Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort 

Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest forts in the world. It is situated in Jaisalmer city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from where it derives it name. The fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert, on Trikuta Hill, and has been the scene of many battles. Its massive yellow sandstone walls are a tawny lion color during the day, fading to honey-gold as the sun sets, thereby camouflaging the fort in the yellow desert. For this reason, it is also known as the "Golden Fort".
       Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest forts in the world. It is situated in Jaisalmer city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from where it derives it name. The fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert, on Trikuta Hill, and has been the scene of many battles. Its massive yellow sandstone walls are a tawny lion color during the day, fading to honey-gold as the sun sets, thereby camouflaging the fort in the yellow desert. For this reason, it is also known as the "Golden Fort". is one of the largest forts in the world. It is situated in Jaisalmer city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from where it derives it name. The fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert, on Trikuta Hill, and has been the scene of many battles. Its massive yellow sandstone walls are a tawny lion color during the day, fading to honey-gold as the sun sets, thereby camouflaging the fort in the yellow desert. For this reason, it is also known as the "Golden Fort".
      

Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest forts in the world. It is situated in Jaisalmer city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from where it derives it name. The fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert, on Trikuta Hill, and has been the scene of many battles. Its massive yellow sandstone walls are a tawny lion color during the day, fading to honey-gold as the sun sets, thereby camouflaging the fort in the yellow desert. For this reason, it is also known as the "Golden Fort".

Golden Fort or Sonar Kila, Jaisalmer

Like all cities of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is also a popular tourist destination. Jaisalmer also has a very interesting past and legends about it. It is another royal state of Rajasthan. Jaisalmer is in Thar Desert with glistening sand dunes with camels moving over it.

Nestled in the foothills of Trikuta Hills, Jaisalmer Fort is the main attraction of Jaisalmer. The Jaisalmer fort is also called Golden Fort or Sonar Kila. It is called so because it s made up of yellow sand stone and in the scorching Sun in desert it seems like golden flames. This fort showcases the great aesthetic mindset of the Rajput rulers.

This Golden Fort is unique in its settings. Jaisalmer emerges like a mirage from the sands, in the middle of Thar Desert. After Chittorgarh, it is the second oldest fort, built in 1156. This fort was constructed by the Raja Jaisal, when he was searching for a new capital. The fort was famous for valor of its rulers.

It lies on triple peaked Trikuta Hills, 250 feet tall. 99 Bastions are housed in it, used as gun platforms. Right from its construction, fort expanded over the centuries with coming rulers.

There is beautiful palace of Maharawals in front of the Chauhata Square. This was an important place in the castle. Here Raja use to review troops, hear petitions, entertainment etc. There are high wall as the outer defense to the fort. Then another set of higher walls are there fortifying the outer wall. Beyond the entrance is the Ganesh Pol, leading up to the Rang

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Considered as one of the largest and most majestic forts of India, Mehrangarh fort in Jodhpur was constructed by Rao Jodha, the chief of Rathore clan, in 1459. The Mehrangarh Fort is positioned high on a hill which is 150 m high. The hill is known as the Bhaurcheeria that is mountain of Birds. This hill is situated 9 Km from Mandore in the South of it. The fort has a curvy path to access it. Thick and heavy walls enclose the MehranGarh Fort.

The Mehrangarh fort houses many imposing palaces having delicate carvings and impressive architecture. Moti Mahal (Pearl palace), Phool Mahal ( Flower Palace) Sheesh Mahal ( The Mirror Palace), Sileh khana, Daulat Khana are the important strucres in the fort. Besides palaces there is temple like Nagnechiji Temple, Chamunda Devi Temple. Also there is fascinating museum showcasing collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. Apart from the breathtaking views of the city, wall of the fort displays well maintained canons.

There is legend associated with the making of fort. A hermit was forced to leave this hill where fort is standing. Hermit cursed the place for acute shortage of water. To counteract this curse, a live man was buried in the foundation of this fort.

There are seven gateways in the Mehrangarh Fort. Around a series of interconnecting courtyards, there is palace complex. The fort has seven gateways to it. Originally it was not so large. Different rulers of the same clan in different times added more charm to it. MehranGarh fort is invincible as it is not made siege even once.

Jaigarh Fort

 Jaigarh Fort lies in the vicinity of Jaipur, just 15 km from Jaipur and cousin of Amber Fort. The Jaigarh Fort is one of the most stunning forts of India. It’s like an extension to Amber Fort with Amber Fort at the bottom of the hill and the Jaigarh Fort at the top of the hill. The hill is called as the ‘Cheel Ka Teela” means hill of Eagles. It is a well maintained fort. Jaipur Town can be looked upon here from Jaigarh Fort.

Jaigarh means fort of Victory; it is not a very attractive or elegant structure as the Amber Fort but it is tough fortress used as the military center for the rulers of Jaipur. Actually main theme behind making of this fort was to tighten the security of Jaipur and Amber. Jaipur used to be the major weapon producing hub in the times of Mughals and Rajput rulers. The Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur was built between 15th to 18th centuries. The hill on which it is positioned is rugged, rocky, covered with thorny bushes. It houses palaces, granary, cannon foundry, many temples, a tall tower, also has the largest cannon of the world, Jaivan. It has Dungar Darwaza

as the main gate approached by a steep road. There is huge water tank, capable of storing 60,00,000 gallon water, in the center of the fort in which water for army men was stored connected with a 5 km long canal.

The Jaigarh fort has a museum having weapons of that time on display.There is heavy collection of medieval coins, puppets, buildings, processions and other remnants of the past. You can also have a look at swords, shields, guns, muskets and many other knickknacks

Amber Fort

Amber Fort

Located at a small distance of 11 km from Jaipur, Amber Fort is a magnificent structure perched on a hillock. It was built by Raja Man Singh in 16th century. The Amber Fort is the best example of stunning architecture. Architecture of the fort displays the perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architectures. This fort is not only a structure but it has lived many passions of its owners. It flaunts the lifestyle of the Rajput rulers of the yore. Their qualities are best depicted by the craftsmanship and grandeur of the fort like militant, adventurous, temperamental and self obsessed.

Amber Fort seems to have everything from stunning façade, grand palaces, pavilions, beautiful gardens, splendid halls, temples. To access the fort, a ramp is made on the steep path on the hill. The fort signifies old unmatched craftsmanship. There is old Amber Palace at the base of Jaigarh Fort which was the original Amber. Now there are only ruins of yesteryears. This palace is not as impressive as the grand palace in Amber fort. In Amber Fort, Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Public Audience is a forty pillared palace where Kings used to meet their public and listened to their grievances.

Through Singh Pol, there is entry to Shila Mata temple, devoted to Hindu Goddess Kali. Images of Goddess Durga and Goddess Saraswati are carved on the silver gates of the temple. Idols of Goddess are made up of black marble. On the south of Diwan-i-Am. Lies the Ganesh Pol, the impressive gateway to Amber Fort. Gateway is adorned with beautiful and engrossing traditional Rajasthani motifs. After that comes Charbagh, a Mughal patterns of gardens. Abmber Fort has other amazing and enchanting structures like Diwan-i-khas, Sukh Niwas, Jai Mandir and Jas Mandir. There are skilled and fine carvings on the walls and ceilings with beautiful mirror work in Diwan-I-Khas.

This is small description of the fort. To know more, keep browsing PalacesonWheels.com for more detailed information or for booking of tours in Palaces on Wheels, please fill the form given and send it to us.

