The land that gave “Kamasutra” to the world is no stranger to monuments that depict the very annals of eroticism in intricate detail. And by details, we mean erotic sculptures carved on olden temples strewn across various parts of India. The first and foremost of these temples is the Khajuraho Group of Temples which has been the focal destination for erotic monuments that found patronage in India. These temples were built centuries ago when sex was a “not-so-taboo” topic and sex education held an important forte in general studies pursued by both the nobility and common people.
Eroticism is an important aspect of many temples in India in general, where it celebrates sexuality and fertility as vital forces of life. It’s woven into Hindu philosophy and religious practices to renew, refresh, and sustain life cycles. This connection to life’s natural rhythms is embodied in the concept of Karma, one of the four key goals of a balanced and fulfilling human life in Hinduism, alongside Artha (prosperity), Dharma (righteousness), and Moksha (liberation).
The existence of erotic sculptures in temples is ironic since India is perceived as a nation that is closeted towards sex. However, a simple look at the “sex temples” of India will be more than enough to establish that once upon a time eroticism was a way of life. Khajuraho being a foremost example is famous and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sometimes overshadowing other monuments’ existence. Let us dive into this list of 15 temples that depict erotic sculptures in their full glory!
1. Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
The massive Lingaraj Temple in Indian city of Bhubaneshwar is one of the oldest and most impressive structure built by the mighty Kalinga dynasty stands as a stunning testament to ancient architecture. Dominated by a towering 180-foot central spire dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple also features around 150 smaller shrines. The detailed erotic sculptures that decorate the outer walls of the temple are believed to be inspired by the Kamasutra, the ancient Indian sex treatise. Also, keep in mind that entry to the temple s restricted to Hindus only.
Location: Lingaraj Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm
2. Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha
The Sun Temple at Konark, dedicated to the Sun god, dates to the 13th century and is a remarkable symbol of ancient craftsmanship. Its walls are adorned with intricate stone sculptures, some quite explicit in their detailed portrayal of the human form. Many of these sculptures are now preserved in the Archaeological Museum. The temple itself is designed as a massive 100-foot chariot, drawn by twelve pairs of wheels, each representing a month of the year. These wheels function as sundials, capable of accurately telling time.
Location: Konark District, Odisha (36 km northeast of Puri)
Entry Fee: INR 40
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
3. Osian Jain Temple, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
When we think about the bold erotic sculptures with expressive postures, it’s important to note that this theme wasn’t confined only to Hindu temples. You can also find traces of it in the Osian Jain Temple complex, which includes Hindu and Jain temples. The sculptures here reflect an ancient view that sex was seen as one of life’s natural pleasures, not something to be shamed or hidden. This remarkable architectural site, dating back to the 11th century A.D., is truly a must-see, not just for its historical significance but for the intricate artistry that adorns its walls.
Location: Osian District, Rajasthan (65 km from Jodhpur)
Entry Fee: NIL
Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
4. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka
The Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and dates to the 7th century. The temple is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Hampi. It is specifically popular for a captivating sculpture of a women observed by other men and women, this temple reflects the 14th-century Vijayanagara period’s embrace of art and sensuality. Though the temple was damaged during the Muslim invasion, it remains one of the top pilgrimage destinations in Hampi today.
Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm
5. Chennakesava Temple, Somanathapura, Karnataka
The Chennakesava Temple is a 13th-century Hoysala gem that features three shrines dedicated to different forms of Lord Vishnu. While not entirely focused on eroticism, the temple does feature subtle depictions of sensuality in its cravings, imbibing the Shakta practices. The small-scale erotic sculptures, often tucked away in inconspicuous places, are part of the overall aesthetic that shines a light on human connection to the divine.
Location: Somanathapura, Karnataka
Entry Fee: INR 30
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
6. Kailasa Temple, Ellora, Maharashtra
A masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, the Kailasa Temple also known as (Ajanta & Ellora Caves) is a monolithic structure carved from a single stone. Built between 757-783 CE, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva houses mithunas (erotic male and female figures), blending spirituality with sensuality. As the world’s tallest monolithic structure, it is not only an engineering marvel but also a canvas for erotic art.
