By air
Khajuraho's small airport has limited flights, often seasonal.
Madhya Pradesh · Central India
Khajuraho travel guide
A thousand-year-old temple town famous for some of the finest stone carving in India, with a tiger reserve next door.
Photo: Varun Pyasi / Unsplash
Quick facts
- Best time
- October to March
- How long
- 2–3 days
- Daily budget
- ₹1,300–2,300 backpacking
- Getting in
- Khajuraho airport and station, or Jhansi for more trains
Costs are typical per-person ranges in Indian rupees, reviewed September 2026. Check current prices and conditions before you book.
Between about 950 and 1050, the Chandela kings built dozens of Hindu and Jain temples at Khajuraho. Around 20 survive, covered in carvings of gods, dancers, musicians, and everyday life, including the famous erotic sculptures. They're a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The village is small and relaxed. Two days covers the temples, and you can add a safari in Panna National Park or the canyon at Raneh Falls.
When to go
Best time to visit Khajuraho
- Oct–MarBest
Pleasant days. The Khajuraho Dance Festival, held against the temples, is usually in late February.
- Apr–JunAvoid
Extreme heat, often above 45°C.
- Jul–SepMixed
Monsoon: green and quiet, but Panna National Park's core zones close.
Getting there
How to reach Khajuraho
By train
Khajuraho station has direct trains from Delhi and a few other cities. Jhansi, about 175 km away, has many more trains.
By road
Buses and taxis connect Khajuraho with Jhansi, Satna, and Orchha.
Budget
Khajuraho trip cost per day
| Per day | Backpacker | Mid-range |
|---|---|---|
| Stay (guesthouse) | ₹600–1,200 | ₹2,500–5,000 |
| Food | ₹350–600 | ₹800–1,300 |
| Local transport (bicycle, auto) | ₹150–400 | ₹800–1,500 |
| Entry fees and extras | ₹200–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
A jeep safari in Panna is the main extra; share the jeep to split the cost. Renting a bicycle is the easiest way between the temple groups.
Itinerary
2-day Khajuraho itinerary
- 1
Day 1: The Western Group
The Western Group of temples, including Kandariya Mahadeva and Lakshmana, with a guide or audio guide, then the evening sound and light show.
- 2
Day 2: Eastern and Southern groups
Cycle to the Jain temples of the Eastern Group and the Southern Group, then Raneh Falls or a Panna safari in the afternoon.
Don't miss
Top things to do in Khajuraho
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
The largest and most elaborately carved temple, rising like a mountain peak.
Western Group
The main temple complex, set in gardens, with the finest sculpture.
Jain temples
The Eastern Group's temples, including Parsvanath, with detailed carvings.
Panna National Park
A tiger reserve about half an hour away, with jeep safaris in season.
Before you go
Practical tips
- Guides
- A licensed guide or audio guide makes the carvings far more meaningful; agree the fee first.
- Heat
- Visit the temples early morning and late afternoon, even in winter.
- Safaris
- Book Panna safaris through official channels; core zones close in the monsoon.
Questions
Khajuraho FAQs
How many days do I need in Khajuraho?
Two days covers all three temple groups; add a day for Panna National Park.
When is the Khajuraho Dance Festival?
Usually for a week in late February, with classical dance performed in front of the temples.
How do I get to Khajuraho?
By train from Delhi, by the limited flights, or by road from Jhansi, which has many more trains.
More India guides
Uttar Pradesh
Agra
1–2 days · ₹1,500–2,500 backpacking
Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi
2–4 days · ₹1,300–2,300 backpacking
Rajasthan
Jaipur
2–4 days · ₹1,500–2,500 backpacking