Which of the following temples is not located in Khajuraho?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:

The **Dashavatara Temple** is not located in Khajuraho; rather, it is a significant Hindu temple of the Gupta Period (circa 500 CE) situated in **Deogarh**, in the Lalitpur district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is one of the earliest known *Panchayatana* style temples in North India and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring elaborate reliefs depicting his ten incarnations (*Dashavatara*). Khajuraho, renowned for its temples built by the Chandela dynasty (9th to 11th centuries CE), is located in Madhya Pradesh, establishing a clear geographical and chronological distinction between the two sites. Therefore, the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh is the monument that does not belong to the Khajuraho complex.

The incorrect option is 2:
The **Chausath Yogini Temple** is indeed located in Khajuraho. It is the oldest surviving temple in the Khajuraho group, dating back to the late 9th century CE. Dedicated to the goddess Kali and her 64 yoginis, it is a rectangular structure unlike the highly ornate temples built later by the Chandelas.

The incorrect option is 3:
The **Chaturbhuj Temple** is located in Khajuraho, specifically in the southern group of temples. This temple is unique among the Khajuraho temples as it lacks any erotic sculptures, focusing instead on Lord Vishnu. Its presence confirms it as part of the recognized Khajuraho complex.

The incorrect option is 4:
The **Kandariya Mahadev Temple** is the largest and most famous temple in Khajuraho and is considered the architectural peak of the entire complex. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, its name literally means "The Great God of the Cave." Its central importance confirms its location within the Khajuraho site.