Vishvanatha Temple
A masterpiece of Chandella architecture, this ancient temple is famed for its intricate sculptures, including the iconic erotic carvings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Vishvanatha Temple
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A masterpiece of Chandella architecture, this ancient temple is famed for its intricate sculptures, including the iconic erotic carvings.
"Awesome place to visit, its just marvellous architecture specimen...rich history..take your time to explore."
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
End your visit by 10:30 AM in summer; it gets very hot after 11 AM. Carry water!
🚶 Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your understanding of the rich history and intricate architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Architecture
Western Group of Khajuraho Monuments
Marvel at the Chandella architecture, a precursor to later styles, with its detailed carvings and sculptures.
Erotic Carvings
Temple Facades
Explore the famous sculptures, including depictions of deities, celestial beings, and explicit scenes.
Nandi Bull Statue
Facing Vishvanatha Temple
Admire the colossal, polished monolithic sculpture of Rishabam, Shiva's bull mount.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Embrace the Spiritual Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
End your visit by 10:30 AM in summer; it gets very hot after 11 AM. Carry water!
🚶 Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your understanding of the rich history and intricate architecture.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of sacred spaces and rituals.
🙏 Dress Modestly
As a sacred site, modest attire is appreciated.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
End your visit by 10:30 AM in summer; it gets very hot after 11 AM. Carry water!
🚶 Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your understanding of the rich history and intricate architecture.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of sacred spaces and rituals.
🙏 Dress Modestly
As a sacred site, modest attire is appreciated.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Vishvanatha Temple for its marvelous architecture and rich history, calling it a specimen of incredible craftsmanship. The intricate carvings, including the famous erotic sculptures, are a major draw. However, some note that summer visits can be extremely hot, emphasizing the need for early morning or late afternoon exploration and ample water.
"Awesome place to visit its just marvellous architecture specimen...rich history..take your time to explore make sure you take guide..also if you are traveling during summer make sure you end your trip by 10.30 AM it gets very hot after 11 am..carry water...alos here is some information from wikepida..
About.
Description
The Vishvanatha Temple is a Hindu temple in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is located among the western group of Khajuraho Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, who is also known as "Vishvanatha", meaning "Lord of the Universe"."
Rohan Khedekar
"Vishwanatha Temple (1002 CE).
The Vishwanatha Temple, is third largest temple of Khajuraho Temples, stands on the north-east extreme of the Western group of temples. Architecturally, the temple falls between the other largest Lakshmana and Kandariya Mahadeva temples. A precursor in design and ornamentation to the Kandariya Mahadeva, this is one of the finest and best preserved temples at Khajuraho.
ARCHITECTURE
Among the Khajuraho temples, Visvanatha temple is the finest and best preserved example of Chandella architecture and is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. It used to be a Panchayatana shrine but now, out of its four subsidiary shrines only two. ie. Northeast and Southwest exists. The structure shows all the elements of a developed temple including the mukha-mandapa (entrance porch), mandapa, maha-mandapa with transepts, antarala and grabha-griha enclosed by an inner ambulatory with transepts on the sides and rear.
The basement niches and the three banded sculptured wall displays some of the finest carvings amongst which is a unique depiction of the dancing Saptamatrikas, the Seven Mothers. Inside, depictions of a mother with a child, a woman with a fruit in one hand and a parrot in another, a surasundari playing the flute and another painting her foot, are quite unique.
HISTORY AND INSCRIPTIONS
King Dhanga was great ruler and builder. He annexed many new areas and expanded his territory. He made Chandella as powerful as the Pratihara and discarded tutelage to them and title himself Maharadiraja. The Mandapa inscription refers to the dedications of two Lingas, one made of emerald and the other of stone in a towering temple of Shiva Marakateshvara built by the Chandella king Dhanga in the Vikrama year 1059 (1002 C.E.) although, only stone Linga survived in the temple. There is no doubt that the inscription refers to the Visvanatha temple. As per the inscription, the architect of the temple was Sutradhara Chhichchha, who was well versed in Vishvakarma architectural tradition.
Rishabam Temple /Nandi Temple (1002 CE)
Facing the Vishwanatha Temple and on the same platform, this temple enshrines a colossal statue of Rishabam, the bull mount/Vahana of Shiva. The Rishaba is measuring 7' 3" in length and 6' in height. The polished monolithic sculpture of yellow sandstone is represented wearing a garland decorated with mani bandha (alternating diamonds and roses)."
Veludharan
"A visit to Vishwanath Temple is truly a spiritual journey 🙏✨. The temple's sacred energy and beautiful architecture make it a peaceful place for reflection and prayer 🕉️. The intricate carvings and serene surroundings add to the divine experience 🌸.
The vibrant atmosphere and the sense of devotion felt here are unmatched, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper connection with their spirituality ✨. The rituals and offerings add to the temple’s unique charm.
Highly recommend visiting if you’re in the area for a soul-refreshing experience! 💫"
Vicky Kumar Gupta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport (HJR), with flights from Delhi and other major cities. The nearest railway station is also in Khajuraho. From the station or airport, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to reach the temple complex.
