Western Group of Temples Khajuraho
Ornate 11th-century sandstone temples showcasing intricate sculptures and Chandela dynasty artistry. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Western Group of Temples Khajuraho
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ornate 11th-century sandstone temples showcasing intricate sculptures and Chandela dynasty artistry. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
"An absolute architectural marvel and a must-visit heritage site in India."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets online or via QR code near the gate to save time. :admission_tickets:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive temple grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kandariya Mahadev Temple
Western Group of Temples
The largest and most ornate temple, featuring a towering spire and mesmerizing sculptures.
Lakshmana Temple
Western Group of Temples
One of the oldest and most visited temples, dedicated to Vishnu.
Chitragupta Temple
Western Group of Temples
Dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, this temple features a striking idol.
Varaha Temple
Western Group of Temples
Home to an imposing sandstone idol of Lord Varaha, one of the oldest shrines.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Understand the Artistry and History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets online or via QR code near the gate to save time.
:admission_tickets:🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive temple grounds. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Tripods Not Allowed
Leave your tripods at home as they are prohibited inside the temple complex. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, though drinking water facilities are available. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets online or via QR code near the gate to save time.
:admission_tickets:🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive temple grounds. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Tripods Not Allowed
Leave your tripods at home as they are prohibited inside the temple complex. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, though drinking water facilities are available. :droplet:
🎶 Embrace the Serenity
Find moments of peace and let your soul sway amidst the ancient beauty.
:musical_note:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Western Group of Temples for their breathtaking architecture, intricate carvings, and well-maintained grounds. The historical and artistic significance is a major draw, offering a profound glimpse into ancient Indian culture. While many find one day sufficient for the main sites, some suggest more time for deeper exploration.
"Wonderful architecture, well maintained lawns. The archeological site is far better than other sites. It is worth to visit. However, one day seems sufficient for Khajuraho visit if you are not willing to visit nearby places."
Maneesh Agarwal
"Beautiful group of temples. Peple should visit to get a essence of what our ancestors were capable of building even at that time.
Conserved among beautifully maintained lawns.
Best season - winter season.
Time - 9AM -6PM.
The entry and exit gate are different. One has to walk for atleast 5min in between the two.
Ticket available online. QR available near gate.
Tripods not allowed inside."
Anwesha Biswas
"Western Group of Temples:
An absolute architectural marvel and a must-visit heritage site in India. The carvings on these 10th-century temples are incredibly detailed, showcasing not just religious themes but also glimpses of everyday life and cosmic philosophies. The Kandariya Mahadev Temple, in particular, stands out with its towering spire and mesmerizing sculptures. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and the audio guides or local guides help bring the history alive. Come early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler weather.
Lakshmana Temples is the oldest , Vishwanatha is another Siva Temple, Chitagupta is dedicated for Sun and Devi Jagathambi is for Parvathi devi"
Vivek Sudhakaran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Khajuraho is accessible by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport (HJR), with flights connecting to major cities. Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ) is well-connected by train. Buses and taxis are also available from nearby cities like Jhansi and Satna.
The Western Group of Temples is a walkable complex. For exploring other groups or the town, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are readily available.
Yes, pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws are usually available at the airport and railway station to take you directly to the Western Group of Temples or your accommodation.
Yes, the Eastern and Southern groups of temples are also significant. The Ghantai Temple, part of the Jain group, is on the way to the Western Group.
Shivasagar Lake is also nearby.MPT Payal Hotel is conveniently located just 1 km away from the Western Group of Temples, making it an easily accessible option for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for Indian nationals is ₹35 per person. Foreign nationals have a different fee structure. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket counter.
The temples are generally open from 9 AM to 6 PM daily. It's advisable to check for any seasonal variations or specific holiday closures.
Yes, tickets are available at the entrance, and QR codes are also provided near the gate for easy purchase.
Photography is generally allowed, but tripods are not permitted inside the temple complex.
Yes, the entry and exit gates are different, and there's a short walk between them.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To thoroughly explore all the main temples and appreciate the carvings, you might need more than a day. However, a guided tour of the main temples can take 3-4 hours.
Hiring a local guide or using an audio guide is highly recommended to understand the intricate history and symbolism of the sculptures.
Key temples include Kandariya Mahadev (largest), Lakshmana (oldest), Chitragupta (Sun God), and Varaha Temple.
Yes, the site is well-maintained with shaded areas, drinking water, and toilet facilities.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography, highlighting the intricate details of the sculptures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several cafes and restaurants nearby. Raja Cafe offers continental cuisine with a view of the temples.
Hotel Siddharth is known for its pizza.Most restaurants in the area offer a variety of Indian dishes, including vegetarian options. It's always good to ask about specific preparations.
Food is generally not allowed inside the temple complex to maintain its sanctity and cleanliness. There are eateries located outside the complex.
You'll find a mix of Indian (North Indian and local Bundelkhandi) and some international cuisines, especially in tourist-oriented eateries.
Yes, besides cafes and hotel restaurants, you can find local eateries and street food stalls offering more affordable meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate carvings on the temples, the towering spires, and the well-maintained gardens offer numerous photo opportunities. The early morning and late afternoon light is ideal.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical and archaeological sites like Khajuraho for preservation and security reasons.
Photography is usually permitted inside the temple premises, but always check for specific signage or ask local authorities. Tripods are not allowed.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the complex and details of the sculptures. A wide-angle lens can be great for the grand structures.
The detailed carvings depicting various aspects of life, including dancers, musicians, and celestial beings, are highly photogenic. The sheer scale of the Kandariya Mahadev Temple is also impressive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for temples with more accessible carvings or stories that are easier to explain. The overall peaceful atmosphere of the site can also be a welcome change. Nearby MPT Payal Hotel offers a comfortable stay with a poolside, which can be a great amenity for families after a day of sightseeing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on capturing both the wide architectural shots and the close-up details of the sculptures. The monsoon season can offer unique atmospheric shots with lush greenery and dramatic skies. The Ghantai Temple, with its unique architecture, can also be a good subject.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Pay close attention to the distinct features of each temple, such as the spire designs, the layout, and the specific deities they honor. The Lakshmana Temple's age and the Kandariya Mahadev Temple's grandeur are particularly noteworthy. Understanding the historical period and the cultural milieu in which these temples were built will greatly enhance your appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Khajuraho Sculptures
The sheer volume and intricacy of the carvings are a testament to the artistic prowess of the artisans. Each temple tells a story through its stone reliefs, making a visit an immersive journey into ancient Indian art and spirituality. The sculptures are not just decorative; they are narrative, conveying religious doctrines, social customs, and the human experience in a visually stunning manner. The way the light plays on the detailed carvings, especially during sunrise and sunset, enhances their beauty and makes them incredibly photogenic.
Historical Significance and Architecture
The temples are dedicated to various deities, including Shiva, Vishnu, and Surya, reflecting the religious diversity of the period. The site is meticulously maintained with lush green lawns, providing a serene environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the historical grandeur. The presence of the Matangeshwar Temple, which houses a still-worshipped 9-feet tall Shivling, adds a layer of living heritage to the site.
Visiting During Different Seasons
The monsoon season (July to September) offers a unique charm, with raindrops enhancing the beauty of the sculptures and the surrounding greenery. This period can be less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience. However, visitors should be prepared for rain. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot and can make outdoor exploration challenging, so it's advisable to visit very early in the morning or late in the evening if traveling during this time.
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