Vamana Temple
An 11th-century Chandela temple dedicated to Vishnu's Vamana avatar, known for its unique sculptures and serene ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Vamana Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 11th-century Chandela temple dedicated to Vishnu's Vamana avatar, known for its unique sculptures and serene ambiance.
"A peaceful stop in Khajuraho, appreciated for its distinct art and quiet charm."
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and architectural nuances; the 'sura sundaris' are particularly noteworthy.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
While smaller, Vamana Temple is part of the larger Khajuraho complex. Don't miss the other magnificent temples nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vamana Incarnation Sculpture
Sanctum Niches
Admire the four-armed image of Vamana, Vishnu's dwarf incarnation, a central piece of the temple's devotion.
Intricate Wall Sculptures
Outer Walls
Explore bands of sculptures featuring graceful 'sura sundaris' and depictions of other Vishnu avatars.
Unique 'Samvarana' Roof
Maha-mandapa
Observe the distinctive medieval Western Indian roof style, known as 'samvarana', a notable architectural feature.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Vamana Temple
Understanding Vamana Temple's Significance
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and architectural nuances; the 'sura sundaris' are particularly noteworthy. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
While smaller, Vamana Temple is part of the larger Khajuraho complex. Don't miss the other magnificent temples nearby.
🤫 Quiet Contemplation
This temple is often less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and appreciation.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water as you explore the temple grounds and the wider Khajuraho site.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and architectural nuances; the 'sura sundaris' are particularly noteworthy. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
While smaller, Vamana Temple is part of the larger Khajuraho complex. Don't miss the other magnificent temples nearby.
🤫 Quiet Contemplation
This temple is often less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and appreciation.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water as you explore the temple grounds and the wider Khajuraho site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Vamana Temple to be a peaceful and architecturally interesting site within the Khajuraho complex, appreciated for its unique sculptures and absence of erotic carvings. While smaller and less ornate than some neighbors, its quiet atmosphere and distinct features make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Chandela art and Vishnu's Vamana avatar.
"The temple is dedicated to the Vamana incarnation of Vishnu. It is nirandhara temple consisting of a saptaratha sanctum, vestibule, maha-mandapa with lateral transepts and entrance porch. The sanctum enshrines and image of four armed Vamana flanked by chakrapursha on the left and shankhapursha on the right. The sanctum entrance has seven bands decorated with stenciled scrolls, dancing ganas. Mithuna, lotuspetals and wavy scrolls terminating in a figure of naga, Ganga and Yamuna standing in tribhanga, flanked by female attendants on one side carrying purna-ghata and standing door keepers. The lintel contains a four armed standing Vishnu in the centre and the side niches represents Brahma and Shiva. The outer walls of the temple have two bands of sculptures which include graceful figures of sura sundaries and the sculptures of Varaha, Narsimha and Vamana sadorned in the niches of sanctum. On the basis of the sculptural art and architectural style, the temple is assignable to circa 1050-1075 C.E."
PRITHWIJIT BHATTACHARYA
"Vamana Temple (c. 1050-75 CE)
The temple, faces east, dedicated to the Vamana incarnation of Vishnu. The temple is similar in plan to the Devi Jagdambi and Chitragupta Temples.
ARCHITECTURE
It is nirandhara temple consisting plan of a saptaratha sanctum, vestibule, maha- mandapa with lateral transepts and entrance porch. The sanctum enshrines an image of 4' 5" high four armed Vamana, fifth incarnation of Vishnu in the form of a dwarf, flanked by chakrapursha on the left and shankhapursha on the right. The sanctum entrance has seven bands decorated with stenciled scrolls, dancing ganas, mithuna, lotuspetals, and wavy scrolls terminating in a figure of naga, Ganga and Yamuna standing in tribhanga, flanked by female attendants on one side carrying puma-ghata and standing door keepers. The lintel contains a four armed standing Vishnu in centre and the side niches represents the Brahma and Shiva. The outer walls of the temple have two bands of sculptures which include graceful figures of sundaris and the sculptures of Varaha, Naga and Vamana adorn in the niches of sanctum. There are no erotic sculptures visible on its walls and the framed niches of the third row uniquely contain diamonds in place of sculptures, the only temple with such a trait. The shikhara is mono spired and the sanctum has no ambulatory
HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
On the basis of the sculptural art and architectural of this temple it is believed that the temple was constructed between 1050 – 1075 CE, by the Chandella rulers."
