How to get to Khajuraho

Planning a trip to Khajuraho marks the beginning of a fascinating journey to the architectural jewel of Madhya Pradesh. This small yet world-renowned city is famous for its ancient temples featuring exquisite carvings, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can reach this amazing location in the heart of India in various ways: by using the local airport, arriving by train, or embarking on a road journey along the country's scenic routes.

The fastest way to reach the famous temples is by air. The city is served by its own airport, Khajuraho (HJR), located just a few kilometres from the historic centre, allowing you to start your excursion almost immediately after landing. Regular flights connect it with the country's major tourism hubs.

If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly to nearby major cities followed by a transfer. Convenient alternatives include the airports in Kanpur or Jabalpur, from where you can continue your journey by taxi or train.

Contrary to common misconceptions, reaching the city by rail is very convenient: the dedicated Khajuraho Railway Station is fully operational here. Direct trains arrive from Delhi and other major cities, making this mode of transport popular among tourists due to its comfort and the opportunity to view India's landscapes.

Alternatively, if tickets for a direct train are not available, you can travel to major junction stations in neighbouring cities. Travellers often choose routes via Datia, Kanpur, or Jabalpur, from where it is easy to reach the final destination using local transport.

Bus services offer an affordable and vibrant option for those travelling through the state of Madhya Pradesh. Regular services, both government and private, connect the city with neighbouring regions, allowing you to enjoy views of the Indian countryside. Comfortable sleeper buses often run at night, saving time for tourists.

The most popular routes run from the nearest major transport hubs. A bus journey can take anywhere from a few hours to a whole night depending on the departure point, but it is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and save on your travel budget.

Travelling by car gives you the freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops in picturesque places. The route from the city of Datia, covering about 203 km, will take approximately 3.5 hours, which is one of the fastest options.

If you are departing from Kanpur, the journey will be around 216 km and require about 5.5 hours on the road. The route from Jabalpur is also popular: the distance of 257 km is covered in an average of 5.5 hours. For a comfortable trip, it is recommended to hire a taxi with a driver familiar with local road conditions.

To ensure your experience with the temples and culture is flawless, we have prepared several important recommendations for your trip to Khajuraho.

1. Dress Code and Footwear: Choose light, modest clothing made of natural fabrics to protect yourself from the sun and respect local traditions. Be sure to wear footwear that is easy to remove, as entry to the temples is permitted only when barefoot.
2. Transport Within the City: The town is compact, and it is best explored on a rented bicycle or by using cycle rickshaws. It is affordable and offers a great atmosphere.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Indian Rupee. Souvenir shops and small cafes may not accept cards, so always carry a supply of cash in small denominations.
4. Health and Water: It is strictly advised not to drink tap water. Buy only bottled water with a sealed cap and use sunscreen with a high SPF.
5. Language and Communication: The main language is Hindi, but in the tourist zone, hotel staff and guides speak English well. Learning a couple of words in Hindi (for example, "Namaste") will help you build a rapport with the locals.
6. Rules of Behaviour: When visiting temples, please behave with decorum, despite the explicit nature of the sculptures. Do not photograph people without their permission.
7. Caution with Guides: Use the services of licensed guides only, who can be found through official tourist centres or your hotel, to avoid scams.
8. Best Time to Visit: Try to reach the temples at sunrise. At this time, the soft light is ideal for photography, and there are very few tourists.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and focus entirely on the magnificent heritage of ancient India.