Diwali is a time of lights, festivities, and family gatherings, but this year, we decided to embark on a different kind of celebration. Our wanderlust led us on a spontaneous road trip to Orchha and Khajuraho, the historical towns of Madhya Pradesh. With stories of Lord Rama (a major deity in Hinduism) and ancient temples echoing through our minds, we packed our bags and hit the road, eager to explore the architectural marvels and rich history these destinations have to offer.
This short road trip in Madhya Pradesh was packed with incredible sights and hidden gems. In this blog, we’ll share our travel tips, 5 days itinerary, some detours we had along the way and the reason why Madhya Pradesh truly deserves to be called- The heart of Incredible India!
So, if you’re itching for a trip that combines history, culture, and stunning architecture, then this road trip to Orchha and Khajuraho from Delhi is all you need.
Things to know before planning a Road Trip to Orchha and Khajuraho:
- The ideal time to visit Orchha and Khajuraho is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring the town’s historic sites. The monsoon season (July to September) brings cooler temperatures and lush greenery, but also increased humidity and occasional heavy rainfall, perfect to witness majestic waterfalls!
- The roads from Delhi to Orchha and Khajuraho are in good condition apart from some rough patches here and there.
- Fuel prices in Delhi are typically lower than in Madhya Pradesh, so it’s wise to fill up your car’s fuel tank before leaving the city.
- Expect to pay tolls of around INR 2400 ($28) for a roundtrip.
- Pack light breezy clothing preferably pants, kurtas. Dress modestly while visiting temples.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes /sandals for exploring historical sites and walking around the town.
- Carry enough cash- While cards are accepted in many places, having some cash on hand is advisable for smaller shops, local markets, and rural areas.
The Journey Begins: Hitting the Road to Orchha
Day 1:
Orchha is conveniently accessible from Delhi, and if time permits you can even pair this trip with a visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra. The shortest route takes approximately 8-9 hours to reach Orchha via Yamuna Expressway and Srinagar – Kanyakumari Highway. We would suggest to leave for the trip as early as possible in the morning.
As we headed towards Orchha, our road trip took an unexpected but delightful turn. Driven by our love for exploring offbeat destinations, we decided to take a detour to discover a hidden gem along the way: the Chausat Yogini Temple (highly recommended).
Nestled on a hill, this ancient, Lord Shiva Temple, stands out due to its striking circular layout and intricate carvings. As we ascended the hill to reach the temple, we were greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It was so calm and gorgeous. The temple is dedicated to the 64 Yoginis, featuring 64 small chambers within its interior. The central shrine is devoted to Lord Shiva. It’s also believed that this temple inspired the design of Indian Parliament! (What are your thoughts?)
Guess what? we were the only visitors here, which added a layer of tranquillity to our experience. Trust us it became the highlight of our trip 😊.
After our serene visit, we continued our journey towards Orchha. The drive from the temple took us about two hours, winding through small towns. The roads were generally smooth, and we enjoyed the changing scenery as we made our way. Upon reaching Orchha, we checked in to our hotel, had lunch and rested for a while.
Where to stay in Orchha?
Orchha offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budget. One of our friends highly recommended that we stay at Bundelkhand Riverside during our visit to Orchha, and oh man, were we glad we took their advice!
From the moment we arrived, we knew we were in for a treat. The hotel, nestled alongside the Betwa River, offers a perfect blend of comfort and charm. The rooms are spacious with all modern amenities with a balanced touch of Bundeli architecture.
What made our experience particularly special were the small handmade flower bouquets we received each time we returned to the hotel. This simple yet delightful tradition made us feel special and welcomed.The delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurant were another highlight, featuring a mix of local and international dishes that we thoroughly enjoyed. Try their Bundeli Baigan Bharta and Kadi.
We booked ourselves a room with a river view, and it was the best decision. Imagine waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the Betwa River! Our friend’s suggestion turned out to be a delightful experience, and we highly recommend this beautiful riverside retreat to anyone visiting Orchha.
Historical Tales: The Legends of Lord Rama in Orchha
Day 2:
Orchha is a charming town in Madhya Pradesh and boasts beautiful palaces, forts, and temples from the medieval era.
Start by visiting the stunning Royal Chhatris, a group of cenotaphs that stand majestically along the banks of the Betwa River. The grandeur of the Chhatris will leave you spellbound. If you’re planning to climb the Chhatris, for the panoramic view, it’s important to check with the guards first. Unfortunately, the Chhatris were closed during our visit, so we couldn’t go up.
We found a serene spot by the riverside, where we could soak in the beauty of the sunset, sky painted in orange hues. It was Diwali time, and the ghat was alive with festive energy. People gathered to light up diyas, children ran around and played joyfully, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Quick Tip: Chhatris are open from 9 am to 5 pm. Its entry ticket is included in Orchha Fort complex fee.
The next day, set out to explore the spiritual heart of Orchha, starting your trip with Ram Raja Temple. This temple holds a unique place in the hearts of the locals, as it is the only temple where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king. During Festive time, expect a little crowd but all well managed by local authorities. Adjacent to it stands the imposing Chaturbhuj Temple, despite its dilapidated state, the temple’s architecture remains truly amazing.
We made sure to reach the top and were rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Orchha. Although, climbing the temple was no easy feat, as the big stairs are steep and challenging. However, the effort was well worth it. As a bonus, we spotted a few vultures perched on the temple’s ledges, adding a unique touch to our experience.
If you are a history buff, reserve some time to visit Orchha Fort, built by Bundela Rajput’s. We absolutely loved Jahangir Mahal for its intricate carving and historical structure. Apart from that you can also visit Raja Mahal, Rai Parveen Mahal, Phool Bagh and Sheesh Mahal. You can even enjoy a delicious meal at sheesh Mahal at reasonable price.
