The Kandariya Mahadev temple is the most prominent and beautiful temple in the group of Temples at Khajuraho.
The magnificent temple is built on a strong 12 ft high pedestal called Adhishthan as seen in the picture below. I have also shown the other parts of the temple labeled with text.
Below are the images of fractal art found in nature and computer-generated fractals.
These fractals look appealing because they are self-repeating patterns of diminishing sizes.
Note how each leaf shape repeats over the tiny stem which then repeats itself over the main stem in a self-repeating pattern.
Fractal art is used in the architecture and design of the Kandariya Mahadev temple and other temples in the Khajuraho group of temples.
Note in the picture below how the main tower is repeated like a pattern with diminishing sizes spreading out over the temple which along with the intricate carvings on the outer faces collectively gives it a mesmerizing look-and-feel.
You cannot miss the grandeur of the temple which is built using high-quality yellow sandstone with a brownish tinge to give it a royal golden look. The detailed and carvings leave you with awe.
This sculpture nearby shows a young girl playing with a lion indicating how brave and courageous the women-folk of that era in India around 1035 AD was.
Finally, the Kaam-sculptures below show the positions that would give maximum pleasure indicating the people of those times, about a thousand years ago, lived in a taboo-free society.
The temple is adorned with several such Kaam Sculptures indicating that human life has 4 goals called Purusharths.
Purush means an individual or person, and
Arth means objective, meaning, or pursuit.
The four Purusharthas are:
Dharm: Righteousness, Duty.
Arth: Wealth.
Kaam: Desire.
Moksh: Liberation.
Monument Tips
- The entrance is a narrow lane on the main road while the temple itself is located much farther on the backside. Only the western group of temples need an entry ticket.
- You need to travel in groups of 4-5 people to afford the steep charges of INR 1800 for the guide. Without the assistance of a guide there is little or no use wandering around the temples.
Accessibility Features
Ramp Access.
Wheelchair-accessible Entrance.
Wheelchair-accessible Restroom/Toilet.
Wheelchair-accessible Seating.
Wheelchair-accessible Parking.
Travel Tips - How to Reach
- The temple can be approached by road from either Delhi-Agra-Gwalior-Jhansi-Mauranipur-Chatarpur of which the Jhasi-Chatarpur road is in a severely bad condition so it is advisable to take the route Jhansi-Tikamgarh-Chatarpur which is in very good condition.
- From all other cities of MP or UP, the road is perhaps in a good condition as informed by fellow travelers.
- Alternatively, you can take a direct flight to Khajuraho from Delhi and Varanasi.
Nearby Attractions
Here are some nearby attractions:
Have you visited a temple recently that had some stunning features or architecture? I’d be interested in knowing.
Until Then… Happy Guiding ?