No, there are multiple temples named Vishvanatha. The famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple is in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Vishvanatha Temple discussed here is part of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Madhya Pradesh, also dedicated to Shiva. 
The temples are spread across Western, Eastern, and Southern groups. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are common for getting around. Many visitors prefer to walk within the Western Group where Vishvanatha Temple is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entry fee for the Khajuraho Monuments complex, which includes Vishvanatha Temple. Foreign nationals and Indian citizens have different rates. It's advisable to check the latest fees at the ticket counter.
The Khajuraho Monuments, including Vishvanatha Temple, are generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to confirm the exact timings upon arrival, especially during festival periods.
Yes, visiting during festivals can be a vibrant experience, but expect larger crowds. Major Hindu festivals like Shivratri are significant times for devotees.
Photography is generally allowed in the temple complex, but check for specific restrictions inside the sanctum sanctorum. Tripods might be prohibited.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's considered one of the finest and best-preserved examples of Chandella architecture, showcasing elements that anticipated the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple. It features intricate sculptures, including the famous erotic carvings and a unique depiction of the Saptamatrikas.
Facing the main temple is a colossal, polished monolithic statue of Rishabam (Nandi), the bull mount of Lord Shiva. It's a significant sculpture in its own right.
Yes, licensed guides are available at the site. Hiring a guide is highly recommended to understand the historical context, architectural details, and the stories behind the carvings.
It's a sacred Hindu temple, so modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is advisable. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended as you'll be exploring the complex.
To truly appreciate the architecture and carvings, allocate at least 1-2 hours for Vishvanatha Temple and its surroundings within the Western Group.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are local eateries and restaurants in Khajuraho town offering Indian cuisine. It's advisable to try local specialties.
Yes, vendors near the temple complex usually sell bottled water. However, carrying your own water, especially during hot months, is a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire temple complex offers stunning photographic opportunities. The facades with intricate carvings, the Nandi statue, and the overall temple structure are popular subjects.
Yes, the erotic carvings are a significant part of the temple's art and history, and photography is permitted. However, always be respectful and avoid intrusive photography.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, creating a warm glow on the sandstone and highlighting the intricate details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider hiring a guide who can make the history come alive for younger minds. The Nandi statue is often a hit with kids due to its size. Keep visits to cooler parts of the day and ensure everyone stays hydrated. The open spaces around the temple complex can be good for kids to move around, but always supervise them closely.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Study the inscriptions, which provide valuable historical context, including details about King Dhanga and the temple's construction. The temple's preservation status makes it an excellent case study for architectural historians. Don't miss the detailed analysis of its structural elements and decorative motifs.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Witnessing the rituals and offerings can deepen your connection to the spiritual essence of the place. Many visitors report feeling a sense of peace and rejuvenation after their visit. Allow yourself time to absorb the devotional ambiance and connect with the spiritual significance of this ancient shrine.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Chandella Architecture
What sets the Vishvanatha Temple apart are its sculptural bands and the basement niches. The three bands of sculptures on the walls display some of the finest carvings, including a unique depiction of the dancing Saptamatrikas (Seven Mothers). Inside, you'll find exquisite carvings of a mother with a child, a woman playing a flute, and another painting her foot. These detailed artworks offer a window into the life and beliefs of the time.
The temple was originally a Panchayatana shrine, meaning it had four subsidiary shrines surrounding the main one. Although only two subsidiary shrines (northeast and southwest) remain today, the overall design and ornamentation are remarkably well-preserved. The temple's importance lies in its role as a precursor, showcasing innovations that would be perfected in later structures at Khajuraho.
The Significance of the Sculptures
Beyond the erotic themes, the temple features a diverse range of sculptures. You'll find depictions of Sura Sundaris (celestial maidens) in various graceful poses, engaged in activities like playing music or adorning themselves. The unique carving of the dancing Saptamatrikas is a highlight, showcasing a dynamic and artistic representation of the Seven Mothers. The temple's basement niches also contain detailed figures, adding to the visual richness of the monument.
These sculptures are celebrated for their proportionate artistry, admirable poise, and balance. They are considered among the finest examples of Indian temple art, demonstrating the skill and aesthetic sensibility of the Chandella artisans. Exploring these carvings provides a deeper understanding of the cultural, religious, and social context of the 10th and 11th centuries.
The Nandi Shrine
The Nandi statue is depicted wearing a garland decorated with mani bandha, a pattern of alternating diamonds and roses. Its sheer size and the meticulous craftsmanship make it a focal point for visitors. It stands as a powerful symbol of devotion and loyalty, facing the main deity of the temple, Lord Shiva, in a posture of eternal reverence.
This shrine is an integral part of the Vishvanatha Temple complex and adds to the overall spiritual and architectural experience. It's a testament to the importance of Nandi in Shaivism and the artistic skill employed in creating such monumental sculptures during the Chandella period.
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