Veludharan
"This temple dedicated to the Vamana form of Vishnu, is situated about 200 m. to the north-east o the so-called brahma temple. It is nirandhara (one without ambulatory) temple, consisting on plan of a sapta-ratha (seven-projection) sanctum, vestibule, maha-mandapa with lateral transepts and entrance-porch, of which only the plinth has survived. Its sikhara is unencumbered by any subsidiary sikharas and is embellished with a fret-work of chaitya-arches, contrast to the developed local temples, erotic scenes are absent here, except in the subsidiary niches of the proof-pediments. It is also noteworthy for showing over the maha-mandapa a peculiar roof known as samvarana which is characteristic of the medieval temples of western India. The absence of the dhammilla- type of head-dress on the sura-sundari figures indicates that the temple is later than the Kandariya, the sculptural types and style of which it continues. This temple is, therefore, assignable to circa 1050-75. (Information from ASI)"
Vikas Singh
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vamana Temple is located within the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Madhya Pradesh, India. You can reach Khajuraho by air (Khajuraho Airport), train (Khajuraho Railway Station), or bus. From the town center, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to take you to the temple complex. +1
Yes, Vamana Temple is situated about 200 meters north-east of the Brahma Temple, making it easily accessible on foot within the main Khajuraho monument area. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the site.
Many visitors prefer to walk between the temples within the Western Group, where Vamana Temple is located. For longer distances or to cover multiple groups, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are common and affordable options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to visit Vamana Temple itself, as it's often considered part of the general access to the Khajuraho monument area. However, there might be an entry fee for the entire Khajuraho Group of Monuments, so check current regulations.
Vamana Temple generally follows the opening hours of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, which are typically from sunrise to sunset. It's advisable to confirm the exact timings with local authorities or the ASI website.
Yes, Vamana Temple is open every day of the week. However, visiting on weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience compared to weekends when tourist numbers are higher.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Vamana Temple complex, but check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods, especially within the sanctum area. Capturing the intricate carvings is a highlight.
The outer walls with their detailed sculptures, the unique 'samvarana' roof, and the Vamana idol within the sanctum are prime photography subjects. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the textures. +1
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical monuments in India to preserve their integrity and for security reasons. It's best to avoid bringing drones or to check with local authorities for specific permissions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Vamana Temple is noted for its absence of erotic sculptures, unlike some of its neighbors, and features a unique 'samvarana' roof style. Its sculptures focus on divine figures and 'sura sundaris'.
Given its size and focus, a visit to Vamana Temple itself might take 30-45 minutes. However, it's often visited as part of a larger exploration of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, which can take several hours.
Official guides are available at the Khajuraho monument complex. Hiring a guide can provide deeper insights into the history, architecture, and mythology associated with Vamana Temple and the other structures.
You'll find sculptures of the four-armed Vamana, celestial beings ('sura sundaris'), and depictions of other Vishnu avatars like Varaha and Narsimha. The temple also features decorative bands with scrolls and figures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to spot the different figures on the walls, like the dancing ladies ('sura sundaris') or the dwarf god Vamana. It's a good opportunity to introduce them to Indian mythology in a visually engaging way. Remember to carry water and snacks, and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the temple complex.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Consider walking between the temples in the Western Group to save on local transport. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid inflated prices within the tourist areas. The visual richness of the temple provides significant value without a high cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of Vamana Temple
One of the most distinctive features is the 'samvarana' roof over the maha-mandapa, a style characteristic of medieval temples in western India. This unique element, along with the absence of erotic sculptures, sets Vamana Temple apart. The sanctum entrance is elaborately decorated with seven bands of carvings, including stenciled scrolls, dancing ganas, lotus petals, and figures of Naga, Ganga, and Yamuna.
The outer walls are adorned with two bands of sculptures. These include graceful figures of 'sura sundaris' (celestial beauties) and niches housing sculptures of Varaha, Narsimha, and Vamana. The lintel above the sanctum entrance features a four-armed Vishnu, flanked by Brahma and Shiva in side niches, highlighting the temple's Vaishnavite dedication. The presence of diamonds in the framed niches of the third row, instead of sculptures, is another unique trait found only in this temple.
The Vamana Avatar: A Divine Narrative
Upon Bali's agreement, Vamana miraculously grew to cosmic proportions, covering the earth with his first step and the sky with his second. For his third step, Bali offered his own head, which Vamana pressed down, banishing Bali to the underworld. This story emphasizes themes of humility, divine power, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness over arrogance. The sculptures within the temple often depict this narrative, showcasing Vamana's divine might in a seemingly unassuming form.
While many Khajuraho temples are known for their explicit sculptures, Vamana Temple focuses more on divine representations and celestial beings. This focus on the Vamana avatar and its associated mythology offers a different perspective on the religious and artistic expressions of the Chandela period, highlighting the diverse ways deities were venerated and depicted.
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