Western Group
The grandest and most splendid group, showcasing the pinnacle of Chandela artistry.
- Kandariya Mahadeva: The grandest temple, devoted to Shiva, adorned with 870+ intricate sculptures.
- Lakshmana Temple: Among the oldest and most intact, devoted to Vishnu, renowned for its intricate friezes depicting royal life.
- Vishvanatha Temple: A magnificent Shiva temple famed for its intricate carvings and preserved smaller shrines.
Eastern Group
A strong symbol of the Chandela kingdom's religious harmony and cultural fusion.
- Parshvanatha Temple: The best of the Jain lineage, celebrated for its intricate designs and elegant divine forms.
- Adinatha & Shantinatha: Other notable Jain temples reflecting Chandela style adapted to Jain aesthetics.
- Vamana & Javari Temples: Significant Hindu temples honoring Vishnu's avatars, located near Jain sacred sites.
Southern Group
A modest cluster with temples from a later era, reflecting changes in design trends.
- Duladeo Temple: A subsequent Shiva temple showcasing intricate, yet arguably less dynamic, sculptural artistry.
- Chaturbhuja Temple: Dedicated to Vishnu, this temple stands out as the sole structure in Khajuraho devoid of any erotic carvings.
Visit Today: A Living Heritage
Khajuraho is more than an archaeological treasure; it's a lively hub of culture. Here's some useful information to help you plan your trip to this UNESCO World Heritage gem.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is in the cooler months of **October to March**. A February trip lets you enjoy the vibrant week-long Khajuraho Dance Festival.
Getting There
Khajuraho features a domestic airport linking to key cities like Delhi and has its own railway station. For better connectivity, major hubs like Jhansi (175 km) and Satna (117 km) offer more frequent train services.
Exploring the Site
The Western Group is simple to explore on foot. Rent a bike or auto-rickshaw to visit the Eastern and Southern groups. Opt for a licensed guide or an official audio tour. Be sure to catch the evening sound and light show.