The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is the largest and most ornate Hindu temple in the medieval temple group found at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is considered one of the best examples of temples preserved from the medieval period in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate stone carvings.
The temple is located in the Khajuraho village of Chhatarpur District, Madhya Pradesh, India. Khajuraho is a famous tourist and archaeological site known for its group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples.
The temple was built during the reign of the Chandela dynasty and is dated to approximately 1050 AD, making it over 970 years old.
The temple is built in the Nagara style of temple architecture, characterized by its beehive-shaped shikhara (spire), intricately carved exteriors and interiors, and a high plinth. The architectural style is native to North India and features a sanctum sanctorum, mandapa (hall), antralaya (vestibule), and a grand porch entrance with multiple subsidiary shrines.
The temple's main features are its towering shikhara, a high makara torana archway, and the intricately carved sculptures that depict various deities, celestial maidens, and erotic scenes that represent the celebration of life and love. Also, unique to the temple's design are the pillars, platforms, and walls that showcase the ancient Indian craftsmanship.
The temple is renowned for its elaborate and detailed stone carvings that adorn nearly every surface, depicting not just deities and motifs, but also a famously wide range of secular and erotic scenes. These carvings have been interpreted as Tantric symbolism, showcasing the worldly and the divine as inseparable elements of the human experience.
Yes, the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, along with the other temples of Khajuraho, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, recognizing it of exceptional cultural and historical significance.
The best time to visit the temple is from October to February when the weather is most pleasant. The temple is open all year round, with Nagara-style Hindu and Jain temples are particularly popular for their architectural symbolism and erotic sculptures.
Whilst there are no specific festivals celebrated only at the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, the Khajuraho Dance Festival held annually in February or March showcases classical Indian dances and is a great time to visit the temple complex.
Visitors to the temple can find ample facilities nearby as Khajuraho is a well-developed tourist site. These include parking, guides, restrooms, places to eat, souvenir shops, and accommodation ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The temple complex itself has facilities to ensure the comfort and convenience of visitors.
Visitors are expected to remove their shoes before entering the temple as a sign of respect. Photography is allowed but be mindful of using flash inside the temple. It's important to dress modestly and behave respectfully, considering the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple's religious importance and cultural heritage.
Explore 11 Other Historical Places to Visit in Khajuraho
