Matangeshvara Temple
A living 10th-century Hindu temple in Khajuraho, home to one of North India's largest Shivlings and a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Mesmerizing Aarti ceremony
Matangeshvara Temple
Best Time
Mesmerizing Aarti ceremony
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A living 10th-century Hindu temple in Khajuraho, home to one of North India's largest Shivlings and a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
"Experience divine energy and spiritual serenity at this living temple, especially during the mesmerizing evening Aarti."
Dress Modestly
As an active temple, cover shoulders and knees. :womaninturban: Respectful attire is key.
Witness the Evening Aarti
Don't miss the evening Aarti for a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience. :prayer_beads:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Colossal Shivling
Sanctum
Marvel at one of North India's largest Shivlings, a powerful symbol of Shiva's procreative energy.
Evening Aarti Ceremony
Temple grounds
Experience a mesmerizing spiritual ritual with chants, lamps, and overwhelming devotion.
Simple Yet Profound Architecture
Temple exterior and interior
Appreciate the understated beauty and intricate carvings of this 10th-century architectural gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Active Worship Site
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
As an active temple, cover shoulders and knees. :womaninturban: Respectful attire is key.
Witness the Evening Aarti
Don't miss the evening Aarti for a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience. :prayer_beads:
Seek Tranquility
Visit during off-peak hours for a more peaceful and meditative experience. :dove:
Understand its Significance
It's the only Hindu temple in Khajuraho still actively worshipped. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
As an active temple, cover shoulders and knees. :womaninturban: Respectful attire is key.
Witness the Evening Aarti
Don't miss the evening Aarti for a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience. :prayer_beads:
Seek Tranquility
Visit during off-peak hours for a more peaceful and meditative experience. :dove:
Understand its Significance
It's the only Hindu temple in Khajuraho still actively worshipped. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matangeshvara Temple is cherished as a vibrant, actively worshipped Hindu shrine, offering a deeply spiritual experience, especially during its mesmerizing evening Aarti. Visitors appreciate its serene atmosphere and the impressive, colossal Shivling, though some note its relative simplicity compared to other ornate Khajuraho temples.
"The Matangeshwar Temple is a Shiv Mandir situated in the Khajuraho town of Chattarpur district of Madhya Pradesh state of India. Among the Chandela era monuments of Khajuraho, it is the only Hindu mandir that is still actively used for worship. The temple was inscrbed on the UNESCO world heritage list in 1986. The temple has been classified as a Monument of National importance by ASI. The shiv linga is 2.5 metre high and among largest shivlings of North India. Matangeshwar ling is named from Matanga Rishi ( sage). The Matangeshwar Mandir is from 1000 CE period approximately. The Matangeshwar Mandir attract large numbers of people ( bhakts) during Hindu month Shravan and during Maha Shiv Ratri.
Mandir timings are from 6.00 PM to 9.00 PM
Har har Mahadev."
Jitesh Patel
"This Shiva temple, standing since immemorial times, is a place of divine energy and spiritual serenity. The atmosphere here is truly powerful, filling every visitor with peace and devotion. The intricate architecture adds to its timeless beauty. Don’t miss the evening Aarti—it’s a mesmerizing experience that fills the air with chants, lamps, and an overwhelming sense of devotion. A must-visit for seekers of faith and tranquility!"
rashi jain
"Matangeshwara Temple
This temple faces east, enshrines one of the largest Siva-Lings of North India. Shiva is called as Matangeshwara and one of the living temple of the Khajuraho temples. This is situated by south of Lakshmana Temple. This has one of the largest Shiva Lingam, of North India measures 2.53 m and one meter in diameter.
ARCHITECTURE
At the centre of the small sanctum hall, a huge pedestal supports a colossal Shivalinga. Symbol of the procreative energy of Shiva. The basement mouldings and the jangha have similar designs and are fairly plain. With a simple structure of a Vimana, A flag on its pyramid shaped roof Indicates that it is still in use for worship.
It stands on a lofty platform and shows a grand elaboration of Brahma temple on plan and design. Internally it is in square shape and externally cruciform and has a grand stepped pyramidal roof. The temple has devoid the exuberant sculpture and ornamentation, which came to be a hallmark of the developed Khajuraho temples.
