A Guide to the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Madhya Pradesh

The majority of the temples at Khajuraho were commissioned by the Chandela dynasty over a period spanning from 885 CE to 1000 CE. Historical records indicate that by the 12th century, the site was home to 85 temples covering an area of 20 square kilometers.

Today, the landscape has changed significantly, with only about 25 of the original temples surviving. These remaining structures are now spread across a smaller area of approximately six square kilometers.

The temples are famous for their Nagara-style architectural symbolism, which is a hallmark of northern Indian temple design. The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple stands out among the surviving structures, featuring a profusion of sculptures.

These carvings are noted for their intricate details and expressiveness. The artwork serves as a testament to the symbolism found in ancient Indian art, portraying various themes through detailed stone work.

For a long period, the temple complex was forgotten and became overgrown by the surrounding jungle. It remained hidden from documented modern history until the 19th century.

In 1838, Captain T.S. Burt, a British engineer, visited the site and rediscovered the monuments. He later reported his findings to the Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, bringing the complex back to public attention.

Khajuraho is positioned 46 kilometers from Chhatarpur city, the district headquarters. It is also located near smaller settlements, being only 9 kilometers from Rajnagar and 10 kilometers from Khajwa.

The site's proximity to regional hubs like Jhansi and Gwalior makes it a central point of interest in the Chhatarpur district, highlighting its importance within the state of Madhya Pradesh.