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Take a trip down history in KHAJURAHO

Khajuraho-streettrotter

Rain or shine, Khajuraho, India, happens to be one of the most photogenic destinations in India attracting tourists and travelers round the year. Founded in the ancient times by the kings of Chandela dynasty, this city is home to the world-renowned Khajuraho group of temples that have been in existence since as early as the 10th century AD and continue to exude an unmissable charm and uniqueness to this day. This is a tour of Khajuraho to revisit the glory of India’s ancient history, art and culture that have been passed down the ages through its historical landmarks.

The Cluster of Khajuraho Temples

Khajuraho owes its world-wide popularity almost entirely to these group of temples. Originally some 85 in number, these temples boast a stunning craftsmanship, with masterful displays in the interiors and carvings on the walls outside. The temples are grouped as Southern, Eastern and Western,out of which the Western Group of Temples is the largest, best preserved, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Khajuraho-streettrotterThe Western Group comprises of temples such as Devi Jagadambi Temple, Chausath Yogini Temple, Varaha and Vishwanath Temple besides the Kandariya Mahadeo, which is regarded as one of the most impressive and refined temples in Khajuraho. This temple features over 800 sculptures. Inside the sanctum, you can find a Shiva Linga carved out of marble which is surrounded by more than 600 statues. The overall impression is spellbinding.

The magnificent Lakshmana Temple is the oldest and the largest in the Western Group of temples. Similar in appearance to Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, this shrine captivates the beholder with its intricately carved statues and the beautiful works of art in the adhisthana (lower platform).

Lakshmana Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and inside the shrine, one can see a beautiful female bracket figure and a high carved ceiling at the entrance porch. The temple walls are replete with carvings of Hindu gods, animals and other impressive demonstrations. According to historical records, it was built by Yashovarman, an eminent architect of his time.

There is indeed a lot to see and explore in these temples and the best time to begin your tour is during the early morning when the sun is still not so hot. The temples also look magical at the time of sunset. They come alive after sunset with strains of classical music and an engaging narration of the place’s historical legacy through a sound and light show.Khajuraho-streettrotterThe Eastern Group of Temples are slightly smaller in comparison to the Western Group. Yet it has a melange of beautifully adorned temples that tell the story of India’s secular past where varied faiths were practiced, promoted and expressed freely. It comprises the Parsvanath Temple, Hanuman Temple, Brahma Temple and Vamana Temple besides the Adinath Temple for which it is most famous.

Adorned with delicate carvings of Yakshis and a style of Islamic architecture in the entrance porch, the Adinath Temple is a fine testimony to the richness of Indian culture in the medieval times. This temple is dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankar, Adinath, who was also the founder of Jainism.

If you are wondering about an ideal Khajuraho accommodation, consider staying at The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho to make your stay in this beautiful historical city truly memorable.

Ajaigarh Fort

This fort was built many a centuries ago during the reign of Chandela dynasty. It sits nestled in the Vindhya Mountains at an altitude of 206 meters on a flat-topped site. The fort is a worthy testimony to the architectural genius of the artisans of those times. As you soak in the aura of the place and go time-traveling, do not miss the sight of the imperturbable Ken River flowing nearby.

The government of Madhya Pradesh is making earnest efforts in protecting and promoting the state’s culture heritage through tourism. Which is why, it has simplified the process of finding a suitable accommodation for visitors whatever their personal tastes, preferences and budget be, through the MP Tourism Hotel Booking portal.


 

CategoriesINDIA
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StreetTrotter is a Travel, Culture & Lifestyle blog, inspiring people everyday with real stories to look good and travel even better. Founded in 2012 by Shraddha Gupta, Founder & COO, this space is all about experiencing new things in life, be it a daring mountain trek, a frugal backpacking trip, a runway look made local, or simply anything that scares you enough to live a little more deeper.

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