History, Importance, Timings, Festivals, Architecture, Interesting Facts and Travel Guide of Lakshamana Temple, Khajuraho, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Madhya Pradesh, India
The Lakshmana Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Khajuraho complex in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple was built in the 10th century by the Chandela dynasty, which ruled over the region at that time.
The Lakshmana Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Indian temple architecture, particularly in the Nagara style.
The temple is built on a high platform and has a shikhara or spire that rises to a height of 33 meters. The temple is made of sandstone and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various gods and goddesses, as well as other religious and mythological figures.
The exterior of the temple is decorated with elaborate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including images of the gods and goddesses, and scenes from the Kama Sutra. The interior of the temple is also adorned with beautiful carvings, including depictions of the Hindu Trinity - Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
The main sanctum of the temple houses a three-headed idol of Lord Vishnu, which is made of black stone. The temple also has several other smaller sanctums and shrines dedicated to other Hindu deities.
The Lakshmana Temple is considered to be an important example of Indian temple architecture, and it attracts visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its beauty and intricate carvings. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is part of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments.
Timing of Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho
The Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho is open for visitors every day of the week, from morning till evening. The temple timings are usually from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the summer season, which is from March to June. In the winter season, which is from October to February, the temple timings may be slightly different, and the temple may close a little earlier, usually around 5:00 PM.
It's important to note that the temple may be closed during certain Hindu festivals or for maintenance work. It is recommended to check with the temple authorities or local authorities for the latest information before planning a visit.
Also, visitors are requested to dress modestly and remove their footwear before entering the temple. Photography is allowed in some areas of the temple, but visitors are advised to seek permission from the temple authorities before taking photographs.
Architecture of Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho
The Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho is a magnificent example of medieval Indian temple architecture. It is built in the Nagara style of temple architecture, which is characterized by a curvilinear shape and a beehive-like tower or shikhara. The temple is made of sandstone and stands on a high platform.
The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various gods and goddesses, as well as other religious and mythological figures. The exterior of the temple is adorned with elaborate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including images of the gods and goddesses, and scenes from the Kama Sutra.
The temple's shikhara or tower rises to a height of 33 meters and is adorned with a series of miniature spires, which give it a beehive-like appearance. The tower is topped with a large amalaka or stone disk, which is believed to represent the cosmic egg.
The temple has a rectangular plan and is divided into multiple levels, with each level being decorated with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The temple's main entrance is decorated with a series of arches, which lead into a spacious mandapa or porch. The mandapa has several intricately carved pillars, each with a unique design.
The temple's main sanctum houses a three-headed idol of Lord Vishnu, which is made of black stone. The sanctum is surrounded by smaller sanctums dedicated to other Hindu deities.
The Lakshmana Temple is considered to be an important example of Indian temple architecture and is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Chandela artisans who built it. Its intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures make it a popular destination for tourists and a significant cultural and historical landmark in India.
How to reach Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India
As thousands of tourist across the world visit Khajuraho through the year, it is very well connected and accessible by road, rail and air network. Khajuraho railway station is just five km away from the main town and is major cities of Madhya Pradesh. Mahoba is the major railway junction nearest to Khajuraho at around 78 km away. From where you can get trains from Mathura, Varanasi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Allahabad, Jabalpur, Gwalior, etc. Khajuraho has its own domestic airport at a distance of two km from the temple sites. It has flights connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Varanasi etc. at frequent level. Khajuraho is connected to all the major National and State Highways so easily reachable by road network. Tourist can get several public and private buses travel to nearby cities like Jhansi. Standard buses from Khajurahi.
