This is a must-read travel experience for exploring the divine city of Chitrakoot. If you are planning to visit Chitrakoot, this travel guide, shared by Manish Pandey, provides a digital overview of the best places to visit in Chitrakoot, reasons to visit, things to do, and other important tourism aspects of this sacred destination.
Many tourists say that you have not truly experienced the vibrant culture of India if you have not visited the pious city of Chitrakoot. I could not agree with them more. For many, it is a soul-stirring land that transports them to a different era. Located along the banks of the sacred Mandakini River in Madhya Pradesh, this holy city is a potpourri of devotion, legends, and traditions. It is a place of purification and spiritual enlightenment. Lush green forests, cascading streams, beautiful waterfalls, intricately carved temples, and the chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ lend the region a heavenly feel. This spiritual ambience permeates the entire atmosphere, making one feel closer to the Lord. For me, it is a city with a divine magnetic pull that calms the senses and soothes the soul.
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Let Us Embark on a Spiritual Odyssey and Explore the Purified Charms of Chitrakoot
I was blessed to visit this holy place in the month of May (2014), and trust me, it does not matter how much you have Googled, watched videos, or read books, for when I arrived in Chitrakoot for the first time, it felt like being born all over again. You are no longer watching or reading about it; you are right there, feeling enchanted by its rich cultural heritage and tranquil surroundings.
Well, for those who are not aware of Chitrakoot’s significance, I would feel fortunate to share that it is a prominent place mentioned in the great Hindu epic, the Ramayana. According to tradition, Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman, spent eleven of his fourteen years of Vanvaas (exile) in the Chitrakoot region. The enchanting and peaceful environment is also associated with the renowned poet Goswami Tulsidas, who composed the Ramcharitmanas, an Awadhi retelling of the life and story of Lord Rama.
The place is dotted with many temples and sacred attractions that help visitors retrace the footsteps of Lord Rama.
Ramghat – Experience the Oneness of Body and Soul
Perched on the banks of the Mandakini River, Ramghat is an important centre for various religious and ritual activities. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chitrakoot. Legend has it that Lord Rama, along with Sita Ji and Lakshman, took a bath here after arriving in Chitrakoot. I was told by the local saints that this is also believed to be the place where Tulsidas had a divine encounter with Lord Rama and Lakshman.
There is a very interesting story behind the meeting of the Lord and His ardent devotee. Let me share it with you. Tulsidas was preparing sandalwood paste when Lord Rama and Lakshman, disguised as two children, asked him to apply a tilak on their foreheads. Tulsidas happily applied the tilak without realising that the children were none other than the Lord and His brother. According to the popular legend, Lord Hanuman helped Tulsidas recognise the divine presence by reciting the famous verse, which is still engraved in my heart:
Chitrakoot ke ghaat pai bhai santan ki bheer,
Tulsidas chandan ghise tilak det Raghubeer.
The above verse means that on the ghats of Chitrakoot, Tulsidas used to prepare sandalwood paste and apply a tilak on the forehead of Lord Rama. The evening aarti performed here was an ultimate delight to the eyes and allowed me to experience a profound sense of spiritual bliss.
The main highlight of Ramghat is the unforgettable boat ride along the Mandakini River. Morning is the perfect time to enjoy boating and witness the first golden rays of the sun. I was simply astonished by the tranquillity of the place, accompanied by the sounds of mantras and shlokas. I sat on the steps of the ghat and cherished the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred place.
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Kamadgiri – Undertake the Circumambulation of Salvation
My next stopover after Ramghat was Kamadgiri. It is a verdant hill that is considered the spiritual heart of Chitrakoot. The place attracts devotees and tourists throughout the year, who undertake the ritual parikrama (circumambulation) of the hill. One of the major temples, Shri Kamatanath Temple, is situated along the parikrama path.
The sounds of devotees chanting ‘Sita Ram’, the gentle tinkle of bells, and the fragrance of incense sticks make the ambience of the place extremely peaceful and sacred. Hundreds of devotees, sages, and tourists like me visit Kamadgiri, drawn by its considerable religious significance.
I decided to undertake the parikrama early in the morning and was greeted by plenty of monkeys along the way. The whole area is surrounded by lush green vegetation, creating a sense of calm for every visitor. There are several shrines located along the route, many associated with Lord Rama.
