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Chitrakoot is a beautiful destination that offers a blend of spirituality, nature, and history. With its serene environment and magnificent temples, it is a must-visit for every tourist. Indulge in the tranquility of the place and explore the top sights that will leave you mesmerized. Plan your visit today and experience the best of Chitrakoot’s tourism.
About Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is a small town located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The name ‘Chitrakoot’ means the ‘Hill of many wonders’, and the place is considered to be one of the holiest sites in the country. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana spent a major part of their exile period. It is also believed to be the place where Lord Rama took a dip in the Mandakini River to wash away his sins after killing Ravana. Chitrakoot is home to numerous temples, caves and natural wonders, making it a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Chitrakoot, located in the state of Madhya Pradesh in India, is a historically significant town known for its architectural heritage. The architecture of Chitrakoot is influenced by the Hindu, Jain, and Islamic styles of architecture. Here are some of the prominent
Architectural features of Chitrakoot:
- Hindu temples: Chitrakoot is home to several Hindu temples, including the Kamadgiri temple, Hanuman Dhara temple, and Ramghat temple. These temples feature intricate carvings, decorative pillars, and spires.
- Jain temples: There are also several Jain temples in Chitrakoot, such as the Jain Temple at Karwi and the Pramathnath Jain temple. These temples feature elaborate stone carvings, statues of Jain Tirthankaras, and intricately carved pillars.
- Islamic architecture: The town also has several Islamic monuments, including the Jama Masjid and the Raja Mahal. These monuments feature Islamic architectural elements such as domes, arches, and minarets.
- Forts: Chitrakoot is home to several forts, including the Ramnagar Fort and the Kamta Fort. These forts feature high walls, imposing gates, and turrets.
- Stepwells: The town also has several stepwells, such as the Bharat Milap Kund and the Sati Anusuya Kund. These stepwells were used for water storage and feature intricate carvings and decorative pillars.
Overall, the architecture of Chitrakoot is a unique blend of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic styles, reflecting the town’s diverse cultural heritage.
25 of Places to Visit in Chitrakoot
- Ramghat: A sacred bathing spot on the banks of the Mandakini River, where Lord Rama is said to have bathed during his exile.
- Kamadgiri Temple: A temple situated on a hill and dedicated to Lord Rama, believed to have been visited by him during his exile.
- Bharat Milap Temple: A temple dedicated to the meeting of Lord Rama and his brother Bharat after 14 years of exile.
- Hanuman Dhara Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, with a spring of water falling from the hill believed to have been created by him.
- Sati Anusuya Temple: A temple dedicated to Sati Anusuya, the wife of Sage Atri and known for her devotion and chastity.
- Gupt Godavari Caves: Caves that are believed to be connected to the Ram Ghat and have two natural throne-like rocks.
- Janki Kund: A sacred pond believed to have been visited by Lord Rama’s wife Sita during their exile.
- Sphatik Shila: A rock formation made of crystal and quartz, believed to have been blessed by Lord Rama.
- Chitrakoot Falls: A series of waterfalls in the area, also known as the ‘Niagara of India’.
- Lakshman Pahadi: A hill believed to have been the place where Lord Rama’s brother Lakshman meditated during their exile.
- Kalyan Mandap: A wedding hall dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita, believed to have been used during their marriage.
- Pampapur: A sacred spot on the banks of the Mandakini River where Lord Rama is believed to have stayed during his exile.
- Pramod Van: A forest area believed to have been visited by Lord Rama and his wife Sita during their exile.
- Sita Kund: A sacred pond believed to have been created by Sita herself during their exile.
- Hanuman Chatti: A spot on the banks of the Mandakini River believed to have been visited by Lord Hanuman.
- Bharat Koop: A well believed to have been dug by Bharat, the brother of Lord Rama.
- Gupta Ganga: A spot on the banks of the Mandakini River believed to have been visited by Lord Rama during his exile.
- Janaki Ashram: A temple dedicated to Sita, believed to have been visited by her during her exile.
- Mayur Kuti: A cave believed to have been the place where Lord Rama meditated during his exile.
- Kamtaji Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita, believed to have been visited by them during their exile.
- Bharat Mandir: A temple dedicated to Bharat, the brother of Lord Rama.
