Khajuraho Temples

The Khajuraho temples embody the medieval Hindu vision of life as a sacred whole, in which dharma, artha, kama and moksha all have their place. Dedicated to various deities of the Hindu and Jain traditions, they reflect the religious plurality and artistic confidence of the Chandela era. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are among the most celebrated monuments of India. Several shrines remain active places of worship today.

Built between roughly 950 and 1050 CE by the Chandela dynasty, the Khajuraho temples once numbered about 85, of which around 25 survive across the western, eastern and southern groups. Their soaring, mountain-like spires and bands of exquisitely detailed sculpture depict gods, goddesses, celestial maidens, musicians, warriors and scenes of daily life — the famous sensual carvings forming only a small part of a vast celebration of existence. The Kandariya Mahadeva temple, dedicated to Shiva, is the largest and most ornate, a pinnacle of medieval Indian art. A grand annual dance festival is held against this magnificent backdrop.