Must-Visit Places in Khajuraho

Situated in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is a group of monuments of Hindu temples. Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage site. These temples are known for their Nagra style ( i.e it consists of varieties of styles, while the temples remain the same with the main form of Hindu Architecture) and erotic sculptures. Most of these temples were built by the Chandela Dynasty between 950 AD and 1050 AD. Though these temples were built together, they are dedicated to broad religions namely Hinduism and Jain, which depicts acceptance of the tradition and respect for different religious views.

Top 9 must-visit places in Khajuraho are- 

1. Kandariya Mahadeva Temple-

A must-visit place in Khajuraho, Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is considered to be the grandest Hindu temple in the Khajuraho group of temples, which was built in 1050BC. It depicts the meaning “ The Great God of the Cave”, built as a tribute to Lord Shiva also has a beautiful Shiva Linga crafted in pure marbles. The temple is generally open between morning 6 am to evening until 6 pm, with a very minimal entry fee.

2. Lakshmana Temple-

It is considered as one of the oldest structures among the Khajuraho group of temples. The Lakshmana temple depicts a divine trinity to Lord Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva, where Lord Shiva graces the entrance of the temple. The temple is generally open from morning 8 AM to evening 6 PM

3. Adinath Temple-

Built as a Jain temple in the 11th century, the Adinath Temple was dedicated as a memorial to the famous Jain Saint Adinath, though the exterior walls also feature the Hindu deities. It was planned to build the temple in the same way as that of the Vamana temple, with a very few minor differences. It’s open from morning 8 am to evening until 6 pm and generally does not charge any fee for visitors.

Also read: Magnanimous Magic Of The City Of Mandu In Madhya Pradesh

4. Javari Temple-

Javari temple located in the eastern part of Khajuraho temples is known for its fine interior cravings and incredible architecture, dedicated to Lord Vishnu which portrays various images of men and women in different postures in the temple walls. The main idol in the temple is believed to be broken and headless. 

The temple is open anytime between 8 am to 6 pm with no fee for visitors.

Also Read: Visit the glorious orange land of Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

5. Light and Sound show Khajuraho-

Once you have visited the temples, spend a beautiful evening relaxing at the light and show, to understand the history, facts, and various other interesting facts about the Khajuraho group of temples. You will get the chance to experience the visit to the western group of Khajuraho temples, in artificial light right after the sunset. These shows operate in two shifts in both English and Hindi languages. Generally from the period of October to February, English shows are between 6:30 pm to 7:25 pm, while Hindi shows are between 7:40 pm to 8:35 pm. While from the period of March to September, English shows are between 7:30 pm to 8:25 pm while Hindi shows are between 8:40 pm. At present fee for Indian tourists per person is INR 250, while for foreigners it is INR 750

Adding to it, in February of every year, a dance festival is held in the Khajuraho. It is a dance festival for around 7 days, starring performers all over India to exhibit their dance skills and to see other competent artists. During this course, the Light and sound show will remain closed. Hence It is a must-visit place in Khajuraho. 

6. Panna National Park-

This park is located around 57 km away from Khajuraho, which is spread across a large area of 543 sq km. The best way to explore the National Park is by elephant safari, boat ride, or jeep safari. Panna National park is home to several species of wildlife like wild boar, jackal, sambar, and many other wild animals. It would be best suited for people who love treks and nature. 

7. Raneh falls-

It is a natural waterfall situated in the ken river, approximately a 40-minute drive from Khajuraho. It is a 30 feet deep canyon with crystalline granite with multi colors and no doubt, it is indeed a must-visit tourist attraction from Khajuraho. The whole area is filled with small and huge waterfalls almost in every turn, one would just fall in love with nature in this place, with beautiful lush surroundings and the sound of waterfalls. If you are in Madhya Pradesh, Raneh falls is a must-visit place in Khajuraho. General timings to visit are between 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening. The entry fee for the same is very minimal. 

8. Duladeo temple- 

It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a Linga, also showcases some spectacular sculptures of apsaras and has a beautiful idol of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. The temple is open for all tourists from 6 am to 6 pm, with no entry fees for any tourists. 

9. Matangeshwar temple –

Built-in the western part of Khajuraho, the temple depicts Lord Shiva, which consists of an 8 feet tall Shiva Linga made in yellow limestone. The morning aarti which takes place here is a wonderful experience to witness. It is the only Hindu temple among the Khajuraho group of temples that is still active for worship. It is one of the top recommended places to visit in the Khajuraho group of temples. The temple is open from 6 am to 6 pm every day. It is a must-visit place in Khajuraho.

In short, Khajuraho is a must-visit place if you love to explore the art skills of the sculptures, history, monuments, and if you are a nature lover. Do check out at Pickyourtrail for some crazy offers and vacation packages. Please feel free to leave a Whatsapp inquiry for any further information or queries or alternatively you can refer to the guides page too.