The Archaeological Museum is right opposite the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho. It keeps beautiful old stone statues that were found in and around the temples. Here you can see the fine details up close, at eye level, which is hard to do on the high temple walls.
If you have an hour after the temples, this museum is well worth it. To plan your whole Khajuraho visit, see our Khajuraho tour packages.
Archaeological Museum Khajuraho: Quick Facts
History of the Museum
In the early 1900s, many broken and loose statues were lying around the temples of Khajuraho. A British officer, W.E. Jardine, was in charge of this area at the time. He started collecting these statues so they would be safe. In 1910, this collection became a small museum. For many years, people called it the Jardine Museum.
In 1952, the Archaeological Survey of India took over the museum. It still looks after it today.
What to See in the Museum
The museum has statues from Hindu, Jain and Buddhist faiths, made between about the 9th and 12th centuries. Look out for these:
Statues of Hindu Gods
You will see Lord Vishnu in his many forms, Lord Shiva, Ganesha, and goddesses like Parvati and Lakshmi. The dancing Ganesha is a favourite of many visitors.
Jain Tirthankaras
Calm, standing and sitting figures of the Jain Tirthankaras, mostly from the Eastern Group of temples.
Heavenly Women (Surasundaris)
Graceful female figures, like those on the temple walls. Some are looking in a mirror, some are putting on jewellery, and some are dancing. Up close, you can see every fold of their clothes.
Animals and Daily Life
Carvings of elephants, lions, horses and scenes of people at work, at war and at play.
Buddha
A few statues of the Buddha show that Buddhism was also present in this area.
Archaeological Museum Khajuraho Timings and Ticket
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening time | About 10 AM |
| Closing time | About 5 PM |
| Closed on | Fridays and some government holidays |
| Ticket | A small fee for adults. Children below 15 are free. |
Ticket tip: Ask at the Western Group ticket counter whether your temple ticket also covers the museum on the same day. Keep your ticket with you.
Timings and prices can change. Check the board at the gate for the latest details.
Best Time to Visit the Museum
- Late morning, after you finish the Western Group. The museum is shaded and cool when the sun gets hot.
- Not on Fridays, when it is closed.
- If you are in a hurry, give it at least 30 minutes for the main halls.
How to Reach the Museum
The museum is right across the road from the Western Group of Temples, near the Matangeshwar Temple. You can walk there in a few minutes from the temple gate.
| From | Distance (about) |
|---|---|
| Western Group gate | A few minutes' walk |
| Khajuraho bus stand | 1 km |
| Khajuraho railway station | 5 km |
| Khajuraho airport | 3 km |
Plan: Temples and Museum Together
- Step 1Early morning: Western Group of Temples (2 to 3 hours).
- Step 2Late morning: Matangeshwar Temple (just next door).
- Step 3Then: Archaeological Museum (about 1 hour).
- Step 4Afternoon: rest, then the Eastern and Southern temples.
Our Khajuraho Short Tour and 2 Nights Khajuraho Tour Package include the main temples and sights.
Tips
- See the temples first, then the museum. You will understand the statues better.
- Read the boards next to the statues. They tell you which temple each piece came from.
- Do not touch the statues.
- Carry water. There are only small shops nearby.
Want a guide who explains it all? We can arrange a car and a trained guide for the temples and the museum. See our Khajuraho holiday packages or call +91 92850 11011. Want to see more of the state? Explore our Madhya Pradesh tour packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Archaeological Museum in Khajuraho?
It is right opposite the Western Group of Temples, near the Matangeshwar Temple.
What are the Archaeological Museum Khajuraho timings?
It is open from about 10 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Fridays and some government holidays.
Is the Khajuraho museum open on Friday?
No. The Archaeological Museum is closed on Fridays.
Who started the Khajuraho museum?
A British officer, W.E. Jardine, started it in 1910. The Archaeological Survey of India took it over in 1952.
How much time is needed for the Khajuraho museum?
About 45 minutes to 1 hour is enough to see the main statues.
