were
built between 950 and 1050 A.D. Khajuraho derives its name from the Khajur
tree (the date palm tree) which can be found in abundance in the area.The
divine sculptures in these temples, are a tribute to Life itself, embodying
everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it. The murals depict the
life and times of the Chandelas, and celebrate the erotic state of being.
They not only testify to the mastery of the craftsman, but also to the
extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose reign,
these temples were constructed.With the wane of the Chandela empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of Nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered, restored and granted the recognition that they justly deserve. Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 still exist. Their style of architecture was also rather peculiar to their times. Each structure stands on a high masonry platform with a distinct upward direction to their build, further enhanced by several vertical projections to simulate the effect of an overall lightness. The three main compartments are the entrance (ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa), and the actual sanctum (garbha griha). The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions : western, eastern and southern.
What To See