Why do Khajuraho Temples have erotic sculptures?

Scholars believe the erotic sculptures represent the Tantric traditions prevalent during the Chandela period, symbolizing the union of the individual soul with the divine. Others suggest they depict the complete cycle of life, or that they were meant as education for young monks before they renounced worldly life.

What is the entry fee for Khajuraho Temples?

The Western Group (main complex) charges an ASI entry fee of Rs 40 for Indians and Rs 600 for foreign nationals. The Eastern and Southern groups are free to visit. A separate ticket is required for the Light & Sound Show.

When is the Khajuraho Dance Festival held?

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is held annually in February, set against the backdrop of the illuminated temples. It showcases classical Indian dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and Kuchipudi performed by renowned artists from across India.

Why do Khajuraho Temples have erotic sculptures?

Scholars believe the erotic sculptures represent the Tantric traditions prevalent during the Chandela period, symbolizing the union of the individual soul with the divine. Others suggest they depict the complete cycle of life, or that they were meant as education for young monks before they renounced worldly life.

What is the entry fee for Khajuraho Temples?

The Western Group (main complex) charges an ASI entry fee of Rs 40 for Indians and Rs 600 for foreign nationals. The Eastern and Southern groups are free to visit. A separate ticket is required for the Light & Sound Show.

When is the Khajuraho Dance Festival held?

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is held annually in February, set against the backdrop of the illuminated temples. It showcases classical Indian dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and Kuchipudi performed by renowned artists from across India.

Khajuraho Temples

Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Main God

Lord Shiva

Timings

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Western Group), sunrise to sunset (all groups)

Location

Khajuraho

Type

MAJOR

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Lord Shiva

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Western Group), sunrise to sunset (all groups)

Plan Visit

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Madhya Pradesh, consisting of Hindu and Jain temples built by the Chandela dynasty between 950 and 1050 CE. Of the original 85 temples, 25 survive today, famous worldwide for their stunning erotic sculptures and intricate carvings that celebrate life, love, and spirituality. The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the largest and most ornate in the group. The temples are divided into Western, Eastern, and Southern groups and represent the zenith of medieval Indian temple architecture.

Darshan Timings

Opens at 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Western Group), sunrise to sunset (all groups)

morning8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Western Group), sunrise to sunset (all groups)

eveningLight & Sound Show: 6:30 PM (English), 7:40 PM (Hindi)

specialKhajuraho Dance Festival: February

Darshan Guide

Western Group Entry

Purchase ASI ticket and enter the Western Group of temples, the most famous and well-preserved cluster

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple

Visit the largest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with 872 stunning sculptures on its exterior

Lakshmana Temple

Explore the Lakshmana Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu with its famous erotic friezes

Eastern Group (Jain Temples)

Visit the Eastern Group to see the Parsvanath and Adinath Jain temples with equally fine carvings

Temple Rules & Guidelines

Visitor Tips

ASI ticketed monument; carry valid photo ID
Do not touch or climb on the ancient sculptures
Photography allowed outside; no flash photography inside temples
Maintain decorum and respect the heritage site

Please follow these guidelines to maintain the sanctity of the temple

How to Reach

By Bus

MPSRTC buses from Jhansi (175 km), Bhopal (375 km), and Satna (117 km)

By Air

Khajuraho Airport (5 km, daily flights from Delhi and Varanasi)

By Rail

Khajuraho Railway Station (6 km) or Mahoba Railway Station (63 km)

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and hired bicycles

Temples & Travel

Services

Khajuraho Temples

Explore More Temples

Arunachaleswarar Temple

About Khajuraho Temples

Darshan Timings

Darshan Guide

Western Group Entry

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple

Lakshmana Temple

Eastern Group (Jain Temples)

Temple Rules & Guidelines

Visitor Tips

Location & Directions

How to Reach

Photo Gallery

About the Main God

Lord Shiva

Nearby Heritage Sites

Khajuraho Group of Monuments

Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi

Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka

Frequently Asked Questions

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple

Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple

Grishneshwar Temple (Ghrishneshwar)

Nearby Heritage Sites

Khajuraho Group of Monuments

Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi

Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka