Khajuraho: Monuments and Historic Buildings

The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple dates back to the 11th century and is the largest in Khajuraho. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the sanctum has a lingam (symbol of Shiva).

This temple has almost 900 statues that are tall and slender. The attractive features of these temples are the arcs at entrance as well as the pillars and ceilings of the interior compartments.

The height of this temple is 31 meters. In the main shrine, many Gods, Goddesses and Apsaras (heavenly maidens) are carved elaborately. The carvings on the entrance arch, the ceiling and the huge pillars definitely impress the visitors.

There are six internal compartments beyond the archway that are the ambulatory, sanctum, vestibule, transept, main hall and portico. The outer walls of the transept have three horizontal panels that display various deities in Hinduism as well as groups of lovers.