Junagadh Fort, Bikaner

 

Located in in city of Bikaner in Rajasthan, Junagarh Fort is one of the few impregnable forts of India, not placed on a hilltop. Junagadh Fort,  Built in 15th century, Junagarh Fort is a massive one. Its construction was started by Raja Rai Singh, Akbar’s contemporary. The fort has an unparalleled and detailed architecture. The fort complex is adorned by various palaces, courtyards, pavilions and balconies. Interior décor of palaces inside the fort are one of their kinds. Carved stones, marble, paintings, and inlaid semi-precious stones magically bejewel the walls of the palaces.

The most striking legend about the Junagarh fort is that it was attacked many a times but never conquered. Only once, Kamaran captured the fort for brief stint of 24 hours. Still the fort and its structures are in marvelous state of conservation. There are 37 palaces, temples and pavilions. These magnificent structures are made up of red sandstone. The fort is surrounded by high wall and a deep moat to make it inaccessible by the enemy. Karan Pol is the main entrance to the Fort in the East. Suraj pol is the next entrance.

Some of the most beautiful palaces are in this fort like Anup Mahal, Ganga niwas, Rang Mahal, Chand mahal, Phool Mahal. . Then royal families used to worship at Har Mandir the temple in the fort. Junagadh Fort,There rich collection of royal belongings in the museum in the fort. It has collection of illuminated manuscripts, jewellery, jars and carpets, arms and weapons, treaties, decorations and the 'Farmans'.Anup Mahal was the main seat of rulers. Its rooms are well maintained, treasuring belongings of royal families. Moon Palace has mirrors, carved marble palaces and paintings adorning its alls and roofs. Then Phool Mahal was decorated with glasses and mirrors. In the same way every structure with in the fort has it uiniqe feature to enhance it.

For more information about the Junagarh Fort, keep browsing Palacesonwheels.com For more details or for booking of tour in palaces on wheels, please fill he form given and send it to us. 

Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh is located at a distance of 175 km from Udaipur. Chittorgarh was very powerful state of India in royal days, named after Chitrangad Maurya. Chittorgarh has many palaces, temples and towers. Chittorgarh Fort is a very huge structure atop a 180 m high hillock. Approach to the fort is not easy; it is 1 Km curvy step path.

Approached by seven gates, Chittorgarh Fort has an amazing fortification. Names of gates of this fort are Padan pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol, Jorla Pol, Lakshman Pol, to the main gate Rampol. The main gate of the fort is called Suraj Pol. Many gorgeous palaces adorn the fort like Rana Kumbha Palace, the Fateh Prakash Palace, the Tower of Victory and Rani Padmini's Palace. All these structures are magnificent examples of Rajput architectural features.

Chittorgarh Fort is 3 miles long and 495 ft high. This is the largest fort in India. Romance and chivalry of Rajputs are depicted by fort of Chittorgarh. The fort has cenotaphs of two heroes of Chittor, Jaimal and Kalla. There are temples near Hanuman Pol, Ram Pol, Lakshman pol.

Chittorgarh fort is more than a structure; it is an emblem of valor, truth and nobility. Fort was attacked thrice, sacked and rite of Jauhar was performed on each occasion. In 1567, in a battle with mughal emperor Akbar, then ruler of Chittor, Udaisingh fled. After that Chittorgarh was never resettled.

Vijay Stambh or Tower of Victory, 37 meters high structure with nine storeys, is special attraction in the fort. Another feature is Kirti Stambh or Tower of Fame, a 22 meter high structure built in 12th century.

For more interesting information about the Chittorgarh Fort, keep browsing PalacesOnWheels.com For detailed information or for online booking of tours in Palaces on wheels, please fill the form given and send it to us.

Taragarh Fort, Kota

 

Every city of rajasthan has its own colourful background. Each city basks in its glory of royal heydays. Taragarh FortPositioned at about 39 KM from Kota, Taragarh Fort is one of those royal marks left by royalties of Rajasthan. Built in the year 1354, Taragarh Fort is a huge architectural wonder of its times. Bird’s eye view of Kota town can be had from this fort.

Its main gateway can be accessed by only a steep slanting passage. The summit of gateway has got raging elephants on it. Another interesting feature of the gateway is the mounting of a huge cannon on the Bhim Burj. Taragarh Fort was meticulously designed. The fort has three gateways, namely, Lakshmi Pol, Phuta Darwaza and Gagudi ki Phatak, though now all are in ruins. The most interesting thing, that the fort was famous for was its network of tunnels in the entire hillside but now there is map available for these tunnels. These tunnels were used to be emergency track for king and his deputies to flee.

Taragarh Fort Bhim Burj, the massive stone tower placed within the fort, had large cannon named Garbha Gubjan. This is the second largest cannon in India. Then another unique feature of Taragarh fort is some huge water reservoirs. During the times of water crisis, these reservoirs used supply water to the residents. Rocky forts were carved out to make these reservoirs. Then there is tiny palace in fort complex itself, named Rani Mahal, for the wives of the kings. It has many glistening stunning murals and stained glass windows. But now nothing of that sort is left.

For more information about the Taragarh Fort, keep browsing PalacesonWheels.com for booking of tour on palaces on wheels, please fill the form given and send it to us. 

Kailasanatha Temple - Ellora

Kailasanatha Temple - Ellora

The Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora dates back to the period of the 8th century Rashtrakoota ruler Krishna I . It is a huge rock cut  monolithic temple built in the South Indian style. Ajanta  and Ellora, near Aurangabad are well known tourist attractions. In Ellora, are also  seen several Jaina, Buddhist  caves. The Kailasanatha temple is known for its architectural grandeur as well as its sculptural splendour.
 
History: More than 30 temples have been carved from the hillside here at Ellora during the period 6th-9th centuries CE. The most spectacular of these is the Kailasanatha temple, which is a colossal monolith with an ornate exterior, all carved out of the hillside. It was built during the period 757 and 773 CE.

The Temple: The Kailasanatha temple exhibits typical Dravidian features. A gateway, an enclosure for Nandi, and a mandapam line up in front of the sanctum which is crowned with a vimanam, composed of successively receding storeys, decroated with miniature buildings.

The mandapam in front of the sanctum is an enormous hypostyle hall with carved pillars. On either side of the Nandi Mandapam are two 50 feet high obelisk like pillars decorated with frieze carvings.

A collonaded gallery running along the bottom of the cliff face, forms a deep narrow passage that surrounds the temple. In between this cliff face and the temple is the pradakshinapatha. The narrow passage mentioned above has two storeys of hypostyle halls and porticoed galleries (as in the Tiruchutru Maaligais of the Dravidian temples of Tamilnadu).

The temple covers an area of over 60000 square feet, and the vimanam (tower) rises to a height of about 90 feet. It is to be emphasized over and over again, and seen to be believed that the entire monument was made by excavation and not by construction.

The temple tower resembles the rathas at Mamallapuram near Chennai in Tamilnadu.  The Kailasanatha temple resembles the architectural style established by the Pallavas of Mamallapuram and is yet considerably grander in scale. The shikhara (vimanam) displays a profusion of sculpted images. The shore temple at Mamallapuram was built around the same time as this temple.

While the shore temple was built dressed stone, the Kailasanatha temple at Ellora was created by excavating 400 000 tonnes of rock, calling for sheer brilliance on the part of the visionaries who architected the temple plans. Architects from the southern Pallava kingdom were sought for the creation of this temple.

Other caves of interest in Ellora are the Rameshwar cave, the Sita ki Nahani cave, and several Jain caves such as the Indra Sabha cave, all dating back to the pereiod 6th-9th centuries CE.

Elephanta Caves tempal

 Elephanta Caves tempal

The Elephanta Caves are a  great tourist attraction in the vicinity of the large Mumbai meteropolis. The Elephanta island is located 10 km away from the Gateway of India at Mumbai. These caves house rock cut temples dating back to the 5th century CE.

 elephanta.jpg (26015 bytes)

The Elephanta island was so named by the Portuguese, after the statue of an elephant near the landing area of the island. These rock cut temples dedicated to Shiva Mahadeva are rich in sculptural content. Motorboats take passengers from Appollo Bunder near the Gateway of India. .

How They were Constructed: This rock cut temples were created by carving out rock, and creating the columns, the internal spaces and the images. The entire temple is akin to a huge sculpture, through whose corridors and chambers one can walk. The entire complex was created through a process of rock removal. Some of the rock surfaces are highly finished while some are untreated bare rock.

The entire cave temple complex covers an area of about 60000 squrare feet and it consists  a main chamber and two lateral ones , courtyards and several subsidary shrines. Above the temple is the mass of natural rock.

There are three entrances to this temple. The ones on the east and the west marking the axis of the temple. A 20 pillared hall lines the axis, and on its western end is the cella in shich is enshrined a Shivalingam. The pillars consist of fluted columns standing on square bases, and are crowned with fluted cushion capitals.

The enigmatic image of Trimurthi Sadasiva: The Sadasiva manifestation of Shiva is carved in relief at the end of the north south axis.  This collossal 20 feet high  image of the three headed Shiva, Trimurthy is a magnificient one, considered to be a masterpiece of Indian art.  This colossal image represents Panchamukha Shiva, only three faces of whom are carved into the wall and it demands immediate attention upon entering the temple through the northern entrance. See All About Shiva for more information on Panchamukha Shiva.

Also on the southern wall are grand sculptured images of Kalyanasundara, Gangadhara, Ardhanariswara and Uma Maheswara. To the west of the northern entrance are sculptured images of Nataraja and Andhakaasuravadamoorthy, and to its east are images of Yogiswara and Ravanaanugrahamurthy.

Thus in the Elephanta caves, Shiva is portrayed in the non anthropomorphic Shivalingam form, as well as in his quintessential being emanating from the Shivalingam in the colossal image, and in 8 manifest forms.

To the east of the main temple is a courtyard, flanked by the secondary shrine. This temple contains six pillars at its entrance, four of which are free standing and two engaged. The entrance leads to a hall decorated with sculptured panels depicting legends from the Shiva Purana.

Nasiyan Jain Temple

Nasiyan Jain Temple

 Location:      At Prithviraj Marg, Ajmer
Built in:     1865
Dedicated to:     Lord Adinath
Attraction:     Museum with gilded sculptures
Significance:     One of the best Jain Temples across Rajasthan
How to reach:     One can easily reach Nasiyan Temple by taking regular Buses or by hiring Taxis from anywhere in Rajasthan

Nasiyan TempleThe renowned Nasiyan Jain Temple is to be found at Prithviraj Marg in Ajmer, Rajasthan. After the temples of Ranakpur and Mount Abu, Nasiyan temple is regarded as one of the best Jain temples in Rajasthan. Built in 1865, Nasiyan Temple is also known as Lal Mandir (Red Temple). Centrally located in Ajmer, the temple can be reached easily from anywhere in Rajasthan. Nasiyan Digambar Jain Temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Jain 'tirthankara'.

The two-storied structure of Nasiyan Temple is divided into two parts, where one is the worship area comprising the idol of Lord Adinath and the second is the museum including a hall. The museum hall gets the major attention due to its mind blowing interiors made up in gold. This exquisite museum depicts the five stages (Panch Kalyanak) in the life of Lord Adinath, in the stature of statues. With the dimensions of 40 x 80 feet, the hall is adorned with Belgium stain glass, mineral color paintings and stain glasswork.

The astonishing and inimitable display of the shrine, made it to be recognized, as the Golden Temple (Swarna Mandir). The focal hall is made surprisingly beautiful with gold and silver decorations. Digambar Jain Temple displays marvelous wooden gild representations, glass engravings and paintings, recounting the conviction of the Jainism with reference to the making of the world. Festooned by precious stones, gold and silver work, the place is also termed as Soni Ji Ki Nasiyan.

The celestial appearance of the temple creates a kind of divine aura that appeals to the mind of pilgrims and devotees. In the inner prayer chamber, small silver balls hanging from the ceiling absolutely enthrall the onlooker. The posh interiors of the temple boast of the aesthetic and rich taste of the Digambar Jains. In the vein of other Jain architecture, Nasiyan Temple has high fortifications encircling the temple complex. Jain Temple receives devotees, who come to pay their homage to Lord Adinath, from all over India.

 

Nasiyan Jain Temple also known as the Red Temple and located on Prithviraj Marg, this Digambar Jain temple was built in 1865. The main chamber consists of a double storeyed hall in which are housed large wooden figures portraying the Jain concept of the world. The hall is decorated lavishly with precious gems, gold and silver. The Nasiyan temple is one of the finest Jain temples in Rajasthan after the temples of Ranakpur and Mount Abu and is open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with an entry fee of Rs 2. Rajasthan Jain Temples

Speaking of Jain temples, western India namely Rajasthan is renowned for its dazzling temples built by rich Jain merchants. Jain temples are the richest in India and their splendour surpasses Mughal architecture at its best. With marble as the central theme, Jain temples boast of amazing finesse apparent in intricate carvings especially on ceilings and pillars. Jainism continued to make its subtle impact even during the Mughal rule, with the only difference being that at times Jain temples were built on the lines of a fort with a high wall surrounding the entire complex.
 

Kiradu Ancient Temples

Kiradu Ancient Temples

 Distance : 39 km from Barmer

Kiradu Ancient Temples lie at a distance of 39km from Barmer city in Hathma village.You find an inscription here dating back to 1161AD indicating that the place was once called Kiratkoop and had once been the capital of the Panwara dynasty. The Panwaras owed their allegiance to the rulers of Gujarat at the time.


¤ Kiradu Someshvara Temple

The Kiradu temples are a group of five temples and are grouped as ancient temples, an important site from the archaeological point of view. The largest and the most impressive amongst them is the Someshvara Temple. Built in the 11th century, the Someshvara ancient temple is said to be the best example of its kind today. Constructed in honour of Lord Shiva (the Destroyer in the holy trinity of Hindu gods), it has a rather stumpy multi-turreted tower and beautiful sculptures dedicated to the god. The inner sanctum has a resplendent image of the Lord. At its base, is a large reverse-curve lotus, which has a resemblance with the early Chola Temples of south India. This ancient temple also depicts scenes from the Hindu epic Ramayana. Other notable features are sculptures of apsaras (mythical dancing girls from the abode of the Gods) and vyalas (a griffin-like mythical beast generally associated with the Buddha) which were rarely seen after 1050AD in temple architecture. All in all, although Barmer is a bit out of the way you’ll get your money’s worth when you visit Someshvara.


¤ Other Group of Ancient Temples

The other four temples, also considered as ancient are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu (the Preserver in the holy trinity of Hindu deities). The temples show the influence of the Solanki school of architecture which originated in Gujarat, which is not surprising given the close links the Panwaras had with the rulers there.

