Chitrakoot

The history of Chitrakoot is glorious and magnificent, encapsulating numerous untold stories. Chitrakoot, situated on the border of Madhya Pradesh and near the Uttar Pradesh border, is a place of immense religious and mythological significance.
It is a natural wonder that combines breathtaking landscapes with profound spiritual importance. For a traveler, Chitrakoot offers the sight of beautiful waterfalls, vibrant deer, and dancing peacocks, creating a sense of excitement.

It is a place where taking a dip in the holy waters of Mandakini and contemplating in the serene environs of Kamadgiri is a deeply moving experience.

According to Hindu scriptures and beliefs, Lord Rama spent around 11 years of his exile in Chitrakoot, accompanied by Mother Sita and his younger brother Lakshmana. This spiritual connection adds great importance to the place.
Chitrakoot is more than just a physical location; it is a living center of divine consciousness, inspiring people since ancient times.

It is often said that Chitrakoot is hailed as the sovereign of all pilgrimage sites, surpassing even Prayagraj in eminence according to Hindu beliefs. While Prayagraj (Allahabad) is traditionally regarded as the "king of all pilgrimage sites" due to the confluence of sacred rivers, Chitrakoot holds an even loftier position in the hearts of devotees.

This divine connection elevates Chitrakoot to a position of exceptional reverence and makes it a truly unique pilgrimage destination for Hindus

Places to visit in Chitrakoot:

Ram Ghat: Ram Ghat is the sacred bathing place where Lord Rama would perform his daily ablutions. Located at this ghat is the Ram Bharat Milap Temple, and you’ll also find a statue of Goswami Tulsidas. On the banks of the Mandakini River, this ghat is a hub of various religious activities. Witnessing the saints in their saffron attire engaging in devotional songs and chants creates a wonderful atmosphere. The evening aarti conducted here is a soothing experience for the soul.

Janaki Kund: Just 2 kilometers away from Ram Ghat, you’ll find Janaki Kund on the banks of the Mandakini River. Sita, known as Janaki because she was the daughter of King Janak, is believed to have bathed here. Nearby, you can visit the Rama Janaki Raghuvir Temple and the Sankat Mochan Temple.

Sphatik Shila: A short distance from Janaki Kund, you’ll discover the Sphatik Shila, a rock believed to bear the imprints of Sita’s feet. It’s said that when she stood on this rock, the crow Jatayu had attacked her. This is where Rama and Sita would sit and admire the natural beauty of Chitrakoot.

Gupta Godavari: Located 18 kilometers from the town, Gupta Godavari is a site with two caves. One cave is wide and high, with a tricky entry point. Inside, there’s a small pond, often referred to as the Godavari River. The second cave is long and winding, with a continuous flow of water. It is said that Rama and Sita held court at the end of this cave.

Hanuman Dhara: Perched on a mountain peak, Hanuman Dhara features a colossal statue of Hanuman. Water flows from a stream into a pond in front of the statue. It’s believed that this stream was created by Lord Rama to provide Hanuman with a comfortable place to rest after the burning of Lanka. At the mountain’s summit, you’ll find the “Sita Rasoi,” from where you can enjoy a picturesque view of Chitrakoot.

Bharat Kund: Bharat Kund, situated a little distance away, is believed to be the place where Bharat, Lord Rama’s brother, collected water from all the sacred rivers to perform Lord Rama’s coronation. However, due to Lord Rama’s commitment to his 14-year exile, Bharat had to return alone, leaving the collected water in a well. This well has been named Bharat Kund ever since. It stands as a reminder of Lord Rama’s unwavering determination during his exile.

Sati Anusuya Temple and Ashram:
Around 4 kilometers from Sphatik Shila, you’ll find the secluded Anasuya Ashram surrounded by dense forests. The ashram houses idols of the revered sages Atri, Anasuya, Dattatreya, and Durvasa.
It is one of the finest places to visit in Chitrakoot, where you can truly immerse yourself in spirituality and tranquility simultaneously.
It is believed that the intense devotion and prayers of Anusuya led to the creation of the Mandakini River, which brought an end to the drought in the town, symbolizing a divine intervention. This sacred site offers a serene ambiance for those seeking a deeper connection with the spiritual essence of Chitrakoot.

Lakshman Hill: Lakshman Hill is a significant religious site in Chitrakoot, located near Kamadgiri Hill. While circumambulating the Kamadgiri, you have the opportunity to visit the temples of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Bharata on this hill.

Ganesh Bagh: Located just 11 kilometers away on the Karwi-Devangana Road, Ganesh Bagh is a place with a beautiful temple that stands amidst the ruins of a seven-story structure. The entire complex was constructed by Peshwa Vinayak Rao as a summer retreat, and it is often referred to as a local version of Mini Khajuraho due to its intricate architecture.

Apart from that in Chitrakoot offers many places, temples to visit where you feel the spiritual experiences and connect with the natural beauty of the region.

Traveling to Chitrakoot:

By Air: To reach Chitrakoot Dham, you will first need to arrive at the Amousi Airport located in Prayagraj. From there, you can reach Chitrakoot by bus, train, or taxi. The distance from Prayagraj to Chitrakoot is approximately 120 kilometers.

By Train: Chitrakoot Dham is connected via the railway line to Prayagraj, Jhansi, and Satna railway stations. Express trains also operate to and from Chitrakoot Dham, providing convenient rail access.

By Bus: Chitrakoot has a bus station in Karvi. Buses from various cities in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh arrive at the Karvi district headquarters for easy access to Chitrakoot.

So, whether you prefer to travel by air, train, or road, Chitrakoot is accessible from various parts of Madhya Pradesh and nearby cities. Enjoy your trip!