Gupt Godavari is counted amongst the most interesting places to visit in Uttar Pradesh. It is both a natural wonder and a place of immense spiritual significance. Like all the other famous tourist attractions in Chitrakoot, there is a fascinating mythological tale behind it.
Located at a distance of about 18 km from the district of Chitrakoot, this place is held in the highest respect by devotees. According to the Hindu mythological epic, Ramayana, it was here that Lord Rama and Lord Laxmana stayed for some time during their exile for 14 years. There are two cave systems inside the mountain, while the water inside them is filled up to the knees.
One of these caves is very high and wide, along with a narrow entrance which makes it quite difficult for anyone to pass through. The other cave though, is very long and narrow. A stream of water keeps flowing continuously from rocks deep inside the cave. These then flow towards another cave before simply disappearing into the ground. It is a strange phenomenon which has always bewildered tourists and has also led to this place being named as Gupt Godavari. The bigger of these caves also displays two stone carved thrones. These are believed to belong to Lord Rama and Lord Laxman.
Wading through the knee deep water, while admiring the beauty of the caves, is really an exciting adventure. The highlight of the entire trip is reaching the temple inside the cave called the Ram Darbar. There is a courtyard of the temple along with the statues of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Laxmana seated on a raised platform. There is an opening directly above it which allows sunlight to permeate through.
The caves are illuminated at regular intervals by lamps, along with stairs which makes it comfortable for tourists to explore the cave. What makes Gupt Godavari one of the most visited places in Chitrakoot is that it delivers adventure and spiritualism in equal measure.
Popular Tourist Attractions Nearby
Gupt Godavari, located in the district of Chitrakoot in Uttar Pradesh, is to be visited to be believed how fascinating it is. There are other places in this district which are visited by tourists both due to their spiritual and cultural significance, and the amazing sightseeing options they offer. Here are some of the places which you should check out during your stay.
- Hanuman Dhara
- Ganesh Bagh
- Janki Kund
- Kamadgiri
- Ram Ghat
- Sphatik Shila
- Bharat Milap Temple
- Ram Darshan
- Bharat Koop
- Sati Anusuya Ashram
Best Time to Visit
The major factor which you should consider before planning a trip to the district of Chitrakoot in Uttar Pradesh is the weather. During the summers, the weather can get very hot, with the mercury shooting to 47°C on some days. If travelling in hot weather is not your cup of tea, it’s best to avoid travelling in this weather. If cool and pleasant weather is what you are after, then you would do best to plan a visit to Chitrakoot during the winter season. The amicable weather lets you enjoy sightseeing at leisure.
How to Reach?
The caves of Gupt Godavari are located in the district of Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh. Even though it does not have an airport, you will not face any difficulty reaching it by train and road. Here is the best way of reaching it.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Chitrakoot is Chitrakoot Dham Karwi. The distance of this place from Gupt Godavari is almost 22 km. You won’t face any difficulty in reaching this place from the railway station, as there are plenty of taxis and private vehicles which you can hire. The drive from the railway station to this place should take you about 37 minutes.
By Air
Chitrakoot does not boast an airport yet. If you are travelling by air, you will have to land at Bamrauli Airport at Prayagraj (Allahabad) since that is the nearest airport. After you land at the airport, you can hire a taxi or any other private vehicle to reach this place. The distance between the two points is 106 km approx and requires a driving time of almost 2 hrs 50 minutes.
By Road
Chitrakoot can easily be reached by road from the major cities of India or those located in close proximity like Varanasi (246 km), Vindhyanchal (171 km), Prayagraj (Allahabad) (115 km) and Ayodhya (270 km). You will have to take the NH 35 to reach this district.