Deity
Shiva (Mahadeva)
Main deity
श्री कन्दारिया महादेव
Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple at Khajuraho in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh, is a Nagara-style Shiva temple dedicated to Mahadeva. The record describes it as an 11th-century Chandela masterpiece and a standout of Khajuraho’s celebrated temple art and architecture.
Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Temple Summary
Quick Facts
Pilgrimage Status
Shiva Temple
Primary tag
Architecture
Nagara style
Dynasty: Chandela
Location
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
District: Chhatarpur
Temple Profile
History and Significance
History
- Founded
- 1025 - 1050 AD
- Founder
- King Vidyadhara
- Construction
- 1025 - 1050 AD
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple was constructed around 1025-1050 AD by Chandela King Vidyadhara to celebrate victory over Mahmud of Ghazni. Built from sandstone on a high masonry platform, it is the largest and most grand temple in the Western Group of Khajuraho monuments. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Significance
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is celebrated worldwide as the grandest monument of Chandela architecture, soaring 117 feet high with 84 miniature spires (urushringas) recreating Mount Kailash. The exterior and interior walls feature over 800 sculpted statues depicting deities, musicians, nymphs (apsaras), and celebrated erotic art panels.
Temple Pilgrimage Summary
Pilgrim Guide
Before You Visit
Plan within visiting hours
The record lists approximate hours of 06:00–18:00; aim to enter well before closing to explore without rushing.
Wear comfortable footwear
Expect walking around the temple complex; choose footwear that is easy to remove and carry as needed.
Respect heritage setting
As a noted architectural masterpiece, follow on-site rules and avoid touching sensitive carvings or restricted areas.
Carry water and sun protection
Daytime visits can involve outdoor walking; keep water handy and plan for heat in Madhya Pradesh seasons.
Check local updates
Timings are marked approximate; confirm current entry rules and hours at the site before planning your day.
Temple Timings
Darshan Schedule
Opening timings
06:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Festivals
Temple Calendar Highlights
Feb–Mar • Major annual observance
Maha Shivaratri
Night-long worship and abhishekam cycles draw high pilgrim participation.
Jul–Aug • Monthly observance
Shravana Somvar
Shravana Mondays are observed with Shiva-focused vrata and offerings.
Oct–Nov • Festival period
Kartik Deepam
Lamp-lighting rituals and evening devotion are widely observed.
Temple Knowledge
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Community Notes
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Suggested pilgrim note
Weekday mornings usually have shorter darshan queues than weekends.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Carry a small cloth bag for footwear token and prasad containers.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Aarti timings can shift on festival days, so check local notice boards.
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ज्ञ
श्री कन्दारिया महादेव
Khajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Additional Resources
Watch
Temple Videos
Titles and links are sourced from temple JSON profile data.
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple Khajuraho | Architecture Walkthrough (Nagara Style)
Heritage Notes• 12:30
Watch on YouTubeKhajuraho Kandariya Mahadeva Temple Visit Guide | Timings & Tips
Travel Desk• 09:50
Watch on YouTubeKandariya Mahadeva (11th Century) | Chandela Temple Art Explained
Temple Trails• 08:55
Watch on YouTube