Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho, in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most popular and recognized landmarks of India. It is believed that the ancient name of Khajuraho was Kharjuravahaka. The Khajuraho temples, spread in the area of 20 sq km, makes this place is a popular weekend destination in the region. The temples, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are famous for its Hindu and Jain temples. These monuments are one of the finest examples of Indian art and sculpting, where thousands of artists craved minute sculptures depicting the day to day life of the people.
There were in total more than 80 temples within the compound, but currently, only 20 temples have remained. Many historians consider these monuments to be a fine example of Indo-Aryan architecture. Located near the Vindhya mountain range, the Hindu temples are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Ganesha. The Jain temples are dedicated to the Jain Tirthankara, spiritual leader of the religion. Made from sandstone, one can find minutely carved erotic sculpture as well as different aspects of the domestic lifestyle of the people living in the area during those times.
According to the geographical location, the Khajuraho Temple complexes are divided into three sections ? Eastern, Western and Southern. The Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho is from October to March when the weather is most comfortable.
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple – For A Spiritual Retreat
One of the best places to see in Khajuraho, Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is quite famous all around the globe due to the vividly mesmerizing architecture that is bestowed upon the walls of the temple. Primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple was built in between 1025 to 1050 A.D. You will get to witness the surprisingly erotic carvings of women all around the walls of the temple.
Every wall has images and sculptures of women, and some of them are more than three feet high. In the interior of the temple, you will find a Shiva Lingam. If you are spiritually or religiously inclined, you can take part in the prayers in the Garbhagriha if you visit during the timings mentioned below Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho.
Location: Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606
Timings: You will be able to visit the temple at any time between 6 AM to 6 PM.
Entry Fee: Indian tourists are charged INR 10 to get into the temple.
Lakshmana Temple – Marvel At The Architecture
One of the prime tourist places in Khajuraho, Lakshmana temple was built by the Chandela rulers and is one of the most important and oldest temples of the area. The temple was dedicated to Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwar, and you will be able to view their statues at the entrance of the temple. Though Lord Vishnu adorns the Garbagriha or the interior of the temple. Even if you are not a religious or spiritual person, you will be stunned by the exterior architecture of the temple. With over 600 carvings of the Hindu deities, this temple must not be missed at any cost Khajuraho Tour Packages.
Location: Rajnagar Rd, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606
Timings: You can visit the temple at any time between 8 AM to 6 PM every day of the week.
Entry Fee: Indian tourists are charged with INR 10.
Javari Temple – Amidst Lush Greenery
Amongst the best Khajuraho tourist places, Javari Temple is located in the eastern part of the Khajuraho group of temples. It is one of the most beautiful temples out there. Located amid the lush greenery of the gardens, this temple stands tall and is breathtakingly beautiful to look upon. Javari Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the pillars and walls of the temple depict erotic postures of different men and women. If anyone visits Khajuraho, then this temple is a must-see, and without it, the trip would not be complete Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho.
Location: Eastern Group of Temples, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606
Timings: You will be able to enter the temple anytime between 8 AM to 6 PM any day of the week.
Entry Fee: You can visit the temple for free.
Chaturbhuj Temple – The Hidden Gem
Chaturbhuja Temple is situated amid the Khajuraho group of temples, and it was built in the 12th century by the Chandela rulers. It is not only dedicated to Lord Vishnu, but you will be able to find 2.7 meters tall statue of Lord Vishnu with four hands, and hence, the name Chaturbhuja has been provided. You will find carvings of men and women on the walls of the temple as well making it one of the best Khajuraho destinations to visit, Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho.
Timings: You will be able to visit the temple anytime between 5.30 AM to 6.30 PM all days a week.
Entry Fee: Indian tourists are charged with INR 10.
Location: The temple is situated 2 km from the Khajuraho bus stand.
Vishvanatha Temple – A Sight To Withhold
Amongst the best Khajuraho destinations to visit, not only does Vishvanatha temple beautifully constructed, but the setting of the temple amid the lush greenery and a clear sky is a sight to withhold. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is located in the western part of the Khajuraho group of temples. In the interior of the temple, you will find a Shiva lingam surrounded by 101 smaller lingams. It is quite marvelous to witness, and you should not miss the temple at any cost, Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho.
Location: Rajnagar Rd, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606
Timings: You can enter the temple any time between 7 AM to 6 PM any day of the week.
Entry Fee: You will be charged with INR 10 to enter the temple.
Jagadambi Temple – Adorned By Sculptures & Carvings
Jagadambi temple was built between 1000 to 1025 AD, and primarily it was dedicated to Lord Vishnu, but some people believe the temple was dedicated to Goddess Parvati or Maa kali. Not only is the temple adorned by mesmerizing sculptures and carvings, but it looks visually stunning as well, it is one of the Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho. While visiting Khajuraho, you must visit the temple to explore the area thoroughly.
Timings: You can enter the temple any time between 7 AM to 6 PM any day of the week.
Entry Fee: The temple can be visited without any charges.
Location: The temple is located 1.6 km from the Khajuraho bus stand.
Chausath Yogini Temple – Ruins To Explore
If you want to witness one of the oldest temples in Khajuraho then you must pay a visit to Chausath Yogini Temple. Established in the late 9th century, this monument is visited for its national importance. While exploring this place, you will realize that there is no sculpture inside it and now it is left as a ruin. If you are a history buff and like to explore less-explored places then this is the perfect spot for you Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho.
Location: Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606
Timings: 7 am – 8 pm
Entry Fee: NA
Chitragupta Temple – The Temple Of Sun God
Dating back to the 11th century, Chitragupta Temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. You can see a beautiful carving of deities riding a chariot with seven horses. Moreover, the exterior walls are full of erotic carvings of couples as well as gods. It is a must-visit place in Khajuraho and Madhya Pradesh which is why you can witness several tourists exploring the place, Top 8 Places to Visit in Khajuraho.
Location: Rajnagar Rd, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606
Timings: 5 am – 12 pm, 4 pm – 9 pm
Entry Fee: NA