Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, is renowned for its stunning medieval Hindu and Jain temples, constructed between 950 and 1050 CE. These temples are famous for their intricate and exquisite sculptures, depicting various facets of human life and spirituality. The architectural marvels showcase a blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles, featuring stunning sculptures with complex patterns, and ornate designs. Khajuraho’s temples are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attracting visitors from across the globe to marvel at their beauty and historical significance.
The temples are categorized into three parts: Western, Eastern, and Southern, each representing distinct architectural style and theme. Khajuraho’s most striking feature is the erotic sculptures, which depict various aspects of human life, sensuality, and spirituality. These sculptures are symbolic of the fusion of physical desires and spiritual aspirations in Indian culture. The temples are a testament to India’s cultural and artistic heritage. Khajuraho stands as a symbol of tolerance, diversity, and artistic expression, reflecting the pluralistic ethos of ancient India.
A visit to Khajuraho offers a journey through time, immersive in the splendour and spirituality of India’s architectural treasures. If you are planning a trip to Khajuraho, here’s list of all temples and their significance so that you don’t miss anything.
Western Group of Temples:
The Western Group of Khajuraho Temples is one of the most famous temple complexes, known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings. These temples represent the epitome of medieval Indian architecture depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology, daily life, and the famous erotic sculptures that have gained worldwide fame. Each temple has its unique architectural style and significance within the complex, making the Western Group of Khajuraho Temples a must-visit destination. Different temples within Western Group of temples include:
1. Kandariaya Mahadeva Temple – The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is the largest and most ornate temple in the Western Group of Khajuraho Temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its towering spire, adorned with intricate carvings, rises majestically above the surrounding landscape. The temple is renowned for its grandeur and exquisite sculptures, depicting various deities, celestial beings, and scenes from Hindu mythology. Inside, the sanctum houses a lingam, the symbol of Lord Shiva, while the outer walls are adorned with finely carved erotic figures, showcasing the celebration of life and fertility. The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple stands as a masterpiece of Chandela architecture.
2. Lakshmana Temple – Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the most well-preserved in the Western Group of Khajuraho Temples. Its towering shikhara (spire) dominates the skyline. The temple’s outer walls are adorned with elaborate sculptures showcasing scenes from the Ramayana and other Hindu epics, including gods, goddesses, and celestial dancers. The sanctum houses a beautifully crafted idol of Vishnu in his three-headed form, known as Vaikuntha Vishnu. The Lakshmana Temple exemplifies the mastery of Chandela architecture.
3. Devi Jagadambi Temple – The Devi Jagadambi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, stands as a smaller yet beautifully carved structure within the Western Group of Khajuraho Temples. Its elegant spire is adorned with delicate sculptures and motifs, reflecting the finesse of Chandela architecture. Inside, the sanctum houses a sanctified idol of Devi Jagadambi.
4. Chitragupta Temple – The Chitragupta Temple, dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), is one of the smaller yet artistically significant temple. The sanctum inside houses a statue of Surya, the Sun God, symbolizing vitality and enlightenment. The ambiance is very serene creating a spiritual aura amidst the bustling temple complex. The Chitragupta Temple stands as a timeless homage to ancient Hindu beliefs and architectural panache.
5. Matangeshvara Temple – The Matangeshvara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a prominent site that is still active for worship. Its compact yet intricate design features finely carved sculptures and motifs, illustrating tales from Hindu mythology. The towering shikhara (spire) dominates the temple’s facade, drawing attention to its sheer magnificence.
6. Varaha Temple – The Varaha Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha (Boar) incarnation. The carvings at this temple depict the divine exploits of Lord Vishnu. Outer walls showcase detailed panels portraying various mythological scenes. The central focus lies on the colossal sculpture of Varaha, the boar avatar of Vishnu.
7. Vishvanatha Temple – Another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. We felt the cosmic energy here making the atmosphere very calm and peaceful. The Vishvanatha Temple exudes spiritual serenity and architectural finesse.
8. Parvati Temple – Dedicated to the goddess Parvati, is a modest yet spiritually rich structure. Its simple architectural style is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology, including scenes from the goddess’s life. The temple’s exterior showcases delicate motifs and divine figures, inviting contemplation and reverence. Inside, there is a sanctified idol of Parvati, symbolizing feminine energy and grace.
