Dulhadev / Duladeo Temple, Khajuraho – Timings, History, Best Time to Visit
One of the most exquisite shrines of the Southern Group of Khajuraho Temples is Dulhadev, also known as Duladeo Temple, which is located 2 kilometers from Khajuraho Bus Stand and 1 km from the Jain Group of Temples. The final constructed temple in Khajuraho and one of the most well-known is Duladeo Temple, which is located on the north bank of the Khudar River.
Lord Shiva is worshipped at Dulhadev Temple, also called Kunwar Math. According to the evidence, King Madanvarman of the Chandela dynasty constructed the Duladeo Temple in 1130 AD. Compared to the earlier Khajuraho temples, Duladeo Temple is less elaborate.
It faces east and is a Nirandhara temple. The temple has an entrance porch, a vestibule, a maha mandapa, and a sanctum without ambulatory. The temple’s maha mandapa, or main hall, is enormous and shaped like an octagon. Stone carvings of the Apsaras and other adorned sculptures adorn the temple’s ceilings. The temple’s facade is exquisitely ornamented with many stone-carved motifs and features three bands of sculptures. The temple is also filled with exquisite carvings of Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati.
A stunning Shivalinga is housed in the temple’s sanctuary. The temple’s intriguing feature is the 999 lingas that are sculpted on the surface of the hallowed Shivalinga. It is said that performing a pradakshina, or circumambulation, of the Shivalinga is equivalent to 1000 circumambulations. The temple features idols of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, and Goddess Ganga in addition to the Shivalinga.
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
