Khajuraho, famous for its stunning group of temples, is located in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district. Gwalior, also in Madhya Pradesh, is a historic city known for its fort and cultural heritage. Many travelers journey between these two cities to explore central India’s rich history and architecture.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Gwalior to Khajuraho. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Gwalior to Khajuraho – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and affordable choice for many. Though there is no direct train from Gwalior to Khajuraho, connecting trains via Jhansi or Satna are common. Trains offer a comfortable ride with scenic views.

• The nearest major railway station to Khajuraho is Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ), connected via Jhansi Junction (JHS) from Gwalior (GWL). The total journey takes around 6 to 8 hours depending on connections.

• Train fares range from INR 150 to 600 for sleeper and AC classes, booked easily through IRCTC or at stations. Advance booking is recommended during festivals and holidays.

• Trains from Gwalior to Jhansi run frequently, about every 2-3 hours, with good seating options. From Jhansi, you can catch a connecting train to Khajuraho, though fewer trains run daily.

• During monsoon, train delays can occur due to track maintenance near the Vindhya ranges. It is wise to check live train status before departure.

• Station facilities at Gwalior and Jhansi include waiting rooms, food stalls, and prepaid taxi counters for last-mile connectivity. Khajuraho station is small but has basic amenities and auto-rickshaws for onward travel.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and economical way to reach Khajuraho from Gwalior. State-run and private buses operate on this route, though travel time can be longer due to road conditions.

• Madhya Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (MPSRTC) runs regular buses from Gwalior Bus Stand to Khajuraho Bus Stand, covering about 350 km in 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 300 to 600, with options including sleeper, semi-sleeper, and deluxe coaches. Booking is available at bus stands or online through MPSRTC portals.

• The route follows NH44 and NH39, passing through Jhansi and Chhatarpur, with several toll plazas and rest stops offering food and refreshments.

• Buses can be crowded during festival seasons like Diwali and Holi, so booking in advance is advisable. Night buses are available but may be less comfortable due to road conditions.

• Local buses or shared jeeps from Khajuraho bus stand can take you to hotels or temple complexes, as the bus stand is about 3 km from the town center.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Gwalior to Khajuraho is a flexible and scenic option. The route is well connected by national highways, allowing you to stop at interesting places along the way.

• The distance between Gwalior and Khajuraho is approximately 350 km via NH44 and NH39, taking around 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Driving yourself or hiring a taxi offers comfort and convenience, with options to visit Jhansi Fort or Orchha en route. Fuel costs for this trip range around INR 2,500 to 3,000 depending on vehicle mileage.

• Road conditions are generally good, but some stretches near Chhatarpur may have potholes, especially during monsoon. Avoid night driving in rural areas due to limited lighting.

• There are multiple toll plazas on the route, so keep INR 200 to 300 handy for toll fees. Several dhabas and restaurants along NH44 provide decent food and rest stops.

• Parking is available near Khajuraho temples and hotels, but it can get crowded during peak tourist seasons. Pre-booking your hotel with parking is recommended.

Flight

Though Khajuraho has a small airport, direct flights from Gwalior are not available. However, flying can be considered if you combine flights with road travel.

• The nearest airport to Gwalior is Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia Airport (GWL), which mainly operates flights to Delhi and Mumbai. Khajuraho Airport (HJR) has limited flights connecting to Delhi and Varanasi.

• You can fly from Gwalior to Delhi and then take a connecting flight to Khajuraho, but this is usually time-consuming and expensive compared to road or train travel.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically INR 3,000 to 7,000 one way, depending on the season and how early you book through airlines or travel portals.

• From Khajuraho Airport, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available to reach your hotel or temple complex, about 5 km away. Prepaid taxi counters operate at both airports for safer travel.

• Flight schedules can be affected by fog in winter months, so check weather conditions and flight status before planning.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Gwalior to Khajuraho, follow this simple plan to ensure a smooth trip. Each step explains what to do, why it matters, and a useful Indian travel tip.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance using IRCTC for trains or MPSRTC website for buses. This avoids last-minute rush and ensures confirmed seats during busy seasons.

• Reach Gwalior Railway Station or Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to manage crowds and find your platform or bus easily. Carry a printed or digital ticket and valid ID.

• If traveling by car, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and GPS route before starting. Carry a physical map as backup since network coverage can be patchy in rural areas.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank. Indian trains and buses may have limited food options, especially on less busy routes.

• On arrival at Khajuraho station or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and fair local transport. Avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Confirm your hotel booking before arrival and ask for directions or pick-up options if available. Many hotels offer shuttle services from the station or bus stand.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a copy of your ID and ticket at all times; Indian railway and bus staff often check these during travel. Keep digital copies on your phone as a backup.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey to avoid stomach issues. Avoid street food unless it is freshly prepared and popular among locals.

• Book tickets at least 2 weeks in advance during peak tourist seasons like winter holidays and festivals to avoid unavailability and higher prices.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances in Khajuraho. Always agree on the fare beforehand or insist on the meter to avoid scams.

• Pack light and use sturdy bags with locks. Avoid carrying valuables in easily accessible pockets, especially in crowded trains and buses.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause road delays and slippery conditions. Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

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

Summer months can be very hot, with temperatures rising above 40°C, making daytime travel tiring. Monsoon rains may cause road and rail delays, so plan accordingly.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when trains and buses are crowded and prices surge.

• Winter fog in December and January can delay early morning trains and flights, so schedule departures later in the day when possible.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid city traffic in Gwalior and reach Khajuraho before dark, especially if driving.

Arrival at Khajuraho & What to Expect

When you arrive at Khajuraho Railway Station or Bus Stand, you will find several options for local transport. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to take you to your hotel or the temple complex.

Most tourists stay near the Western Group of Temples or in the town center, both within 3 to 5 km from transport hubs. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Khajuraho, offering safe and convenient rides.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train via Jhansi is often the most balanced choice for comfort, cost, and experience. Buses are economical but slower, while self-driving offers flexibility for those who prefer independent travel. Flights are less practical due to limited connectivity.

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 from Gwalior to Khajuraho and explore the magnificent temples and heritage of this unique destination.