Indore - Madhya Pradesh

Indore is a historic city in Madhya Pradesh which has witnessed some major episodes of Indian history during the 17th to 19th centuries. The last rulers before the British took over the reigns of this former princely estate were the Holkers. They had been rewarded the region around modern Indore by the Peshwas, the Maratha rulers after Shivaji. The city is considered the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh today. A large number of industries have developed in and around the city, which has been known as a major textile hub in this part of the country. Some of the most prominent educational institutions of the region are situated in Indore, including the Indian institute of Management. The tourist attractions in Indore include the historic buildings, memorials, palaces, temples and museums.

The shopping malls, parks and the famous bazaars, or markets can also be considered to be among the tourist attractions in Indore. Tourism in Indore is aided by a large number of Indore Hotels providing a wide range of quality accommodation to the tourists. The Madhya Pradesh tour packages include many itineraries covering the major tourist attractions in Indore.

Important tourist attractions in Indore:

Lalbagh Palace:

This is the other palace of importance built by the Holkers. The palace is an elegant structure and is still used for important functions and ceremonies, as was its purpose in the past. The sprawling gardens of the palace and the interiors make it an important landmark in Indore.

Rajwada:

This magnificent palace belonged to the Holkers during the period of their reign over the region. The architecture of this palace is a fine blend of French, Mughal and Maratha architecture. The palace is 200 years old and with its beautiful galleries, gardens, fountains, and an artificial waterfall, is undoubtedly one of the major tourist attractions in Indore.

Chattri Bagh:

The Chattris are the local name given to domed structures built as memorials at the cremation sites of the important rulers of the region. The Chattri Bagh is one of the highlights of tourism in Indore as it contains many beautiful memorials that are of special interest to those interested in the history of the region. The garden is located near the Khan River. The memorial of Malhar Rao Holker, the founder of the Holker dynasty is the most prominent structure in the complex.

Kanch Mandir:

This magnificent temple is one of the major sites covered by the Madhya Pradesh tour packages. This Jain temple is intricately adorned by glasses that reflect 21 images of Lord Mahavir, which correspond to the 21 Jain Tirthankaras. The splendid glass work inside the temple is a fascinating example of master craftsmanship. This temple is also called Seth Hukumchand temple, after its builder.

Bada Ganapati:

Bada translates to large and Ganapati is the regional name for the famous elephant God in Hinduism. Ganapati is the major deity in this part of the country, and this temple has the largest statue of Ganapati in the world. The statue measures 8 meters and is made up of iron, copper, brass, gold and silver.

Central Museum:

This museum exhibits many artifacts from the prehistoric to modern era. The most interesting among these are the Paramara sculptures from the 11th and 12th centuries found at Hinglajgarh. The museum has an impressive collection of coins, arms, armors and paintings.

There are many places of interest around the city. Within easy and quick reach are historic places like Maheshwar, the erstwhile ruling post of the Holkers, the Omkareshwar temple, Ujjain, MHOW, Mandu and Patal Pani.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers complete information about the tourist attractions in Indore and other tourist places in India.

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Balancing Rock, Jabalpur

Balancing rock in Jabalpur (State: Madhya Pradesh) is unique rock formation. One can witness this near Madan Mahal.

It is believed to be eroded volcanic rock formation that survived even in earthquake of mag 6.5. The balance of the rock is intact since ages.

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Dhuandhar Falls, Bhedaghat

From Jabalpur at a distance of 25 kms is Bhedaghat (State: Madhya Pradesh).

Here the Narmada river, while making its way through the marble rocks narrows down and plunges over the rocks making a powerful roar and smoking cascade. Water falling from a height of 150 ft generates great noise with water sprinkles. It looks like a white smoke or fog. Hence the name Dhuandhar (Smoky) Falls.

The impact of the natural splendor while reaching the ground, the affinity of the falling river is a charming cascade. This place remains closed during monsoon season for general public i.e. from July to end of September month.

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Khajuraho Temple, Madhya Pradesh - India

History of Temples:


Khajuraho temples were constructed between 950 and 1050 A.D. during the reign of Chandel Empire. Khajuraho derives its name from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which can be found in abundance in the area. These temples are considered the "high point" of Indian architectural genius in the medieval period.


Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 still exist. The amazingly short span of 100 years, from 950 AD - 1050 AD, saw the completion of all the temples, in an inspired burst of creativity. With the wane of the Chandela Empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of Nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered, restored and granted the recognition that they justly deserve. The murals depict the life and times of the Chandelas, and celebrate the erotic state of being. They not only testify to the mastery of the craftsman, but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose reign, these temples were constructed. Their style of architecture was also rather peculiar to their times. Each structure stands on a high masonry platform with a distinct upward direction to their build, further enhanced by several vertical projections to simulate the effect of an overall lightness. The three main compartments are the entrance (ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa), and the actual sanctum (garbha griha). The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions : western, eastern and southern.


The creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon. The legend that describes the origin of this great dynasty is a fascinating one: Hemavati, the beautiful young daughter of a Brahmin priest was seduced by the moon god while bathing in the Rati one evening. The child born of this union between a mortal and a god was a son, Chandravarman. Harassed by society, the unwed mother sought refuge in the dense forest of Central India where she was both mother and guru to her young son. The boy grew up to found the great Chandela dynasty. When he was established as a ruler, he had a dream-visitation from his mother, who implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire. Chandravarman began the construction of the first of the temples, successive rulers added to the fast growing complex.
Yet another theory is that the erotica of Khajuraho, and indeed of other temples, had a specific purpose. In those days when boys lived in hermitages, following the Hindu law of being "brahmacharis" until they attained manhood, the only way they could prepare themselves for the worldly role of 'householder' was through the study of these sculptures and the earthly passions they depicted.


If the temples of Khajuraho can be said to have a theme, it is woman. A celebration of woman and her myriad moods and facets- Writing letters, applying kohl to her eyes, brushing her hair, dancing with joyous abandon playing with her child. Woman - innocent, coquettish, smiling - infinitely seductive, infinitely beautiful. Depicted in a wealth of detail, sharply etched, and sculpted with consummate artistry. The philosophy of the age dictated the enjoyment of the delights of arth (material wealth) and kama (sensual pleasures) while performing one's dharma (duty) as the accepted way of life for the grihastha (householder). Hence, the powerful combination of the visual and sensual pleasures combined with the duty attributed to the worship of the Dieties brings about a powerful transformation of the body and the soul. To include all of these aspects of life in one's early years makes it easier to renounce them without regret or attachment as one move on to one's next stages of life toward moksha (liberation).

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Chausath Yogini Temple, Jabalpur

This temple is located on a hill top in Bhedaghat is 21 kms from Jabalpur (State: Madhya Pradesh).

This temple is approached by a series of 150 plus steps. The temple in the center dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati was built by the Kalchuri dynasty in the 10th century AD.

This temple complex has an open circular courtyard around the temple atop a hill. In circular fashion there is a row of 64 idols of attendants of Goddess Durga called Yoginis around the temple. These beautiful lawa stone idols were plundered and disfigured by Moghul invaders.

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Raneh Waterfalls, Khajuraho

At a distance of 24 kms from Khajuraho is Ken Gharial Sanctuary. Here the Ken river passes through the granite rocks of different shades of colors, pink, red, misty white, green and gray.

The When Ken river running over the rocky terrain forms beautiful waterfalls, the Raneh Falls. Though the fall is only 30m high, it looks gorgeous when the gushing waters falls on vibrant rocks. The falls are set in the back drop of lusting greenery of pristine forests.

The entry to this park is closed during the rainy season. During the rainy season in 2008, there was so much rain that, there was no sign of waterfalls, the water was up till the top covering the falls.

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Jabalpur

From Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh) we moved to our next destination Jabalpur (State: Madhya Pradesh) which is at a distance of 260 kms. It took us 1 full day drive by road to reach this place.

Jabalpur is an important historical and cultural city of Madhya Pradesh. It is famous for the Marble Rocks through which flows the famed river Narmada.

Here one requires 1 full day to cover the places of interest. The places that I have covered on my tout of the place are as follows:

• Madan Mahal Fort
• Balancing Rock
• Chausatyogini Temple, Bhedaghat
• Dhuandhar Falls, Bhedaghat
  
• Bhedaghat - Marble Rocks

We will take more closer look these in the subsequent posts.

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Varaha Temple, Khajuraho

The Varaha Temple is located in front of the Lakshmana Temple is one of the oldest temple in Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh). Belonging to Western Group of Temples it is one of the smallest and beautifully carved temple at Khajuraho. It is built some time by the rulers of Chandela dynasty between 930 and 950 A.D.

The stands elevated above the ground with 14 short pillars that support the high pyramidal roof capped with an kalash. It has a huge monolithic image of the standing Varaha (the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu). The image is made out of sandstone and measures 2.6 meters long and 1.7 meters high. It is unique from other images of Khajuraho as the stone shines like burnished metal.

