Places to visit: Delhi - Khajuraho - Varanasi - Delhi
Duration : 5 Days / 4 Nights
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Even if situated in the middle of nowhere, the Khajuraho temple complex site is one the most popular places both foreign and Indian tourists. Temples of Khajuraho hold the attention of a visitor with their sculptural art, which is so exquisite and intricate, that one cannot even dream of cloning it now. Perfect in execution and sublime in expressions these Khajuraho temples are a dedication to the womanhood. The artist's creative instincts have beautifully captured various facets and moods of life in stone.
Khajuraho, the ancient "Kharjjuravahaka", was the principal seat of authority of the Chandella rulers who adorned it with numerous tanks, scores of lofty temples of sculptural grace and architectural splendour. The local tradition lists eighty-five temples but now only twenty-five are standing examples in various stages of preservation. But for Chausath-Yogini, Brahma and Mahadeva, which are of granite, all the other temples are of fine-grained sandstone, buff, pink or pale yellow in colour.
Khajuraho Temples - A Celebration Of Life
The existing temple of Khajuraho can be divided into three groups, Western, Eastern and Southern. The famous Western Group, designated a World Heritage site, is enclosed within a beautifully laid-out park. Yasovarman (AD 954) built the temple of Lord Vishnu, now famous as Lakshmana temple is an ornate and evolved example of its time proclaiming the prestige of the Chandellas.
The Vishvanatha, Parsvanatha and Vaidyanatha temples in Khajuraho belong to the time of king Dhanga, the successor of Yasovarman. The Jagadambi, Chitragupta, are noteworthy among the western group of royal temples of Khajuraho. The largest and grandest temple of Khajuraho is the immortal Kandariya Mahadeva, which is attributed to king Ganda (AD 1017-29).
The other examples that followed viz., Vamana, Adinatha, Javari, Chaturbhuj and Duladeo, are smaller but elaborately designed. The Khajuraho group of temples are noted for lofty terraces (jagati) and functionally effective plans. The sculptural embellishments include, besides the cult images; 'Parivara', 'Parsva', 'Avarana' 'Devatas', 'Dikpalas', the 'Apsaras' and 'Sura-Sundaris' which win universal admiration for their delicate, youthful female forms of ravishing beauty. The attire and ornamentation embrace the winsome grace and charm.
Temples in Khajuraho
- Varaha Temple
- Lakshmana Temple
- Kandariya-mahadeva Temple
- Vamana Temple In Khajurao
- Duladeo Temple At Khajurahochausath Yogini Temple : The Oldest Temple At Khajuraho
- Lalguan Mahadeva Temple
- Ghantai Temple At Khajuraho
- Matangesvara Temple At Khajuraho
- Devi Jagadambi Temple
- Brahma Temple
- Chaturbhuja Temple
- Parsvanath Temple
- Adinatha Temple At Khajuraho
- Chitragupta Temple At Khajuraho
Day-wise itinerary of Khajuraho Temple Tours
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Day 1 Delhi
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Khajuraho, the capital of the Chandela kings. The city's many temples were built in the short span of hundred years, from 950-1050 AD. Most were destroyed by Muslim invaders, and only 22 temples remain of the original 85. Khajuraho's temples are covered with hundreds of sculptured figures--a galaxy of gods and goddesses, beasts and serpents, and a multitude of erotic couples. After your transfer to the hotel to settle in, visit the eastern group of temples. This evening, enjoy a performance of "Dances of India" at the Main Temple.
Day 2 Khajuraho
This morning, visit the western group, which are the main temples. This afternoon, fly to Varanasi, where you enjoy a demonstration of Ganga Aarti.
Day 3 Varanasi
Rise very early this morning for a boat ride on River Ganges, as the best time to see the Ghats is early dawn. Human forms descend the steps in the morning mist, their numbers increasing until a solemn, silent multitude moves to immerse itself in the holy stream. See the Bathing Ghats, Cremation Ghats, and the Gyanvapi Mosque built in the 17th century. Afterward, visit the Golden Temple and walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi, returning to the hotel breakfast. Later, take a sightseeing tour of Varanasi and its temples, including the Bharat Mata Temple, Emperor Aurangazeb's Mosque, and the Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple). Visit Varanasi Hindu University, a great seat of Oriental learning. Explore the Durga (Goddess of Power) Temple, popularly known as the Monkey Temple because of hundreds of monkeys in the courtyard. Enjoy a High Tea and a demonstration of mehndi application (henna), typically a part of wedding preparations. Group members can get their own little "tattoos" if they wish. A phoolwalla, resplendent in dhoti/kurta and Gandhi cap, will show you how flower garlands are strung and you will receive your own to garland and a gajra (jasmine flower garland for the wrist) to wear.
Day 4 Varanasi/Delhi
After breakfast, visit Saranath, where the Buddha preached his first sermon to five disciples at Deer Park. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the location of a once-resplendent monastery. A large complex of ruined monasteries, some dating from the 3rd century BC, cover the area and a new Buddhist monastery stands nearby. Sarnath also has an interesting archaeological museum, which has preserved the famous Sarnath Pillar, whose capital forms India's national emblem. Later, fly to Delhi
Day 5 Departure Day
After breakfast this morning, head to the International Airport for your return flights. (B)
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