There is no doubt that the use of temples as a backdrop for the performance of classical dances - from Bharatnatyam to Manipuri to Kathak to Odissi to Kuchupudi - is a real treat to eyes and souls of the viewers. Sculptures on the walls of the temples schematize the different movements of the folk dances of the region. The musical instruments engraved on the walls are used even till now by the musicians and dancers during the demonstrations which animate the festival.
The sculptures of Khajuraho portray musicians playing a variety of stringed instruments. Though most of these have not made the journey of a thousand years, variations of these can still be seen among the folk artistes of Khajuraho. No performance is ever complete without twang of the chikara, a seven-stringed instrument played with a curved wooden bow attached with little bells. The Pradhans are especially adept at playing the chikara. Tabla, dholak, veena, flute etc musical instruments, depicted in sculptures are profusely used during the Khajuraho Dance Festival. It should be noted that the dance is the real attraction of the festival.
Depending on the time you have, you can choose between tickets for the whole day or subscribe to a package giving access to the festival as a whole. The week-long Khajuraho Dance Festival is held every year but the dates of its organization vary every year. It starts at 7:00 PM and lasts till late night.