After some time, I felt extremely hungry, and it began to feel like rats were jumping inside my stomach. To my relief, there were many shops along the way selling various lip-smacking local snacks such as samosas, pakoras, jalebis, cold drinks, and other items. I immediately quenched my hunger by munching on a plateful of delectable samosas. I have to admit that the food served by the roadside dhabas and shops can give tough competition to some of the best hotels in Chitrakoot.
Finally, after about two hours, I completed my circumambulation and felt spiritually refreshed.
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Sati Anusuya Ashram – The Birthplace of the Mandakini River
After a memorable drive through the woods, I reached Sati Anusuya Ashram, which is around 17 km from Ramghat. It is a popular tourist attraction in Chitrakoot, and the backdrop of the mountains and the chirping of birds make the whole environment peaceful and inviting. There is a temple within the ashram dedicated to Devi Anusuya.
The architecture of the three-storey ashram, depicting various scenes from the Ramayana, captivated my attention. My guide informed me that, according to local tradition, Sati Anusuya brought the Mandakini River to earth to quench the thirst of her husband, Maharishi Atri, one of the Saptarishis. That is why the place is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of the Mandakini River.
Be careful with the monkeys wandering around the ashram. There are many of them, and if you try to offer them food, make sure you hold the packet tightly; otherwise, you may be inviting trouble!
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Janaki Kund – Bathing Place of Goddess Sita
I returned from Sati Anusuya Ashram to my hotel and rested for the night. The next morning, I visited Janaki Kund. According to local tradition, this is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita used to bathe during her period of exile from Ayodhya. It is a unique natural site, and one has to climb a few steps to reach the pristine pool, located along the banks of the Mandakini River.
The footprints believed to be those of Sita can still be seen here and are worshipped by devotees. There is also a temple near the pool dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita. Devotees visit this sacred spot in large numbers and traditionally take a dip in the waters. It is one of the popular places to visit in Chitrakoot.
Reaching this place is not a major hassle, as it can be accessed by road or by taking a boat ride from Ramghat.
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Hanuman Dhara – Natural Spring Water Falling on Lord Hanuman’s Idol
The overnight rain had made the weather pleasant for my trip to Hanuman Dhara. I got out of my car and began the trek up the hill to reach Hanuman Dhara Temple. Along the way, jasmine oil bottles and packets of sindoor (vermillion) were being sold as offerings for Lord Hanuman. A baoli (stepwell) caught my attention, but I resisted the temptation to walk down to it and continued with the trek.
Many black-faced monkeys could be seen moving from one tree to another. After reaching the top of the hill, I was surprised to see a stream of water falling continuously over the idol of Lord Hanuman. The pujaris told me that, according to local tradition, this stream was created by Lord Rama to cool Lord Hanuman’s body after he returned from burning Lanka, the kingdom of the demon king Ravana.
The water falling on the idol eventually collects in the nearby kund, adding to the charm of the surroundings. I was simply enthralled by the lovely ambience of this Hindu pilgrimage site and returned with unforgettable memories.
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Bharat Milap Temple – Where Selfless Love Between Brothers Melted Stones
The magnificent Bharat Milap Temple is associated with the legendary meeting of Bharat, one of the younger brothers of Lord Rama, with Lord Rama during his exile. According to the Ramayana tradition, Bharat came to Chitrakoot to meet Lord Rama and requested him to return to Ayodhya and take back the throne. The meeting between the two brothers is believed to have been so emotional that even the stones melted. Their footprints are traditionally believed to be preserved in the rocks at the site.
I was told by my guide that a fair is organised here every year around October or November. Known as the ‘Bharat Milap Mela’, it is celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm. Thousands of devotees and visitors come to participate in the fair and experience the vibrant cultural traditions associated with this sacred city.
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Gupt Godavari – The Secret Water Springs of Chitrakoot
Next, I visited Gupt Godavari, which is primarily a cave complex with sacred shrines. It is around 18 km from Ramghat. My car broke down midway, and I was running out of time, so I had little option but to catch a bus to Gupt Godavari. The bus was filled with devotees travelling to the site, and their melodious bhajans still reverberate in my ears. Finally, after about 15-20 minutes, I reached my destination.
As I entered the cave, I suddenly felt very warm. The rocky walls were quite remarkable and appeared as though they had been naturally carved into striking formations. The caves contain streams and pools of clear water, and according to local belief, the underground water is mysteriously connected with the Godavari River. This association is traditionally linked to the name Gupt Godavari.
