Chitragupta Temple
Dedication to the Sun God Surya: The Chitragupta Temple, built in the early 11th century during the zenith of the Chandela dynasty, is unique in the Western Group as it is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. The sanctum houses an impressive four-armed image of Surya riding a chariot drawn by seven hors es, a classic depiction of the solar deity. The temple is architecturally rich, sharing the general layout and grandeur of the neighboring temples. Although erroneously named after Chitragupta (the Hindu deity who records the actions of men), its dedication to Surya is evident everywhere. It is positioned to align with the cardinal directions, enhancing its astronomical and religious significance. Its exterior is richly adorned with three bands of magnificent sculptures, depicting various deities and celestial beings, though fewer erotic figures than the Kandariya Mahadev Temple.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
45 Minutes - 1 HourPlace Type:
Temple, Religious Site, UNESCO Heritage SiteEntry Fees:
Entry Fee: Included in the Western Group of Temples ticket.
Entry Fee for Indians: INR 40 (online) or INR 50 (offline) for the entire Western Group.
Entry Fee for Foreigners: USD 10 or INR 600 for the entire...Entry Fee: Included in the Western Group of Temples ticket.
Entry Fee for Indians: INR 40 (online) or INR 50 (offline) for the entire Western Group.
Entry Fee for Foreigners: USD 10 or INR 600 for the entire Western Group. No additional photography fee.Timing:
Regular Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM (Same as the Western Group).
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise or Early Morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) to experience the temple's dedication to the Sun God in its best light.
Best Day...Regular Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM (Same as the Western Group).
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise or Early Morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) to experience the temple's dedication to the Sun God in its best light.
Best Day to Visit: Weekdays are preferred for quieter exploration.
Season Preference: October to March is ideal.Special Events:
Rath Saptami Festival: As a Sun temple, it is a site of special religious significance and rituals during Rath Saptami (usually in January or February), the day of Surya's birth.
Makar Sankranti: The temple attracts devotees during this majo...Rath Saptami Festival: As a Sun temple, it is a site of special religious significance and rituals during Rath Saptami (usually in January or February), the day of Surya's birth.
Makar Sankranti: The temple attracts devotees during this major Hindu festival (in January) dedicated to the Sun God.Best Photo Spots:
Sunrise on the Eastern Facade: The prime photo spot is the front facade at Sunrise, when the light dramatically illuminates the deity within (if visible) and the intricate entrance carvings.
The Surya Idol: Take a careful, non-flash shot of ...Sunrise on the Eastern Facade: The prime photo spot is the front facade at Sunrise, when the light dramatically illuminates the deity within (if visible) and the intricate entrance carvings.
The Surya Idol: Take a careful, non-flash shot of the main deity in the garbhagriha (check rules).
Close-ups of the Sculptural Bands: Focus on the mid-level carvings, especially the dynamic apsaras and divine figures, avoiding the overly-photographed erotic scenes of the Kandariya next door.
The Temple's Silhouette: Capture the distinct profile of the shikhara against the deep blue Daytime sky.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Study the Surya Idol: Spend time in the sanctum (if permitted) observing the detailed carving of the four-armed Surya idol and the seven horses.
Examine the Three Sculptural Bands: Dedicate time to meticulously study the three horizontal bands of carvings on the exterior walls, focusing on the dynamic poses of the deities and celestial maidens.
Sunrise Photography: Be at the temple for sunrise to capture the golden light hitting the East-facing entrance, fulfilling its intended astronomical purpose.
Hire a Guide: A local guide can explain the Surya iconography and the temple's subtle differences from the neighboring Vishnu and Shiva temples.
Observe the Samvarna Roof: Look up to appreciate the unique architectural detailing of th...Study the Surya Idol: Spend time in the sanctum (if permitted) observing the detailed carving of the four-armed Surya idol and the seven horses.
Examine the Three Sculptural Bands: Dedicate time to meticulously study the three horizontal bands of carvings on the exterior walls, focusing on the dynamic poses of the deities and celestial maidens.
Sunrise Photography: Be at the temple for sunrise to capture the golden light hitting the East-facing entrance, fulfilling its intended astronomical purpose.
Hire a Guide: A local guide can explain the Surya iconography and the temple's subtle differences from the neighboring Vishnu and Shiva temples.
