State: Madhya Pradesh.s
Temperature: Summer - Max - 47 degree centigrade, Winter - Min - 4 degree centigrade
Annual Rainfall: 1,120 mm (July-Aug)
Altitude: 257m
Name Derived From: 'Khajur', The Date Palm. Temples Built By: Chandela Rajputs.s
Built During: 950 AD - 1050 AD.
It is often mysteriously questioned as to why the Chandelas chose Khajuraho as the site for building their great temple complex. t is said that these temples are a creation of skilled artisans and masons who were brought here from elsewhere. Having remained unknown through the Mughal invasion and the early British forays into India, these temples were rediscovered in this century and today they are fine reminders of India's glorious past. Thus Khajuraho is now, after the Taj , India's biggest single tourist attraction.
There are few things in the world which are beyond compare and certain things that inspired human emotions to give an outlet to his pirtual and physical love. The erotic images of Khajuraho are the expresions of these human inner fellings . Every facade-wall, window, pillar, and ceiling of Khajuraho is carved with figures of mythical and historical origins, and while many of these depict the innocent form of love on these walls.To some, they are the most graphic, erotic and sensuous sculptures the world has ever known. But Khajuraho has not received the attention it deserves for its significant contribution to the religious art of India - there are literally hundreds of exquisite images on the interior and exterior walls of the shrines.
The temples of Khajuraho are undoubtedly masterpieces and a great work of art. But they are not the only attractions around Khajuraho. There are other attractions around that should also not be missed. The Panna National Park, 40 km from Khajuraho, is home to a variety of wildlife. The Dhubela Museum (57 km), on the Jhansi-Khajuraho road, houses the weapons, paintings, and sculptures of the Bundela kings as well as a wide variety of sculptures of the Shakti cult. Located on the Ken River, the Pandav Falls (30 km) is a major attraction in the vicinity of Khajuraho. The Raigarh Palace situated at the foot of Maniyagarh hills has now been converted into a heritage hotel. Bandhavgarh (237 km) is a wildlife sanctuary situated in the heart of the Vindhya Mountain range. The Ajaygarh Fort (80 km) was the erstwhile capital of the Chandelas in their declining years.
Dance Festival-
Date : 25th February to 2nd March (every year till 2009)
This seven-day cultural extravaganza is held every spring in the town of Khajuraho in order to celebrate the glory of the temples. It is believed that classical dance basically comes from the Hindu temples and attained it's maturity. This Festival is a cultural festival for the celebration of the Indian arts- dance and music handling down from generation to generation. The Khajuraho Festival of Dances shows the best classical dancers and dances in the country. It is held during the month of March from 6th to 12th. Different classical dances are presented during this festival, like the -Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri etc. The main idea behind this dance festival of india is to make the cultural heritage of Khajuraho relevant to the present society and preserving it for the coming generation. On this occasion a number of renowned artists and craftsmen participates in the workshop and seminar and present their art to the numerous visitors and tourist. And during this seven days festival, there is also a market in an open field where the isitors can get the entire local made articles of Khajuraho. This festival is known not only in our country but also to the outside world at large.This festival has reached almost epic proportions transcending borders to reach enthusiasts the world over. Classical dancers are on a rare
high as they take center-stage to perform, with the floodlit temples in the Western section providing a spectacular backdrop.