Kandariya Mahadev Temple is located in Khajuraho, Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is considered one of the best examples of temples preserved from the medieval period in India. This temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate stone carvings. Kandariya Mahadev Temple is a major temple of the Western Temple Group of Khajuraho. It is the largest and most beautiful temple among all the temples in this group.
History and Architecture of Kandariya Mahadev Temple:
The Kandariya Mahadev Temple was built during the reign of the Chandela dynasty and dates back to around 1050 AD, making it over 970 years old. The temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva in whose sanctum Shivalinga is present, this Shivalinga is made of marble. Looking at this temple from the front, it seems as if we are entering a cave. The cave is also called Kandra, hence it was named Kandariya Mahadev Temple. That means Shiva living in Kandra. Other deities include Bhagwan Surya, Vishnu, Goddess Parvati, Bhagwan Ganesha, Ashta-Dikpal and Brahma. Devotees can worship all these and pray to God to fulfill their wishes through blessings. In this, statues of beauties are made in different postures. Here you can also see many erotic statues. Such statues are also made in 3 rows. Apart from these, there are also statues of Nagakanya who are standing with folded hands in the corner of the wall. Besides, the symbol of Chandela dynasty is also carved on the walls here.
The Kandariya Mahadev Temple, along with the other temples of Khajuraho, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, in recognition of its exceptional cultural and historical importance.
Darshan Timings of Kandariya Mahadev Temple
Kandariya Mahadev Temple is open for worship of the deities from 6 am to 12 noon and from 4 pm to 6 pm. Devotees can have darshan and worship the deities at this time.
Major Festivals in Kandariya Mahadev Temple
Shivratri is the major festival in Kandariya Mahadev Temple. The Khajuraho Dance Festival, held every year in February or March, showcases classical Indian dances and is a great time to visit the temple complex.
How to reach Kandariya Mahadev Temple?
Kandariya Mahadev Temple is located in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh and devotees can reach the temple through several ways. Khajuraho bus stand, which is just one kilometer away from the temple. Khajuraho Junction, which is just 12 minutes away from the temple. Khajuraho Airport, which is just 5 kilometers away from the temple.
Personal Experience at Kandariya Mahadev Temple:
❀ It is probably the largest of all the temples of the Western Temple Group. It is a symbol of our history. ASI and the government have done a great job in maintaining this world heritage site. One must visit Khajuraho once in life.
6 AM - 6 PM
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