Beauty of Indian temples - Kandariya Mahadev temple, Khajurao

See the Shiva Mandir carefully, It looks like a Crown that Bhagwan Shiva would wear. 

Isn't it Unbelievable ?

One of the wonders of the World…! 

Believed to have been built around 1030 A.D, the Kandariya Mahadeva Mandir is one of the prettiest, tallest and largest of all the Khajuraho monuments in Madhya Pradesh. 

This cave-like Mandir gets its name from the word Kandara (meaning “cave”).

Khajuraho Monuments are famous for their exquisite sculptures and intricate carvings that depict various aspects of life. Out of these stunning temples, Kandariya Mahadev Temple is one of the most popular one.

Kandariya Mahadev Temple is the largest, tallest and the most ornate temple of the surviving temples at Khajuraho. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This stunning temple is around 31m tall, and is one of the western group of temples, apart from Matangeswara and Vishwanatha temples.Constructed on a plinth of 4m height, this tall structure is built in the shape of a mountain, which is symbolic of Mount Meru which is believed to be the mythical source of creation of the world.

The temple faces the East and is built on a raised platform that can be reached by steps. The temple has many interconnected chambers which can be visited in sequence. Ardhamandapa, the rectangular entrance hall leads to a central pillared hall called mandapa. The mandapa leads to a dark area called garbhagraha.

Carvings at the temple

Photo Courtesy: Ramón

The main tower and spire are above garbhagraha. Inside garbhagraha you can find the marble linga denoting Lord Shiva. Around 900 sculptures are carved into this sandstone temple built on granite foundation.

The stunning architecture of the temple

Photo Courtesy: Ramón

The temple is known for its exquisite carvings on the walls, ceilings and pillars. The carvings depict all the four necessary pursuits of life - kama, artha, dharma and moksha. The sculptures include that of animals and human beings that denote various aspects of life like musicians composing music, farmers at work, etc.