Our desire to visit Madhya Pradesh was prompted by the fame of Khajuraho Temples as one of the extraordinary monuments of ancient Indian art and craftsmanship. A couple of other incentives later appended to our wish list included a trip to the nearby but unfamiliar Raneh Falls as well as tasting a strongly recommended Bundeli thali.

Frankly admitting, our itinerary got finalised the moment we came to know that Club Mahindra had opened their Resort in Khajuraho. Their resorts always ensure perfect boarding and lodging facilities in a very informal and comfortable ambiance. 

Khajuraho has a total of 25 surviving temples of the original 85, which were built by the rulers of Chandela Dynasty, between 950 - 1050 CE. These are either Hindu or Jain temples. Among them, the most famous and the largest one is the Kandariya Mahadeo temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.  The intricately carved sculptures depict themes derived from everyday life as well as from professional activities of potters, musicians, farmers, warriors, etc. Also showcased are minutely detailed displays of human attributes of social, cultural, spiritual as well as carnal inclinations.

The scale and diversity of these life-like expressions sculpted in stone with a skillful perfection, aesthetically incorporated into every available space on temple walls, nooks and corners, are mind-boggling. Another must-visit site is the Raneh Falls, situated around 20 km away from Khajuraho. This stunningly beautiful place is hidden within the forested wilderness of Chhatarpur.

The water plunging down by 30 meters from a bow-shaped reservoir perched among strangely attractive rock formations, is fed by the river Ken. On its way further down, the waters wind deep down through a breathtaking canyon also called the Grand Canyon of India. The bordering rocks and high cliffs of the canyon are formed of multi-coloured igneous rocks, providing a magical backdrop to the flowing blue-greenish waters.