Khajuraho temples
Khajuraho Group of Monuments · Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India
Earthly joys in stone, the pinnacle of Chandela religious art.
Know before you go
- Some carvings are bold, part of a religious art tradition
- view them respectfully, without frivolous remarks or posing to imitate them.
This article is Not yet verified. Please check official announcements for prices, opening hours and dates.
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
Between the 9th and 12th centuries the Chandela dynasty built about 85 Hindu and Jain temples here, of which about 25 survive; they became a World Heritage Site in 1986. The temple walls are covered in exquisite carvings bringing myth, war, music, dance and daily life to life; some bold erotic sculptures belong to a tradition in Indian religious art of celebrating the joy of life, and are not meant as titillation.
Local customs
Every February–March the Khajuraho Dance Festival stages classical dance in front of the temples, a rare chance to see Indian classical arts.
Religion & beliefs
- The temples are divided into the Western Group (mainly Hindu), the Eastern Group (Jain) and others
- some are still used for worship, so respect worshippers when visiting.
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Rules that apply here
India: some states ban alcohol completely
- Before visiting Bihar, Gujarat, Mizoram, Nagaland or Lakshadweep, learn the alcohol rules
- Drinking or carrying alcohol in a dry area
- Drinking in parks and other public places
Drinking or possessing alcohol in a dry state can lead to arrest without bail and 5 to 10 years in prison.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: India travel advice
India: e-cigarettes are banned
- Leave your e-cigarette at home
- Bringing an e-cigarette into India or buying one there
E-cigarettes and related products are banned in India.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: India travel advice
India: no satellite phones or GPS devices without a permit
- Before you leave, check whether your equipment needs a permit
- Carrying a satellite phone or satellite navigation device without a permit (even in transit)
Illegal; you can be fined or arrested and the device confiscated. British tourists have been arrested for this.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: India travel advice
Don’t DON'T
- Some carvings are bold, part of a religious art tradition
- view them respectfully, without frivolous remarks or posing to imitate them.
Locals appreciate DO
Local guides are happy to explain the myths behind each carving.
Plan your visit
Practical info
Travel tips
- The Western Group has the most temples
- hire an official guide (about 2 hours)
- the soft light of early morning and evening brings out the carvings best
- the town is small, and a night's stay lets you see both groups at leisure.
Eat nearby
What to eat nearby
Must-try
- Central Indian thali
- Tandoori meat / chicken
- Bundelkhandi regional food
Indian and Chinese thalis, tandoori kebabs / chicken, Bundelkhandi regional food (coarse-grain breads with lentil curry), masala dosa (South Indian crêpe, common at tourist restaurants), lassi / lemon tea
| Where to eat | The street of restaurants in the village opposite the Western Group of temples, vegetarian restaurants in the Jain temple area |
|---|---|
| Dining etiquette | The Jain area has a strong vegetarian tradition — don't bring meat or alcohol into the temple area; behave appropriately among the temple carvings |
| Typical price per person | INR 350–700 ≈ CNY 29–59 |
| Tips | Choice is limited in the small town, so book dinner early; in the winter tourist season all restaurants are open, while many close in summer. |
Prices are typical rates as of October 2026, not exact quotes; CNY equivalents are approximate where exchange rates fluctuate.
Drhimanshuaneejwal · CC BY-SA 4.0
Photos
Photos
Jainarchit.17 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Taru23 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Rajenver · CC BY-SA 3.0
Sources & verification notes
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