Khajuraho

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Introduction

Khajuraho is a small town in the state of Madhya Pradesh of around 3000 people. It is famous for the Hindu and Jain temples which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the beautiful erotic rock carvings of sculptures depicting Kama Sutra often referred to as the Temples of Love. The temples were built between 950 and 1050 CE and they represent the Indo-Aryan architecture. The people of Khajuarho still use some of the main temples to worship in.

It is rumoured that there were once 85 temples believed to have been built between the 9th and possibly 12th centuries, but only 20 have survived, but remain in a good condition. As dense forest surrounded these temples it allegedly shielded them from the invading Muslim armies. A character called T. S. Burt who was British engineer claimed to re-discover the temples in the mid-19th century and was said to find the sculptures offensive. Of course, the local villagers and tribals have regularly these temples ever since they were constructed and did not need them to be re-discovered so this is a matter for debate! Also open to debate are a number of explanations and theories have been forthcoming over the years, for the presence of these quite graphic and erotic sculptures. There are no official records to reveal or prove the actual purpose of these temples and the sex/love scenes depicted, so it still remains an enigma and the theories may continue as excavation will also continue in this region.

Sights and Activities

There are many temples to be explored, divided in 3 different temple complexes. Some of the temples are as old as a thousand years or more.

Events and Festivals

The Khajuraho Dance Festival spread over a week is held each year in February/March against the spectacular backdrop of the magnificently lit and decorated temples. The festival, quite popular amongst the foreign tourists, is usually held in an open air auditorium close to the Chitragupta and Vishwanatha temples. This cultural festival highlights the richness of the various Indian classical dance styles such as Bharathanatyam, Odissi, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Kathakali and some of the best classical dancers of the country leave the audience spellbound with their spirited and disciplined performance. Recently modern Indian dance has also been included in the schedule of events. Along with the breathtaking dance performances, a number of craftsmen also display their crafts to the visitors. There is an open market where local articles are put on sale. Khajuraho Festival is organized to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of medieval temples of the city and preserving it for the future generations.

Getting There

If you are starting a trip in Delhi and have a few days to spare it is worth heading to Agra and Orchha en route to Khajuraho and then you can head onto Varanasi afterwards and beyond, or just pick up a flight back from Varanasi to Delhi. Or you can fly from Delhi or take the overnight train to Khajuraho.

By Plane

Khajuraho Airport (HJR), located 5 kilometres away, is served by Air India, Jet Airways and Kingfisher. There are connections to Delhi, Varanasi and Mumbai.

By Train

Indian Railways is the operator of train services in India. The construction work of the Mahoba--Khajuraho work has been completed and recently Indian Railways has introduced direct trains from Delhi to Khajuraho. This has come as a major relief for the tourists as it provides a comfortable and hassle free access to Khajuraho. This is an overnight service and runs three times a week from Delhi(Tuesday, Friday and Sunday). For further details check the Indian Railways website.

By Car

By Bus

Bus service is available from Jhansi and Gwalior and both of these towns can be reached from Delhi or Agra by trains.

By Boat

There is no boat service to Khajuraho.

Getting Around

By Car

By Public Transport

By Foot

By Bike

A great option. Almost all the hotels provide bicycles at a very low cost.

Eat

Drink

Always drink the bottled water or purify your own. Liquor shops are available, most of the hotels serve booze.

Sleep

Budget

Mid-Range

Upscale

Keep Connected

Internet

Phone

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