Credit: Mariano Garcia
Overview
Part of the Western Group of Khajuraho Monuments, Vishwanatha Temple is a majestic Hindu temple that is located near Kandariya Mahadev Temple. To experience Khajuraho tourism, you should visit this place, situated at a distance of 1 km from the Khajuraho bus stand.
History and Architecture of Vishwanath Temple
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known by the name Vishwanath, which means “Lord of the Universe.”It was believed that the temple was completed around 999 CE or 1002 CE by the Chandela king Dhanga. Bearing similarities to the renowned Lakshmana and Kandariya Mahadev temples, the Vishwanatha temple shows a multitude of sculptures, celestial apsaras, various deities, and mythical creatures.
Vishwanath temple is elevated on a raised platform that encompasses a sanctum, entrance porch, maha mandapa, and vestibule. Pyramidal roofs on the porch and mandapa look very beautiful. The temple walls are adorned with exquisite images of elephants and lions on the northern and southern steps.
The temple is adorned with idols of Lord Brahma and a magnificent 6-foot-high Nandi bull that stops on a wide platform. According to an inscription, an emerald linga, meaning “Lord of the Emerald Linga,” was installed in the temple by Dhangadeva, but unfortunately, when Cunningham visited the temple, it was not there. The temple was constructed in the architectural tradition of Vishwakarma, and it was constructed by the architect Sutradhar Chjhichcha.
The temple is designed in the Panchayatana style. In the basement of the temple, there are magnificent sculptures depicting Virabhadra, Lord Shiva, the seven mothers, and Lord Ganesh. Apsaras and couples in intimate poses are truly shrines in the temple.
Timing and Entry fees
The temple is open to visitors from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entry for Indian visitors is Rs 30, and entry for foreigners is Rs 500. It’s a destination for visitors to experience beauty, spirituality, beauty and architectural brilliance.