Walking barefoot through the cool water was certainly a delightful experience. The Panchmukhi Shiva shrine located outside the caves also attracts many visitors.
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Sphatik Shila – Bears the Impressions of Lord Rama and Devi Sita’s Footprints
I reached Sphatik Shila in the middle of a light rain, which enhanced the beauty of the lush green surroundings. There is a large boulder at the site that bears what are traditionally believed to be the footprints of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. According to the priests there, the place is blessed by Lord Rama and Devi Sita. Local tradition holds that Rama and Sita used to sit on this boulder and admire the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
There is a clear water pool beside the Shila where one can see different kinds of fish. The site also has several temples and other interesting places to explore in and around Chitrakoot.
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Shri Ram Darshan Museum – Showcasing Various Facets of Lord Rama
In my view, it is one of the interesting places to visit in Chitrakoot. The museum is surrounded by a lush green garden, along with a large idol of Lord Hanuman that immediately fascinated me. The museum showcases sculptural depictions from the Ramayana and scenes depicting the life and teachings of Lord Rama. There were ducks wandering around the museum, which further added to the beauty of the surroundings. I offered some food to the ducks and clicked a few pictures to preserve the memories of my visit.
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Bharat Koop – Well Containing Water from Holy Rivers and Places
Another attraction my guide took me to was Bharat Koop, one of the important pilgrimage sites near Chitrakoot. Here, I was quite intrigued to see the ancient well and the people worshipping it. When I inquired about it from a nearby priest, he told me that, according to local tradition, Bharat collected water from several sacred rivers and pilgrimage places to anoint Lord Rama when he was to be crowned king of Ayodhya. After the anointment ceremony, the water was poured into a deep well.
It is believed that sprinkling or bathing with the sacred water helps purify an individual and cleanse their sins. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Rama beside the well, where devotees offer prayers.
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Sita Rasoi – Cooking Place of Goddess Sita
Sita Rasoi (Kitchen) is located on the hill near Hanuman Dhara Temple. According to local tradition, it is considered the place where Devi Sita cooked food during the period of exile. The place is extremely alluring and peaceful, surrounded by several trees. What captivated my attention was the small chakla-belna (rolling board and rolling pin) carved into the rock. From this place, one can also enjoy views of the surrounding Chitrakoot area.
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Sharbhanga Ashram – Depicting the Rich Cultural and Religious Heritage of Chitrakoot
My last day of the trip to Chitrakoot was reserved for a visit to Sharbhanga Ashram, which is around 30 km from the city. The pleasant drive took us through some of the dense forests of Madhya Pradesh. It is traditionally associated with sages who are believed to have meditated here for years in search of spiritual knowledge and salvation.
The site contains the remains of old temples and shrines, adding to its historical and religious significance. Local accounts also associate some of the damage to the temple structures with periods of historical conflict, although specific claims about their destruction require caution. One interesting aspect of the site is the presence of old inscriptions and carvings, some of which continue to attract the attention of historians, archaeologists, and scholars.
After spending some wonderful time at the ashram, I got ready to explore the nearby attractions and places around Chitrakoot, taking back with me some pleasurable memories and a rich sense of spirituality.
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Excursion Places Around Chitrakoot
After paying obeisance to the Lord and visiting many prominent attractions, I felt the desire to explore other famous gems, historical places, and picnic spots of Madhya Pradesh. So, I formulated a travel plan to visit some of the sightseeing places around Chitrakoot.
Chachai and Keoti Falls
These are two majestic waterfalls near Rewa, with water cascading dramatically from the Rewa Plateau. Chachai Falls drops from a height of over 130 metres, while Keoti Falls cascades from around 130 metres. Both waterfalls are particularly impressive during the monsoon season.
A visit to these spellbinding places fills you with great joy and happiness. If you are planning a sightseeing tour of northeastern Madhya Pradesh, these waterfalls are worth visiting. It feels like spending peaceful time in the lap of Mother Nature.
Govindgarh
Famous as the former summer capital of the Maharajas of Rewa, Govindgarh is located about 19 km from Rewa. The place is known for its verdant landscapes, picturesque lake, mangoes, and its association with the white tiger.
