Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh

Chitrakoot: Gift of Nature and Gods

Chitrakoot is a famous pilgrimage centre in the Santa district, located in Madhya Pradesh. It is a place of historical, archaeological, religious and cultural importance and is located in the Bundelkhand region.

Being an important pilgrimage centre, Chitrakoot is a perfect place for a family outing or a honeymoon. Along with significant tourist attractions like the Garud Purnima fair, Kapil Muni Temple, and Narmada Ghats, there is also plenty to do here for those interested in exploring the region’s history. The Rani Mahal and the Gopinath Temple are also worth visiting.

People and pilgrims flock to Chitrakoot on important occasions like Amavasi, Diwali, Sharad- Poornima, Rama Navami and socially essential services like medical camps. Well-known Ayurvedic centres such as Arogyadham are found in this religious town.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CHITRAKOOT

Why is Chitrakoot famous?

1. Kamadgiri

Kamadgiri - Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
Kamadgiri – Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh

Kamadgiri is also known as the heart of Chitrakoot. There are many temples on this hill, as well as a temple dedicated to Lord Rama. This temple was constructed after the lord appeared in a dream to a sadhu and promised to come. The Kamadgiri hill is one of the major attractions of this area and is a spiritual monument.

Timings: 5 am to 8 pm

Entry Fee: No fee

2. Gupt Godavari

Gupt Godavari - Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
Gupt Godavari – Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh

Lush greenery embraces the perimeter of these two caves, which are surprisingly well-maintained considering their antiquity. Unsurprisingly, the first cave contains idols of Lord Rama and Sita, alongside Vishwakarma, the divine architect who built the city for Lord Rama. The second cave hosts a small stream that passes through it.

This cave is home to a shrine dedicated to Lord Rama. Legend has it that he and his brother Lakshmanma frequented the cave to meet secretly.

Timings: 7 am to 6 pm

Entry Fee: No fee

3. Hanuman Dhara

Hanuman Dhara - Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
Hanuman Dhara – Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh

Hanuman Dhara is a spring built over the site where Lord Ram brought the fiery Hanuman from Lanka to extinguish the fire that caused his tail to burn.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Ram came here and shot an arrow into a rock in anger. The rock then gushed out holy water, which is known as Hanuman Dhara today.

Timings: 12 pm to 5 pm

Entry Fee: No fee

4. Sati Anusuya Temple

Sati Anusuya Temple - Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
Sati Anusuya Temple – Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh

The story of Anusuya tells us about the essential roles of women in building and strengthening society. She epitomized the spirit of selfless love, service and devotion. It is one of the top temples in Chitrakoot.

Timings: 8 am to 5 pm

Entry Fee: No fee

5. Sphatik Shila

Sphatik Shila - Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
Sphatik Shila – Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh

Sphatik Shila is an ancient site that has been known since the times of Ramayana. This sacred place is shrouded with the stories of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.

Timings: 8 am to 7 pm

Entry Fee: No fee

HOW TO REACH CHITRAKOOT

By Air:

There are two airports nearby the city. The nearest airport is Allahabad, which I read is 135 kilometres away. There are also regularly scheduled flights to Delhi from this airport, as well as Khajuraho and Varanasi. It is easy to find a bus or train ticket from these cities to Chitrakoot.

By Road:

There are private, and government buses are available from different cities like Satna, Kanpur and Allahabad etc. However, you can also take a taxi from Delhi airport to get the pilgrimage city.

By Train:

Karvi is the nearest railway station, and it is 8 km away from Chitrakoot. One can also get down at Manikpur Junction or Satna Junction, both 35 and 75 kms away from the city, respectively.

Which is the best time to visit Chitrakoot?

BEST TIME TO VISIT CHITRAKOOT

Located in central India, Chitrakoot is a great place to visit year-round. Autumn offers vibrant colours and mild weather, making it an excellent time to experience the city’s many sights, sounds, and tastes. From December through March, Chitrakoot is a popular tourist destination full of festivals and outdoor activities.

Also Check: Jhansi: The Gateway to Bundelkhand

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