Khajuraho -Tourism

Located in the forested plains of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is a small village, renowned for its vast spectacle of unparalleled temple architecture. The name 'Khajuraho' is actually derived from the Hindi word 'Khajur', meaning 'date palm', which is abundant in the place. What earn Khajuraho its popularity are the exemplary adornments that are carved in the facades and interiors of the various temples of the place. These are legacies of the Chandela rulers, who ruled Central India from 10th to 12th century. Out of 85 temples that once majestically rose on the land, only 22 temples have survived the attrition of time.

The edifices of Khajuraho uphold the artistic magnificence of India even today. Its 22 staggering shrines are scattered over an area of 8 sq miles (21 sq km) and are stylized according to the conventional standards of the North Indian 'Shikara' style and the 'Panchatantra' plan or layout. In fact, in architectural magnanimousness and splendor, these temple masterpieces can be equated to some of the greatest cathedrals of Medieval Europe. Besides, the inventive and bold architectural monuments of Khajuraho have also earned it the reputation of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The temples of Khajuraho are commemorated to a pantheon of Gods and Goddesses of different sects. They are also segregated into groups based on their specific geographical locations. Two distinctive groups are the 'Eastern Group of Temples' and the 'Western Group of Temples'. Most of them are built of pale yellow, buff or pink sandstone. Atypical of a temple town, Khajuraho is not only about worshiping Gods or dipping in sanctimonious waters. In fact, what makes the Khajuraho stand out is the eroticism and celebration of carnal love that have been meticulously etched in the walls of its temples.

These medieval artworks that conjoin 'God Worship' and 'Human Life' are examples of phenomenal imagination and execution. Most of the elaborately carved figures display the different aspects of life and some of them are also steeped with various symbols of sexuality. Others pay tribute to womanhood and exhibit the myriad aspects of a woman's life, from innocent play to carnal postures. The creative outbursts of the place, accompanied by the various erotic depictions, no doubt lure tourists from all across the globe. From connoisseurs of art to a lay man, these spectacles awe-inspire everyone.

Places to Visit in Khajuraho

1. Western group of Temples
   
2. Eastern group of Temples
   
3. Jain group of Temples
   
4. Panna National Park
   
5. Rane Falls
   

Shopping in Khajuraho- Khajuraho is a prime destination in India, which draws a huge number of tourists every year from across the world. Shopping in Khajuraho would turn out to be a pleasant experience if you know what to buy and where. The ace craftsmen of Khajuraho have over the years developed a tradition of handicrafts and hand looms. Textile weaving is a major craft in Khajuraho. You may pick up from the variety of saris and other Indian wear while shopping in Khajuraho. Miniature stone-carved replicas of erotic sculptures are hot favorite items for shopping in Khajuraho. They display great flexibility and imagination! If you are looking for souvenirs to take back, these are of course the best bet. 

How to Reach Here

By Air- The airport in Khajuraho is well connected to many cities in India. During tourist season, the Flights frequency is often increased. From the airport the town is quite close by and can be reached by a tourist coach, bus or taxi.

By Rail- Khajuraho has its own Railway Station which is just around 5 km from the main town. At present only a few trains from selected destinations arrive at this station. The nearest major railway station is the Mahoba Junction situated 75 km away. Trains from major cities in India stop at the Mahoba station. From here one can hire a taxi or bus to reach Khajuraho. 

By Road- Khajuraho is well connected with many cities in and around Madhya Pradesh by road. The road to Khajuraho is connected to National Highway Number 75 and is easily accessible from all across the country. Both state transport and private operators provide ordinary, semi-deluxe and deluxe buses for traveling to Khajuraho. Private taxis and coaches are also available to reach here.