Kandariya Mahadeva Temple

Overview

The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is the largest and most ornate Hindu temple in the medieval temple group of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is considered a masterpiece of Nagara-style architecture, renowned for its intricate carvings and erotic sculptures.

historical and cultural

Historical Site Cultural Monument Architectural Marvel

Location

Address

Khajuraho, India

Neighborhood: Western Group of Temples

Coordinates

24.850800, 79.912300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

600 INR

Children

300 INR (ages 5-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning 6-8am

fewer crowds, better lighting, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and pleasant

• spring flowers
• garden tours

summer

hot and humid

• extended hours until 8pm
• night tours

autumn

cool and pleasant

• fall foliage
• harvest displays

winter

cool, possible misty mornings

• holiday decorations
• winter illuminations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance for best prices and to avoid long queues
Photography is allowed but drones and tripods are prohibited
Modest dress code is recommended to respect the religious site
Cash is needed for parking and some vendors

What to Bring

essential

valid ID booking confirmation water bottle

seasonal

raincoat (monsoon season) warm jacket (winter) sun hat (summer)

not allowed

large bags drones professional tripods outside food pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate - involves walking and stairs

• steep stairs
• uneven surfaces
• no shade in some areas

Medical facilities: first aid station at main entrance

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards, mobile payments

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Typical Costs

entry 600-750 INR

parking 50-100 INR

food 150-300 INR

souvenirs 100-500 INR

Dress Code

shoulders and knees covered, comfortable, modest clothing, comfortable walking shoes required, shorts above knee, sleeveless tops, flip-flops, revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• 2-4 weeks recommended
• official website for best prices
• full refund 48 hours before
• express passes available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Khajuraho Temples Official App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive GPS map, Audio guide in 12 languages, AR historical reconstructions, Real-time queue status, Digital ticket storage

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafeteria, Main plaza

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Café

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Khajuraho Airport

Distance: 5 km

Travel Time: 10-15 minutes

taxi

300-400 INR 10 minutes

public_transport

50 INR 20 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

walking

free 25 minutes

taxi

100-150 INR 5 minutes

auto-rickshaw

80-100 INR 7 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Important religious and cultural gathering spot

Historical Significance: Site of important historical events and religious ceremonies

Insider Tips

Free cultural performance every Friday at 5pm
Best local snacks from vendor at north gate
Guards may allow special access if asked politely
Local artists sell work on weekends near back entrance

Local Recommendations

• Try the famous chai at the small stall behind south gate
• Ask for guide Kumar who speaks 5 languages
• Staff canteen serves authentic local food at great prices
• Early morning joggers can enter free before 7am

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Namaste

thank_you Dhanyavaad

where_is Kya ha

how_much Kitna hai

beautiful Sundar

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Hindi, Spanish, French, Mandarin

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance archway

Best Time: Golden hour (6-7am)

Tips: Shoot from low angle to capture full structure

Result: Dramatic silhouette against sunrise

#KandariyaMahadeva #Khajuraho #InstaWorthy

Central courtyard with carvings

Best Time: Early morning for soft light

Tips: Get close to intricate details

Result: Stunning close-ups of ancient sculptures

#AncientArt #Architecture

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor gardens, main halls, courtyards

prohibited areas sacred areas, security zones

flash photography not allowed indoors

commercial photography permit required

drone policy strictly prohibited

tripod policy allowed in gardens only

selfie sticks allowed with caution

Nearby Attractions

Lakshmana Temple

Distance: 300 meters

Walking: 5 minutes

Type: Temple

Matangeshvara Temple

Distance: 400 meters

Walking: 7 minutes

Type: Temple