Khajuraho: The City of Exotic Temples

Overview
Imagine delving into the realms of India’s past through its exotic architecture? With phenomenal magic and intricate finesse, Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh would have hit the bull’s eye.

Khajuraho Tourism endows the rare and unique chance to explore the ‘City of Exotic Temples’ in India. Flaunting majestic art and architecture, its history dates back to 10th century. Even though these themed-temples celebrate eroticism, the ethereal and elegant manner in which they have been idolised reveals the incredible brilliance of the artist. Hailing from the Rajput Chandela Reign in India, this city was also adorned with numerous tanks. Currently, it is included in the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

The Nagara style of architecture, evident through unique symbolism is the main penchant of these temples. Mostly these temples are dedicated to Jainism and Hinduism. Unfortunately, out of the 85 temples, only 20 had survived. Even the Arabic historian Abu Rihan-al-Biruni had mentioned about these temples. Unfortunately, with the rise of the Delhi Sultanate, these temples were mutilated and not flawlessly preserved.

Following are the main travel attractions to Khajuraho:

Western Group of Temples
Lauded at the international level for being a marvellous form of temple architecture, one must scrutinise the nuances of sculpture, ornamentation and depiction of tales from Kama Sutra. The historical relevance and delicate motifs of these temples is simply enthralling. In fact, there is no high level enclosure surrounding these temples. The raised masonry platform has elegant proportions. Innumerable deities, celestial maidens and attendants are also engraved on the temple walls. Nothing reveals the courtly love in an ethereal manner like these exquisite temples.

Eastern Group of Temples
It includes the Parsvanath Temple, one of the most exquisitely adorned temples in this city. The intricate embellishments of this Jain temple are highly revered. The art forms of this temple reveal the everyday activity during the Chandela reign.

Raneh Falls
Located on the Ken River, this 30m high waterfall is one of the prime tourist attractions in Khajuraho, apart from the temples. You can also spot few endangered crocodiles in the Ken Crocodile Sanctuary here. It marks the well defined edge of the Rewa plateau.

Pandav Waterfalls
Located in the Panna district, the Pandav waterfalls are 30m high. It plunges into the tributary of the Ken River. It is called so because presumably the give Pandavas from Mahabharata had visited these waterfalls during their exile. One can also spot remnants of shrines and caves here. These days, it has also developed as an important picnic location.

Excursion from Khajuraho
Tourists can explore the nearby locations such as Panna National Park (40km), Dhubela Museum (64km) and Ajaygarh Fort (80km).

Shopping in Khajuraho
Tourists can purchase bronze and erotic stone sculptures from the local shops. But be ready to haggle and bargain your way out. A weekly market is also held every Tuesday that showcases an impressive collection of stone and brass sculptures.

When to Reach
The best time to visit is definitely from September to March when the temperature conditions are quite favourable. One can also visit during the Festival of Classical Dances, held every year during the time of March and April.

How to Reach
Air: The Khajuraho airport is linked with domestic flights from Varanasi, Delhi, Allahabad and Bhopal. Both private services and Indian airlines flights are available.
Rail: Khajuraho railway station is 5 km away from the main town. UP Sampark Kranti Express is the direct train from New Delhi to Khajuraho. Apart from it, the nearest railheads are located at Mahoba (64 km), Harpalpur (94 km) and Jhansi (175 km).
Road: An extensive and good network connects Khajuraho with different cities of Madhya Pradesh, thereby making it easily accessible. For example, it is well connected with cities like Katni, Satna, Jhansi, Orchha, Bandhavgarh and others.

So, plan a tour to Khajuraho and immerse yourself in the elegant, exquisite and enthralling temple architecture in India.