If you are keen on delving deeper into Orchha’s history, consider visiting Lakshmi Temple. It is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi and is a beautiful example of Bundela architecture. The highlight was the walls decorated with vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Its entry ticket is included in the Orchha Fort fees, so do visit this lesser-known gem.
From Orchha to Khajuraho: The Scenic Drive
Day 3:
The next day, we embarked on our journey from Orchha to Khajuraho. The road between Orchha and khajuraho is quite scenic. Along the way, we decided to take a detour to Dhubela, a town we had heard much about. Dhubela is often referred to as the land of Mastani, the princess who married Bajirao I. Mastani Mahal, one of the key attractions, is a dilapidated palace which is lesser known and a must visit to gain rich historical insights.
Other prime attraction is the Dhubela lake, surrounded by many historical monuments related to Bundela empire. However, upon arrival, we discovered that the best time to visit Dhubela Lake is during the monsoon season. Outside of the monsoon months, the lakebed is often used for farming, so timing your visit is key to experiencing its full charm. Although the mesmerising view of the Chhatri of Rani Kamlapati from the lake was treat to our eyes.
After our brief visit to Dhubela Lake, we continued our journey to Khajuraho. Upon reaching our hotel, we took some time to rest and recharge. It was Diwali, and so we spent evening celebrating it at our hotel.
Where to stay in Khajuraho?
While researching about the stays in Khajuraho, we came across different hotel options for luxury to budget travellers. It is safe to say Khajuraho boasts of some good, reputed accommodations. Some mid-range options include Clarks Khajuraho and Bundela Resort. If you are looking for a luxurious experience, then The Lalit Temple View is a classic choice, known for its stunning views of the temples. For a budget traveller, Hotel Isabel Palace is a great choice.
No matter where you choose to stay, Khajuraho’s accommodations offer a good base for exploring the temples and other attractions in the area.
The Iconic Temples of Khajuraho: Art and Architecture
Day 4:
The next morning, we set out to explore the famous Western Group of Khajuraho Temples. These temples of Khajuraho are celebrated for their exquisite & erotic sculptures with a great insight into history! As we entered the complex, we were stunned at the beauty and magnificence of the temple’s architecture. Each temple is a masterpiece, with detailed carvings that tell stories from ancient times.
The most preserved temples (& our favourites) are:
- Kandariya Mahadev Temple
- Lakshman Temple (most ornate)
- Chitragupta Temple
- Vishwanath Temple
- Viraya Shrine (stands out for carving)
The entry ticket to Khajuraho Temples costs only INR 35 per person which includes parking as well. You can easily spend 3-4 hours here and we would highly suggest hiring a guide as they will help you understand the meaning behind the art and the stories carved into the stones. The guide charges are economical and varies from INR 1200-1800 (14$-20$).
After our temple tour, we headed to Café Raja, known as the oldest café in Khajuraho. The café is famous for its stunning views of the temples. While the food was okay and a bit on the expensive side, the views more than made up for it.
If you are up for an adventure, then reserve your evening for an uphill trek to Dalta Hills which gives you a 360-degree views of the countryside. This little trek is not for the faint-hearted, but if you go up, you are guaranteed some gorgeous sunset views 😊.
Day 5:
The next morning, we visited Raneh Falls, eager to see the Grand Canyon of India. This is a 5 km long canyon formed by Ken River, worth a visit when in Khajuraho. While the falls are most spectacular during the monsoon season, we were still able to appreciate the stunning rock formations that are visible at this time of year.
The entry ticket to Raneh Falls depends on the vehicle you are going in. For a car, it charges INR 300 for up to six persons. As it is a mandate guided tour, the guide fee is INR 125. You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the sanctuary. Make sure to ask your guide to take you to a point from where you can spot the Alligators (Gharials). On the way back we even spotted peacocks, jackals, colobines and deer. Overall, it’s a must visit place in Madhya Pradesh.
If time allows, you can also visit Pandav Falls or go for a Tiger Safari at Panna National Park, which is just half an hour away from Khajuraho. We also look forward to explore historic city of Jhansi and other heritage sites soon .
After our enriching experience in Khajuraho, we set off early in the morning for the long drive back to Delhi. With a full day of travel ahead, make sure to start early to make the most of the daylight hours.
Local Flavors: Culinary Delights of Orchha and Khajuraho
Who travel for food? It’s Me!😋
The local cuisine in Orchha and Khajuraho is deeply influenced by Bundeli, Rajasthani and Mughal culinary traditions. The food here is hearty, flavorful, and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.
A traditional Bundeli Thali is a must try in Orchha. You can try at Ram Raja restaurant. It generally consists of dal, sabzi and pickles along with Chapatis and Rice. Kadhi, Urad dal and Baigan Bharta are the popular Bundeli dishes which you must try. Bati or Bafla is also popular here, served with dal/ curries, drenched in ghee which you can easily find at a local eatery.
During our visit to Khajuraho, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Badri Seth Marwadi Bhoj, conveniently located just opposite the temples. This spot serves up traditional dishes that give you a true taste of the region. Try their Dal Baati Churma thali and thank us later. Also don’t forget to get yourself some traditional sweets like Peda. Yummy!
For those looking to explore even more variety and authentic flavors, we recommend heading to Bundeli Bakhri. Located slightly on the outskirts, this place is known for its extensive menu that showcases the best of Bundeli cuisine. If you want to try something new, try Birra ki roti, Thadula with Baigan Bharta.
So, this was our incredible 5-day road trip to Orchha and Khajuraho, filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and memorable experiences. We’re already looking forward to our next journey and can’t wait to explore more of India’s hidden gems.
Stay tuned for our next adventure!
Also read: Hidden Gems In Jaipur- Discover the Best Kept Secrets Beyond Pink City