L
UNESCO World Heritage
ASI Protected
Lakshmana Temple
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
10th Century CE
The oldest of the surviving large temples at Khajuraho, built by Chandela king Dhanga. Dedicated to Vishnu in his Vaikuntha form, it is the best-preserved temple in the complex and stands on a high platform with four subsidiary corner shrines (panchayatana plan).
Source: Aitihasik heritage database. Use this as a field guide and verify sensitive historical claims before citation.
Details
- Dynasty
- Chandela
- Style
- Nagara
- Primary Deity
- Vishnu (Vaikuntha)
- Languages
- Hindi, Sanskrit
- Scripts
- Devanagari, Sanskrit
Historical Significance
Oldest of the large Khajuraho temples. Best-preserved temple in the complex. Classic panchayatana (five-shrine) plan. Contains the original Vaikuntha Vishnu idol
Architectural Features
Panchayatana plan with four corner shrinesRichly carved frieze band with elephants, horses, soldiersMithuna (amorous couple) sculpturesThree-headed Vaikuntha Vishnu in sanctumOrnate entrance with river goddess guardians