Khajuraho is one of the major cities of Madhya Pradesh and is home to a distinctive group of monuments. It is a UNESCO World legacy spot holding India’s most extensive Jain and Hindu temples collection. Thus, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh, with iconic structures that always take the limelight, such as the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, which is the tallest and largest surviving temple of Lord Shiva at the religious site of Khajuraho in Central India. This enchanting temple is 102 ft. tall and built with sandstone on a granite foundation. Due to its architectural structure, which has almost a thousand sculptures, it is one of the finest examples of architectural marvels in Asia. So, immerse yourself in the religious and spiritual faith and explore Lord Mahadeva’s divine temple in Khajuraho.
About Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Image Credit: Taru23 for Wikimedia Commons
The name Kandariya represents “The Great God Of The Cave”. The temple is an impressive and most decorated Hindu temple in the mediaeval temple group. It was built in the Nagara style, recognised by the beehive-shaped tower, also known as Shikhara.
The temple is built on steep rises, culminating in the shikhara, which stands approximately 31 metres high. The ground of the temple is an excellent example of a work of art, ornamented with sculptures portraying various deities, apsaras, and mythical creatures.
Also Read: Things To Do In Khajuraho
Architectural Highlights
Image Credit: Vu2sga for Wikimedia Commons
The architectural designs of handy sculptures are depicted in the main hall (mandapa), shrine sanctorum, and vestibule (antarala). All the walls of the temple are fully decorated with carvings that depict scenes of mythological histories, daily life, and various erotic sculptures. These sculptures are not only showpieces; they hold a symbolic meaning and represent the Tantrik philosophy that transfuses the design of the temple.
The symbolic layout represents Hindu mythology, with its Garbhagriha at the centre, symbolising the divine essence. The shikhara represents Lord Shiva’s home at the mountain and the rise to spiritual heights. The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is designed according to Vastu-shastra which holds spiritual powers.
History Of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Image Credit: Itsmalay~commonswiki for Wikimedia Commons
The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple has a fantastic history. The British discovered it in the 19th century. In the 10th and 13th centuries, the Chandela rulers, who came into power in central India, built this temple during the reign of the king Vidyadhara from 1017 to 1029 AD. The Chandela rulers created 85 temples under their rule, of which only 22 still survive.
After the Chandela ruler’s dynasty ended, these temples were abundant for an extended period. Thus, the surroundings are overgrown by dense forest and hide and preserve the temples from destruction. However, the rediscovery of these temples brought them back to eminence and allowed researchers and historians to delve into their past.
Related Post: Shopping In Khajuraho
Deities, Shrines And Timings
Image Credit: Vu2sga for Wikimedia Commons
The enchanting Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Shiva is the top deity in the temple, defined in the sanctum sanctorum. Other deities include Lord Surya, Vishnu, Goddess Devi Parvati, God Ganesha, Ashta-Dikpalas, and Brahma. Devotees can worship all of them and pray to God to fulfil their wishes through blessings.
The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is open for deities worship from 5 AM to 12 PM and from 4 PM to 9 PM. Devotees can visit at this time and worship their gods.
Things To Do In And Around The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
The majestic Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is one of the most ancient Hindu temples and is undoubtedly a must-visited place for peace and worship in Madhya Pradesh. But did you know there are various other fascinating tourist attractions near the temple that you can explore or visit simultaneously? If you plan to visit Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, then make sure to spend some time exploring these top tourist attractions near the temple.
1. Raneh Falls
Image Credit: Syed Zohaibullah for Wikimedia Commons
One such destination is Raneh Falls, located about 10 kilometres from the temple. The falls are located on Ken River near Khajuraho. The falls are famous among the tourists for their unique canyon-like appearance. The water of the falls has carved out the crystalline granite in the different shades of red, grey and pink. This is the reason why Raneh Falls are also referred to as the Grand Canyon of India. These falls are famous for their fantastic rock formations that offer stunning picturesque sights and a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for leisure, picnicking, and photography.
Distance: About 9 km from Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Timings: From 7 AM to 4 PM
Related Post: Places To Visit Near Khajuraho
2. Panna National Park
Image Credit: tjabeljan for Wikimedia Commons
The Panna National Park is a short drive from the temple and a great spot to witness the flora, fauna and wildlife. Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2020, Panna is popular for its successful Tiger conservation efforts. Spanning over about 55 km, Panna National Park features a diverse landscape of gorges, dense forests and plateaus. It also has a breathtaking Pandav Falls inside the Panna National Park. Tourists can witness wild animals closely including tigers, leopards, deer, and various species of birds.
Distance: About 30 km from Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Timings: From 8 AM to 5 PM
Khajuraho Group Of Monuments
Image Credit: CR Shelare for Wikimedia Commons
Another nearby and most attractive tourist destination is the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, which is located just a few kilometres away from the temple. Tourists can witness this wonderful group of monuments, which are renowned for their sculptures and carvings depicting scenes of daily life, mythological histories, and various erotic statues of Hindu Mythology.
Distance: About 2 km from Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Timings: From 7 AM to 6 PM
Related Post: Khajuraho Temples
How To Reach Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Due to its location in one of the major cities, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, Routes well connect the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, and devotees can reach the temple in several ways. Such as:
By Air: Travelling by air is one of the most convenient options if you travel from outside the city. Tourists can directly reach the Khajuraho Airport, which is just 5 kilometres from the temple.
By Train: A train is another alternative option for reaching the temple. Tourists can directly reach Khajuraho Junction, which is just a 12-minute drive from the temple, and then take a local taxi to the temple.
By Route: If tourists travel by route, they should reach the Khajuraho Bus Stand, which is just one kilometre from the temple. This is the most preferable way to travel if they live in the same city.
You May Also Like To Read: Tikamgarh Madhya Pradesh
A marvellous Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is a masterpiece of mediaeval temple architecture. It is a place of worship and a representation of royal supremacy and divine rule. Devotees perform worship here on a large scale to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. This temple is an excellent example of a work of art, ornamented sculptures that portray various deities, apsaras, and mythical creatures of Hindu Mythology. The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike from all over the country. Explore the finest examples of spiritual and religious sculptures by planning your trip to Madhya Pradesh with our guiding tour packages. Make your wishes come true by performing worship of Lord Shiva in Kandariya Mahadeva Temple Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Arun.around for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Why is Kandariya Mahadeva Temple renowned among the devotees?
The Kandariya Mahadev Temple is renowned for its incredible architecture and complex carvings. The temple is considered a classic of Indian temple architecture and is one of the best examples of the Nagara style of architecture.
What are the timings of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple opens for deities worship from 5 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 9 PM. Devotees can visit at this time and perform worship for their deities.
Who built the Kandariya Mahadev Temple?
In the 10th and 13th centuries, the Chandela rulers, who came into power in central India, built this temple when the reign of the king was Vidyadhara, from 1017 to 1029 AD.
Which God is Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
The majestic Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Shiva is the main deity in the temple. It is known as one of the most elaborate temples in India and one of the finest ones in Khajuraho.
What is the meaning of the Kandariya?
The name Kandariya represents “The Great God Of The Cave”. Khajuraho temples are a group of temples that were built in the 11th century. In the beginning, there were about 85 temples here. But today, only 20 have stood against the atrocities of time.
People Also Read:
Perue Pateeswarar Temple Shri Jagannath Temple Narasimha Temple
Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.