 

Madurai

Madurai

Location : Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Area : 22 Sq. Kms
Attractions : The Meenakshi Temple, Mariamman Teppakulam,Tirumalai Naik
Ideal Time to Visit : November to February

¤ Madurai, The Temple City

Tamil Nadu travel guide will takes you to another temple city of South India. Madurai is the second largest city of the state of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its temples, especially for the celebrated Meenakshi Temple. Situated on the banks of river Vaigai, it derives its name from the divine nectar (Madhu) that was showered from the locks of Lord Shiva according to a popular legend. The city has a rich cultural heritage which it has inherited from the great Tamil era, which is more than 2500 years old. Once the capital of the great Pandya kings, Madurai was an important cultural and commercial center even as early as 550 AD.
temple at Madurai
Today, Madurai is a well-known producer of some of the finest textiles in India and some of the best harvests of jasmine flowers. The city of Madurai is also mentioned in Megasthenes' Indica. He was an ancient Greek diplomat and envoy to India in the 3rd century BC , who wrote praises about this temple city. Madurai's glory reached its peak, during the reign of the Cholas and then during the Pandyas' regime in the 13th century.


¤ History of Madurai

Madurai, the city is as old as its history, which dates back to the Sangam period of the pre Christian era. Madurai's honour returned in an impaired form in the earlier part of this millennium. Later, Madurai came under the rule of the Vijayanagar kingdom, after it was plundered by the destructive armies of Delhi (Malik Kafur).

During the 16th and 18th centuries, Madurai was ruled by the Nayak Emperors, the foremost of whom was Tirumalai Nayakar. In the Sangam period, poet Nakkeerar was associated with some of the Tiruvilayaadal episodes of Sundareswarar. Even today these episodes are enacted as a part of temple festival traditions.


¤ Attractions At Madurai

The ancient and historical city of Madurai has many places that pulls tourists from all over the world and makes it one of the most travel destinatiions in South India. Among the most famous attractions at Madurai, is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, where the main deities are Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva. The temple has 985 beautifully sculptured pillars, forming the Thousand Pillar Mandapam Hall. It has also been the center of Tamil art, music and dance.

The Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is another prime attraction in Madurai. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Vigneshwara. This temple is also the host of the annual float festival celebrated in the months of January and February. Thirupparankundram, situated 6 kms southwest of Madurai, is a small town known for its sacred granite hill. This place is regarded as one of the six dwellings of Lord Subramaniyam.

There is also a cave temple and a rock cut temple built by the Pandyas in the 8th century. Besides these attractions, Munnar, Thekkadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Palani Hills are other places of interest around Madurai.


¤ Excursions

Meenakshi TempleMadurai travel offer a number excursion options, which are exciting and intriguing. Some of the important ones are Vaigai Dam situated at a distance of 69 km, on the way to Thekkady. It is a beautiful picnic spot and is popular with the tourists and locals alike. Situated in the Western Ghats at a height of 2,130 m above sea level, Kodaikanal is a picturesque hill station. It is about 120 kms away from Madurai. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at a distance of 155 km from Madurai. The sanctuary is famous as the natural habitat for a wide variety of animals.


¤ Shopping At Madurai

Shopping at Madurai can be fun, here you can buy cotton and batiks, for which Madurai is famous. The Prithu Mandapam Market is a famous market of Maduari, situated just inside the eastern entrance of the Meenakshi Temple. Let yourself relax and visit the Pottramarai tank to feel the essence of Maduari.


¤ Festivals At Maduari

Festivals are celebrated in all twelve Tamil months at Madurai Meenakshi temple. Some of the popular festivals are Chithirai festival celebrated in the months of April - May and Avanimool festival celebrated in the months of September - Ocotber. Other important festivals are the Navarathri Festival and the Float Festival celebrated in the months of January- February.


¤ Reach Madurai

By Air : Madurai has its own airport situated 10 kms away from the city. There are daily flights to Madurai from Chennai, Bangalore, Tiruchi & Coimbatore.

By Rail : Madurai is an important railway junction of the Southern Railway and is directly connected to Chennai and Tirunelveli. Madurai is on the Madurai-Tiruchirappalli-Dindigul-Quilon route.

By Road : The city has excellent roads connecting Madurai to all parts of South India. It has 5 Major bus stand.

Madurai is one of the oldest cities of India, with a history dating all the way back to the Sangam period of the pre Christian era. The glory of Madurai returned in a diminished form in the earlier part of this millennium; it later on came under the rule of the Vijayanagar kingdom after its ransack by the ravaging armies of Delhi (Malik Kafur). During the 16th and 18th centuries, Madurai was ruled by the Nayak Emperors, the foremost of whom was Tirumalai Nayakar. The Sangam period poet Nakkeerar is associated with some of the Tiruvilayaadal episodes of Sundareswarar - that are enacted as a part of temple festival traditions even today.

The Sangam age or the Golden age of Tamil literature – produced masterpieces way back in the Pre christian era and in early 1st millennium . Madurai was the seat of the Tamil Sangam or Academy of learning. The entire city of Madurai, is built around the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple – the temple par excellence. Concentric rectangular streets surround the temple, symbolizing the structure of the cosmos.

As early as the 3rd century BC, Megasthanes visited Madurai. Later many people from Rome and Greece visited Madurai and established trade with the Pandya kings. Madurai flourished till 10th century AD when it was captured by Cholas the arch rivals of the Pandyas.

The Cholas ruled Madurai from 920 AD till the beginning of the 13th century. In 1223 AD Pandyas regained their kingdom and once again become prosperous. Pandian Kings patronised Tamil language in a great way. During their period, many master-pieces were created. "Silapathikaram", the great epic in Tamil was written based on the story of Kannagi who burnt Madurai as a result of the injustice caused to her husband Kovalan. In April 1311, Malik Kafur, the general of Alauddin Khilji who was then the ruler of Delhi, reached Madurai and raided and robbed the city for precious stones, jewels, and other rare treasures. This led to the subsequent raids by other Muslim Sultans. In 1323, the Pandya kingdom including Madurai became a province of the Delhi empire, under the Tughlaks.

The 1371, the Vijayanagar dynasty of Hampi captured Madurai and it became part of the Vijayanagar empire. Kings of this dynasty were in habit of leaving the captured land to governors called Nayaks. This was done for the efficient management of their empire. The Nayaks paid fixed amount annually to the Vijayanagar empire. After the death of Krishna Deva Raya (King of Vijayanagar empire) in 1530 AD, the Nayaks became independent and ruled the territories under their control. Among Nayaks, Thirumalai Nayak (1623-1659) was very popular, even now he is popular among people, since, it was he who contributed to the creation of many magnificent structures in and around Madurai. The Raja Gopuram of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, The Pudu Mandapam and The Thirumalai Nayakar's Palace are living monuments to his artistic fervor.
Madurai started slipping into the hands of the British's East India Company. In 1781, British appointed their representatives to look after Madurai. George Procter was the first collector of Madurai.

Now after India's independence, Madurai is one of the major districts of Tamilnadu State. Later on Madurai district was bifurcated into two districts namely Madurai and Dindugul Districts. In Madurai District, there are 15 State Assembly constituencies and two parliament constituencies.

