Creativity
knows no limits and this is exemplified by the sculptural art of Khajuraho
temples. The art at
Khajuraho is the
living testament to the freedom of expression in ancient India. The artists
in ancient India were patronized and there prevailed an atmosphere that
nurtured creativity. The stunning artistic creations in Khajuraho temples
have amazed all. Different from other artistic creations, the temples of
Khajuraho have gained international fame. There are erotic carvings in these
temples. Originally 85 in number, most of them were destroyed by the
Britishers. Today, only 22 are in good condition. Various theories have been
put forward that try to explain the reason for such a creation. Some say
that the erotic carvings on Khajuraho temple complex were created to prevent
the rain god from accidentally striking the holy place with lightning. Being
a voyeur, he would not have destroyed such source of pleasure. Others say
that carvings served as sort of guide for Brahmin boys who grew up in
segregated schools.
Tourist Attractions in
Khajuraho
The temples at Khajuraho are divided into three major groups: Western
Group, Eastern Group, Southern Group. These temples were built by Chandela
rulers who adorned these temples with various features. There are stone
figures of Apsaras ( celestial maidens) on each of the 22 existing temples.
There are figures of couples locked in amorous style, various sexual
positions.
Western Group of Temples
Rich in sculptural collection, the western group of temples in Khajuraho
are the most popular of all groups of temples in Khajuraho. The Khandariya
Mahadev temples are the biggest attraction in this group of temples. The
Chausath Yogini temple is the oldest in the western group of Khajuraho
temples.
Eastern
Group of Temples
The eastern group of Khajuraho temples is located on the banks of river
Khajur. Much popular in this group of temples are Javari Temple, Vamana
Temple, Brahma Temple and the Hanuman Temple.
Southern Group of Temples
Located on the southeastern side of the old village of Khajuraho, the
southern group of temples in Khajuraho comprise of Jain temples. The
Parsvanath Temple is the most famous in this group of temples.
History of Khajuraho Temples
It was between 950 and 1050 AD during the Chandela Empire that the temples
in Khajuraho were constructed. At the time these temples, an architectural
genius of the Medieval period, were constructed the total number was 85. But
unfortunately, only 22 out of the total exist today. With the downfall of
the Chandela Empire, the temples fell upon evil times and remained in a
state of negligence. However, the 19th century brought some good fortune for
this amazing series of sculptures, that leave human mind marvelling even
today.
There have been put many theories that advocate the purpose behind the
construction of the Khajuraho temples. One of the theories say that these
temples were built for boys who lived in hermitages until they reached
manhood. The study of these sculptures would prepare them for the worldly
role they were supposed to play after they left the hermitages.
Tourist Attractions
beyond Khajuraho Temples
Once you have arrived in Khajuraho and have begun your sightseeing, you can
also plan to visit a few more tourist attractions that lie a few kilometres
away from the Khajuraho temples. Some of the most visited tourist
attractions around Khajuraho are as follows.
Benisagar Lake - At a distance of 11 km, the lake is an
ideal picnic spot for picnic lovers. Tourists can also enjoy recreational
sports like boating and angling here.
Ranch Waterfalls - Nature lovers have an option to get
to the Ranch waterfalls. The waterfalls are formed on the Ken River. The
place is known for its wonderful rock formations. It is at 20 km from
Khajuraho.
Ajaygarh Fort - Since you are visiting Chandela empire
creations, you should also be interested in visiting the places where they
ruled and places that served as their capital. The old fort is constructed
at a height of 688 m and, capital of Chandelas when the empire was on its
last legs.
Panna National Park - The national park is at a distance
of 40 km from Khajuraho. The wildlife park covers an area of around 456 sq
km and is a good option for wildlife viewing.
How to reach Khajuraho Temples
Located in northeast
Madhya
Pradesh, Khajuraho is well connected because of its tourist status.
There are daily flights to Khajuraho from Delhi, Agra and Varanasi. The
nearest rail heads are Jhansi (172 km), Satna (117 km) that are linked to
Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta and Chennai. From Jhansi and Satna you can take a
bus or a taxi to Khajuraho. Besides Jhansi and Satna regular buses ply from
Harpalpur, and Mahoba.
Hotels Close to Khajuraho Temples
You can choose from a wide range of hotels located close to Khajuraho.
There are deluxe hotels in Khajuraho, budget hotels in Khajuraho and economy
hotels in Khajuraho and accommodation in Khajuraho can never be a difficult
task as more and more hotels are yet to come to serve the number oh tourists
that flocks to Khajuraho temples. Some famous hotels close to Khajuraho
temples are as follows.
» Hotel Chandela
» Hotel Usha Bundela
» Ramada Hotel
» The Grand Temple View
» Hotel Khajuraho Ashok
» Obeori Rajgarh Palace