I did not miss the chance to visit the magnificent Govindgarh Palace, which reflects the royal heritage of Rewa. An interesting fact that I would like to share with you all is that Mohan, the famous white tiger captured by Maharaja Martand Singh in 1951, was brought to Rewa and kept at the royal palace in Govindgarh. Mohan later became the foundation of the captive white tiger lineage associated with the Rewa region.
Mara Caves
The magnificent caves are situated in the Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh. They are among the historical attractions of the region. The location of the ancient caves is fascinating, as they are nestled amid the forests. The sculptures and rock features of the caves offer glimpses into the history, traditions, and culture of the area. I would definitely be tempted to compare their setting and artistic appeal with the famous cave heritage of Ajanta and Ellora, although they are much smaller in scale.
Sohagpur
Situated in Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh, Sohagpur is known for the remarkable Virateshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Virateshwar. The temple features a large hall and a square-shaped sanctum that attracts devotees and visitors from different parts of India. Its architectural style has often been compared with the temples of Khajuraho.
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Nearby Cities to Chitrakoot
I still had 2-3 days left with me, and I decided to utilise my leisure time to explore the nearby cities of Chitrakoot. So, I asked my guide to take me to some prominent cities where I could spend some unforgettable time.
Prayagraj (Allahabad)
The city is considered one of the most important pilgrimage centres of Hinduism. It was earlier known as Prayag and is famous for the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. The Kumbh Mela, held at Prayagraj at traditional intervals, attracts millions of pilgrims who come to take a sacred dip at the Sangam. I visited some of the major attractions of the city, including Sangam, Allahabad Fort, Bade Hanuman Ji Mandir, Chandra Shekhar Azad Park, and Anand Bhavan.
Kanpur
Kanpur, renowned as an important industrial city of Uttar Pradesh, is a hub of industries such as leather, textiles, chemicals, and engineering. The name of the city is popularly associated with Kanpur, although its exact historical origin is debated. I relished the opportunity to visit some of the well-known attractions of the city, such as Allen Forest Zoo, Jain Glass Temple, Moti Jheel, Kanpur Memorial Church, and Phool Bagh. These destinations are also suitable for planning enjoyable family vacations.
Lucknow
Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is a beautiful city with plenty to offer visitors. Popularly known for its Nawabi heritage, the city offers mouthwatering cuisine and a variety of historical and cultural attractions. The famous Tunday Kababi kebabs delighted my taste buds, and they were so delicious that I ordered another plate. On my return from the city, I did not forget to take the famous moongfali ki chikki (groundnut brittle) for my kids.
How to Reach Chitrakoot?
Now, after going through the blog, many of you may be planning a trip to Chitrakoot. If that is the case, I would definitely like to help you reach this sacred destination in a hassle-free manner. Chitrakoot can be visited throughout the year, although October to March is generally considered the most comfortable period for sightseeing. The holy city can be conveniently reached by air, rail, and road.
- By Air: Prayagraj Airport (IXD) is currently one of the nearest major airports to Chitrakoot, located approximately 115-125 km away, while Khajuraho Airport is another option at around 175 km.
- By Rail: The closest major railhead is Chitrakoot Dham (Karwi) Railway Station, located about 10-11 km from the main tourist area. It is connected with several major cities, including Prayagraj, Varanasi, Delhi, and Jhansi.
- By Road: Chitrakoot is well connected by road with nearby cities and towns. Regular bus and road connections are available from places such as Prayagraj, Banda, Satna, Mahoba, Jhansi, and Lucknow.
The Last Words…
One thing I want to say about my sacred holidays in Chitrakoot is that it was a voyage towards finding everlasting happiness of mind, body, and soul. This tour gave me a wonderful chance to gain deeper insight into the Ramayana. The entire city is so divine that you can actually feel the spiritual atmosphere everywhere.
Experience the marvel of the lush forests of incredible Madhya Pradesh, relish the mesmerising beauty of the Vindhya mountains, meet the friendly village people, and experience their culture. The city is truly a great representative of much of what we associate with classical India. I would definitely love to visit the city again. What about you?
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About the author
An adventure buff from the land of festivals- Haryana, Manish Pandey is a zealous travel writer who has a deep passion in writing and sharing his travel experiences with other travel fanatics. His love for uncovering enchanting destinations, vibrant culture, rich traditions and lip-smacking dishes can be seen in his write ups. Manish possesses an exceptional fervour for capturing the vividness of India through his camera.
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