Location: Chhatarpur District, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Gateway City: Khajuraho.
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR).
Language: Hindi (English widely spoken in tourist areas).
Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (IST, UTC+5:30).
Best Time to Visit: October–March (cooler, dry season ideal for temple visits and safaris).
Main Airport: Khajuraho Airport (HJR).
Getting Around: Private car or taxi to resorts and park; guided safaris in Panna; walking tours at temple complexes.
What to Expect
Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Madhya Pradesh, India, is famous for its stunning temple complexes built by the Chandela dynasty between the 9th and 11th centuries. Known for intricate carvings and striking architecture, the temples reflect India’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. Visitors can explore the well-preserved western group of temples, or venture further to the eastern and southern complexes for a quieter experience.
The region is also close to Panna National Park, offering opportunities to spot wildlife, including tigers, striped hyenas, deer, and monkeys. This itinerary combines cultural exploration with wildlife adventure, and can be easily paired with a visit to Benares (Varanasi) thanks to convenient flights.
Day 1: Arrival & Panna National Park
- Fly into Khajuraho (direct flights from Delhi on SpiceJet or from Benares on Indigo).
- Drive ~45 minutes to Pashan Garh, the Taj resort in Panna. Enjoy the secluded 12-room property set on 200 acres of forest.
- Spend the afternoon at leisure to explore the resort and surrounding nature.
- Have dinner at Pashan Garh.
Day 2: Tiger Safari & Transfer to Khajuraho
- Early wake-up (~4 AM) for a morning safari in Panna National Park. Watch the sunrise over the forest and spot wildlife such as striped hyenas, deer, and monkeys (tiger sightings are rare but possible).
- Return to the lodge for breakfast and a mid-morning rest.
- Drive to Khajuraho and check into your hotel (recommended: The Lalit).
- Evening at leisure to enjoy the hotel or explore the town.
Day 3: Temple Exploration in Khajuraho
- Wake up by 7 AM and head to the Western Group of Temples as it opens. A guide is optional; self-guided exploration allows you to admire the detailed carvings at your own pace.
- Spend the morning at the temples; the eastern and southern groups are optional but less impressive.
- Return to the hotel before moving on to your next destination.
- Optional extension: Take a direct flight from Khajuraho to Benares for a cultural add-on.
