The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho
Khajuraho

The LaLiT Temple View is a modern 5-star Indian hotel located close to the western group of UNESCO world heritage temples in Khajuraho, India’s largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculptures. Recently refurbished to a high standard, this hotel has fantastic service and a tranquil atmosphere, much desired after a day of wildlife spotting or temple hopping, complemented by a tempting swimming pool and spa.

The hotel comprises of 40 comfortable rooms and seven suites of increasing size. Half of the entry level rooms have views of the ancient temples, whilst the other half overlook the manicured gardens. The spa has five treatment rooms and offers both western and Ayurveda treatments, as well as saunas, a steam room and a decent gym. Panna is the 24-hour multi-cuisine restaurant, and guests can wind down in the evenings in the cosy Mahua Bar. There is also a Krishna temple located in the hotel grounds, and every evening a local Hindu priest conducts an evening ritual (puja) in which guests are welcome to participate.

The hotel’s prime location by the western edge of the sizeable temple complex is ideal and these ancient structures really are the main highlight of Khajuraho. The temples were built between the 9th and 11th centuries by the Chandela dynasty. With the demise of the Chandela’s in the 12th century, the temples were abandoned and left to fall into neglect for 500 years before being re-discovered in 1836 by the British.

The temples were initially built for Hinduism but have since incorporated elements of Jainism. The beautifully intricate carvings have been very well preserved and are probably best known for their erotic imagery – although this makes up only 10% of the carvings. One of the temples, as indicated by a bright orange flag, is active and the remainder are open to the public to explore on a guided tour. The eastern complex (about a 5-minute drive) comprises only of Jain temples, noticeable by their naked Buddha statues. This takes a brief 15 minutes but is certainly worth seeing as they are right next door to an active Jain temple.

Although there is a slight business hotel vibe, The LaLiT Temple View’s location and excellent service is the perfect spot to stay for a night or two, particularly if seeing the fantastically preserved, 1,000-year-old temple complex, or doing a wildlife safari in nearby Panna National Park, is your aim when visiting Khajuraho.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson