Khajuraho – The Heritage Jewel of Madhya Pradesh Location: Khajuraho is a small town in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh. It lies in the Bundelkhand region, about 175 km southeast of Jhansi. Historical Significance • Khajuraho is world-famous for its group of Hindu and Jain temples, built between 950–1050 CE during the rule of the Chandela dynasty. • Out of the original 85 temples, around 25 temples have survived and are preserved today. • The temples are renowned for their Nagara-style architecture and intricate erotic sculptures, which symbolize the philosophy of life, spirituality, and human desires. • In 1986, UNESCO declared the Khajuraho Group of Monuments a World Heritage Site. Architectural Highlights • The temples are mainly divided into three groups: o Western Group: Largest and most famous, includes the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Lakshmana Temple, and Vishwanath Temple. o Eastern Group: Consists mainly of Jain temples, including Parsvanath and Adinath Temples. o Southern Group: Includes the Dulhadev and Chaturbhuj Temples. • The carvings depict gods, goddesses, celestial nymphs, dancers, musicians, and everyday life scenes. Culture & Tourism • Khajuraho hosts the Khajuraho Dance Festival every February/March, showcasing classical Indian dance forms against the backdrop of the temples. • The Light & Sound Show in the temple complex narrates the history of Chandela kings and the significance of the temples. • Nearby attractions include Panna National Park, Raneh Falls, and Ken Gharial Sanctuary. Accessibility • Air: Khajuraho has a domestic airport with connections to Delhi, Varanasi, and other cities. • Rail: Khajuraho railway station connects to major cities like Jhansi and Bhopal. • Road: Well-connected by highways to Satna, Jhansi, Panna, and other towns.