Khajuraho city is located in the Bundelkhand region of the Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh. People from around the world visit this heritage site to marvel at the timeless narratives of Hindu arts and culture inscribed in stone. And, now it’s your time to plan a trip to Khajuraho. However, to plan your trip and maximize your experience, we have brought our Khajuraho travel guide for you. From the best time to visit to important things to do in Khajuraho, we have covered all the essential information in our travel guide.
About Khajuraho
Khajuraho is an ancient city renowned for its temples built in the 9th and 10th centuries by the Chandelas. At first sight, it seems an idyllic village surrounded by hills and green fields but as you roam around, the town gradually reveals its magic. It is famous for its remarkable Hindu and Jain temples due to which Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The famous temples of Khajuraho with erotic rock carvings make it one of the top tourist destinations in India.
Khajuraho had 85 temples during the 12th century spanning over 20 sq. km area. But only 25 temples survived over time, spread over a 6 sq. km area. Khajuraho went into oblivion after the 11th century and was revived by an archaeologist Alexander Cunnigham in the 19th century. Ever since then, the place has been one of the popular tourist destinations in India for history buffs and other tourists alike.
The temple is famous for its sculptures carved on stones. It holds historical tales and architectural grandeur. You will see the enormous intricately sculptured temples adorned with erotic sculptures. The splendor of these intricate statues and sculptures is what makes the temple one of the popular sites among tourists. Khajuraho is also one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India to visit.
Where is Khajuraho Located and How to Reach
Khajuraho is located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh state in India. Khajuraho and the group of temples are famous for their Nagara-style architecture. The town is approximately 642 km from Delhi. The capital city of Madhya Pradesh is approximately 372 km from Khajuraho.
How to Reach Khajuraho
Khajuraho is one of the popular tourist destinations in India. So, it is well-connected to nearby cities and major cities in India.
By Air: The nearest airport is Khajuraho Domestic Airport. Although the frequency of flights is less, you get flights from New Delhi to reach Khajuraho. The airport is just 3.6 km from the city center. So, you easily get taxis and autos from the airport to reach your destination.
By Train: Khajuraho has a railway station connected with major cities in India. You get direct trains from New Delhi, Varanasi, Udaipur, Indore, etc. So, you can board trains to reach Khajuraho directly. If you are an international tourist, you will be deboarding at New Delhi International Airport. Afterward, board on Gita Jayanti Express to reach Khajuraho. You will reach your destination in the morning after an overnight journey.
By Road: You get regular bus services from the nearby cities in MP to Khajuraho like Jhansi, Bhopal, Indore, Panna, Agra, Satna, Mahoba, Jabalpur, etc.
Best Time to Visit Khajuraho
Khajuraho’s climate is usually hot with minimal rainfall. During the summer season, the temperature even goes up to 45°Celcius. Hence, summer is not the apt time to visit Khajuraho. Winter has the pleasant weather, making it best for tourists to explore. During March, the annual Dance Festival of Khajuraho takes place. Hence, this is also the perfect time to visit Khajuraho. Due to the pleasant weather and the festival celebration, the best time to visit Khajuraho is from September to March.
Where to Stay in Khajuraho
Since Khajuraho is one of the best tourist spots in India, it has many accommodation options that suit every budget. Some luxury hotels are located far from the main attractions. You may find some budget hotels near the Western Group of Temple. However, you should not worry about the accommodations as there are ample options available. Besides, you get popular Khajuraho tour packages from private tour operators. They manage and take care of everything from food to accommodation and transportation.
The Ideal Duration for Khajuraho Tours
Khajuraho is famous for its group of temples of Hindus and Jains. Visitors can embark on a journey to explore the timeless elegance of these marvels. However, before planning Khajuraho tours, people often get confused about the ideal duration for the trip. We suggest you plan a 2-day Khajuraho itinerary to make the most of your trip to the ancient temples in Khajuraho and nearby attractions.
