The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a group of Hindu and Jain temples in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh. This destination has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Khajuraho group of temples was built by the Chandelas during their rule. As a result, these magnificent structures began to wane, and as a result, these magnificent structures lay neglected.
Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh – Remarkable Town of Temples and Statues
Khajuraho is all about its chain of magnificent temples famous for having intricate sculptures and designs. The splendor of the statues is one of the reasons which makes it a popular location to visit among the tourists.
Like most Hindu temples, the architecture of Khajuraho temples also follows a geometric grid design called Vastu-Purusha-mandala. As per the grid, most of the temples face the sunrise, and entrances for the devotees open on the east side.
Khajuraho Temple History
Built around a thousand years ago by the Chandela rulers, there were around 85 temples that got ruined over the years, and today around 20 of them are left that could survive the damage. The sculptures with minute intricacies engraved on the temple’s outer walls are something tourists adore.
Moreover, the designs erected at the Khajuraho temples portray several stages of life that include pleasure, spirituality, sculptures of dancing nymphs, and figurines of nymphs. They are shown wearing beautiful accessories around the waist, wrist, neck, arms, and legs.
All these statues represent the liberal mindset of Chandelas. All the figurines describe the great work of sculptors, displaying different dimensions of life carved on stone. The professional guides at the site still get amazed as they find something new to make statements on each visit.
Things to do in Khajuraho
- Take a Tour of Temples
Best known for its rich historical charm, Khajuraho shades some of the best, most ancient temples globally! This Monument enjoy fame for stunning nagara-style architecture and erotic sculptures that grace the temples.
- Sound and Light Show near Western Group of Khajuraho Temples
Undoubtedly among the most popular Khajuraho things to do in the evenings, the sound and light show held at the Western Group of Temples is beholding. Illustrating various historical and religious facts and cultures of ancient times, this paid event promises to satiate the burning curiosity of visitors like nothing else.
While the temples are beautiful, the sound and light show bathes them in a whole new light, quite literally.
- Enjoy the Dance Festival in Khajuraho
When the harsh winter begins its journey towards the blissful spring season, the town of Khajuraho witnesses the grandeur of the stunning Khajuraho Dance Festival, generally held in the last week of February. The dance festival in Khajuraho carries a mesmerizing backdrop of beautifully lit Khajuraho Temples.
Famous Indian classical dance forms like Kathak, Odissi, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, and Bharatanatyam form the festival’s heart, although lately, modern dance forms have also been seen. One should not miss out on one of the most entertaining things to do in Khajuraho, the Dance Festival of Khajuraho!
- Explore History in the State Museum of Tribal and Folk Art
The State Museum of Tribal and Folk Art is cradled in the Chandela Cultural Complex in Khajuraho and is a converging point for various ancient relics and artifacts. Exhibiting the beautiful tribal works of artisans, the museum holds visitors’ attention as soon as they enter.
Luring herds of curious travellers and patrons of history, folklore, and culture, the State Museum of Tribal and Folk Art satisfactorily provides answers to the multitude of questions swarming in your head.
- Relinquish Yourself at Raneh Falls Canyon
Garbed in many colors, Raneh Falls creates a 30-feet-deep canyon with stunning crystalline granite, which lures countless nature lovers and birdwatchers into its realm. The region also houses several large and small waterfalls that greet you at nearly every turn you take.
Its lush greenery is the breath of fresh air that everyone needs and a little excursion to Raneh Falls will unmistakably offer you much more than you would have expected! Out of all the popular things to do in Khajuraho, visiting Raneh Falls should be your priority.
- Explore the Old Town of Khajuraho
Khajuraho can be divided into two beautiful areas, but if you prefer to stray from the hustles, the old town of Khajuraho is the best to go! The old town is paved with roadways cleaner than any other Indian city, replete with beautiful rustic huts and mud cottages.
It is a stunning representation of India’s ancient eras in their entirety. You’ll get rare insights into the odd lives of the locals, and walking by ladies dressed in traditional garb isn’t uncommon. Some natives may even ask you for a cup of tea if you are kind and caring. It’s just one of the most unusual things to do in Khajuraho.
- See the Mesmerizing Beauty of the Pandav Waterfall
Pandav Waterfall, nestled in the lush greenery of Panna National Park in Khajuraho, Pandav Waterfall borders the river Ken from a height of 30 meters! A large pool collects all of the cascading water from the falls at the foot of a steep gorge.
This natural beauty is named after the Pandava brothers, who are said to have gone by the waterfall in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. A double dosage of nature and waterfalls, one of the most calming things to do in Khajuraho, will deliver you the tranquillity your soul deserves.
Experience the Soothing Ayurvedic Spa at Ayur Arogyam
While traveling is a delightful experience, let’s not forget the exhaustion that comes with it, warranting a well-deserved dose of rejuvenation. Founded and managed by a qualified Keralan couple, the beautiful Ayurvedic spa is an ideal choice for those seeking to shed off the day’s stress.
One of the most relaxing things to do in Khajuraho, the Ayur Arogyam offers excellent short head, neck, and back massages and an hour-long full body massage with special oils!
Cuisine to try in Khajuraho
Street food is one of the most common essentials in the lives of Indians. Every Indian city brings its fair share of culinary delicacies, including the irresistible street food that you can keep your hands off of.
Khajuraho offers you tempting food stalls on nearly every street, most of which are placed at a considerable distance from the temple groups. Mouth-watering and pocket-friendly, there’s no shortage of numerous Indian chaats, tikkis, samosas, bhajiyas, dal bafla, and other local delights for you to devour.
Trying street food in Khajuraho is the most exciting thing to do in Khajuraho. Though your tummies will feel heavier, your hearts will be lighter.
Highlights: Discover the various local street food, and relish them. Save huge bucks while you get a whiff of the authentic local food in Khajuraho. Delicacies like samosas, pakoras, and jalebis await you.
Hotels to Stay in Khajuraho
- Isabel Palace
- SYNA Heritage
- Radisson Jass
How to Reach Khajuraho
BY AIR: Khajuraho Airport is the nearest airport. One can get a taxi or a Jeep to reach the destination.
BY TRAIN: Khajuraho has a railway station, but only a few trains halt there. Mahoba is the nearest which is 63 kms away.
BY ROAD: The roads of Khajuraho offer a smooth drive. The highways connect Khajuraho with every city in MP.
Conclusion
The Khajuraho group of monuments are the supreme specimens of the finest architectural edifices; UNESCO has also recognized these as a World Heritage Site in 1986. Visit one of the famous groups of monuments in Madhya Pradesh and witness the years-old traditions, tales of ancient monuments, and festivities! The best time to visit Khajuraho temples is during the monsoons and winters.
Also Read: Get Acquainted with Nature by visiting Lacchiwala Nature Park
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