9. Chausath Yogini Temple – The Chausath Yogini Temple, dedicated to the Yoginis, is a unique circular structure within the Western Group of Khajuraho Temples. Its ancient design reflects the mysticism and esoteric practices associated with Yogini worship. The temple’s outer walls feature intricate carvings of 64 Yoginis, each representing a manifestation of the divine feminine energy. Despite its weathered appearance, the temple exudes an aura of spiritual significance and historical importance.
10. Shiva Temple(near Devi Jagadambi temple) – The Shiva Temple near Devi Jagadambi Temple is a modest yet spiritually significant structure. Its architecture reflects simplicity, adorned with subtle carvings and motifs depicting the divine essence of Lord Shiva. The temple’s sanctum houses a revered lingam.
11. Garuda Shrine – The Garuda Shrine, is dedicated to Garuda, the mount of Lord Vishnu. Its compact design showcases the reverence for Garuda in Hindu mythology. The shrine’s exterior is adorned with delicate motifs and divine figures.
12. Lakshmi Temple – Dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu this temple symbolizes prosperity and divinity. The temple has a serene ambiance amidst the vibrant temple complex.
13. Vishnu Temple (near Lakshmana Temple) – An abode dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its architecture boasts intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various aspects of Vishnu’s divine manifestations. The sanctum houses a sacred idol of Lord Vishnu that remains a timeless symbol of devotion and reverence.
14. Kali Temple – this temple is dedicated to the fierce goddess Kali in Hindu mythology. Its architecture showcases intricate carvings and sculptures, embodying the power and intensity of the deity. Devotees pay homage to Kali, seeking protection and liberation from worldly troubles.
Eastern Group of Temples:
The Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples collectively offer a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural history of the region and are marvels of ancient Indian architecture and craftsmanship. While not as numerous as the Western Group, the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples is still a significant archaeological and religious site.
1. Parsvanath Temple – The temple is dedicated to Parsvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara. Its architecture displays Jain iconography and beliefs. The temple’s exterior is adorned with depictions of Jain deities. The Parsvanath Temple serves as a significant pilgrimage site for Jains, embodying principles of spirituality and non-violence.
2. Ghantai Temple – this temple venerates the 16th Jain Tirthankara, Shantinath. The literal name, meaning “bell,” derives from the numerous bell carvings adorning its walls. The temple’s architecture is characterized by intricate sculptures depicting Jain deities and spiritual motifs.
3. Adinath Temple – dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain Tirthankara, it boasts complex carvings depicting Jain cosmology and spiritual teachings. The exterior walls are adorned with ornate motifs and depictions of Jain deities. The Adinath Temple stands as a sacred testament to Jain heritage and spirituality in Khajuraho.
4. Hanuman Temple – Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the devoted disciple of Lord Rama. Its architecture features simple yet elegant designs, reflecting reverence for the beloved deity.
5. Brahma Temple – It is located on the banks of the Khajuraho Sagar lake making the ambience here really beautiful yet calm. This is Shiva temple mistakenly known as Brahma due to the four-face lingam. The specialty of this temple is that it is made from different stones.
6. Vamana Temple – Dedicated to Lord Vamana, the fifth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Here you will see the carvings depicting stories from Hindu mythology.
7. Javari Temple – Another temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The exterior walls are adorned with delicate motifs and divine figures, reflecting the artistic mastery of the Chandela dynasty.
Southern Group of Temples:
This group is smaller compared to the Western and Eastern Groups. Nevertheless, it still contains some notable temples. These temples, while fewer in number, are significant examples of the architectural and artistic brilliance and are an essential part of the Khajuraho temple complex.
1. Duladeo Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva this temple boasts exquisite carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology with precision and detail. You will be drawn to the serene atmosphere here. The Duladeo Temple stands as a testament to devotion and architectural flamboyance amidst the Khajuraho temple complex.
2. Chaturbhuj Temple – Dedicated to Lord Vishnu this unique temple features a blend of Hindu and Mughal styles. Notable for its spacious hall and towering shikhara, the temple’s sanctum once housed an image of Lord Vishnu.
