Forming a part of  the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the Varaha temple dedicated to the third avatar of Lord Vishnu. The temple was built between 900-925 AD., during the rule of Chandela dynasty. It enshrines a huge monolithic image of the boar incarnation of the Lord.

Location Madhya Pradesh , Chhatarpur, Bhopal

Legend

The folklore of the origin of Khajuraho revolves around Hemvati who was the beautiful daughter of Hemraj, the royal priest of Kashi. It is believed that the Moon God, taken in by her beauty, descended to earth in human form and ravished her. Hemvati, who was a child widow, threatened to curse the god for ruining her life. To make amends Moon god promised that she would become the mother of a valiant son. He also asked her to go to to Khajujupura where the son would become the King and build numerous temples. The child, Chandravarman, later became the King and true to his father's words built many shrines of architectural wonder. He was the head of the Chandela clan. His successors of the clan continued to build beautiful temples at Khajuraho. After fall of Chandella dynasty, Khajuraho Temples suffered destruction by foreign invaders which forced local people to leave the area. From about 13th century to 18th century, Khajuraho temples remained in obscurity until it was re-discovered by British engineer T. S. Burt.

Architecture

The Varaha Shrine is built on a lofty plinth and reflects the Nagara style of architecture. It is simpler a than some of the other shrines in the region. The shrine is built entirely of sandstone and rests of fourteen pillars. The idol of Varaha is a colossal monolithic sculpture carved in sandstone. It has numerous figures carve in its entire body. The carving between the nose and mouth, depicts goddess Saraswati carrying Veena in her arms.

Culture

Khajuraho is one of the most popular tourist spots in Madhya Pradesh. It is famous for its ancient temples that depict some of the finest art and architecture in the world.

Pic Courtesy : http://www.ourglobaltrek.com/

Darsan Info

There is an entrance fee to the western group of temples temple -Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 250 for foreigners.                                          

The ticket price for the light and sound show are- Rs. 75 for adults and Rs. 25 for children (Indians)/Rs. 300 for adults and Rs. 150 for children (Foreigners)

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire.

Famous Festival

February - Annual dance festival

Special Rituals

The tourism department presents a light and sound show in the garden of the western group of temples every evening.

Additional Info

 

Raja Cafe, Sunshine restaurant, Gagan restaurant

 

Supermarket : Available