Khajuraho is a famous town in Madhya Pradesh known for its stunning group of temples with intricate carvings. Ahmedabad, a major city in Gujarat, is a common starting point for travelers heading to Khajuraho to explore its rich heritage and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Ahmedabad to Khajuraho. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, including travel times, costs, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Ahmedabad to Khajuraho – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical way to reach Khajuraho from Ahmedabad. Although there is no direct train, you can connect via major junctions. Trains offer a comfortable journey with sleeper and AC classes.

• You can take a train from Ahmedabad Junction (ADI) to Jhansi Junction (JHS), which takes around 16 to 20 hours depending on the train, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 for sleeper and AC classes.

• From Jhansi, you can board a connecting train to Khajuraho (KURJ), which takes about 4 to 5 hours; this route has limited trains, so check IRCTC for timings and availability.

• Trains on this route run daily but may be crowded during festivals and holidays, so booking in advance on IRCTC is advisable to secure a confirmed seat.

• Facilities at Ahmedabad and Jhansi stations include waiting rooms, food stalls, and prepaid taxi counters, making transfers manageable for travelers.

• Monsoon season can cause minor delays on this route, so plan extra time if traveling between July and September.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option but involve long travel times and transfers. There is no direct bus from Ahmedabad to Khajuraho, so you will need to change buses at major cities.

• You can take a Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) bus from Ahmedabad to Ujjain or Indore, which takes about 8 to 10 hours, with fares between ₹400 and ₹700 for AC and non-AC buses.

• From Ujjain or Indore, you can catch a Madhya Pradesh State Transport (MPSRTC) bus to Khajuraho, which takes another 7 to 9 hours, costing around ₹300 to ₹600 depending on the bus type.

• Buses run frequently but can be crowded during weekends and festival seasons, so booking tickets online or at bus depots early is recommended.

• Road conditions on National Highways NH47 and NH39 are generally good, but expect toll plazas and occasional traffic jams near cities.

• Night buses are available but may be less comfortable; daytime travel allows stops at roadside dhabas for meals and rest.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Ahmedabad to Khajuraho is a flexible option for those who prefer privacy and sightseeing along the way. The distance is about 900 kilometers and takes roughly 16 to 18 hours by car.

• The main route follows NH47 and NH39, passing through cities like Ujjain, Indore, and Satna, offering multiple fuel stations and rest stops.

• Driving allows you to explore attractions en route, but be prepared for toll plazas and occasional traffic congestion near urban areas.

• Car rentals with drivers are widely available in Ahmedabad, with daily rates starting around ₹3000 to ₹4000 depending on the vehicle type.

• Self-driving requires familiarity with Indian road rules and patience for mixed traffic conditions, especially near towns and villages.

• Monsoon season can cause slippery roads and waterlogging in some stretches, so check weather updates before starting your journey.

Flight

Flying is the fastest but least common option due to limited direct flights. Khajuraho has a small airport with connections mainly from Delhi and Varanasi.

• You can fly from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad to Khajuraho Airport (HJR) with a connecting flight via Delhi or Varanasi; total travel time including layovers is around 5 to 7 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically ranging from ₹4000 to ₹8000 depending on the season and how early you book.

• Khajuraho Airport is about 5 km from the town center; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for last-mile connectivity.

• Flights may be less frequent and can be affected by weather conditions such as fog in winter, so confirm schedules before booking.

• Booking flights well in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons from October to March.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Ahmedabad to Khajuraho, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Check train and bus schedules on official websites like IRCTC and state transport portals to find the best timing and availability; this helps avoid last-minute surprises.

• Book your tickets online early, especially during holidays and festivals, to secure confirmed seats and avoid waiting in queues at stations or bus depots.

• If traveling by car, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps and note fuel stations and rest stops along NH47 and NH39 for safe breaks.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as some stretches between cities have limited food options.

• On arrival at Khajuraho station or airport, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and avoid overcharging.

• Keep your ID and booking confirmations handy during travel, as Indian transport authorities may ask for them at various checkpoints.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a copy of your ID and ticket while traveling, as railway and bus staff frequently check documents during the journey in India.

• Drink only bottled water and eat at clean, popular dhabas or restaurants to avoid stomach issues common among travelers on long routes.

• Book train and bus tickets through official portals like IRCTC and MSRTC to avoid scams and ensure legitimate travel.

• Use local transport options like auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances in Ahmedabad and Khajuraho; negotiate fares or use meter apps to avoid overcharging.

• Pack your luggage securely and keep valuables close, especially in crowded trains and buses, to prevent theft or loss.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather updates as heavy rains can delay trains and buses, and cause slippery roads for drivers.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Ahmedabad to Khajuraho is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and comfortable travel conditions.

Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of April to June due to extreme heat, and be cautious during the monsoon season from July to September because of possible delays and road issues.

• Festival periods like Diwali and Holi see heavy traffic and fully booked trains and buses, so plan and book tickets well in advance.

• Winter mornings can have dense fog, especially near Jhansi and Khajuraho, causing train delays; mid-morning departures are preferable.

• Travel early in the day to avoid night driving risks and to reach your destination with daylight for easier navigation and safety.

• Monsoon rains can cause waterlogging on some highway stretches, so check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure.

Arrival at Khajuraho & What to Expect

When you arrive at Khajuraho railway station or airport, you will find several local transport options to reach your hotel or the temple complex. The town is small and easy to navigate.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from the station and airport, offering safe and fixed fares. Auto-rickshaws are also available but negotiate fares beforehand. Popular areas to stay include near the Western Group of Temples and the town center for easy access to attractions and eateries.

Conclusion

Traveling from Ahmedabad to Khajuraho is manageable by train, bus, car, or flight depending on your budget and time constraints. Train travel offers a balance of comfort and cost, while flights save time but require connections. Driving gives flexibility but needs preparation.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in advance. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy your journey to Khajuraho and explore its magnificent temples without hassle.