KHAJURAHO TEMPLES

Additional Attractions

• By Air: The Khajuraho Airport, located 5 km from the temple complex, has direct flights from Delhi and Varanasi, although services can be limited at times.

• By Train: The Khajuraho Railway Station, 6 km away, connects to cities like Delhi and Agra. An alternate station is Satna (130 km), which offers better connectivity.

• By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from cities such as Satna, Jhansi, and Bhopal.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal due to the pleasant weather.

• Timings: The temples are generally open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. A light and sound show takes place in the evening, offering a glimpse into the history of Khajuraho.

• Entry Fees: Approx. ₹40 for Indian citizens and ₹600 for foreigners, with variations for special access or tours.

The Khajuraho Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh.

It is famous for its stunning temples that feature intricate carvings and sculptures, dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries.

These temples, built between 950-1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty, are renowned for their intricate carvings depicting various aspects of life, including spirituality, music, dance, and intimate expressions. They are divided into three main groups: Western, Eastern, and Southern, with the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple being the largest and most prominent.

It is a popular tourist destination in India that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Temple Visiting Tips

How to Reach Khajuraho

1. Hotel Khajuraho Inn – A comfortable budget hotel offering good amenities and affordable breakfast options.

2. MPT Tourist Village Khajuraho – A well-maintained property offering budget accommodations amidst a scenic setting.

3. Hotel Isabel Palace – Provides decent budget rooms with rooftop dining options.

4. Hotel Harmony – Known for its hospitality, located conveniently near the Western temple complex.

5. Yogi Lodge – A basic yet affordable guest house with easy access to the temples.

Budget Hotels Near Khajuraho Temples

• Khajuraho Dance Festival: An annual celebration held in February, showcasing Indian classical dance against the temple backdrop.

• Panna National Park: Located about 30 km away, it offers wildlife enthusiasts a chance to spot tigers and other wildlife on a jungle safari.

This guide should help visitors explore Khajuraho’s cultural heritage with ease, providing practical travel information along with insights into staying options.

SANCHI STUPA

Additional Attractions

• By Air: The Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, about 46 km away, is the nearest airport.

• By Train: Sanchi Railway Station is around 1.5 km from the site. For more options, travelers can use Vidisha Railway Station, located 10 km away, with better connectivity.

• By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Bhopal and Vidisha, making it easy to reach Sanchi by road.

• Timings: Open from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

• Entry Fees: ₹40 for Indian citizens and ₹600 for foreign tourists. Children under 15 can enter for free.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing.

The Sanchi Stupa, located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, is one of the oldest Buddhist monuments in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, it symbolizes the spread of Buddhist philosophy. The site is known for its hemispherical stupa, intricately carved gateways (toranas), and ancient monasteries. Interestingly, the Ashoka Pillar at Sanchi is considered an architectural marvel, and its lion capital inspired the national emblem of India.

Visiting Tips

How to Reach Sanchi

1. Gateway Retreat – Run by Madhya Pradesh Tourism, located within walking distance of the stupa.

2. Hotel Sambodhi – A budget-friendly hotel located just 500 meters from the stupa.

3. MPT Utopia Resort – Comfortable, affordable rooms with easy access to local attractions.

4. Shri Ram Palace – A simple yet pleasant stay close to the Sanchi Museum.

5. Meera Resort – A budget option ideal for families or solo travelers.

Budget Hotels Near Khajuraho Temples

• Sanchi Museum: Displays relics and artifacts related to Buddhism, including parts of the Ashoka Pillar.

• Ashoka Pillar: An architectural wonder featuring elements of Greco-Buddhist design.

• Udayagiri Caves: Located 10 km away, these caves are significant for both Buddhist and Hindu sculptures.

• Vidisha: Explore ancient temples and Jain pilgrimage sites in the nearby town of Vidisha.

This guide will help visitors enjoy the spiritual tranquility of Sanchi while offering practical information to make their trip smooth and memorable.

MAHAKALESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA, UJJAIN

Additional Attractions

• By Air: The nearest airport is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, 55-60 km away. Taxis and buses are available to reach Ujjain from the airport.

• By Train: Ujjain Junction, located about 2 km from the temple, has good rail connectivity with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.

• By Road: Ujjain is well connected by buses and roads with Indore, Bhopal, and other towns in Madhya Pradesh. Local transport options like auto-rickshaws and taxis are available within the city.

• Timings: The temple is open from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

• Aartis:

• Bhasma Aarti: 4:00 AM (pre-booking required due to high demand).

• Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

Devotees are advised to wear traditional clothing for the Bhasma Aarti (e.g., dhotis for men and sarees for women) and can book tickets online in advance.

The Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The swayambhu (self-manifested) lingam in this temple, facing south (Dakshinamurti), holds immense religious importance and attracts millions of devotees each year. A highlight of the temple is the Bhasma Aarti, a unique ritual performed daily at 4:00 AM, where the lingam is adorned with sacred ash.

Temple Timings and Rituals

How to Reach Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga

1. Hotel Mahakal Palace – Located close to the temple, offering simple and comfortable rooms.

2. Hotel Shanti Palace – A popular budget option with essential amenities and proximity to the temple.

3. Hotel Shipra Residency – Known for its reasonable rates and good service.

4. Hotel Imperial – Offers budget accommodations with easy access to local attractions.

5. Hotel Abika Elite – A bit upscale but still affordable, ideal for those seeking comfort.

Budget Hotels Near Khajuraho Temples

• Ram Ghat on the Shipra River: A scenic ghat where evening aartis are performed.

• Kal Bhairav Temple: Dedicated to Kal Bhairav, a manifestation of Shiva.

• Harsiddhi Temple: A significant Shaktipeeth with vibrant architectural designs.

• Vedh Shala (Observatory): An ancient observatory showcasing India’s scientific heritage.

The ideal time to visit Ujjain is October to March when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities. Avoid peak summer months due to extreme heat. Ujjain also experiences high footfall during Maha Shivaratri, when the temple becomes a hub of devotional activity.

This travel guide will ensure you make the most of your visit to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, exploring both the spiritual and historical richness of Ujjain.