Khajuraho, Varanasi & Orchha - 5 Day Itinerary: Temples, Culture, and Spirituality

Step into the heart of India’s timeless beauty! Dive into India's rich history and vibrant traditions with WizTrek’s carefully curated 5-day itinerary. Begin with the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra, then explore the historical gems of Central India Orchha and Khajuraho before immersing yourself in the spiritual wonders of Varanasi. This itinerary is a perfect mix of awe-inspiring temples, rich culture, and serene landscapes.

Duladeo Temple in Khajuraho – Intricate carvings and serene beauty from the Chandela era

Now, let’s dive into the full itinerary!

You’ll land in Delhi and tick off the Taj Mahal in Agra first—then the real adventure begins. From here, pick up this itinerary to explore the cultural heart of Central India Orchha, Khajuraho, and Varanasi.

Day 1: Agra to Khajuraho (via Orchha)

Your journey starts in Agra, but instead of the usual tourist route, today you’re headed into the historic core of Central India — Madhya Pradesh.

• Morning – Train to JhansiTake the Shatabdi Express (departure 8:00 AM) from Agra to Jhansi. It’s fast and comfy, and you’ll reach by around 10:40. From there, it’s just a 30-minute drive to Orchha.

• Midday – Stop in Orchha

  

  Jahangir Mahal, Madhya Pradesh – historic Rajput architecture overlooking the Betwa River

Break your journey with a quick stop in Orchha, a historic town known for its royal forts and temples. Explore the Orchha Fort Complex, including the stunning Jahangir Mahal (featured in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3).

Jahangir Mahal – featured in a 2024 Bollywood film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

• Afternoon – Drive to Khajuraho (About 3 Hours)After Orchha, hit the road to Khajuraho. It’s a scenic drive and a great chance to relax.

• Evening – Check-In and Relax

Once you arrive in Khajuraho, check into your hotel and take it easy. 

Day 2: Khajuraho

Kandariya Mahadev Temple – Khajuraho’s largest temple

Start your day exploring what Khajuraho is most famous for—the Western Group of Temples. These are the real showstoppers, especially the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, known for its towering spire and 800+ intricate sculptures. Don’t miss Lakshmana Temple, where even the pillars tell stories.

Next, head to the Eastern Group, which includes beautifully detailed Jain temples—quieter but just as fascinating. These temples are also known for their bold and symbolic carvings often linked with Kamasutra.

Khajuraho a UNESCO World Heritage Site - famous for its temples with erotic sculptures and architectural brilliance

Pro Tip: Hire a guide to truly understand the stories, symbolism, and rich history behind these stunning structures.

In the second half of the day, explore the wilder side of Central India. Head to Panna National Park (about 30 minutes away) for a chance to spot tigers, leopards, and rich birdlife in a scenic forest setting.

Tiger spotting at Panna National Park

Or, opt for the Ken Gharial Sanctuary, known for its crocodile-like gharials basking along the riverbanks—an unusual and fascinating experience in nature.

Spot the endangered gharial crocodile at Ken River – a rare and protected species

Day 3: Varanasi 

• Morning – Fly to Varanasi (or Drive if Needed)Catch a morning flight from Khajuraho to Varanasi (about 1 hour 20 minutes). If flights aren’t available or get canceled, you can also drive—it's roughly 8 hours through the heart of Central India.

  

  Varanasi city – a spiritual hub on the Ganges, known for its ancient ghats, temples, and rich cultural heritage

• Midday – Check-In and Local ExplorationOnce you arrive, check into your hotel and grab a quick bite. Then head to the Bharat Mata Temple, a one-of-a-kind temple dedicated to Mother India, featuring a carved marble relief map of the country instead of an idol.

• Afternoon – Heritage Walk Through Old VaranasiTake a guided walk from Luxa Road to the ghats, winding through ancient alleys, local markets, and street-side shrines. It’s a great way to feel the heartbeat of this sacred city.

• Evening – Ganga Aarti by Boat

  

  Experience Ganga Aarti in Varanasi – a divine fusion of fire, water, and faith on the banks of the Ganges

Book a private boat or reserve a seat to experience the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Fun fact: the Ganges flows northward in Varanasi—making this stretch of the river especially holy. As priests perform the ritual with fire and chants, the whole riverbank glows with devotion.

Day 4: Varanasi / Sarnath

Catch the first light of day on a sunrise boat ride along Varanasi’s ghats

• Early Morning – Sunrise Boat Ride & Manikarnika Ghat Start your day before the city wakes up with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges. As the sky turns gold, watch the ghats come alive with morning rituals. Your ride ends near Manikarnika Ghat, the sacred cremation ground that burns 24/7. It’s intense, spiritual, and humbling—a glimpse into the cycle of life and death in Hindu belief.

  

  Witness the sacred energy of Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi’s oldest and most revered cremation ghat

• Midday – Spiritual Escape to Sarnath (30 Minutes Away) Take a short drive (about 10 km, 20–30 minutes) to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa Sarnath Museum (home to the iconic Lion Capital of Ashoka), and walk the peaceful grounds filled with Buddhist relics and ruins.

  
  

• Afternoon – Quick Stops Around Town On your way back, stop by Banaras Hindu University (BHU)—one of India’s largest and oldest universities. The campus is serene, and the New Vishwanath Temple inside is worth a visit too.

Day 5: Return Journey

From Varanasi, you can continue your adventure.

Want this adventure for yourself?

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