The history of Madurai will not be complete without mentioning the name of RaniMangammal, the woman of great skill and sagacity. History does not provide many instances of ruling queens in Tamil Nadu. Though it was considered that women were not suited to succeed the throne of a kingdom, Rani Mangammmal, however shines in almost solitary eminence as an able and powerful ruler in Tamil Nadu.

Madurai is famous for its temples.The Aappudaiyaar Koyil Tevara Stalam and the Koodalazhagar Divya Desam are the most important temples one should rarely miss to go. In the vicinity of Madurai is Tirupparamkunram, one of the 6 padai veedu shrines of Murugan (glorified in Madurai Sangam Nakeerar’s Tirumurugaatruppadai). Also in the vicinity of Madurai is Alagar Koyil, one of the prominent Divya Desam shrines of the Sri Vaishnavite faith.

Birla Mandir

Birla Mandir

Also Known As Lakshmi-Narayan Mandir
¤ Also Known As Birla Mandir

 

Strictly speaking, this structure is not part of the New Delhi Lutyens designed. Famous Birla Mandir in Delhi is essentially a Hindu temple which came up alongside with New Delhi and has therefore been pegged with it. Popularly known as the Birla Mandir, it is the first of the temples built across the country by the industrial family of Birla. Located just off Connaught Place on Mandir Marg, it is dedicated to Vishnu, the second of the Hindu Trinity of creator-preserver-destroyer, and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth.


¤ The Most Important Temples of Hindus

Built in 1938, famous Birla Mandir in Delhi was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Indian Nation) on the express condition that people of all castes and especially untouchables would be allowed in. (Refer to section People). Consequently a plaque at the gate reiterates that people of all faiths and classes are welcome. Till date, it remains one of the most popular temples in Delhi.


¤ The Architectural Brilliance of The Birla Mandir (Temple)

Birla Mandir is also famous for the festival of Janmashtami (birth of the Hindu deity Krishna). The festival is celebrated here with much goodwill and cheer.

The temple is designed in the Orissan style, with tall curved towers capped by large amalakas (circular ribbed motif at the summit of a temple tower). The exterior is faced with the white marble and red sandstone typical of Delhi’s Mughal architecture. The interior court is overlooked by two-storey verandahs on three sides; there are gardens and fountains at the rear. The profusion of sculptures, idols, spires and jalis, the Birla Mandir in Delhi is also considered as splendor in terms of its architecture.
 

 

Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple

 

Lotus Temple - a modern of Delhi is one such temple that facilitates the Bhai's Faith of Worship. The Baha’i House of Worship is dedicated to the oneness of all religions and mankind. Subsidiary buildings that afford relief to the suffering, sustenance to the poor, shelter to the wayfarer, solace to the bereaved and education to the ignorant will abound around the House of Worship.

There is no clergy in the Baha’i Faith and its service consists of prayers and readings of selections from Baha’i scriptures, and religious texts of the other faiths of the world.


¤ The Bahai's Faith

The Baha’is lay great emphasis on prayer and meditation. These, they believe are important instruments for the progress of the human soul, both in this world and the next. The Baha’is pray to one God, the Creator of the Universe.

The act of praying is described as ‘Conversation with God’.Meditation is perceived as the ‘Key for opening the doors of mysteries’. In that state, man withdraws himself from all outside objects and immerses himself in the ocean of spiritual life.

In the Baha’i Holy Writings, there are prayers for all occasions. Prayers can be offered individually or collectively. Great importance is given to prayers as is revealed in all the Scriptures.

However, the Baha’i Writings specify that the mere act of praying is not sufficient. The inspiration drawn from one's prayers must be translated into action that promotes the well being of humanity.

Worship

As with all other Bahá'í Houses of Worship, the Lotus Temple is open to all regardless of religion, or any other distinction, as emphasized in Bahá'í texts. The Bahá'í laws emphasize that the spirit of the House of Worship be that it is a gathering place where people of all religions may worship God without denominational restrictions.[2] The Bahá'í laws also stipulate that only the holy scriptures of the Bahá'í Faith and other religions can be read or chanted inside in any language; while readings and prayers can be set to music by choirs, no musical instruments can be played inside. Furthermore no sermons can be delivered, and there can be no ritualistic ceremonies practiced.[2]
Structure
Bahá'í House of Worship
Lotus Temple at sunset

All Bahá'í Houses of Worship, including the Lotus Temple, share certain architectural elements, some of which are specified by Bahá'í scripture. `Abdu'l-Bahá, the son of the founder of the religion, stipulated that an essential architectural character of a House of Worship be that it requires to have a nine-sided circular shape.[3] Inspired by the lotus flower, its design is composed of 27 free-standing marble clad "petals" arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides.[4] While all current Bahá'í Houses of Worship have a dome, they are not regarded as an essential part of their architecture.[5] Bahá'í scripture also states that no pictures, statues or images be displayed within the House of Worship and no pulpits or altars be incorporated as an architectural feature (readers may stand behind simple portable lecture stands).[2] The nine doors of the Lotus Temple open onto a central hall, capable of holding up to 2,500 people. The central hall is slightly more than 40 meters tall[6] and its surface is made of white marble. The white marbles are from Penteli mountain in Greece, the very same from which many of the ancient monuments were built and also many other Bahai temples[7]. The House of Worship, along with the nine surrounding ponds and the gardens around comprise 26 acres (105,000 m²; 10.5 ha).

The site is in the village of Bahapur, in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The architect was an Iranian, who now lives in Canada, named Fariborz Sahba. He was approached in 1976 to design it, later oversaw its construction and saved money from the construction budget to build a greenhouse to study which indigenous plants and flowers would be appropriate for the site.[8] The major part of the funds needed to buy this land was donated by Ardishír Rustampúr of Hyderabad, who gave his entire life savings for this purpose in 1953. [9]
Tourism

Since its inauguration to public worship in December 1986, the Bahá'í House of Worship in Delhi has, as of late 2002, attracted more than 50 million visitors, making it one of the most visited buildings in the world.[10] Its numbers of visitors during those years surpassed those of the Eiffel Tower and the Taj Mahal. On Hindu holy days, it has drawn as many as 150,000 people; it welcomes four million visitors each year (about 13,000 every day or 9 every minute).

This House of Worship is generally referred to as the "Lotus Temple". In India, during the Hindu festival Durga Puja, several times a replica of the Lotus Temple has been made as a pandal, a temporary structure set up to venerate the goddess Durga.[11] In Sikkim a permanent replica is of the Hindu Legship Mandir, dedicated to Shiva. [12]
Distinctions
View of the Bahá'í House of Worship at night

The Temple has received wide range of attention in professional architectural, fine art, religious, governmental and other venues.
Awards

    * 1987, the Architect of the Bahá'í House of Worship, Mr. Fariborz Sahba an Iranian born was presented the award for excellence in religious art and architecture by the UK-based Institution of Structural Engineers for producing a building "so emulating the beauty of a flower and so striking in its visual impact".[13]
    * 1987, the Interfaith Forum on Religion, Art and Architecture, Affiliate of the American Institute of Architects, Washington, D.C., gave their First Honour award for "Excellence in Religious Art and Architecture" 1987 to Mr. F. Sahba for the design of the Bahá'í House of Worship near New Delhi.[1]

