8 Indian Temples With Erotic Art That Blend Spirituality And Sensuality

In India, temples are usually thought of as just places of worship, boasting intricately decorated sculptures of deities. But that’s not the entire truth. In fact, some of the most beautiful temples in India also celebrate love and intimacy through carved sculptures. These carvings tell us about a time when sexuality was seen as a natural and spiritual part of life. Take a look at these must-visit beautiful Indian temples presenting erotic art.

Indian Temples With Erotic Art

1. Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha 

One more treasure of ancient Indian architecture is the Sun Temple at Modhera. Constructed by King Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty, this temple was built in honour of the Sun god. Even though the temple is no longer used for worship, it is still a magnificent work of art. The temple complex consists of a hall and a sizable stepwell that are encircled by walls and pillars with exquisite carvings. Among the many designs, you can spot small erotic figures carved delicately into the stone. These figures show couples in affectionate poses, symbolising fertility and the creative power of the sun. A trip to the temple is like travelling back in time to a time when astronomy and art came together to celebrate life.

Where: Konark, Odisha

2. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka 

One of India’s oldest still-operating temples, this 7th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated within the Hampi UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most striking examples of Dravidian architecture is the gopuram, a 50-meter-tall, nine-tiered entrance. Virupaksha Temple is primarily renowned for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. But if you look closely, you’ll see carvings that honour intimacy and love. Such erotic motifs in a place of worship show how ancient India acknowledged desire and love as natural parts of life.

Where: Hampi, Karnataka

3. Kailasa Temple, Ellora, Maharashtra 

A wonder of the world, the Kailasa Temple at Ellora was carved from a single rock. This massive building, which was devoted to Lord Shiva and was constructed in the eighth century by the Rashtrakuta kings, required years of arduous labour and unparalleled skill. The temple’s numerous carvings include intriguing maithuna (erotic) figures that are elegantly placed within the more general themes of everyday life and mythology. A fundamental idea in Hindu philosophy, these carvings represent the union of male and female energies.

Where: Ellora, Verul, Maharashtra

4. Khajuraho Monuments, Madhya Pradesh 

When it comes to temple erotic art, the Khajuraho Group of Monuments is arguably the most well-known. Constructed by the Chandela dynasty, these temples are a marvel of Indian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Out of the originally constructed 80 temples, only 25 are still standing. People often think these temples are full of erotic carvings, but in reality, less than 10% of the sculptures are erotic! The other carvings here feature dancers, musicians, gods, goddesses, and scenes from daily life. Devoted to Lord Vishnu, the Vamana temple also boasts a few delicate erotic carvings.

Where: Khajuraho, Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh

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5. Sun Temple, Gujarat 

The Sun Temple in Modhera is another great example of ancient Indian architecture. To honour the sun god, Surya, King Bhima 1 of the Chaulukya dynasty built it around 1026 CE. Although it is no longer a place of worship, the temple is still a stunning piece of art. The temple complex is made up of a large stepwell and a hall that are surrounded by beautifully carved walls and pillars. You can see tiny, sensual figures delicately carved into the stone among the many designs. These figures, which represent fertility and the sun’s creative power, depict couples in loving poses.

Where: Road Highway, Becharaji, Modhera, Gujarat

6. Mandwa Mahal, Chhattisgarh 

Located in Chhattisgarh’s forests, Mandwa Mahal is a lesser-known but intriguing temple,  constructed in 1349 CE. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is also known as the Dulha Deo Temple because it was the site of royal weddings. Unlike Khajuraho or Modhera, Mandwa Mahal’s erotic sculptures are bolder and more prominent. Inspired by the Kamasutra, they depict couples in intimate poses. These carvings were regarded as auspicious, representing marital happiness and fertility.

Where: 4553+MJ8, Chhattisgarh

7. Tripurantaka Temple, Karnataka 

Built by the Western Chalukyas in the eleventh century, the Tripurantaka Temple is located in the Karnataka town of Balligavi. Today, this temple may appear serene and ancient, but its exterior walls are adorned with small, sensual carvings. Compared to those at Khajuraho or Mandwa Mahal, these erotic sculptures are considerably smaller. Besides the erotic art, the temple is famous for its beautiful stone windows with snake figures carved in a delicate way. Tripurantaka Temple shows how even small, hidden artworks can tell big stories about life and religion.

Where: Balligavi, Malagondanakoppa, Karnataka
When: 9 am – 5 pm

8. Bhoramdeo Temple, Chhattisgarh

A magnificent example of the fusion of art, religion, and sensuality, the Bhoramdeo Temple is referred to as the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh.” Situated on a hilltop encircled by verdant forests, this Shiva temple was constructed between the 7th and 11th centuries. There are multiple temples in the complex, but the main stone temple is notable for its intricate carvings, many of which feature erotic and sensual figures. These exquisitely carved sculptures depict couples in passionate embraces. Visiting here feels like walking through an open storybook of ancient Indian culture.

Where: 448X+566, Chhattisgarh
When: 7 am – 7 pm

These Indian temples with erotic art stand as timeless reminders that in ancient India, love, desire, and spirituality were deeply intertwined.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/Kali Justine