The world famous Khajuraho group of sculptures and temples is located in which Indian state?

Introduction / Context:
This question concerns Indian heritage sites recognised for their sculpture and temple architecture. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its intricate and sometimes erotic sculptures. It is an important part of India's cultural tourism. Examinations frequently ask in which state Khajuraho is located to test candidates' knowledge of geography and heritage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The site mentioned is Khajuraho, known for its sculptures and temples.
• We must identify the Indian state where these monuments are found.
• Options are Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, and None of the above.
• Only one state correctly contains Khajuraho.

Concept / Approach:
Khajuraho is located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh. Its temples were built by the Chandela rulers between the ninth and twelfth centuries. While Gujarat, Odisha, and Maharashtra also have important temples and cave sites, they are not the location of Khajuraho. Therefore, knowing Indian map based heritage locations leads directly to choosing Madhya Pradesh.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Khajuraho is in central India and is associated with the state of Madhya Pradesh. Step 2: Think about the Chandela dynasty, which ruled in that region and commissioned the construction of these temples. Step 3: Compare with Gujarat, which is known for sites such as Somnath and Dwarka, and with Odisha, which has Konark and Jagannath Puri. Step 4: Recognise that Maharashtra is known for Ajanta and Ellora caves, not Khajuraho. Step 5: Select Madhya Pradesh as the correct state.

Verification / Alternative check:
Tourism campaigns of Madhya Pradesh often highlight Khajuraho along with other attractions like Sanchi and Kanha National Park. Travel itineraries frequently mention Khajuraho as a key stop when visiting central India. Official lists of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India also record Khajuraho under Madhya Pradesh. None of these authentic sources place Khajuraho in Gujarat, Odisha, or Maharashtra, which verifies the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Gujarat: Important for Somnath, Gir forest, and other heritage, but not the location of Khajuraho. Odisha: Known for temples at Puri and Konark; these are different sites. Maharashtra: Contains heritage caves like Ajanta and Ellora, not the Khajuraho temples. None of the above: Incorrect because Madhya Pradesh is correctly included in the options.

Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates may confuse Khajuraho with Konark due to both being famous for sculptural art, mistakenly placing Khajuraho in Odisha. Others might mix it up with Ajanta and Ellora in Maharashtra. To avoid such confusion, students should link each major heritage site with its state: Khajuraho with Madhya Pradesh, Konark with Odisha, and Ajanta Ellora with Maharashtra.

Final Answer:
The Khajuraho group of sculptures and temples is located in Madhya Pradesh.