Khajuraho Temple is located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is famous for its stunning group of Hindu and Jain temples known for their intricate sculptures and architecture. This route is popular among tourists and pilgrims visiting central India for cultural and historical exploration.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Khajuraho Temple using different transport modes. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips and local commute advice to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Major Cities to Khajuraho Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train to Khajuraho is a popular choice for budget and comfort-conscious travelers. The Khajuraho Railway Station connects to several major cities, making it convenient for many visitors.

• Khajuraho Railway Station is well connected to cities like Delhi, Jhansi, and Satna, with direct trains such as the Khajuraho Express and the Bundelkhand Express operating regularly.

• The journey from Delhi to Khajuraho by train takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, covering around 600 km, with fares ranging from INR 300 to INR 1500 depending on class and train type.

• Train services are generally reliable, but during monsoon season, delays can occur due to track maintenance or waterlogging, so plan accordingly.

• Trains to Khajuraho are moderately crowded during festivals like Diwali and Holi, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is advisable to secure your seat.

• The railway station is about 2 km from the temple complex, and local auto-rickshaws and taxis are available for last-mile connectivity at reasonable fares.

Bus

Buses offer a cost-effective and flexible way to reach Khajuraho from nearby cities and towns. State-run and private buses operate on this route frequently.

• Madhya Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (MPSRTC) runs regular buses from Satna, Chhatarpur, and Jhansi to Khajuraho, with journey times ranging from 2 to 6 hours depending on the origin.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 100 to INR 400, with options including ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo coaches for varying comfort levels.

• Bus depots in Khajuraho are located close to the temple area, making it easy to reach your accommodation or the temple on arrival.

• During peak tourist seasons and weekends, buses can get crowded, so arriving early at the bus station or booking tickets online where possible is recommended.

• Road conditions on National Highway 39 and connecting state highways are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery roads.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Khajuraho offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. The roads are well maintained on major routes.

• Khajuraho is accessible via National Highway 39, connecting it to Jhansi (about 175 km) and Satna (about 120 km), with travel times of 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

• Self-driving allows you to stop at scenic spots and rest areas along the way, with several dhabas and restaurants available on the highway for meals and refreshments.

• Toll plazas are present on the NH39 route, so keep some cash handy for toll payments during your journey.

• Parking near the temple complex is limited but available; arriving early in the day helps secure a convenient spot and avoid crowds.

• Driving during the monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional waterlogging, especially near rural stretches.

Flight

For travelers coming from distant cities, flying to Khajuraho is the fastest option. The local airport connects to major Indian cities with regular flights.

• Khajuraho Airport is located about 4 km from the temple complex, with taxi and auto-rickshaw services readily available for quick transfers.

• Direct flights operate from Delhi, Varanasi, and Bhopal, with flight durations ranging from 1 to 2 hours, making it convenient for time-sensitive travelers.

• Flight fares vary widely depending on the season and booking time, typically ranging from INR 2500 to INR 6000 one way.

• Airport facilities are basic but sufficient, with prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber available for safe and reliable local transport.

• During peak tourist seasons, flights may fill up quickly, so booking tickets well in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute price surges.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Khajuraho Temple, helping you navigate the journey smoothly and enjoy your visit without hassle.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to secure the best fares and preferred travel times, especially during festivals or holidays.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some transport modes may have limited food options en route.

• On arrival at Khajuraho Railway Station or Airport, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to reach your hotel or the temple safely and at fair prices.

• Check local bus schedules if you plan to use public transport within Khajuraho; buses and shared autos are affordable but may run less frequently in the evenings.

• Plan your temple visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the afternoon heat, and wear comfortable footwear for walking around the large complex.

• Keep a printed or digital copy of your accommodation booking and ID proofs handy, as they may be required at hotels or for local permits.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Khajuraho to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially if arriving late at night.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your trip to prevent stomach issues, and try local vegetarian food at recommended eateries near the temple for a safe culinary experience.

• Book train and bus tickets online via IRCTC and MPSRTC portals to avoid last-minute rush and ensure seat availability, particularly during peak seasons.

• Carry a small daypack with essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a raincoat during monsoon months, as sudden showers are common in the region.

• Use local auto-rickshaws for short distances within Khajuraho, but agree on the fare before starting the ride to avoid misunderstandings.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash; use digital payment methods where accepted for safer transactions.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Khajuraho Temple is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. Summers can be very hot, while the monsoon season brings heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.

Travel conditions vary with the seasons, so it is important to plan your journey considering local weather and festival calendars to avoid overcrowding and delays.

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

• Monsoon months from July to September may cause roadblocks and train delays due to waterlogging and track maintenance in the region.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and reach Khajuraho comfortably before noon, especially when driving or taking buses.

• Winter mornings can be foggy in nearby regions, so allow extra travel time if connecting through Jhansi or Satna by train or road.

Arrival at Khajuraho & What to Expect

Upon arriving at Khajuraho Railway Station or Airport, you will find several options for local transport to reach the temple complex or your hotel. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs are the safest and most convenient choices.

Many visitors choose to stay near the Western Group of Temples, where most accommodations and eateries are located. The temple area is compact and walkable, but auto-rickshaws are available for those who prefer not to walk.

Conclusion

Traveling to Khajuraho Temple is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train and flight options offer comfortable and quick access, while buses and self-drive provide flexibility and cost savings.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, choosing the right travel season, and understanding local transport will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Khajuraho Temple and experience its rich cultural heritage without stress.