Khajuraho, one of India’s most iconic historical destinations, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples. Known for their intricate carvings, stunning sculptures, and architectural brilliance, these temples were built between 950–1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty. The temples depict a range of themes, from spiritual teachings and deities to scenes of daily life and erotic sculptures, making them a unique cultural and artistic treasure.
For travelers from Delhi, reaching Khajuraho is relatively easy, with multiple travel options available, including flights, trains, and road trips. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of routes, travel times, costs, and essential travel tips to help you plan a smooth journey from Delhi to Khajuraho.
Where is Khajuraho Located?
Khajuraho is situated in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, in central India. The town is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Jhansi, Varanasi, Bhopal, and Agra, making it an important stop for travelers exploring India’s architectural heritage.
Distance Between Delhi and Khajuraho
- By Road: 663 km (takes around 10 to 13 hours)
- By Train: 610 km (fastest trains take 8 to 11 hours)
- By Air: 500 km (flight duration: 1.5 hours)
Best Ways to Reach Khajuraho from Delhi
There are three main ways to reach Khajuraho from Delhi:
- By Air – Fastest and Most Comfortable Option
- By Train – Budget-Friendly but Takes Longer
- By Road – Best for Scenic Travel but Time-Consuming
Let’s explore each travel option in detail.
Unmissable Itineraries for Your Khajuraho Experience:
- Explore Khajuraho, Orchha & Jhansi – 5-Day Tour Plan
- Discover Khajuraho & Panna – 4-Day Itinerary
- Jabalpur, Amarkantak & Kanha – 5-Day Travel Guide
1. Delhi to Khajuraho by Air
The quickest and most hassle-free way to reach Khajuraho is by flight. The Khajuraho Airport (HJR) is located just 4 km from the city center and is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Mumbai.
Flights from Delhi to Khajuraho
| Airline | Departure (Delhi) | Arrival (Khajuraho) | Duration | Frequency | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IndiGo | 11:30 AM | 1:00 PM | 1.5 hours | 3-4 times per week | ₹4,000 – ₹7,000 |
| Air India | 12:45 PM | 2:15 PM | 1.5 hours | Occasional flights | ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 |
How to Reach the City from Khajuraho Airport
- Prepaid Taxi: ₹300-₹500 (takes 10 minutes)
- Auto-Rickshaw: ₹150-₹250 (takes 15 minutes)
- Hotel Pickup Service: Some hotels provide free airport transfers.
Pros and Cons of Air Travel
Advantages:
- Fastest way to reach Khajuraho (only 1.5 hours of flight time).
- Saves time for sightseeing.
- Comfortable journey.
Disadvantages:
- Limited flight frequency (not available daily).
- More expensive than train or bus options.
- Requires advance booking, especially in peak season.
2. Delhi to Khajuraho by Train
If you are looking for an affordable and comfortable journey, traveling by train is a great option. The Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ) is about 5 km from the main town and has regular connections from Delhi, Jhansi, and Varanasi.
Best Trains from Delhi to Khajuraho
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure (Delhi) | Arrival (Khajuraho) | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vande Bharat Express | 22470 | 6:00 AM | 2:20 PM | 8h 20m | Sun, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
| Khajuraho Express | 22448 | 6:10 AM | 3:30 PM | 9h 20m | Tue, Fri, Sun |
| Uttar Pradesh Sampark Kranti | 12448 | 8:00 PM | 6:30 AM | 10h 30m | Mon, Wed, Sat |
| KKDE KURJ Express | 11842 | 5:19 PM | 8:00 AM | 14h 41m | Daily |
Train Ticket Prices from Delhi to Khajuraho
| Class | Minimum Price |
|---|---|
| First AC (1A) | ₹2,385 |
| Second AC (2A) | ₹1,430 |
| Third AC (3A) | ₹1,000 |
| Sleeper Class (SL) | ₹370 |
How to Reach the City from Khajuraho Railway Station
- Auto-Rickshaw: ₹100-₹200 (takes 15 minutes).
- Taxi: ₹250-₹400 (takes 10 minutes).
- Hotel Shuttle: Some hotels offer free pickup services.
Pros and Cons of Train Travel
Advantages:
- Most budget-friendly option.
- Comfortable overnight journey.
- Multiple train choices available.
Disadvantages:
- Takes longer than flights.
- Limited direct trains.
- Requires advance booking during peak season.
Learn: How to Book Train Tickets in India
3. Delhi to Khajuraho by Road
Traveling by road is ideal for those who enjoy long drives and exploring small towns along the way. While it is the slowest option, road trips allow you to experience rural Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Best Road Route from Delhi to Khajuraho
Route: Delhi → Agra → Gwalior → Jhansi → Chhatarpur → Khajuraho
- Total Distance: 663 km
- Travel Time: 10 to 13 hours
- Road Condition: Good, but some stretches near Jhansi and Chhatarpur may have rough patches.
Transport Options for Road Travel
| Travel Option | Approximate Cost | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Drive Car | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 (fuel) | 10-13 hours | Road trip lovers |
| Private Taxi | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 | 10-12 hours | Comfortable travel |
| State Transport Bus (MP Tourism) | ₹700 – ₹1,000 per person | 13-14 hours | Budget travelers |
| Luxury AC Bus | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per person | 12-13 hours | Comfortable budget travel |
Pros and Cons of Road Travel
Advantages:
- Flexibility to stop at Agra, Gwalior, or Orchha along the way.
- Good option for groups and families.
Disadvantages:
- Takes the longest time.
- Can be tiring for solo travelers.
- Some stretches of the road may not be well-maintained.
Final Thoughts
The best way to reach Khajuraho from Delhi depends on your budget, time, and comfort preference. Flights are the fastest option, but they run only on select days. Train travel is the most economical and reliable choice, while road trips are great for those who love adventure. No matter which option you choose, Khajuraho’s breathtaking temples and rich history make the journey truly rewarding.
Plan your trip wisely, book tickets in advance, and enjoy exploring the architectural wonders of Khajuraho.
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