Chausath Yogini Temple, Khajuraho

Chausath Yogini Temple

The Chausath Yogini Temple in Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh) is the oldest surviving temple in the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, dating back to 9th century CE. It is dedicated to 64 Yoginis, manifestations of the Divine Feminine Shakti. Unlike other temples in Khajuraho.

॥ या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्तिरूपेण संस्थिता ।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः ॥
॥ ॐ ऐं ह्रीं श्रीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे ॥

― Chausath Yogini Temple

It is built in open-air hypaethral style (without a roof), making it unique.

Mythological Significance & History

Constructed by the Chandela dynasty rulers in the 9th century CE.
It is one of the only four Yogini temples still existing in India (others being in Hirapur, Ranipur-Jharial, and Bhedaghat).
Originally, it had 65 shrines: 64 for the Yoginis and 1 central shrine for Goddess Durga.
Though many shrines are now ruined, the temple is archaeologically significant as it marks the beginning of temple-building in Khajuraho.

Significance of the Temple

The temple is dedicated to the Tantric tradition of Shakti worship.
Yoginis are considered powerful female deities, representing wisdom, power, and protection.
The site is believed to have been used for Tantric rituals and meditation by ancient practitioners.
It highlights the spiritual importance of feminine energy (Shakti) in Hinduism.