Varaha Temple — Attraction in Khajuraho

The Varaha Temple at Khajuraho is a captivating site that highlights the unique blend of art, mythology, and spirituality found within the Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Located in the Western Group of Temples, this temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1986 due to its exceptional architectural beauty and its representation of the Chandela dynasty's cultural achievements.

What makes the Varaha Temple stand out is the monumental image of Varaha, the boar avatar of Vishnu, enshrined within the temple. This colossal monolithic sculpture portrays Varaha in his purely animal form, a powerful symbol of the divine rescuing the earth from chaos. The detailing of the boar figure is nothing short of remarkable, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship of the time. Every inch of the sculpture is adorned with intricate carvings, making it a masterpiece of ancient Indian art.

The temple itself, though smaller in scale compared to other temples at Khajuraho, holds immense historical and spiritual significance. Its architectural style is simple yet elegant, perfectly complementing the grandeur of the Varaha image it houses. The surrounding complex further adds to the temple's charm, as it is part of the larger Khajuraho complex, known for its stunning carvings, serene atmosphere, and historical richness.

Visiting the Varaha Temple is a must for those who wish to explore the diverse representations of divine mythology and witness the artistic excellence of ancient India. The temple not only offers insight into the religious devotion of the Chandela dynasty but also provides a profound connection to India's cultural and...

Traveling to Khajuraho is a favourite destination. The ancient temples here are world famous for their exquisite craftsmanship and sculpture.  In fact, these temples are the symbol of the Chandela's faith and dedication to the God. This small but attractive Varaha temple is also located among them.

This temple is dedicated to the third incarnation of Vishnu i.e. Varaha. Which according to the legends was adopted for the slaughter of the demon Hiranyakasha, who kept the earth hostage in the sea. After slaughter Vishnu had established the earth in its place in the universe. Bhumi Devi was his concert in this avatar or form.

This temple is situated on a high prolated platform infront of the Lakshmana temple south side of Lakshmi temple. According to the Archaeological Survey of India, it was built between 900 to 925 AD during the reign of Yashovarman. The roof of this canopy is like the shape of a pyramid retreating from the top to the lower edge resting on plain stone pillars. It's housing the the huge sculpture of Varah which was carved out from an unanimous single giant Rock of sand stone. Its whole body is sculpted with various theological elements. A very special Sculpture of Goddess Saraswati with her violin in her hand can be noticed between the nose and mouth. It's built by sand stone a significant model of Nagara Style Architecture.

It's a major attraction among all tourists visiting the World Heritage Site. It needs half an hour for detailed viewing and the nearest attraction is the...

Varaha Temple The Shrine is facing Lakshmana Temple ie. West. The Shrines was constructed on an elevated level. ARCHITECTURE The Varaha is in standing posture, with about 674 figures of gods and goddesses, humans, animals and all other beings carved on the body of Varaha. Between the feet of Varaha is the image of serpent Seshnag, the symbol of Eternity Also visible are the feet of a broken figure of Bhudevi. Between its nostrils is the four armed Saraswati holding the Veena in one pair of hands. The highly polished monolithic image in yellow sandstone measures 2.5 m in length and 1.5 m in height. The ceiling of this temple is one of the finest with three rows of petals forming an elaborately carved inverted lotus. HISTORY AND INSCRIPRIONS Since this Varaha Shrine is just opposite to Lakshmana temple, believed to be constructed during the same period ie. Between 900-925 CE, by Lakshavarman of Chandela Dynasty. LEGENDS Facing the Lakshmana Temple, this temple depicts Vishnu in the form of Vishwa varaha, his third incarnation in which he took the form of a wild boar to rescue Mother Earth (Bhudevi) from beneath the ocean where she had been hidden by the demon, Hiranyaksha. According to the Vishnu Purana, when Vishnu assumed this form, the entire universe manifested itself...