If you are a lover of art, you are sure to be looking for a place that offers great works that you could admire. If you were a nature lover, you would be seeking to find a place that makes you experience oneness with nature. If your mind is after the mystery of the history and the untold tales, you are sure to seek old cities that say and yet do not. If you are all three, you have a perfect place to land on your holiday and that is Khajuraho. You will find all three you need and more.
Khajuraho is situated in Madhya Pradesh and Vindhya range of mountains offer a perfect backdrop for the town. The small town is famous for excellent temples of Hindus and Jains. The rock carvings in the temples are beyond description. They were constructed by the rulers of Chandela dynasty between 950 AD and 1050 AD. The fall of Chandela dynasty let the temples unattended and they were covered by date palm trees for centuries. Called as Vasta in the ancient days, the town acquired the name Khajuraho after it was rediscovered. Khajur is a Hindi word, which means date fruit. Out of 85 temples constructed here, only 22 survived the test to time. A beautiful place that displays the artisanship of the past, Khajuraho has many important places to visit. However, here are the 8 most important places to visit in Khajuraho, which will make your trip complete and fulfilling.
1. Khajuraho Temples
Khajuraho temples are declared World Heritage Sites. The intricate work on the sculptures and the stunning architecture are beyond description. The erotic cravings are incredible. It might be of interest to know the reasons behind carving such erotic sculptures on the temple walls. The sculptures that display life and its pleasures are meant to educate boys who were away from home to hermitage to pursue their studies and remained celibate. Some other reasons include the sculptures being considered a sign of prosperity and they were considered code language to explain the untellable. The bold carvings not only throw light on the art of sex but also portray the sheer confidence of women in the bygone era. It is evident from the sculptures that women were not mere objects of pleasure during that period.
2. Lakshmana Temple
Lakshmana temple is ranked second amongst the largest temples in Khajuraho. The temple was constructed between 930 AD and 950 AD. The temple is dedicated to Hindu god Vishnu. The architecture is stunning and the sculptures are exquisite. The temple is so intricately designed and the temple walls are filled with carvings of idols of Hindu gods, erotic sculptures and animals. A temple that is worth the visit and you will never tire watching the outstanding work of artistry.
3. Panna National Park
Panna National Park houses numerous wildlife species and it is ranked amongst the famous Tiger Reserves in India. Apart from tigers, you could spot leopard, hyena, wolf and many other wild creatures. Though no jeep safari is available, you are allowed to rent your jeep to make your travel round the park comfortable. Boat rides and elephant safaris are made available for visitors. River Ken adds beauty to the already stunning forest. The picturesque park keeps you spell bound while you are there.
4. Ajaigarh Fort
Ajaigarh Fort is situated at an altitude of 206 meters on the Vindhya mountain range. Located on the flat-topped projection, the fort offers breathtaking views of the Ken river. The fort is a glorious example of the architectural excellence possessed by the artisans during Chandela dynasty. It is considered that the fort was built by the rulers as their dynasty was beginning to decline. The fort still lives to tell the tale and about the majestic past.
5. Raneh Falls
Raneh Falls is located some 20 km away from Khajuraho. The rock formations here are stunning. Nature lovers simply adore the place as the falls is situated in a picturesque setting surrounded by beautiful forests. The place should be visited during rainy season to enjoy the wonderful sight it has to offer with millions of waterfalls in various sizes gushing through the rocks. Sunset is another view not to be missed on your visit here. The multi-colored granites glow winningly and you would not be able to take your eyes off the landscape.
6. Archaeological Museum Khajuraho
Archaeological Museum was constructed in the year 1910 by W.A. Jardine. The museum is located near western group of Khajuraho temples. The museum houses architectural ruins and loose sculptures, which once belonged to the temples of Khajuraho. With an aim to preserve antiques, the museum was constructed and it has over 2000 sculptures. The sculptures are exquisite and unique.
7. Beni Sagar Dam
Spread across an area of around 7.7 sq. km., Beni Sagar Dam offers you the tranquility and serenity you would love to enjoy. It is a very famous picnic spot. You are sure to love the place as it offers various activities. You may go for a simple, relaxed walk or you may engage yourself in some vibrant activities such as boating, swimming and so on.
8. Jain Museum
Jain Museum was established in the year 1987. The museum houses a massive collection of various Jain sculptures. If you have a keen eye for art and sculptures, you would love to look at every collection available here.
Khajuraho is a place that fills your heart and your spirit. It is not just the visual delight that it offers but the in depth view it gives on the rich cultural heritage of the lives of the people of the past. Visit Khajuraho to feel and experience life in its true essence.
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