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 religion.main shrine of the temple has four subsidiary shrines at the corners of the temple platform. The temple has columned halls with balconies, an entrance porch, and the inner sanctum.

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Parsvanath Temple, Khajuraho

The Parsvanth Temple built in 950 - 1150 A.D belongs to the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples (State: Madhya Pradesh). This is one of the three Jain temples built by rulers of Chandel Dynasty inside the walled enclosure. (Click on the image for bigger view)

Measuring 20m x 11m, it is the largest among the Jain temples in Khajuraho. It is also one of the magnificently carved Jain temples in India. The walls of the temple have three bands of graceful sculptures depicting Hindu Gods.

The sculptures on the walls of this temple have been carved with great precision. More figures can be found on the outer face of the sanctum, depicting 'apsaras' (heavenly nymphs) in a variety of poses.

In the sanctum there is idol of Parshvanatha, a Jain Tirthankara.

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Nandi Shrine, Khajuraho

The Nandi Temple in Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh) is a small temple opposite to Vishwanath Temple. Both the temple built in 1000 A.D belong to Western Group of Temples with their entrance facing each other. It has a large stone image of Nandi. (Click on the image for bigger view)

It is an open square pavilion resting on twelve pillars. It has a pyramidal roof of receding tiers of steps with minimal carvings at the top. The noteworthy decoration on its facades is a bold elephant frieze on the basement.

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Ken Gharial Sanctuary

At a distance of 24 kms from Khajuraho is Ken Gharial Sanctuary situated at the confluence of the Ken and the Khudar rivers. The river passes through areas which is rich in 3 varieties of stones like Bauxite, Granite and Lime. (Click on images for bigger view)

The Sanctuary gets its name from the Gharial, the very rare species of crocodiles. They are characterized by their exceedingly elongated and unbelievably slender snouts. Unfortunately we missed the Gharials as we were late in spite of reaching the place before 9:30 a.m. In the sanctuary they come out of the river and stay on the rocky river bed during early mornings usually.

One can also see here beautiful Raneh Water Falls.

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Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho

The Lakshmana Temple is one of the oldest temple in Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh). Belonging to Western Group of Temples it is the largest and beautifully carved temple at Khajuraho. It is built by King Yaovarman of Chandela dynasty between 930 and 950 A.D. (Click on the image for bigger view)

The main shrine of the temple has four subsidiary shrines at the corners of the temple platform. The temple has columned halls with balconies, an entrance porch, and the inner sanctum.

In the inner sanctum is the sacred image of Vaikuntha-Vishnu brought from Tibet.

Decorating the sides of the temple are numerous statues. It is exquisitely decorated, almost completely with images of over 600 gods in the Hindu Pantheon. Most of the sculptures have economy of drapery but are effusively patterned with ornaments and flower motifs.

The various carvings and sculptures at this temple.

On the base of the platform are beautifully carved carvings. One such band of carving is King sitting on the throne in the Royal Hall with his ministers. In front of the King dance and music is played.

For more visit Mosaic Monday

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Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho

The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh) is the finest example of architecture of the medieval period in India. Belonging to Western Group of Temples it is the largest and most ornate Hindu temple at Khajuraho. It is built by King Vidyadhara of Chandela dynasty in 1050 A.D. (Click on the image for bigger view)

The main spire rises to a height of 31 m and is surrounded by 84 miniature spires. Other features of the temple are columned halls with balconies, an entrance porch, and the inner sanctum. Inside the sanctum is a marble linga representing Shiva.

Decorating the sides of the temple are numerous statues and the inner sanctum also has large number of ornate statues. Many of the side panels depict Shiva in the presence of apsaras, consorts, and other divinities. Most of the sculptures have economy of drapery but are effusively patterned with ornaments and flower motifs.

Its ornate gateway is very attractive with carvings on it.

Above is the front view of the temple when Sun rays fall on it. The people around it give us the sheer size of the temple.

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Javeri Temple, Khajuraho

The Javeri Temple built between 950 - 1150 A.D belongs to the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples (State: Madhya Pradesh). This is one of the three Hindu Temples built by rulers of Chandel Dynasty in this group. (Click on the image for bigger view)

This temple is a architectural gem. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its ornate gateway, the makara torana, and slender shikhara are especially noteworthy.

Like every other temple in Khajuraho, even this temple is also famous for the band of sculptures around the temple.

This is rear view of the temple.

