Jhansi is a historic city in Uttar Pradesh, known for its fort and role in Indian history. Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, is famous worldwide for its stunning group of temples with intricate carvings. Many travelers visit Khajuraho after Jhansi due to their proximity and cultural significance.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Jhansi to Khajuraho. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips and a step-by-step plan for a smooth journey.

Getting from Jhansi to Khajuraho – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and affordable option between Jhansi and Khajuraho. It suits travelers who prefer comfort and scenic routes. Trains run regularly but check timings in advance.

• Jhansi Junction (JHS) is the main railway station in Jhansi, well connected to Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ) on the Khajuraho branch line, approximately 200 km apart.

• Direct trains take about 4 to 5 hours, with fares ranging from INR 150 to INR 600 depending on class, including sleeper and AC options.

• Trains run daily but may be crowded during festivals or holidays, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

• The route passes through scenic rural landscapes; however, monsoon rains can sometimes cause minor delays, so plan accordingly during July to September.

• Khajuraho station is small; auto-rickshaws and taxis are available outside for the last-mile commute to hotels or temples.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly way to travel from Jhansi to Khajuraho. They are suitable for travelers who want flexibility and frequent departures but expect basic comfort.

• State-run buses by Uttar Pradesh Roadways and Madhya Pradesh State Transport Corporation operate between Jhansi Bus Stand and Khajuraho Bus Stand.

• Travel time by bus is around 5 to 6 hours, covering about 210 km via NH39 and SH37, with fares typically between INR 150 and INR 300.

• Buses run multiple times daily, including ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo services; Volvo buses offer better comfort but are less frequent.

• During monsoon, road conditions may worsen, causing delays; also, buses can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons.

• There are several rest stops with food stalls along the highway, but it is advisable to carry water and snacks for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Jhansi to Khajuraho is a convenient option for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The roads are generally in good condition.

• The distance is approximately 200 km via NH39 and SH37, taking around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• You can hire a taxi from Jhansi or rent a self-drive car from local providers or apps like Zoomcar and Revv for a comfortable journey.

• The route passes through towns like Chhatarpur, where you can stop for refreshments or sightseeing, making the trip more enjoyable.

• Be prepared for toll plazas on NH39; toll charges may add to your travel cost, so keep cash handy.

• Driving during early morning or late evening is advisable to avoid city traffic in Jhansi and Khajuraho, but avoid night driving on rural stretches for safety.

Flight

Although Khajuraho has a domestic airport, flights from Jhansi are not available. The nearest airport to Jhansi is in Gwalior, which is about 100 km away.

• You can fly from Gwalior Airport (GWL) to Khajuraho Airport (HJR), but this requires traveling from Jhansi to Gwalior first by road or train.

• Flight time between Gwalior and Khajuraho is about 1 hour, with limited daily flights operated by regional airlines.

• Considering the extra travel to Gwalior, flights are less practical unless you are connecting from other cities or have limited time.

• From Khajuraho Airport, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available to reach your hotel or temple complex within 10 to 15 minutes.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Jhansi to Khajuraho, helping you prepare and travel smoothly.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance through IRCTC or state transport websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush.

• Reach Jhansi Junction or the bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid confusion.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if you choose bus or self-drive options where stops may be limited.

• If traveling by car, confirm your route on GPS apps like Google Maps and check for toll plazas and fuel stations along NH39 and SH37.

• 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 to your accommodation.

• Keep your hotel address and contact details handy, and inform them of your expected arrival time for smooth check-in and assistance.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs at Jhansi and Khajuraho stations to avoid overcharging and ensure safety during local travel.

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Book train tickets as soon as your travel dates are fixed, especially during festival seasons like Diwali or Holi when trains fill quickly.

• Use local buses or auto-rickshaws for short distances in Khajuraho; negotiate fares beforehand if a meter is not used.

• Pack light luggage and keep valuables close, as crowded trains and buses can be targets for pickpockets.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey, as heavy rains can cause delays or roadblocks.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

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

Summer months from April to June can be very hot, making daytime travel tiring. Monsoon season from July to September may cause road and rail delays due to heavy rains.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Navratri and Diwali when trains and roads are crowded and accommodation prices rise.

• Fog in winter mornings can delay trains and buses, so plan departures after 8 AM for smoother journeys.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid city traffic in Jhansi and reach Khajuraho with enough daylight for sightseeing.

• Monsoon rains may cause slippery roads and occasional landslides on SH37, so check local travel advisories before driving.

Arrival at Khajuraho & What to Expect

Khajuraho is a small town with a calm atmosphere. Upon arrival at the railway station or bus stand, you will find several auto-rickshaws and taxis waiting to take you to hotels or temple complexes.

Most tourists stay near the Western Group of Temples area, which is well connected by local transport. Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station, and app-based cabs like Ola operate in the town, offering convenient last-mile connectivity.

Conclusion

Traveling from Jhansi to Khajuraho is straightforward with several options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train is the most efficient and comfortable mode, offering a balance of speed and affordability. Buses are economical but less comfortable, while driving gives flexibility for stops and sightseeing.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and knowing local transport options will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Jhansi to Khajuraho and focus on exploring the rich heritage and beautiful temples awaiting you.