Madhya Pradesh
A land of royal heritage, majestic forts, ancient temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic landscapes.
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3 Days in Khajuraho for Temple Hopping
Khajuraho is like stepping into a history book where every stone tells a story. I remember my first visit, walking through the Western Group of Temples as the morning sun lit up those intricate carvings—it felt magical. This itinerary helps you see the best of Khajuraho’s temples, local life, and even a bit of nature without rushing.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Khajuraho
Start your Khajuraho adventure by diving into its famous temples and local flavors. Today is all about the iconic Western Group of Temples, a leisurely village walk, and savoring authentic Bundelkhandi cuisine.
Activities
Western Group of Temples
Begin your day at the UNESCO-listed Western Group of Temples, the crown jewel of Khajuraho. Marvel at the intricate carvings that depict everything from daily life to celestial beings. The Kandariya Mahadev Temple, with its towering shikhara, is a highlight. Don’t miss the playful erotic sculptures that have made these temples famous.
- Hire a guide (₹500-800) for deeper insights into the carvings and history.
- Carry water and wear comfortable shoes—the complex is sprawling.
Khajuraho Village Walk
After the temples, take a relaxed stroll through Khajuraho village. The narrow lanes are lined with traditional homes, small shops selling handicrafts, and locals going about their day. Stop by the local market near Jain Temple Road for souvenirs like stone carvings and tribal jewelry.
- Bargain politely at the shops—prices are often inflated for tourists.
- Try fresh sugarcane juice from street vendors—it’s a local favorite.
Sunset at Chaturbhuj Temple
Wrap up your day at the lesser-visited but stunning Chaturbhuj Temple, just a short ride from the main complex. This temple, dedicated to Vishnu, is quieter and offers a peaceful setting for sunset. The golden light on the sandstone carvings is magical.
- Bring a camera—the lighting is perfect for photos.
- Auto-rickshaws charge around ₹100-150 for a round trip from the village.
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Day 2
Khajuraho Beyond Temples
A day to explore Khajuraho’s lesser-known gems, from ancient Jain temples to local crafts and a serene lake, with plenty of authentic flavors along the way.
Activities
Eastern & Southern Group of Temples
While the Western Group gets all the attention, the Eastern and Southern Groups offer quieter but equally fascinating temple complexes. The Eastern Group includes stunning Jain temples like Parsvanath Temple with intricate carvings, while the Southern Group’s Chaturbhuj and Duladeo Temples showcase more of Khajuraho’s architectural brilliance. The vibe here is more peaceful, perfect for soaking in the details without the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the complexes are spread out
- Hire a local guide here—they’re cheaper and often more knowledgeable than at the Western Group
Raneh Falls & Ken River
A 30-minute drive from Khajuraho, Raneh Falls is a stunning canyon carved by the Ken River, with basalt rock formations that turn dramatic shades in sunlight. The seasonal waterfall is best visited post-monsoon (Aug-Oct), but the canyon is impressive year-round. Stop by the Ken River for a quiet moment—locals love this spot for picnics.
- Pack snacks—there’s limited food nearby
- Ask your driver to stop at the Ken River viewpoint
Evening at Beni Sagar Dam
Wrap up the day at this serene lake just 5 km from town. It’s a favorite local spot for sunset views and breezy evening walks. The dam’s steps are perfect for sitting with a cup of chai from nearby vendors while watching the light fade over the water.
- Try the roasted corn (bhutta) from lakeside vendors
- Weekends get busy with families—weekdays are quieter
Must Try Foods
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Day 3
Khajuraho's Hidden Gems
A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and local culture, with a mix of history, nature, and authentic flavors.
Activities
Morning at Dhubela Museum
Start your day at this underrated museum, about 30 minutes from Khajuraho. It houses a fascinating collection of Chandel-era sculptures, weapons, and everyday artifacts. The quiet lakeside setting makes it a peaceful alternative to the temple crowds. Don’t miss the life-size statue of Queen Durgavati on horseback.
- Carry water – the museum grounds are expansive
- Ask the caretaker about the hidden ‘Krishna Leela’ carvings section
Panna National Park Safari
Head to Panna (1.5-hour drive) for an afternoon safari in this tiger reserve. Even if the big cats play hide-and-seek, you’ll spot deer, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. The Ken River cutting through the park creates stunning backdrops. Opt for the less-crowded evening slot when animals become active.
- Book safari permits online a day prior
- Local guides often know where the resident tigress ‘Collarwali’ naps
Dinner at Raja Café
End your trip at this family-run eatery near the temples. Their ‘thali’ changes daily based on what’s fresh in the market – expect dishes like baigan bharta (smoked eggplant) and besan kadhi (gram flour curry). The rooftop seating has temple views that light up after sunset.
- Try their ‘special lassi’ – it’s sweetened with local honey
- Ask about the day’s ‘village-style’ special