Above the central zone of the wall proper rises the roof consisting of a series of graded peaks that veriatably resemble a mountain-range (Kailasha or Meru), to which an Indian temple is frequently linked.
These peaks, arrayed along the axial line, rise and fall alternatively, while maintaining their overall upward ascent, and culminate in the tallest spire (shikara) which is raised directly over the sanctum.

The developed temples are characterised by and intricate arrangement of subsidiary shikharas of varying sizes, attached to the main shikhara of different heights. The progressive ascent and descent of the superstructures converging to the highest pinnacle lend a peculiar vertical quality and rhythm to the Khajuraho temples.

Interior Plan
To turn to the interior plan, the entrance-porch is entered through an ornate makara-torana (arched entrance flanked by crocodiles), which is profusely carved with minute figures resembling a hanging tracery.
The entrance-porch is a modest oblong passage which usually broadened into a slightly wider compartment (mandapa). These are open on three sides and are enclosed by sloping balustrades (kakshana) and their roof is carried on dwarf-pillars and pilasters.

The maha-mandapa is a closed hall with lateral transepts. In the larger temples, the maha-mandapa shows in the centre four tall pillars carrying a square framework of architraves, which is first turned into an octagon and then into a circle supporting a ceiling of overlapping concentric courses.
The maha-mandapa is connected with the sanctum through the vestibule. The ornate doorway of the sanctum is entered through one or more chandrashilas (moon-stone).

With such a simple and functionally-effective plan, the interior shows an amazing exuberance of decorative details and sculptural wealth, largely lavished on the doorway, pillars, architraves and ceilings.
The Khajuraho temples have pronouncedly individual features. With an enormous array of lovely sculptured forms ever present, the texture of the Khajuraho temples vibrate with a rare exuberance of human warmth, which is paralleled only in a fully grown Orissan temple.

The Makara-torana is preserved only on three temples, viz. the Lakshamana, Kandariya-Mahadeva and Javari.

The Temples......