1 Day in Khajuraho

Day 1

Begin your day at the Western Group of Temples, the most iconic and well-preserved cluster, including the magnificent Kandariya Mahadeva Temple. After lunch, explore the Eastern and Southern groups, and end with the evening light and sound show that brings the history of the Chandela dynasty to life.

Activities

Morning: Visit the Western Group of Temples (Kandariya Mahadeva, Lakshmana, Vishvanatha, and Devi Jagadambi temples) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afternoon: Explore the Eastern Group of Temples (Parsvanatha, Ghantai, and Adinatha temples) and the Southern Group (Duladeo and Chaturbhuj temples).
Late afternoon: Visit the Archaeological Museum to see artifacts and sculptures from the region.
Evening: Attend the light and sound show at the Western Group, which narrates the history of the Chandela dynasty and the temples.

Meals

•Breakfast at hotel
•Lunch at a local restaurant
•Dinner at a restaurant near the Western Group

Detailed Timeline

Day 1

8 activities

Morning

07:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel your day of exploration. Most hotels in Khajuraho offer a complimentary breakfast buffet with Indian and continental options. If not included, budget around ₹300-500 per person.

08:30 AM

Visit Western Group of Temples

Start your day at the Western Group, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entry fee is ₹40 for Indians and ₹600 for foreigners (including the Archaeological Museum). Hire a guide for about ₹500-800 to gain deeper insights into the intricate carvings and history. Spend about 2.5 hours here, focusing on the Kandariya Mahadeva, Lakshmana, Vishvanatha, and Devi Jagadambi temples.

11:30 AM

Explore Eastern Group of Temples

Proceed to the Eastern Group, which includes the Parsvanatha, Ghantai, and Adinatha temples. These are mostly Jain temples and are equally captivating. Entry is free for most, but some may have a small fee. Spend about 1.5 hours here, admiring the architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Afternoon

01:00 PM

Lunch at a local restaurant

Take a break for lunch at a nearby restaurant. Try local Bundelkhandi cuisine or standard Indian fare. Popular options include Raja Cafe or Mediterraneo. Budget around ₹400-600 per person for a satisfying meal.

02:30 PM

Explore Southern Group of Temples

After lunch, visit the Southern Group, which includes the Duladeo and Chaturbhuj temples. These are located a bit further from the main cluster, so you may need an auto-rickshaw (about ₹200-300 round trip). Spend about 1.5 hours exploring these lesser-visited but beautiful temples.

04:00 PM

Visit Archaeological Museum

Head to the Archaeological Museum to see artifacts and sculptures from the region. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays). Entry is included with the Western Group ticket or ₹10 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners. Spend about 1 hour here.

05:30 PM

Light and Sound Show at Western Group

Return to the Western Group for the evening light and sound show, which narrates the history of the Chandela dynasty. The show typically starts around 6:30 PM (timings vary by season). Tickets cost ₹250 for Indians and ₹750 for foreigners. Arrive early to get good seats. The show lasts about 1 hour.

Evening

07:30 PM

Dinner at a restaurant near Western Group

Conclude your day with dinner at a restaurant near the Western Group, such as The Green View or Saffron. Enjoy a relaxed meal, possibly with a view of the temples. Budget around ₹500-800 per person. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Food Recommendations

Raja Cafe

Indian, Continental

Must Try: Wood-fired pizza and lassi

₹200–₹500 per person

Mediterraneo

Italian

Must Try: Pasta and homemade ice cream

₹300–₹600 per person

The Lalit Temple View

Multi-cuisine

Must Try: Local Bundeli thali

₹500–₹1000 per person

Transportation Tips

Khajuraho is well-connected by air (Khajuraho Airport), rail (Khajuraho Railway Station), and road (regular buses from Chhatarpur, Jhansi, and Satna).
Within Khajuraho, auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are readily available for short trips; negotiate fares beforehand.
Many hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance of the Western Group of Temples, so walking is convenient.
For visiting the Eastern and Southern groups, hiring a bicycle or scooter is a good option; alternatively, taxis can be hired for half or full day.