Location: Ellora, Maharashtra
Entry Fee: INR 40
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
7. Ranakpur Temple, Rajasthan
The Ranakpur Temple, dedicated to the Jain Tirthankara? Rishabhanatha, stands out with its 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars. While primarily known for its architectural brilliance and one of the prime Jain temples dedicated to Svetambaras, the temple also contains erotic sculptures outside its walls, dedicated to the Sun God. The blend of Jain and sensual art makes this temple a unique historical and artistic landmark in our list of temples with erotic sculptures.
Location: Ranakpur, Rajasthan
Entry Fee: INR 50
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
8. Padawali Temple, Madhya Pradesh
Often referred to as a “Mini Khajuraho,” Padawali Temple is famous for its detailed erotic sandstone carvings. The 10th-century Vishnu temple features stunning depictions of the Sun God, Dasavatara (the ten incarnations of Vishnu), and intimate scenes that make it a miniature version of the famous Khajuraho Monuments. The erotic sculptures here, as well as the vibrant scenes from Krishna’s life, invite visitors to reflect on the spiritual and sensual sides of existence.
Location: Padawali, Madhya Pradesh
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
9. Khajuraho Monuments, Madhya Pradesh
Perhaps the most famous site for “Indian sex sculptures,” the Khajuraho Monuments feature intricate carvings of love and sensuality, including erotic scenes that have captivated visitors for centuries. These temples, dedicated to both Hindu and Jain deities, present an unfiltered view of life, celebrating the physical world as a path to spiritual liberation. Often referred to as the “Kamasutra temple in India,” Khajuraho is home to the world-renowned “sex murtis” and “Indian nude sculptures,” making it a must-see for anyone interested in India’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Entry Fee: INR 40 (for the Western Group of Temples)
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
10. Sun Temple, Gujarat
Built in the early 11th century, the Sun Temple in Gujarat features several carvings depicting sexual acts, reflecting the belief that such acts were not just physical but symbolic of fertility and life energy. The temple’s design also includes the famous Kama Kunda (water tank), where the reflection of the temple in the water is a sight to behold.
Location: Modhera, Gujarat
Entry Fee: INR 30
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
11. Jagdish Mandir, Udaipur
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Jagdish Mandir in Udaipur is famous for its elaborate carvings, including erotic figures that illustrate the human experience about the divine. These carvings symbolize how earthly pleasures, such as love and sensuality, are part of the spiritual journey.
Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
12. Mandwa Mahal, Chhattisgarh
Mandwa Mahal, built by the Nagavanshi emperor Ramchandra Deohas in 1349 AD, is infamous for its crude erotic sculptures. These carvings, though criticized for their rough execution, are part of the temple’s larger expression of art and religion.
Location: Near Bhoramdeo Temple, Chhattisgarh
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
13. Markandeshwar Temple, Maharashtra
The Markandeshwar Temple is known for a shocking sculpture of a couple performing an intimate act. This erotic art, part of the Hemadpanthi architectural style, captures the human form in its most vulnerable and beautiful state. It’s an example of how ancient temples depicted the holistic view of life, embracing sexuality as an important element of human existence.
Location: Markandeshwar, Maharashtra
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
14. Tripurantaka Temple, Karnataka
Built in the 11th century, the Tripurantaka Temple in Karnataka is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This relatively lesser-known temple features several erotic sculptures on its outer walls, which are intricately carved into the temple’s friezes. These small yet striking depictions celebrate life, sensuality, and fertility, emphasizing the holistic nature of existence in Hinduism.
Location: Tripurantaka, Karnataka
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
15. Bhoramdeo Temple, Chhattisgarh
Often compared to Khajuraho due to its similar erotic carvings, the Bhoramdeo Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, set amidst dense forests, has remained well-preserved due to its remote location. The temple is home to a series of sensual sculptures that depict human intimacy, signifying a celebration of life and spiritual union. The artistic depiction of love and sexuality in this temple is a testament to the ancient belief in the divine connection between the physical and spiritual realms.
Location: Bhoramdeo, Chhattisgarh
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Conclusion
India’s temples are not only spiritual sanctuaries but also hubs of cultural expression, where art and faith converge. The erotic sculptures and sex statues found in temples across the country offer a unique glimpse into ancient views on love, desire, and human nature. Whether you’re visiting the Khajuraho Monuments, exploring the romantic sculptures on temples, or delving into the erotic carvings at sites like Padawali or Mandwa Mahal, these works of art will leave you awe-struck by their beauty, complexity, and spiritual depth.
