Temples The temples are a superb example of Chandela art and architecture, depicting scenes of gods and goddesses, valiant warriors, animals and people, often engaged in acts of love. There is a specific portrayal of sensuality and erotica, which far from appearing vulgar, enhances the beauty and purity of the temple art forms.
From the exterior, the temples are a series of towers each higher than the other, culminating in a soaring shikhara. The inner sanctum sanctorum is almost as elaborately carved as the exterior.
At the time of being built since there was no mortar, these blocks have merely been fitted together. The common material used was granite or sandstone and the horizontal band of sculptures were an integral part of the design, which was used to balance the vertical elements for design symmetry.
Western Group The Western Group of Temples are the most elaborately carved from the three groups. Set within an enclosure amidst manicured lawns the temples in this group include:
Lakshmi and Varaha Temple, dedicated to Lakshmi and the Varaha (boar) avtaar of Vishnu.
Lakshmana Temple, one of the better examples of intricate workmanship is dedicated to Vishnu.
Kandariya Mahadev, the largest and architecturally the most perfect, has an interesting exterior and an interior which houses 872 spectacularly carved statues.
Mahadeva Temple, the smallest temple, has the one of the best sculptures of a sardula figure caressing a lion.
Devi Jagadamba Temple, believed to have originally been dedicated to Vishnu, then Parvati and finally to Kali. According to legend, the idol within is one of Parvati, painted black to symbolise Kali.
Chitragupta Temple dedicated to the Sun God, Surya.
Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Shiva, the destroyer and his faithful vahan, Nandi.
Matangesvara Temple, the only temple in this group, where worship continues, dedicated to Shiva.
Chausath Yogini Temple, presently in ruins, believed to be the oldest temple in Khajuraho
Eastern Group Can be further divided into two groups-one being an enclosure housing the Jain Temples and the second being a cluster of four temples. Though all the temples are worth a visit, the main attractions are:
Parasvanath Temple, originally dedicated to Adinath, subsequently to Parasvanath is the largest and finest Jain temple in the city. The beautiful image of a woman removing a thorn from her foot and another applying make-up are memorable.
Adinath Temple, smaller in size than the Parasvanath Temple. Its sculptures are in a tri-band formation, similar to Hindu temples. The interior has a solid black image, typical of a Jain temple.
Shantinath Temple, modern compared to the others, was built a century ago with raw materials from older temples. Digambara Jains come here to worship Adinath.
Ghantai Temple, mostly in ruins, only the gracefully carvings of the bell and chain motifs remain.
Javari Temple, dating back to AD 1075-1100 is dedicated to Vishnu.
Vamana Temple, slightly older than the Javari Temple, stands alone in the middle of a field, dedicated to the dwarf incarnation of Vishnu.
Brahma and Hanuman Temple, actually dedicated to Vishnu, rendering its title as a Brahma and Hanuman Temple as incorrect.
Southern Group This temple complex has only two temples to offer. If you have more than a day, you have time for the Southern Group, otherwise contain time and travel by visiting the other two temple groups.
Duladeo Temple, 1 km away from the Jain enclosure, this almost seem to be built as an afterthought. The sculptures appear cold and do not communicate the emotion evident in the other temples.
Chaturbhuja Temple, south of the river, approximately 3 km from the city centre. The remains of this temple house an image of Vishnu.
Archaeological Museum At a short distance from the Western Group, this museum is packed with statues and figurines, which have been restored from the ruins of the temples. Particularly noteworthy is the Ganesh sculpture in the entrance gallery.
Note: The entrance fee is included in the ticket for the Western Group of Temples.
Jain Museum
A recent addition to enhance the viewer s experience when visiting the Jain Temples, the museum exhibits 24 tirthankaras.
Shilpgram A 10-acre complex showcasing traditional handicrafts from various parts of India. The ethnic offerings are both for viewing and sale. Within the complex there is an amphitheatre where cultural programs are staged.
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