Whether you are planning yourself or booking a Khajuraho tour package, make sure your trip includes a 2-day itinerary. Otherwise, you will miss out on some exotic attractions to explore. Here is what your 2-day Khajuraho tour package must include:
Day 1
- Morning visit to the Western Group of Temple including the Major attraction—Kandariya Mahadeva Temple.
- In the second half of the day, explore the Eastern Group of Temples, especially Parsvanatha Temple and the Ghantai Temple.
- In the evening, you should enjoy the light and sound show at Western Group of Temples that narrates the story of Khajuraho’s history. The tickets for both are separately available.
Day 2
- Today, in the morning you should visit the famous Panna Tiger Reserve, where tourists enjoy wildlife safari. The tiger reserve is just 25 km from Khajuraho. Next, visit Pandav Caves and Falls.
- In the afternoon, visit Raneh waterfall just 21 km from Khajuraho.
- In the evening, visit the Southern Group of Temples. You can also visit the Matangeshvara Temple near the Western Group of Temple on the market premises.
Why You Should Plan a Trip to Khajuraho
Khajuraho is world-famous for its sculptures and intricate carvings on temples dedicated to Hindu deities. Besides, the architecture also showcases the royalty of the medieval era, courting, marriage, meditation, kinship, and human relationships. The temples are adorned with carvings of dance, music, and eroticism. The presence of erotic carvings is a sign of acceptance and celebration of human passion within the realm of spiritual devotion. Khajuraho symbolizes the connection between spirituality and human passion. And shows that spirituality encompasses all aspects of human life.
Standing as a testament to its glorious past and a place of pilgrimage, Khajuraho attracts so many visitors from around the world. The place is for everyone seeking spiritual enlightenment and marveling at the artistic legacy left behind by the Chandela dynasty. The town has some popular attractions that will leave you spellbound with its great architecture and beauty. Here are the top places that everyone must add to their Khajuraho tour itinerary.
Top 13 Must-Visit Attractions in and Around Khajuraho
The most visited place in Khajuraho is the Western Group of Temples. The group has many famous temples to explore. The time of the temple is from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. This provides tourists ample time to explore every pilgrimage site and indulge themselves in the splendor of these ancient wonders. The best time to visit the temples is early in the morning when you find a minimal crowd. Also, the weather in the early hours is pleasant and cool. Additionally, you should not miss attending the Light and Sound show in the Western Group of Temples.
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
One of the most famous attractions to visit in Khajuraho is Kandariya Mahadeva Temple. It is the largest temple in the area dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is built on an approximately 6500 sq. feet area and 30 m in height from the ground level. Within the premises, you will also see a small Chitragupta Temple. The word Kandara means cave or cavern. Kandariya means ‘The God of Cave”, which is none other than Lord Shiva, who is also known as Mahadeva. Hence, the name of the temple is Kandariya Mahadeva.
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is famous for its erotic sculptures. The walls of the temple are adorned with intricate carvings of human relationships. You will see erotic carvings of men and women in intimate poses on the temple’s walls. This showcases the celebration of the human love and passion.
Lakshmana Temple
Another prominent attraction in the UNESCO World Heritage Site—Khajuraho is the Lakshmana Temple. It is dedicated to Vaikuntha Vishnu, the revered form of Lord Vishnu. Being one of the parts of the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho, Lakshmana Temple is a real treat for the eyes. The peaceful atmosphere of the temple is the best feeling in the world. As you step inside the temple, you will be amazed to see the intricate carvings on the walls depicting the historical story of the era. Visiting this temple means experiencing the architectural brilliance of the Chandela dynasty.
You don’t have to be spiritual to be mesmerized by the external design of the temple. It has more than 600 statues of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The temple’s timings are from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm and then in the evening from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm with an entry fee of Rs. 40 for Indians and Rs. 250 for foreign tourists.
