Chausath Yogini Temple, Khajuraho

This privately designed heritage trip will start with your driver picking you up from your hotel at 8:00 in the morning. This collection of Hindu, Buddhist, or Jain temples is famous for its erotic sculptures and carvings, inclined symbols and signs, and Nagara-style architecture. Its unique and marvelous architecture has placed it on the list of UNESCO sites of World Heritage. Built in the early 10th -12th century these temples are marvelous pieces of architecture in current times. These sensational sculptures and architecture depict the massive passion, eroticism, music, dance, and other creative arts and their geniuses of the Chandela dynasty. Situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh this group of temples numbered 85, out of which only 20 have survived over this long period of time. Presently these are distinctively divided into two groups Western and Eastern groups of temples. This cluster of temples is believed to connect with an interesting story of the Chandela dynasty. It is said that the Moon God seduced and physically connected to a beautiful Brahmin girl, Hemvati in lust and passion. This resulted in the birth of Chandravarman, the founder of the Chandela Dynasty. Once Chandravarman had a dream of his mother requesting him to make a temple picturing the treasure of passion and erotic fantasy to the world. This led to the construction of temples with erotic sculptures in this little village surrounded by the mountains of Chatarpur district. Every temple is different from another and two temples amongst them were built of sandstone. Chaunsath Yogini- Built-in 900 AD, this temple is known to be the oldest among the 20 surviving temples. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, this is the only Granite-formed temple here. Kandariya Mahadeo- Dedicated to Lord Shiva, enshrined with the ‘Shivalinga’, this temple is the most typically designed temple with very intense and graceful carvings. Standing 31m high, it is the largest among all temples. Exquisite craftsmanship on stone depicts gods, goddesses, deities, eternal lovers, and celestial maidens. Chitragupta Temple- Facing towards the east or the rising sun, this temple is dedicated to Lord Sun (Surya Dev). It has a 5 feet high image of Lord Surya with the horse-drawn chariot in the inner sanctum of the temple. After the tour, the driver will drop you back at your hotel.

This is a full day tour with private cab and tour guide where you will get to know the history and architecture of these historical Hindu and Jai temples along with the erotic sculptures of Kamasutra Epic. Also we provide nice lunch at multicuisine restaurant of Khajuraho. Day 1- Khajuraho Full day Sightseeing Tour After breakfast at hotel you will be meeting with our tour guide and chauffer and proceed to visit a Hindu temple of Javari a Unesco site. This temple having great artistic interior and exterior with equisite carvings. Your next visit will be of Chausath Yogini temple which is also a part pf Khajuraho group of temples. This yogini temple contained 64 female figures in different postures and the idol of lord shiva situated in the center there bodies are described as beautiful but their heads are often those of animals. Now the time to visit the Kandariya Mahadev Temple built by the Chandela king in 11th century. This is a historical temple with halls, carvings and the main deity is Lord shiva. You can also admire the beauty of the sculpture of Lord shiva called chatuspada (four footed God). In the afternoon we take you for lunch in a multicuisine restaurant and then explore the Laxman temple of the 10 th century and Dulhadev temple where Lord shiva depicted as a bridegroom. You can also explore the colorful markets. Afterwards we will drop you back to hotel.

8:00 AM - Pickup from the hotel lobby. We start after breakfast to visit the Hindu Temple of Javari, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on a high pedestal, this temple boasts of artistic interiors as well as exteriors. The exquisite carvings and the sculptures are magnificent. Chausath Yogini Temple: Yogini is the term given to a female who practices yoga or a spiritual teacher of the Hindu. The temple has 64 different shrines for one yogini each. The central shrine is the largest and has a huge idol of Lord Shiva with his consort Goddess Parvati on Nandi the bull. The temple was made mostly of granite. Each yogini statue has a different posture from the other and is all exquisitely carved. Kandariya Mahadev Temple was designed and built by the Chandela King Vidyadhara in the early 11th century. It was after Gazni Mahmud had invaded this region and destroyed it. The main attraction in the entrance area is a sacred Makara Torana that is simply eye-catching. The interior of the temple has intricately designed hallways, while the main hall has the prime deity of Lord Siva in the form of a linga. There is a lovely painting of a four-footed incarnation of Lord Shiva called Chatuspada. Lakshmana Temple was built by the great Chandela ruler, King Yashovarman in the 10th century. The main idol here is of Lord Vaikuntha. This idol has three heads and four arms. This fantastic stone sculpture is accompanied by Narasimha the lion avatar and Varaha the boar avatar of the deity. The other attractive features are the statues of beautiful women with their partners in love. Dulhadev Temple Lord Shiva is depicted as a bridegroom here and thus the name ‘dulha’ turns into 'dhuladeo' here. This was the last temple built in the whole group just on the banks of the Khodar River. This temple has the shape of a ‘saptadhara’ or a chariot driven by seven horses. 4:00 PM - Drop-off back at the hotel.

Khajuraho Tour Package - Explore Ancient Temples & Natural Beauty Explore the Wonders of Khajuraho: From its historical temples to the natural beauty of Panna National Park, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Itinerary: Day 01: Arrival & Temple Exploration Arrival at Khajuraho: Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed with a refreshing welcome drink. An air-conditioned car will be provided to transfer you to your homestay where you can freshen up. Tour Briefing: After checking in, a quick 15-20 minute session will be provided to explain your 2-day itinerary and offer suggestions for additional places to explore around Khajuraho. Temple Tour: Begin your journey with a visit to the iconic Khajuraho Temples. These ancient temples, known for their intricate erotic carvings, are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. An English-speaking guide will provide you with detailed insights into the historical significance and architectural marvel of the temples. Stone Carving Demonstration: After the temple tour, you’ll be taken to witness a live demonstration of traditional stone carving techniques and view the local Art & Craft collection. Ayurveda & Massage Experience: In the evening, you’ll visit a renowned Ayurveda center in Khajuraho to experience a soothing Ayurvedic massage for relaxation. Alternatively, you may opt to enjoy a local dance performance or a light and sound show at the temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Khajuraho. Dinner: After a day of exploration, you can choose to have your dinner either at your homestay or at a local restaurant, based on your preference. Day 02: Panna National Park Safari & Departure Morning Wildlife Safari: Start the day with an early morning visit to Panna National Park, known for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to over 80 tigers, along with leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and hundreds of other species. This 4-hour safari will give you the chance to witness the park’s natural beauty and wildlife in its pristine environment. Return to Hotel & Departure: After your safari, return to the hotel by 12:30 PM. Later, you’ll be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to your next destination. Optional: Guests can choose to visit Panna National Park on Day 1, in which case, the itinerary will be reversed to accommodate the safari before the temple tour.