Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Khajuraho – Timings, History
The most elaborate Hindu temple in the medieval Khajuraho temple complex in Madhya Pradesh, India, is the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, which is located one kilometer from Khajuraho Bus Stand. It is the biggest and most exquisite temple in Khajuraho’s Western Group.
Vidyadhara, a strong Chandela ruler, constructed the Kandariya Mahadev Temples, which are devoted to Lord Shiva. It was built between the years of 1025 and 1050 AD. In 1019 AD, Vidyadhara, also called Bida, was a strongman who battled Mahmud of Ghazni. Mahmud was forced to return to Ghazni because this battle was not definitive. In 1022, Mahmud attacked Vidyadhara once more. He launched an attack against Kalinjar’s fort, but the siege was unsuccessful. In order to commemorate his victory over Mahmud, Vidyadhara constructed the Kandariya Mahadev Temple. The temple, which is a component of Khajuraho’s UNESCO World Heritage site, is maintained and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
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The Kandariya Mahadev Temple’s architecture is highly distinctive, and it occupies 6,500 square feet. It faces east and stands 117 feet above the ground. A steep set of steps leads up to the temple, which is situated on an elevated platform. The temple’s architecture is based on a standard five-component design that culminates in a tower with 84 little spires or duplicates. This is thought to represent Mount Kailash, Lord Shiva’s celestial home.
Within the temple, a number of chambers are connected to one another in an orderly fashion. At the entry is a rectangular hall known as Ardhamandapa, which leads to the Mandapa, a hall with central pillars. Once more, it leads to the main spire, the Garbhagriha, above. The marble Shivalinga is located inside the sanctuary. The temple’s main shrine, which has a traditional sandstone structure, is adorned with almost 800 images, most of which are three feet high.
Stone sculptures abound in the temple’s decoration. Crocodiles leaping from the little columns surround the entryway, which is held up by numerous smaller figures, each of which has an abundance of well carved features. Three vertical layers of sculpture completely cover the temple’s facade. Agni, the deity of fire, is a prominent figure among the representations of gods and celestial creatures. The main draw for tourists is the sexual sculptures that are installed throughout the niches. Even though a large portion of the imagery is symbolic, this temple boasts one of the largest collections of sensual relief sculpture in the world. Along with the Lord Ganesha and Virabhadra, the niches also feature sculptures of Saptamatrikas.
Every evening, a 50-minute Sound and Light Show is also held on the temple grounds. The narrative of Khajuraho is told by Amitabh Bachchan in his captivating voice.
Temple Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
Light & Sound Show: 6.30 PM in English & 7. 40 PM in Hindi
Light & Sound Show Fee: Rs. 120 for Indians & Rs. 400 for Foreigners
Complex Entry Fee: Rs. 30 for Indians & Rs. 500 for Foreigners
