Things To Do
in Khajurāho

A regional comfort food similar to Rajasthani dal-baati: soft wheat dumplings (bafla) served with spiced lentils, ghee and chutney; available at local dhabas and some hotel restaurants.

Must-Try!

Flattened rice cooked with mustard seeds, curry leaves, peanuts and turmeric — a common breakfast or snack sold at stalls and small eateries.

A full plate with rice, several vegetable curries, dal, roti and pickles — widely available in mid-range restaurants and a great way to sample multiple dishes at once.

Popular street snacks like pani puri, bhel puri and samosas sold at market stalls; perfect for tasting local flavors but pick busy, clean vendors.

Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees); remove shoes where required and avoid loud behavior or flash photography inside sanctified spaces.

A simple 'Namaste' with a slight bow and folded hands is a polite greeting. Learn a few Hindi phrases — locals appreciate the effort.

Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women and elders; some villagers expect a small tip for portrait photos.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in conservative areas; be mindful of local sensitivities and dress norms in rural communities.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: small tips (INR 20–100 / about $0.25–1.25) for hotel porters and guides, and roughly 5–10% in restaurants if no service charge is included. For drivers and guides on day trips, tip based on service and group size (INR 100–300 / $1.25–3.75 typical).

Cash (INR) is widely used for small purchases and market stalls; ATMs and limited card acceptance exist in town. Major hotels and some restaurants accept cards; international visitors may find UPI and Indian mobile wallets less accessible unless they have a local SIM. Carry some cash for rural excursions.

Peak tourist season with cool mornings and pleasant days (10–25°C). Ideal for temple visits, photography and festivals such as the Khajuraho Dance Festival in February.

Temperatures rise quickly (25–40°C); days get hot by April–May. Visit early morning and late afternoon; stay hydrated and plan indoor breaks at midday.

Humid with periodic heavy rains; some rural roads may become muddy. Temples are open and fewer tourists visit — check transport availability for excursions like Raneh Falls.

Hottest period with temperatures often above 40°C; travel light, avoid midday outdoor activities and prefer air-conditioned transport where possible.

The majority are Hindi-speaking residents involved in agriculture, small businesses, tourism and temple services.

Local stone-carvers, craftspeople and traders who supply souvenirs and carved items for the tourist market; many learned traditional skills passed down generations.

A seasonal mix of domestic Indian visitors and international tourists, with peaks during winter and festival months.

Communities from the surrounding Panna district and rural hinterland who maintain agricultural and traditional livelihoods.

Vegetarian food is widely available and usually easy to find; many menus feature paneer, lentils, vegetables and breads. Inform staff if you avoid onions/garlic for religious reasons.

Vegan options exist but require asking: avoid ghee and yogurt in curries, request oil-based cooking and plain rice or vegetable dishes; fresh salads are uncommon.

Rice, dals and many vegetable preparations are naturally gluten-free; avoid breads (rotis/parathas) and ask about flour used in fried items. Cross-contamination at small stalls is possible.

Limited meat options in town and varying certification; if halal is required, ask at hotels or choose vegetarian restaurants. Poultry and mutton are more commonly available in larger eateries.