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Vishwanatha Temple, Khajuraho

After visiting the other group of temples in the morning session, we visited the Western Group of Khajuraho Temples (State: Madhya Pradesh) after lunch. Most of the temples of this group are enclosed by a compound wall known as Western Group Khajurho temple complex. (Click on the image for bigger view)

One such temple is Vishwanatha Temple built in 1000 A.D located towards the northeastern corner of the complex. This magnificent temple is built by the rulers of Chandel Dynasty, is one of the largest temple in Khajuraho.

The external wall of temple has more than 3000 exquisite sculptures. The band of sculptures on the walls represent musicians, dancers and deities. Inside the garbha graha there is marble Shiv linga.

There are images of deities set into the outside walls. On one of the walls there is a four-armed dancing Lord Ganesh, holding an axe and broken tusk in his proper right hands, and with his proper left hands holding a laddu (sweet) and extended in a boon-granting gesture.

The above image is rear view of the temple.

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Vamana Temple, Khajuraho

The Vamana Temple built between 950 - 1150 A.D belongs to the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples (State: Madhya Pradesh). This is one of the three Hindu Temples built by rulers of Chandel Dynasty in this group. (Click on the image for bigger view)

It measures 19.1 meters in length and 13.9 meters in breath. This is a medium size temple. It consists of a mandap and garbha graha.

Around the temple are two band of sculptures with almost 3000 sculptures. This is less than half when compared to larger temples in Western Group of temples. The sculptures layout is a blend of gods, their consorts, female figures and mythical creatures.

In the garbha graha there is a dwarf image of Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

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Western Group of Temples, Khajuraho

The Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh) are one of the most magnificent and architecturally marvelous temples of India. This is the largest of the three groups of temples in Khajuraho. Out of the 22 surviving temples 12 of them belong to this group. (Click on the image for bigger view)

Built in the 11th century by Chandela rulers, each of these temple stands on a raised platform, above which rises the main structure.

Some of the important temples are:

• Lakhmana Temple
• Kandariya Mahadeo Temple
• Devi Jagdamba Temple
• Chitragupta Temple
• Matanageswara Temple
• Vishwanath Temple
• Varaha Temple
• Nandi Temple

The tour of these temples can be done either by hiring an audio headset from the ticket counter or with the help of a guide. We shall attempt to cover these temples in some detail in the subsequent posts.

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Adinath Temple, Khajuraho

The Adinath Temple built in 950 - 1150 A.D belongs to the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples (State: Madhya Pradesh). This is one of the three Jain temples built by rulers of Chandel Dynasty inside the compound wall. (Click on the image for bigger view)

As the name suggests, it is dedicated to to the Jain Tirthankara Adinath. The temple is constructed in the form of 'sapta-ratha' with a single towered 'shikhara'.

The exterior walls of the temple is decorated with the lavishly carved figures of court musicians, gods and goddess.

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Eastern Group of Temples, Khajuraho

The Eastern Group of temples lies on the outskirts of Khajuraho (State: Madhya Pradesh) at a short distance. This group of temples are known for the sculptural refinement and architecture of these temples is marvelous. These were constructed by the rulers of Chandela dynasty between 950 - 1150 A.D. (Click on the image for bigger view)

In this group the temples can be sub-divided into two groups.
The temples belonging to Jainism are:

• Adinath Temple
• Parsvantah Temple
• Gahanti Temple
  

The other group of temples belonging to Hinduism are:

• Brahma Temple
• Vamana Temple
• Javeri Temple

We shall attempt to cover these temples in some detail in the subsequent posts.

For more visit Mosaic Monday

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Dulhadeo Temple, Khajuraho

The Dulhadeo Temple built in 1100 - 1150 A.D belongs to the Southern Group of Khajuraho Temples (State: Madhya Pradesh). This temple is the most recent among all the temples of Khajuraho built by rulers of Chandel Dynasty. This temple stands on a platform, which is approached by a flight of ten steps. (Click on the image for bigger view)

There are several subsidiary towers clustering around the central tower. In this temple all the sections like a shikhara (tower), sanctum, the mahamandapa and an ardhmandapa are in fully developed stage and measures 21 m by 12 m.

The outer walls of the temple are decorated with three bands of sculptures. The highest band has images, which are shown either flying singly, and flying in pairs. They are seen carrying either weapons or garlands or musical instruments. The iconography of this temple also shows some distinctive traits. The facades of this temple carry the images of standing Shiva and Shiva-Parvati.

The ceiling of the maha mandap is made of a series of diminishing circles of overlapping stones like a flower. There is an image of Shiva on the lintel of the ornately carved entrance of garbh griha. The sanctum today enshrines a Shivlingam.

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