Khajuraho Travel Guide
Travel to Khajuraho - Erotic Temples of the Chandela Dynasty
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In the context of Indian temple architecture the Khajuraho complex remains unique. Over one thousand years ago under the artistic patronage of the Chandela kings of today’s Madhya Pradesh 85 temples were created. The amazingly short span of 100 years, from 950 AD - 1050AD, saw the completion of all 85 temples - an inspired burst of creativity. Today, of the original 85, just 22 survive and they continue to amaze and sometimes shock visitors today as they were rediscovered by Victorian travellers during the Raj era.
Claiming descent from the moon the great Chandela dynasty were the creators of Khajuraho’s temples, but why did they choose Khajuraho or Khajirvahila - garden of dates, as it was known then - as the site for their stupendous creations because even 1000 years ago it was no more than a small village.
It is possible that they had the concept of forming a seat of religion and learning at Khajuraho. It is also possible that the Chandelas were believers in the powers of Tantrism, the cult which believes that the gratification of earthly desires is a step closer to the attainment of the infinite. Certainly this would go some way to explain the erotic carvings that profusely adorn the temples.
Whatever the reason the temples which are set in lush gardens are a pleasure to wander around and continue to provide visitors with one of their most memorable sightseeing visits in India.
Activities in Khajuraho
The temples are easily visited on foot though those who like cycling can hire a bike locally for the ride out to the Southern Group. A son-et-lumière show retraces the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and follows the story of these unique temples from their construction in the 10th century to the present day. Located in the Western Group of temples the 50-minute show runs in Hindi and in English every evening. Amitabh Bachchan narrates.
Relaxing
Some of the café-restaurants have seating on the roofs, perfect for watching the temples as dusk turns to night and they are floodlit.
Getting Around
The temples are split into three groupings – the Western, Eastern and Southern. The temples are a little too far spread out to walk between, though this is a possibility in cooler months, however bikes can be hired and are a good way of getting around.
Khajuraho Reviews
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Posted on:
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Friday, 29th August 2008
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A visit to Khajuraho has for some time meant a long journey by road from Jhansi, just south of Agra, however it is worthwhile.
If you don't want to do it in one hit then break the trip in Orccha - fantastic capital of the Bundela Rajas. Khajuraho itself is famous for its erotic temples, an incredible and eyewatering amount of detail in each carving depicts all - and I mean all - aspects of daily life.
Allow two full days to do the sites justice; explore by bike and enjoy the hospitality of the Raja Swiss Cafe.
A must.
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Posted by:
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Carlwelsby
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Posted at:
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17:14
