Khajuraho is a small town in the state of Madhya Pradesh, in central India. It is world famous for its 1,000-year-old stone temples, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But Khajuraho is also a calm, friendly town with fields, lakes and a slow village life.
This page tells you about the town of Khajuraho: where it is, its story, what to eat and buy, and how long to stay. To plan your trip, see our Khajuraho holiday packages.
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh: Quick Facts
Khajuraho Is in Which State?
Khajuraho is in Madhya Pradesh. It is in the north of the state, in the Chhatarpur district, close to the border with Uttar Pradesh. The area around it is called Bundelkhand.
Chhatarpur town is about 45 km away, Panna is about 45 km away and Jhansi is about 175 km away.
A Short History of Khajuraho
- About 1,100 years ago, the Chandela kings ruled this area. Khajuraho was one of their main cities.
- Between about 950 and 1050, they built around 85 temples here.
- Later, the Chandelas moved their capital to forts like Mahoba and Kalinjar. Khajuraho slowly became a quiet village, and forest covered many temples.
- In 1838, a British officer, T.S. Burt, wrote about the temples, and the world came to know about them again.
- In 1986, UNESCO made the Khajuraho temples a World Heritage Site.
The name: "Khajur" means date palm. The old name of the town was Kharjuravahaka, the place of date palms.
What Is Khajuraho Famous For?
- Temples: about 22 old temples in three groups, Western, Eastern and Southern.
- Stone carvings: gods, dancers, animals, daily life and love scenes, all carved in sandstone.
- Khajuraho Dance Festival: a famous classical dance festival every February.
- Light and Sound Show: an evening show that tells the story of the temples.
- Nearby nature: Panna National Park, Raneh Falls and the Ken River.
Life in Khajuraho Town
Khajuraho is small and easy to walk around. The main road near the Western Group has hotels, cafes, shops and travel agents. Behind it, the old village near the Eastern Group still has narrow lanes, farms and small shrines.
People are used to visitors from all over the world. The town is generally safe and peaceful. Autos, e-rickshaws and bicycles are the easiest way to get around.
Food in Khajuraho
You will find simple Indian food everywhere, and many cafes also serve Italian, Chinese and continental dishes for foreign visitors.
Try these local and North Indian foods:
- Poha and jalebi for breakfast
- Dal bafla (a Madhya Pradesh dish of baked wheat balls with dal)
- Thali with roti, dal, sabzi and rice
- Lassi and sweets from local shops
Shopping in Khajuraho
- Stone carvings: small copies of the temple figures.
- Brass and metal items: lamps, statues and bells.
- Handicrafts of Madhya Pradesh: textiles, wooden toys and folk paintings.
Bargain politely in the small shops, and check the quality before you buy.
Festivals in Khajuraho
| Festival | When |
|---|---|
| Khajuraho Dance Festival | February |
| Mahashivratri fair at Matangeshwar Temple | February or March |
| Holi | March |
| Diwali | October or November |
Weather in Khajuraho
| Season | Months | Weather |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | October to March | Pleasant days, cold nights. Best time. |
| Summer | April to June | Very hot, often above 40°C in May. |
| Monsoon | July to September | Heavy rain, green and quiet. |
How to Reach Khajuraho
- By train: Khajuraho has its own railway station. The Vande Bharat Express comes from Delhi, via Agra, Gwalior and Jhansi.
- By air: Khajuraho airport is about 3 km from the temples. From 25 October 2026, Air India flights join it with Delhi and Varanasi.
- By road: good roads from Jhansi (about 175 km), Satna (about 117 km), Chhatarpur and Panna (about 45 km each).
How Many Days to Stay in Khajuraho?
- 1 day: the three temple groups, the museum and the Light and Sound Show.
- 2 days: add Panna National Park and Raneh Falls.
- 3 or more days: add Orchha, or combine with Bandhavgarh or Jabalpur.
Our 2 Nights Khajuraho Tour Package is a good fit for a first visit.
Visiting Khajuraho soon? We can book your hotel, car, guide and safari in one go. See our Khajuraho tour packages or call +91 92850 11011. Want to see more of the state? Explore our Madhya Pradesh tour packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Khajuraho is in which state?
Khajuraho is in Madhya Pradesh, in the Chhatarpur district.
What is the pin code of Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh?
The pin code of Khajuraho is 471606.
What is Khajuraho famous for?
Khajuraho is famous for its 1,000-year-old temples with fine stone carvings. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Which language is spoken in Khajuraho?
Hindi and Bundeli are spoken. Most hotel and shop staff also understand English.
Is Khajuraho safe for tourists?
Yes. Khajuraho is a small, peaceful town that is used to visitors. Take normal care, as you would anywhere.
How many days are enough for Khajuraho?
One day is enough for the temples. Take two days to add Panna National Park and Raneh Falls.