Observe the Samvarna Roof: Look up to appreciate the unique architectural detailing of the samvarna-style roof over the mandapa.
Look for the Royal Scene: Search for the unusual panel depicting the royal hunting procession on the exterior wall.
Compare with Devi Jagadambi: The temple is structurally similar to its immediate neighbor, Devi Jagadambi Temple; compare their exterior sculptural themes.
Information
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Why Famous:
A Rare Sun Temple: Famous as one of the very few surviving temples in North India dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, especially one so well-preserved and intricately carved in the Nagara style.
The Surya Idol: The colossal and richly carved ce...A Rare Sun Temple: Famous as one of the very few surviving temples in North India dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, especially one so well-preserved and intricately carved in the Nagara style.
The Surya Idol: The colossal and richly carved central deity of four-armed Surya on his seven-horse chariot is a masterpiece of Chandela iconography and a major draw for visitors. -
Architecture:
Classic Nagara Architecture and Dimension: The temple is built on a high jagati (platform) and follows the typical fully evolved Nagara style.
Structure and Plan: It is a sandhara type (with ambulatory), featuring an entrance porch (ardha-ma...Classic Nagara Architecture and Dimension: The temple is built on a high jagati (platform) and follows the typical fully evolved Nagara style.
Structure and Plan: It is a sandhara type (with ambulatory), featuring an entrance porch (ardha-mandapa), a hall (mandapa) with lateral transepts, a vestibule (antarala), and the sanctum (garbhagriha).
The Samvarna Roof: A notable architectural feature is the samvarna style roof of the main hall, topped with small bell-shaped rooflets. The shikhara is curvilinear and intricate, typical of the mature Chandela period.
Sculptural Bands: The temple walls are adorned with three bands of exquisite carvings, including apsaras, sura-sundaris, and various deities. Its plan size is a medium scale, designed to stand harmoniously next to the larger monuments. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Khajuraho Airport (HJR), then take a taxi or auto-rickshaw (approx 7 KMS) to the Western Group area.
By Train: Arrive at Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ), then hire an auto-rickshaw (approx 4 KMS). Satna Railway Station (STA)...By Air: Fly to Khajuraho Airport (HJR), then take a taxi or auto-rickshaw (approx 7 KMS) to the Western Group area.
By Train: Arrive at Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ), then hire an auto-rickshaw (approx 4 KMS). Satna Railway Station (STA) is the long-distance railhead (116 KMS).
By Road: It is centrally located within the ticketed enclosure of the Western Group of Temples, easily accessible from the main entrance.
By Local Transport: Easily reachable on foot or by auto-rickshaw from the main town center, as it is only 1. 2 KMS away. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
The Winter Season (October to March): Pleasant temperatures make walking and standing in the open courtyards of the Western Group comfortable.
The Monsoon Season (July to September): The rain-washed stone highlights the sculptural details, m...The Winter Season (October to March): Pleasant temperatures make walking and standing in the open courtyards of the Western Group comfortable.
The Monsoon Season (July to September): The rain-washed stone highlights the sculptural details, making the carvings appear sharper.
Different Parts of the Day: The Sunrise is the most significant time for its connection to the Sun God Surya, offering a powerful spiritual and photographic moment. -
Near Tourist Places:
Devi Jagadambi Temple (0. 1 KMS), Kandariya Mahadev Temple (0. 1 KMS), Archaeological Museum (0. 2 KMS), Matangeshvara Temple (0. 5 KMS), Lakshmana Temple (0. 5 KMS), Chaunsath Yogini Temple Ruins (0. 6 KMS), Adinath Temple (1. 5 KMS), Beni Sagar Dam (2. 5 KMS), Raneh Falls (22 KMS), Panna National Park (43 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Wear a hat and use sunscreen, as the open area of the Western Group is exposed to the sun. Carry water.
Packing: Bring an umbrella for shade or unexpected rain. A macro lens is great for capturing the details of the carvin...Health & Safety: Wear a hat and use sunscreen, as the open area of the Western Group is exposed to the sun. Carry water.
Packing: Bring an umbrella for shade or unexpected rain. A macro lens is great for capturing the details of the carvings.
Accommodation: Stay in the main town, as the temple is centrally located in the tourist area.
Other Topics: Respect the religious nature of the temple. The ticket for the Western Group is valid for the whole day, allowing you to return later for a different light.
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