HISTORY AND INSCRIPTION
The temple is ascribed to the fifth Chandella ruler, Harshadeva. It is believed that he died before he could complete its construction and to commemorate him the structure was converted to that of a Vimana, indicating that it was a swargarohan (funerary) temple dedicated to Shiva."
Veludharan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Matangeshvara Temple is located in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. It's part of the Western Group of temples and is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi from anywhere in Khajuraho. Many visitors combine a visit here with the other famous Khajuraho temples.
No, it's conveniently situated within the Khajuraho town, often considered part of the Western Group of temples, making it easy to reach.
Auto-rickshaws are a popular and affordable option for getting around Khajuraho and visiting the various temple complexes. Negotiate your fare beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Matangeshvara Temple is an active place of worship, and generally, there is no entry fee for devotees. However, for the broader Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a composite ticket might be required for entry into certain ticketed areas. It's best to check current regulations upon arrival.
The temple is typically open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but as it's an active place of worship, timings can be flexible. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours or for the evening Aarti.
The evening Aarti is a highlight and usually takes place around sunset. It's a deeply spiritual experience that draws many visitors.
Photography rules can vary in active temples. While general photography of the exterior and the Shivling might be permitted, it's always best to be respectful and check for any signage or ask temple authorities before taking pictures, especially during prayer times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Matangeshvara Temple is unique as it's the only Hindu temple in Khajuraho that remains actively used for worship. It's known for its simplicity and the colossal Shivling.
The Shivling here is one of the largest in North India, measuring approximately 2.5 meters high and one meter in diameter. It's named after Sage Matanga.
No, it's known for its relative simplicity compared to the highly ornate temples of Khajuraho. Its beauty lies in its spiritual atmosphere and the grandeur of the Shivling.
As it's an active place of worship, modest clothing is essential. Cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing attire.
Visitors can observe prayers and the evening Aarti. If you wish to participate in any rituals, it's best to inquire respectfully with the temple priests.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially the pyramidal roof and the entrance, offers good photographic opportunities. The colossal Shivling inside is also a key subject, though photography rules should be respected.
Drone usage is generally restricted at historical and religious sites in India. It's highly unlikely to be permitted and may require special permissions.
Photography inside active temples can be restricted, especially during prayer times. Always check for signage or ask for permission before taking photos of the deity or inside the sanctum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to prepare children for the respectful atmosphere of an active temple. Explain the need for quiet voices and modest dress. The temple's relative simplicity compared to other Khajuraho sites might mean a shorter visit for younger children, but it provides a valuable cultural and spiritual learning experience. Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a more comfortable experience for the whole family.
🙏 Devotees and Spiritual Seekers
The evening Aarti is a particularly potent experience, filling the air with devotional chants and the glow of lamps, creating an atmosphere of profound peace and connection. Many visitors find the temple to be a place of deep serenity and a perfect spot for prayer and meditation. The belief that the Shivling grows an inch each year adds a mystical element for those interested in the temple's lore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Living Temple of Matangeshvara
The temple's architecture, while simpler than some of the more elaborate Khajuraho temples, possesses a profound beauty. It features a Vimana (tower) with a pyramid-shaped roof, indicating its ongoing use. The structure stands on a lofty platform and has a grand stepped pyramidal roof. The basement mouldings and the jangha (wall section) are fairly plain, focusing attention on the central deity. This understated design contributes to the temple's serene and contemplative atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for prayer and meditation.
Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the temple's active religious nature. Modest dress is essential, covering shoulders and knees. Experiencing the evening Aarti is highly recommended; it's a mesmerizing ritual filled with chants, lamps, and a palpable sense of devotion that truly captures the spiritual essence of the place.
Architectural Significance and History
Interestingly, historical accounts suggest that Harshadeva may have died before completing the temple's construction. It was subsequently converted into a funerary temple dedicated to Shiva, known as a 'swargarohan' (ascension to heaven) temple. This historical context adds another layer of depth to the site, blending architectural history with spiritual narrative. The temple's inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1986 underscores its importance as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
While the temple eschews the exuberant sculptures found on many other Khajuraho monuments, its strength lies in its spiritual focus and the sheer scale of the Shivling. The absence of excessive ornamentation allows the visitor to concentrate on the divine presence and the historical significance of the structure.
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