Photo: Varun Pyasi / UnsplashKhajuraho
Madhya Pradesh, India
A thousand-year-old temple town famous for some of the finest stone carving in India, with a tiger reserve next door.
- Backpacker / day
- ₹1,300–2,300
- Mid-range / day
- ₹4,600–8,800
- Best time
- October to March
- Ideal length
- 2–3 days
- Gateway
- Khajuraho airport and station, or Jhansi for more trains
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.
Day by day
2-day itinerary
₹2,600–4,600per person on a backpacker budget (estimate), excluding travel to get there
- 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.
When to go
- Jan★ Best
- Feb★ Best
- Mar★ Best
- Apr—
- May—
- Jun—
- Jul—
- Aug—
- Sep—
- Oct★ Best
- Nov★ Best
- Dec★ Best
- Oct–Mar: BestPleasant days. The Khajuraho Dance Festival, held against the temples, is usually in late February.
- Apr–Jun: AvoidExtreme heat, often above 45°C.
- Jul–Sep: MixedMonsoon: green and quiet, but Panna National Park's core zones close.
Getting there
- By air
- Khajuraho's small airport has limited flights, often seasonal.
- 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 per person per day
| Item | 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 |
| Typical day | ₹1,300–2,300 | ₹4,600–8,800 |
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.
Highlights
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.
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.
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.
Guide reviewed September 2026. Costs are estimates, not live prices. Check current prices, permits, weather, safety advice and schedules before you travel.