Chaturbhuj Temple
Chaturbhuj Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. The temple is located in the Jatakari village in Khajuraho. Hence, it is also called Jatakari Temple. Chaturbhuj means the one who has four arms. Lord Vishnu is also called Chaturbhuj and the temple is dedicated to him. What sets this temple apart is its unique location. It stands lonely and serene on a high platform and faces west. This temple is the only temple in Khajuraho that doesn’t have erotic sculptures. Since it is located in the southern of Khajuraho, Chaturbhuj Temple is the part of Southern Group of Temples.
Devi Jagdambi Temple
Among many wonderful temples of Khajuraho, the Devi Jagadambi Temple stands out with its architectural features. This temple is dedicated to Mata Paravati. She is “the goddess of the universe’. The breathtaking architecture of the temple makes it a masterpiece of the Chandela dynasty. The main attraction of the temple is the Garbhagriha, a sacred chamber. Visitors feel the divine presence in Garbhagriha.
Jagdambi Temple is a part of the Western Group of Temples and was built between 1000 and 1025 AD. it is a testament to the land's architectural brilliance and cultural legacy. It is situated on an elevated platform and appears similar to the Chitragupta temple’s design and overall concept.
Vishwanath and Nandi Temple
Vishwanath Temple and Nandi Temple are parts of the Khajuraho Group of monuments in the same complex. The Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nandi Temple is dedicated to Shiva’s Vahana bull—Nandideva.
Vishwanath Temple has a Shivalinga made of marvel as the main deity and is adorned with 101 Shiva Lingams showing the cosmic presence of Lord Shiva. Besides, it houses an imposing image of Brahma. Alongside the temple is a massive sculpture of Nandideva. The temple celebrates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati in marriage.
Chausat Yogini Temple
Chanusat Yogini Temple is the oldest surviving temple in the complex. The entire temple is made of granite and is dedicated to Goddess Kali, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is named after the belief that the deity had 64 attendants, with the goddess herself considered as the 65th one. Although the intricate carvings have vanished with time the temple’s exquisite designs can still be admired. During your visit to Chaunsat Yogini Temple, you will feel the mystical aura that surrounds the temple. It is one of the best tourist places in Khajuraho to visit.
Javari Temple
Javari Temple is one of the famous attractions in Khajuraho. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu which is famous for its intricate designs and carvings. It displays the ancient Khajuraho architecture. Visitors admire its breathtaking views and remarkable artwork. During your visit to Javari Temple, you can marvel at the intricate designs of the Niranthara Temple.
Parsvanath Temple
Kjahurao Group of Temples is divided into Eastern, Western, and Southern Temples. Parsvanath Temple is one of the famous Eastern Temples in Khajuraho. This temple is one of the finest and most wonderful examples of Khajuraho sculptures and carvings. This is the largest Jain Temple in the complex, originally dedicated to Adinath. This temple’s uniqueness lies within its sculptures without the artwork of sexual motifs. Its intricate craftsmanship is what makes it one of the best temples to visit in Khajuraho. Since it is one of the Eastern Group of Temples, the entry is free.
Adinath Temple
Adinath Temple is one of the famous Jain Temples in Khajuraho. It is one century younger than Parsvanath Temple and was recently reconstructed too. Built in the 12th century, Adinath Temple is dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankar—Lord Adinath. Along with this, the temple also features Hindu deities depicted on its exterior walls. The temple also showcases the graceful dance style of Nilanjana. Adinath Temple is one of the significant structures of the Eastern Group of Khajuraho Temples.
Panna National Park
Khajuraho is not only about pilgrimage sites but the region has a rich diverse flora and fauna. One can indulge himself in the wildlife experience. Apart from exploring the popular temples, you can go on a wildlife safari in Khajuraho at Panna National Park. It is located just 40 km from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho. Panna Tiger Reserve is a critical habitat for tigers. And, it was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011. The National Park houses several animals but mostly tigers. You can get opportunities to spot animals like Leopards, Chital, Nilgai, Sambar, Sloth Bear, and Chinkara in their natural habitats. For nature lovers and wildlife lovers, a day trip to Panna National Park from Khajuraho is a gem of their Khajuraho Tours.
