Khajuraho Dance Festival stands as one of India’s most recognizable cultural festivals. And the majestic dance festival is set to return in 2026, taking place from 20th to 26th February. The Khajuraho Dance Festival is a prestigious cultural celebration held each year at the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. Organized by the Culture Department of Madhya Pradesh through the Ustad Allauddin Khan Academy of Music and Arts, this event aims to celebrate and preserve India’s classical dance traditions. And in 2026, if you’re planning to attend the Khajuraho Dance Festival this year, here’s what you need to know!
Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026: Dates, Venue, Events, And More
Tradition Of Classical Dances At Khajuraho Dance Festival
The Khajuraho Dance Festival is renowned for providing a global stage to classical dances of India, and that too without any entry fee for visitors! The town of Khajuraho, with its illuminated temples and facades in the evening, serves as the perfect backdrop for the classical dance performances.
Major classical dances performed at the Khajuraho Dance Festival include Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and Mohiniyattam. These classical dances represent India’s ancient culture and heritage that has been preserved in the form of dance.
Celebrities Attending The Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026
Several celebrities from various fields of arts, like acting, music, dance, etc., attend the Khajuraho Dance Festival. In 2026, award-winning maestros and rising stars attending the festival are as follows:
- Anupam Kher: Veteran award-winning Indian actor, director, and producer
- Divya Dutta: Award-winning Indian actor
- Manoj Muntashir: Indian lyricist, poet, dialogue writer, and screenwriter
- Shakti Mohan: Indian dancer, choreographer, and television personality
- V Unbeatable: Mumbai-based award-winning dance crew
What To Expect At The Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026
- Showcase of Indian classical and folk dances: The globally renowned event provides a platform for young dancers to showcase Indian classical and folk dances. With attractive prize pools, it not only supports young artists but also their craft.
- Discover Khajuraho: The ancient town of Khajuraho is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site temples. One can explore the temples, monuments, museums, and heritage sites in between shows, making the trip to Khajuraho even richer!
- Cultural spaces and exhibits: The dance festival also provides a platform for artisans to display their handicrafts. With many stalls offering handicrafts from the region as well as from across India, it is a great opportunity to educate yourself on the handicraft heritage of India.
- Local foods and flavors: Expect several stalls offering a taste of the local and regional food experiences. From street food to regional delicacies, enjoy delicious food between performances.
- Outdoor activities: Khajuraho’s natural beauty remains quite underrated! While you’re here, slow down and enjoy the natural beauty, cycle through open landscapes, and enjoy outdoor activities.
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Registration For Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026
Although the festival has expanded its scope to a variety of activities and experiences rooted in visual arts, food and cuisine, handicrafts, and adventure activities, its essence lies in classical dance. To promote the classical dances, the festival organizes a large-scale dance competition, along with an attractive prize pool.
For the first time, this festival will invite open dance participation across styles. There will be online auditions from across India, with the live finals scheduled at Shilpgram & Mela Ground, i.e., the festival venue. The organizing committee will provide rehearsal and practice support to finalists. Here’s how the selection process works:
- Online registration & video submission.
- Screening by an expert jury.
- Live auditions and wildcard decisions of shortlisted candidates.
- Final live performance at the festival venue.
Register here for the various dance competitions at the Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026.
Note: Entry to the festival is free for the general public.
How To Reach Khajuraho?
By Air
The Khajuraho Airport is the closest to the festival venue and Khajuraho town. It is about 4.5 to 4.7 km away. Direct flights are available from Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi, and from the airport, you can easily get cabs to reach the venue.
By Rail
Khajuraho Railway Station is the closest to the festival venue and the town. It is about 7.7 km away, and one can take a rickshaw or a cab to reach the festival venue. Khajuraho Railway Station is well-connected to major railway stations, both within and outside Madhya Pradesh.
By Road
Regular bus services from nearby cities are available to reach Khajuraho. National Highway 44 is also a great option, as it is close to Khajuraho; great if you’re driving or hiring a cab.
Summing Up
The Khajuraho Dance Festival is not just a festival to showcase dance, but a global stage aimed at showcasing young Indian talent and the heritage of our country. From 20th to 26th February, visitors will get to enjoy a number of dance performances, cultural experiences, local food, and outdoor activities. Are you attending this festival?
