Western Group of Temples, Khajuraho

On the main road, beside the path leading to the Matangeshvar Temple is the A.S.I counter where you must purchase a ticket to visit the western group of temples in this complex and the museum on the opposite side. A boundary wall surrounds and protects the temples within this large rectangular complex and there is only one entry point (see page 33 Plan of the Western Group of Temples). Here at the Western Group you will see some of the most sensational temples in the world.

DEVI MANDAP : Opposite the large Lakshman Temple are two small shrines. The one directly opposite is called Devi Mandap, its cemented peaked roof an indication that it has been renovated during the last century

VARAHA MANDAP : This open pavilion stands to the south of the Devi shrine on a high platform. The mandap stands elevated above the ground with 14 short pillars that support the high pyramidal roof capped with an amalaka and kalash. ..more

LAKSHMAN TEMPLE : This striking temple stands facing the varaha and Devi mandaps. It is one of the three largest temples of khajuraho and the western group of temples and is considered to be the earliest ( c.AD 954 ) to have been built by the chandella rulers. The temples faces the east and is dedeicated to vishnu, though it goes by a rather inappropriate name of lakshman, the brother of Ram, the hero... more

KANDARIYA MAHADEV TEMPLE : This is without any doubt the largest and most magnificent temple in Khajuraho. The elegant proportions of this building and its sculptural detailing are the most refined examples of this artistice heritage of central India... more

MAHADEV SHRINE : Between the Kandariya and the devi jagdambi Temples is a small shrine whose purpose is difficult to ascertain. It is called the Mahadev Shrine and consists of a small open - pillared porch and sanctum, the structure has suffered further through renovations during the last century. A figure of the rampant lion fighting with a kneeling figure, presumed to be the emblem of the chandellas, has some reason been installed in the porch. there are two similar rampant lion figures on the platform of the Kandariya Madadev and Devi temples.

DEVI JAGADAMBI TEMPLE : This is much smaller than the magnificent Kandariya Mahadev Tenlple. lt has a cross plan with only on set of balconies, only one mandap and no inner pradakshina patha. However, the Devi Jagdambi Temple has some of the loveliest sculptures ill Khajuraho, and because of its medium height most of them are easily visible..more