A pond surrounds the Lotus Temple

    * 1988, the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America conferred the Paul Waterbury Outdoor Lighting Design Award - Special Citation for Exterior Lighting[1]
    * 1989, the Temple received an award from the Maharashtra-India Chapter of the American Concrete Institute for "excellence in a concrete structure".[1]
    * 1994 edition of Encyclopaedia Britannica, in its 'Architecture' section gives recognition to the Temple as an outstanding achievement of the time.[1]
    * 2000, Architectural Society of China as one of 100 canonical works of the 20th century in the recently published "World Architecture 1900-2000: A Critical Mosaic, Volume Eight, South Asia."[14]
    * 2000, GlobArt Academy in Vienna presented its "GlobArt Academy 2000" award to the architect of the Lotus Temple, Fariborz Sahba, for "the magnitude of the service of [this] Taj Mahal of the 20th century in promoting the unity and harmony of people of all nations, religions and social strata, to an extent unsurpassed by any other architectural monument worldwide."[14]

Publications
Articles
Dawn in Delhi

As of 2003 it had been featured in television programmes in India, Russia and China. The Baha'i World Centre Library has archived more than 500 publications which have carried information on the Temple in the form of articles, interviews with the Architect and write-ups extolling the structure.[1]

    * In France, the magazine "Actualite des Religions" published a four-page article on the Lotus Temple in the fall of 2000 in a special edition called "Les religions et leurs chef-d'œuvres" (Religions and Their Masterpieces).[15][1]
    * Guinness World Records 2001
    * Architecture (magazine) Sept. 1987
    * Lighting Design+Application Vol 19, No. 6, Illuminating Engineering Society of North America "Taj Mahal of the Twentieth Century"
    * Wallpaper* October 2002
    * Progressive Architecture, February[1] and again December 1987
    * World Architecture: A Critical Mosaic 1900-2000, Vol 8, by Kenneth Frampton, Springer-Verlog Wien publishers, New York - "A power icon of great beauty ... an import symbol of the city."
    * Faith & Form - Journal of the IFRAA affiliate of the American Institute of Architects, Vol XXI "an extraordinary feat of design, construction and appropriateness of expressions"
    * Structural Engineer, UK (annual) Dec. 1987
    * Encyclopaedia Iranica 1989

Dilwara Jain Temples

Dilwara Jain Temples

 Dilwara Temples are one of the finest Jain temples & many even consider them architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal.
*Built between 11th & 13th century, the most outstanding feature are its exquisite carvings in marble.
The two temples Vimala Vasahi & Luna Vasahi are singled out by experts as superb examples of architecture.

¤ Dilwara Temples - An Architectural Marvel

Dilwara Temple Mount Abu's chief claims to fame are the Jain temples architecture at Dilwara, about 5km from Nakki lake. The Dilwara temples were built during the age of Jain supremacy and are one of the finest Jain temples India has to offer. Many experts consider them architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal. The architecture is marked by carvings that are not just ethereally beautiful in form but are often presented in a highly poetic context. For instance, one of the marble nayikas (maidens) is depicted as having just emerged from her bath. Droplets falling from her long hair are shown being drunk by a swan sitting by her feet.


¤ Exquisite Temple Carvings

Perhaps the most outstanding feature of Jain temple architecture is its carvings. and that is an understatement. Wherever one looks, be it pillars, ceilings, walls and floors, Jain temples go to the extreme – and beyond it – when it comes to adorning their temples with the very stone they work with. Jain mythology, saints, gods and goddesses, monks, devotees or just good old religious motifs all find their way in a spectacular rendezvous in marble and rock. Each nook and corner of Jain temples are so diligently carved that it’s a wonder that the edifice was created out of plain stone. Carving is perhaps not the right word for Jain temples – chiselling would be more appropriate. Their fragile delicacy merged with an architectural lexicon is what constitues the basis of these amazing temples. Simply put, there is not an inch where one can place his hand and not encounter a spectacular frieze.

¤ The Methodology of Carving

In the temples in Mount Abu even chiseling was put aside, and artisans adopted the sedulous task of thinning the marble into carved images, a worth noticing architectural splendor. This was done by gently scraping away the surface till a figure eventually emerged, so intricate and fine that it was intelligibly magnificent. This is the reason why the temples in Mount Abu and Ranakpur are said to be the finest Jain temples in the world.

¤ Marvelous Architecture Splendor
The architectural vocabulary of the region included ornamental rendering of flowers and creepers. The portrayal of Yakshini Chakreshwari, the attendant deity of Adinatha (first Jain saint) is an integral part of the temple. Keeping with the prevailing aesthetic norms the figures have sharp facial features set in broad faces and narrow waists. The intricately sculpted arches here are of two types; one with regular wavy undulations and the other, which is seen in the Vimala Vasahi, with exaggerated curves. Two of these temples have been singled out by many experts as outstanding. These are the Vimala Vasahi built in 1031-32AD and Luna Vasahi built in 1230.


¤ Vimala Vasahi Temple
Dilwara Temple
This Jain temple was built by Vimala Shah (variously described as a merchant and a minister of the Solanki ruler of Gujarat) to atone for his sins. This temple, dedicated to the first Jain tirthankar (fordmaker) Adinatha, involved a work force of 2,700 men and took a total of 14 years to complete at an exuberant cost, a worth noticing specimen of architectural splendor. Prithvipala, a descendant of Vimala, is also known to have added to the magnificent temple in 1150AD. The temple of Vimala is supposed to the oldest and the most `complete’ example of Jain temple architecture. The rather simple façade hides an amazingly beautiful interior.

¤ The Gateway

The entrance to the temple is from the east through a domed porch which leads to a six-pillared pavilion with a three-tiered smosan (a conventional representation of the holy mountain of the Jains) in the center. The smosan is surrounded by 10 statues including that of the founder Vimala and his family, each seated on a beautiful elephant chiseled out of a single block of white marble, about four feet high. These representations are now badly defaced, having been destroyed by plundering zealots.


¤ The Shrine of Jina Adinatha

From the pavilion one passes into a secluded courtyard. Here the temple resolves itself into a colonnade which forms an open arcade containing the shrine. Seated in the center of this shrine is the cross-legged seated figure Jina Adinatha, to whom the temple is dedicated. The entire interior architecture is leniently covered with elaborate carvings, but the splendour of the domed ceiling of this hall is what sets it apart from all others. Percy Brown, in his book Indian Architecture: Buddhist and Hindu Period, details the profusion of imagery that went into this ornate ceiling: "This dome is built up of 11 concentric rings, five of which, interposed at regular intervals, depict patterns of figures and animals…The lowest contain the forefronts of elephants, their trunks intertwined, as many as a 150 of these in close ranks. A few mouldings above is another border representing images in nichés, also repeated many times, and again over that a similar course of dancing figures. This is followed higher up in the concavity by a series of horsemen, finishing in the topmost storey with more figures engaged in an endless dance. Between these various figured courses are ornamental repeats, gradually becoming more pronounced until towards the apex they culminate in a grouping of pendants not like festoons of foliage suspended from the high trees of a forest." Superimposed upon all this, athwart the outer concentric rings, are 16 brackets that easily catch the eye. Each of these is a female figure, representing a Vidyadevi, or goddess of knowledge.

