Plan your trip · Khajuraho
Best time to visit Khajuraho
The best time to visit Khajuraho is from October to March, when days are warm and sunny and mornings are cool enough for long walks around the temples. February is especially popular, as the Khajuraho Dance Festival brings classical dance to the Western Group.
From April to June the heat is intense, with afternoons often above 40 °C, and from July to September the monsoon brings humid weather and heavy showers. The right time for you depends on whether you want the most comfortable weather, the festival or fewer crowds.
❄️ Winter
RecommendedOct – Mar
Warm in October and March, cool and mostly dry from November to February — the comfortable peak season, with crisp mornings and evenings.
Pack: light layers with a jacket or shawl for early mornings and after dark.
Plan a winter day →☀️ Summer
Apr – Jun
Very hot and dry, often 40 °C+ by midday — the off-season on the plains. Best explored at dawn and dusk, resting through the afternoon.
Pack: loose light cottons, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Plan a summer day →🌧️ Monsoon
Jul – Sep
Warm and humid, with heavy rain on many days in July and August — lakes, rivers and waterfalls fill and the country turns green, but river ghats, boat rides and some rural roads can close.
Pack: a good umbrella or rain shell, quick-dry clothes and grippy footwear.
Plan a monsoon day →Best Month to Visit Khajuraho
October and November
The rain clears, the countryside is still green and the days are warm rather than hot. Diwali usually falls in this period, and it is a good time to visit before the winter peak.
December and January
These are the coolest months, with sunny days and cold nights that can drop below 10 °C. It is the busiest time for visitors, especially around Christmas and New Year, so carry a warm layer for early mornings and the evening light and sound show.
February and March
The weather stays pleasant, and the Khajuraho Dance Festival takes place in February, usually from 20 to 26 February. Mahashivratri, celebrated at Matangeshwara Temple, falls in February or March. By late March the afternoons start to get hot.
April to June
This is the hottest time of year, with daytime temperatures often above 40 °C in May and June. See the temples at sunrise and in the late afternoon, and rest indoors in the middle of the day. It is also the quietest time for visitors.
July to September
The monsoon brings humid weather and heavy showers, and July is usually the wettest month. The countryside turns green and extra seasonal falls appear at Raneh Falls, but paths and temple steps can be slippery. Panna Tiger Reserve safaris usually run from October to June, so check before planning one in the monsoon.
When Is Khajuraho Most Crowded?
Khajuraho is busiest from December to February, especially around Christmas and New Year and during the Khajuraho Dance Festival, when rooms book up early. Mahashivratri also brings large crowds of pilgrims to Matangeshwara Temple. See the festivals and events in Khajuraho to plan around them.
For a quieter trip, visit in October–November or March, and start your sightseeing early in the day.
Questions
Khajuraho — FAQ
What is the best month to visit Khajuraho?
October to March is the best time, with warm days and cool mornings. Visit in February if you want to see the Khajuraho Dance Festival, but book your stay early.
How hot is Khajuraho in summer?
Very hot. From April to June daytime temperatures often pass 40 °C, and May is usually the hottest month. If you visit in summer, see the temples at sunrise and in the late afternoon.
Is it worth visiting Khajuraho in the monsoon?
It can be, if you do not mind rain. The lawns and countryside turn green and there are fewer visitors, but July to September is humid, showers can be heavy and temple steps get slippery.
How cold does Khajuraho get in winter?
Winter days are pleasant and sunny, but nights in December and January can fall below 10 °C. Pack a sweater or jacket for early mornings and evenings.