Ken Gharial Sanctuary
One of the most popular tourist places to visit in Khajuraho is Ken Gharial Sanctuary. It is famous for its captivating natural beauty and the chance to witness the endangered animals. Most people visit this place to spot crocodiles leisurely wandering around the Ken River. With its stunning wildlife and beautiful surroundings, Ken Gharial Sanctuary offers a remarkable experience to its visitors.
Beni Sagar Dam
Beni Sagar Dam is located on the outskirts of Khajuraho. A perfect place for a day picnic to spend time at leisure. This dam is built over the River Kudar which gives a breathtaking view of the surroundings. Moreover, it provides some recreation fun activities to enjoy like boating, fishing, etc. Visitors seeking tranquility must visit Beni Sagar Dam. Its serene ambiance is enhanced by a refreshing evening breeze, making it a perfect place for friend groups and family on their Khajuraho tours to unwind.
Archaeological Museum Khajuraho
Visiting the Archaeological Museum Khajuraho provides a remarkable experience for tourists, especially history buffs. This museum was built in 1910 and recently underwent a reconstruction in the year 2016. This hall houses a collection of over 2000 sculptures and architectural ruins. All these artifacts narrate the tale of the bygone era and showcase the traditions of the Hindu and Jain religions as well as depict the history of the Chandela dynasty.
Apart from these, some other notable locations that you must visit during your trip to Khajuraho are:
- Chitragupta Temple
- Duladev Temple
- Lakshmi and Varaha Temple
- Matangeshwar Temple
- Vamana Temple
- Brahma Temple
- Brihaspati Kund
- Shantinath Temple
- Ghantai Temple
- Bijamandala Temple
Important Things to Know Before Visiting Khajuraho
- Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples remain open from morning 6 am to evening 6 pm. Some temples remain open till 9 pm also.
- Tourists throng in large numbers in the Western Group of Temples than in the Eastern and Southern Group of Khajuraho Temples. So, you should visit as early as possible. Otherwise, the crowd thickens with time.
- You pay an entry fee for the Western Group of Temples whereas the entry in Southern and Eastern Group of Temples is free. The tickets for Indian tourists cost INR 40 and INR 400 for foreign tourists. Further, you pay for your still and video cameras INR 200 and INR 400 respectively.
- You are allowed to take your cameras inside but remember any sort of tripods inside the ASI-protected monuments are not allowed, not even the small ones.
- The light and sound show takes place in the Western Group of Temples at 6:30 pm. The show is available in Hindi and English Language. The English show starts at 6:30 pm followed by the Hindi show at 7:30 pm. You pay an entry fee for this show which costs Indian tourists INR 250 and foreigners pay INR 750.
- At Khajuraho you will be visiting some of the famous pilgrimage sites and shrines. Although many of them are not active yet you are advised to dress modestly.
- Remember, you will be visiting the temples so, you will have to remove your shoes again and again whenever you visit a temple. Besides, it includes a lot of walking hence, we advise you to wear a slip-on shoe that is easy to remove and comfortable as well.
- The climate of Khajuraho is quite extreme with temperatures up to 45 degrees Celsius in summer. Hence, you should carry an umbrella with you, wear sunglasses, and carry a water bottle if you have visited the place between April to October.
- You will find many tour guides at the entrance gate of the Western Group of Temples. If you are on a good budget, we advise you to explore the temples with a guide. Their charges for a group of two people start at Rs. 1800 approximately. However, you can still bargain the price.
- If you plan to visit Raneh Waterfalls, you will pay an entry fee and hire a guide at the entrance gate. It is not optional. The entry fee includes the fees of the guide. So, you will have to take one along.
Khajuraho with its fascinating places and attractions is one of the best places to visit in India. If you are planning a trip to Khajuraho with family or friends, we suggest booking a customized Khajuraho tour package. Professional tour operators provide the best tour itinerary taking care of your accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, meals, and safety.
We hope our Khajuraho tour guide helps you plan your trip to Khajuraho to let you experience the city’s architectural marvels and cultural significance.