¤ Luna Vasahi Temple

The temple of Luna Vasahi dedicated to the 22nd Jain saint Neminath, was built two centuries later by two brothers, Tejpala and Vasupala. The inscription in this temple, however, ascribes its erection and endowment to Tejpalaa in memory of his brother. The inscription records that it was consecrated in 1230AD. This temple, though slightly smaller than Vimala Vasahi, illustrates further efflorescence of the style, accompanied by a richer elaboration of decorations. The doorways are framed by ornate bases, and the eight pillars of the assembly hall are loftier and of different types. In some places the marble is so finely carved that it seems translucent. The highlight is again the ceiling with magnificently carved figures of dancers, animals, mythological figures and processions of horsemen. From the center of the ceiling hangs a clustered and finely carved marble pendant. It is said that its artisans were told to make the pendant the only one of its kind, and were offered the weight of their marble shavings in gold. The more intricately they chiseled out the marble the more weight the scales got, making the artisans richer with each shaving.

Kanyakumari Temple

Kanyakumari Temple

¤ The Temple of Virgin Goddess

Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of India and the merging point of three seas; the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. It is named after the virgin Goddess Kanyakumari whose temple is situated here on its shore.

Kanyakumari TempleThis temple is devoted to a manifestation of Parvati, the virgin goddess who performed penance to acquire Lord Shiva's hand in marriage. The temple is a major tourist attraction with neighboring ghat, beautifully placed overlooking the shore. It is an eminent belief that the diamond nose-ring of the deity is so shiny that it is visible even from the sea.

There are two rocks emerging out of the ocean, located southeast of the Kumari Amman temple. One among these is Sri Padaparai, where the footprints of the virgin goddess are believed to be imprinted on this rock. It is said that Swami Vivekananda sat in deep meditation here and therefore the Vivekananda Rock Memorial was built in 1970. Along with this there also a dhyana mandapam, which provides a tranquil atmosphere to meditate.


¤ Legend Related To The Temple

Legends say that the wedding of Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva was to be held here. But he did not arrived at the auspicious time and the wedding never took place. The food that was to be cooked was left uncooked. Here the stones resemble rice and cereals which can also be bought. According to the people residing here these stones are the leftovers of the legendary marriage that could not be solemnized. As for the princess Kanya Devi, she became a virgin goddess, blessing everyone who visits this temple.

¤ The Features of The Temple

The temple is entered mainly through the northern gate, inspite of the fact that the deity is facing east. The eastern entrance remains closed except for special occasions when the deity is taken out for ceremonial bath.

There are all together three corridors that skirt the sanctum. The outer corridor is deprived of special shrines, but after a walk round it the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam'. A pathway leads to the second corridor surrounding the shrine. There stands the flag mast or 'Kodisthambam'. The Goddess can be clearly viewed from here. Moving further you will reach the front of the sanctum.

The Idol of the Goddess stands with rosary in one hand as if in prayer. It is said to be installed by Parasurama and is made of blue stone. In the inner corridor, the shrines of Vinayagar and Thiagasundary are present, which is visited by devotees after worshiping the Goddess.

Temples at Pushkar

Temples at Pushkar

 

 ¤ Jagat Shri Brahma Temple

The only standing Hindu temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, the structure around the temple was built in the 14th century and stands on a high platform near Pushkar lake. Brahma is one of the Holy Trinity in Hinduism, sharing the honour with Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer. Although a very large number of temples can be found all over India dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu, there are very few temples for Brahma, this being one of the holiest one.

Temples at PushkarMarble steps lead up to the temple where a silver turtle lies embossed in the floor facing the sanctorum. The marble floor around the turtle is littered with hundreds of silver coins embedded in the floor, and so are the walls of the temple. Images of the peacock, the vehicle of Brahma’s consort Saraswati, adorn the temple walls. Brahma here is shown in a life-size form with four hands and four faces, facing four different directons. A hans (goose, the official carrier of Brahma) spans the gateway to the temple which is crowned with a red spire. A small statue of the milk goddess Gayatri (whom Brahma married) near Brahma’s idol is called Chaumurti. Steps within the silver-doored sanctuary lead down into a small cave which is a Hindu temple of Lord Shiva.

¤ Other Temples & Ghats

Varah Temple
The Varah temple of Hindu was built in the 12th century and, and the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb is said to have destroyed it. Aurangzeb was understandably rather upset with the huge statue of Varah, the god with the body of a man and the head of a boar. However, Raja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur thought differently, and in 1727 reconstructed the temple which now has a highly decorated inner sanctum where an idol of Varah is placed.

Mahadeva Temple
The 19th century Mahadeva temple with its five-faced statue of Mahadeva is made entirely of white marble. This Hindua temple is remarkable for its elegance of structure, and is perhaps the finest of all temples in and around Ajmer and Pushkar.

Ramavaikunth Temple
The Ramavaikunth temple is an intricately carved Hindu temple dating to the 1920 and has images of 361 deities. Its high stone spires atop pagodas and the rest of the temple were built by masons especially brought for this purpose from south India. The Savitri temple is located on top of a hill overlooking the lake. The hike up the hill is long and arduous via a stairway built in the 4th century, and if panoramic views are a necessity for you, the trek will be worth it. This temple is dedicated to Brahma’s wife Savitri and its origin dates back to over 2,000 years.

Gayatri Temple
The Gayatri temple on the other side of Pushkar is in honour of the wife who sat by Brahma’s side in Savitri’s absence during Brahma’s ceremonial sacrifice. Legend says that Gayatri was an untouchable and to purify her she was put into the mouth of a cow and taken out from the other end. To reach the Gayatri Hindu temple the best route to take is from behind the bus stand and walk up a hill. Both the Savitri and Gayatri temples are closed – so to say – during lunch hours and the best time to go is either before noon or in the evening.

Travel to Brahma Temple in Pushkar,IndiaRaghunath Temples
Two Raghunath temples exist in Pushkar; one is the old one and the other is relatively new. The Old Raghunath temple was built in 1823 and houses images of Venugopal, Narasimha (Vishnu’s fourth incarnation) and Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. But there’s a bit of a problem for foreign tourists visiting these two temples because of one little sign which says "Foreigners not allowed." These are probably the only binary temples in India where such segregation exists.

Pap Mochini Temple
Towards the northen section of Pushkar is the Pap Mochini temple, not really popular for its architecture or deity but for the simple belief that anyone who kills a Brahmin will be purified of this deed by visiting the Hindu temple, of course, all that was applicable in olden times, for today a murder is a murder and the law would hear nothing else.

Bathing Ghats
Where there is a mass of holy water there will be bathing ghats, and in Pushkar it is the same as all over India. Pushkar lake is surrounded by hundreds of ghats where Hindu pilgrims assemble to bathe, pray or just loiter around. Removing ones shoes would be a good idea unless you want to be glared or shouted at! Photography is a strict no-no, especially of bathing women. Pushkar is quite used to tourists, but unlike Varanasi, is home for orthodox Hindus, and a little care to observe Hindu traditions can help.

Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho

Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho 

 

¤ Well-Preserved Stone Temple of Khajuraho

To the left of the entrance a path takes you up to the famous Lakshmana Temple, a grand edifice that stands on a high platform. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu – the preserver of the Hindu Trinity of Gods. If you are one of those who realise after coming all the way here that you won’t be able to walk so much, take heart – this temple alone will make your trip.

Dating from 930-950 AD it is one of earliest Khajuraho stone temples going in Khajuraho. Considering its age, the Lakshmana Temple is remarkably well-preserved; in fact it is one of the best preserved temples of the whole lot.

According to the inscription on the Lakshmana Khajuraho Stone Temple, it was built by a certain King Yasovarman to install a Vaikuntha-Vishnu image (which can still be seen here) gifted to him by his Pratihara overlord, Devapala. The image was brought originally from Tibet (or Bhosa as it was known then), where the cult of worshipping Vishnu in his Vaikuntha (the multi-headed Vishnu) avatar was popular.

