Morning shots of Chitragupta temple, Khajuraho

The ancient temple of Chitragupta in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, gets an added beauty as the first rays of morning fondle this grand structure dating back to 1000 AD.

Chitragupta is the only temple in Khajuraho, dedicated to the Sun god. Built by the Chandella rulers, the temple belongs to the Western Group. Sculptures of stone carriers, hunting scenes and elephant fights can be found on the temple walls.

The main image in the sanctum sanctorum is an impressive sculpture of Surya standing in a chariot driven by seven horses. Three similar but smaller figures of Surya are depicted in the lintel of the ornate doorway.