¤ The Exclusive Carving of Khajuraho Stone Temple

Lakshmana Temple in Khajurho The outer wall of the Lakshmana stone Temple in Khajuraho is exquisitely carved – indeed every inch of space bears the mark of the sculptor’s artistic flight of fantasy. In front of it are two open pavilions or mandapas.

The one furthest to the south is the Varaha mandapa with a huge image of the standing Varaha (the boar incarnation of Vishnu), the preserver who rescued the earth from primeval floods (the ones that Noah sailed too, one presumes).

The entire body of the divine creature is carved in low relief along with the figures of more than 600 gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon. Besides the Varaha mandapa is a reconstructed Devi mandapa which once contained an image.

¤ The Sculptures

The platform that the temple stands on has a charming sculptural frieze of elephants and horsemen in procession. On the southern side are a few of the more explicitly erotic panels. Climbing the stairs one reaches the broad platform of the temple meant for the ritual pradakshina or circumambulation.

It is noteworthy in having a boundary railing and a subsidiary shrine in each corner. The most delectable part of the Khajuraho stone temple scheme is the bands of sculptural decoration with exquisite figures of apsaras (celestial courtesans/nymphs), the guardians of the directions and other divine creatures. Erotic panels take a central position on the two balconies of the stone temple. On the western side are a few outstanding sculptures and the voluptuous, curvaceous forms of nude women with ornate jewellery.

The Khajuraho stone temple faces east and a steep flight of stairs leads up to the inner sanctum placed high above ground level. There is an entrance porch, a hall of pillars and interesting sculptural motifs on the sidewall. The inner ritual passage winds around the sanctum and is dressed with bands of sculpture in imitation of the temple’s external wall. The deity’s alcove is raised above floor level and contains within its dark interiors a large image of the Vaikuntha Vishnu, bearing three heads representing his various incarnations.

 

Chaturbhuja Temple,

Chaturbhuja Temple

¤ Location

Built in 1100 A.D. it is one of the well known architectural temples of Khajuraho, located about 3km from the village, near the Eastern Group of temples i.e. Lakshmana, Kandhariya Mahadeva. This temple faces the West, standing on a platform, which is approached by a flight of ten steps. The floor of the platform is paved with white sandstone. The architectural and sculptural traditions of this temple are quite similar to the Javari temple. The temple on plan consists of a shikhara, a square sanctum, an antarala, the mahamandapa and an ardhmandapa which are interconnected and located on the same axis.
Chaturbhuja Temple, Khajuraho

¤ Main Attractions

The highlight of this temple is a massive 9ft high, intricately carved image of Lord Vishnu, in Chaturbhuja (four-armed) form. Here he gesticulates possibly varada (boon-giving) with his now broken lower right hand, and abhaya with his upper right hand, holds a manuscript along with a lotus stalk in his upper left hand, and possibly a water pot or conch shell in his lower left hand.

The Chaturbhuja Temple is the only temple in Khajuraho which lacks erotic sculptures, with the bands on the walls of the temple set with architectural images of dikhpalas, ashtavasus, nymphs and the recesses of mythical lions.Though this temple belonging to the Southern Group, is impressive and has been preserved in major portions, still signs of decline are evident.

Khajuraho

Khajuraho

¤ The Stones of Passion

Right through the Mughal invasion and the early British forays into India, Khajuraho temples in India remained unknown. Rediscovered in this century, they are fine reminders of India's glorious past.

To some, Khajuraho Temples are the most graphic, erotic and sensuous sculptures of India, the world has ever known. But Khajuraho has not received the attention it deserves for its significant contribution to the religious art of India – there are literally hundreds of exquisite images on the interior and exterior walls of the shrines.

Architecturally these temples are unique. While each temple in Khajuraho has a distinct plan and design, several features are common to all. They are all built on high platforms, several metres off the ground, either in granite or a combination of light sandstone and granite. Each of these temples has an entrance hall or mandapa, and a sanctum sanctorum or garbha griha. The roofs of these various sections have a distinct form. The porch and hall have pyramidal roofs made of several horizontal layers. The inner sanctum's roof is a conical tower - a colossal pile of stone (often 30m high) made of an arrangement of miniature towers called shikharas.

The famous Western group of temples are designated as the World Heritage Site and is enclosed within a beautifully laid out park. The Lakshmana and Vishwanath Temples to the front and The Kandriya Mahadev, Jagadami and Chitragupta Temples displays the best craftmanship of Khajuraho
Quick bytes
State :
   
Madhya Pradesh
Location :
   
The City of Khajuraho is situated in the forested plains of Madhya Pradesh in the region known as Bundelkhand and at a reasonable distance from most cities and town centers of the state
Watch Out :
   
Western Group of Temples Eastern Gropu of Southern Group of Temples
Look Out :
   
Khajuraho Dance Festival Held - 25 th Feb - 30 th Feb
World Heritage Site :
   
Western Group of Temples

¤ Major Groups of Khajuraho Temples

For the purpose of convenience, the village of Khajuraho has been divided into three directional areas in which are located the major groups of temples .

Western Group Temples
These groups of Khajuraho temples are entirely Hindu, and constitute some of the finest examples of Chandela art at its peak. The largest being the Kandhariya Mahadev, followed by a granite temple - Chaunsath Yogini. The Chitragupta Temple is dedicated to the Sun God, while the Vishwanath Temple sports a three-headed image of Brahma – the Creator of the Universe. The Lakshmana Temple is superbly decorated, while the Devi Jagdambi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Other temples in the Western Group include the Varaha Temple with a nine-feet high boar-incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the Matangeshwara Temple with a eight-feet high lingam, and the Brahma Temple.

Eastern Group Temples
This group of Khajuraho tempels comprises of two historic Jain temples – the Adinath Temple lavishly embellished with sculpted figures, and the Parsvanath Temple, the largest Jain temple, sculpted with charming detail. There are other shrines such as the Vamana Temple with apsaras in sensuous poses, and the Javari Temple that has a richly-carved doorway. Click Here


¤ Southern Group

This group has two impressive Khajuraho temples, mainly belonging to the 12th century – the Chaturbhuja Temple, with a massive, carved image of Vishnu, and the Duladeo Temple, one of the last temples of the Chandela era, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Symbolising a medieval legacy, the Khajuraho temples of India are a perfect fusion of architectural and sculptural excellence, representing one of the finest examples of Indian art.


¤ Souvenirs from Khajuraho

Being one of the most visited places in India, many shops have developed which offers souvenirs at best of prices. There are number of stalls in front of these temples that presents array of articles which are worth buying.


¤ Khajuraho Dance Festival

Held every year from 25th February to 2nd March, Khajuraho Dance festival provides an exclusive platform to showcase the Indian classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Odisi, Kathakali etc. For over 25 years now, the carved stones fills with life during the month of Feb.


¤ Getting to Khajuraho

Air : The airport is 5 kms from the city centre and is well connected by domestic flights to and from Agra, Varanasi and Kathmandu.
Train : Mahoba, Satna and Jhansi are the nearest railway stations. All of these are well connected by most of the major cities of India.
Road : Khajuraho is connected by regular bus services with Mahoba, Harpalpur, Satna, Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra, Jabalpur and Bhopal. Khajuraho is 590 kms from Delhi via Gwalior and Jhansi.