- Ram Darshan: A viewpoint offering a panoramic view of Chitrakoot.
- Arogya Dham: A hospital and research center focused on ayurvedic treatments.
- Pawan Dham: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
- Chitrakoot Dham: A complex of temples and ashrams dedicated to various deities and saints.
How To Reach Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is in Khajuraho, which is about 185 km away. Here are the different ways to reach Chitrakoot:
- By Air: The nearest airport is the Khajuraho Airport, which is about 185 km away from Chitrakoot. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chitrakoot.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is the Chitrakoot Dham Karwi Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
- By Road: Chitrakoot is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Chitrakoot from nearby cities like Allahabad, Varanasi, and Satna.
Accommodation Options in Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. Some of the popular places to stay in Chitrakoot are:
- Hotel Ram Darbar
- Hotel Aastha Palace
- Hotel Rajdoot
- Hotel Shri Ram
- Hotel Neelkanth
- Hotel Janaki Palace
- Hotel Ganpati
- Tourist Bungalow
- Hotel Madhuvan
- MPT Tourist Bungalow
It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Chitrakoot As per users Reviews and Ratings
There are several popular hotels and resorts in Chitrakoot that you can consider based on your budget and preferences, including:
- MPT Tourist Bungalow
- Hotel Ram Kripa Inn
- Vinayak Hotel & Restaurant
- Hotel Shri Ram Darshan
- Hotel Neelkanth
- Hotel Vijay Intercontinental
- Hotel Rama Palace
- Hotel Balaji Central
- Hotel Suraj Palace
- Hotel Athiti Inn
It’s always a good idea to do some research and read reviews from previous guests before booking a hotel in Chitrakoot or anywhere else.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Chitrakoot
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Chitrakoot:
- Check the weather conditions before visiting, as the best time to visit Chitrakoot is during the winter months between November and February.
- Carry comfortable shoes as you will have to walk a lot to explore the temples and other attractions.
- Do not forget to carry your camera and extra batteries to capture the beauty of Chitrakoot.
- Be respectful towards the local culture and customs, and dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious places.
- Make sure to carry enough cash with you as ATMs are not easily available in the area.
- Avoid eating street food and drink only bottled water to avoid getting sick.
- If you are planning to visit during a festival, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance.
- Hire a local guide to get a better understanding of the history and significance of the temples and other attractions.
- Do not litter and keep the surroundings clean.
- Be mindful of the monkeys in the area and do not carry any food items in your hand.
Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Chitrakoot
Here are some travel mistakes to avoid when visiting Chitrakoot:
- Not carrying enough cash: Chitrakoot is a small town and some establishments may not accept credit cards, so it’s important to carry enough cash.
- Not carrying proper clothing: Chitrakoot is a spiritual town, and many temples and ashrams require visitors to dress modestly. It’s important to carry appropriate clothing like long pants, shawls, and sarees if necessary.
- Not planning ahead: Chitrakoot is a small town and some tourist places have limited visiting hours or are closed on certain days. It’s important to plan ahead and check the timings of places you want to visit.
- Not respecting local customs and traditions: Chitrakoot is a sacred place and visitors should respect local customs and traditions. It’s important to be mindful of your behavior and dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious places.
- Not carrying insect repellent: Chitrakoot is surrounded by forests and insects like mosquitoes can be a problem, especially during the monsoon season. It’s important to carry insect repellent to avoid being bitten.
By avoiding these travel mistakes, you can have a more enjoyable and hassle-free trip to Chitrakoot.
Best Places for Shopping in Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is a small town with limited shopping options. However, there are a few local markets where you can buy handicrafts and souvenirs. Some of the best places for shopping in Chitrakoot are:
- Chitrakoot Gramodyog: It is a government emporium where you can find a variety of handicrafts and handloom products.
- Gupt Godavari Market: This local market is known for its silver jewelry, brassware, and terracotta items.
- Ram Shyam Market: It is a popular market for clothes, accessories, and handicrafts.
- Naya Bazaar: This market is known for its fresh produce, such as fruits and vegetables.
- Hanuman Dhara Market: It is a small market where you can find souvenirs and religious items.
Food To Eat in Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is a small town in India and its local cuisine reflects its culture and traditions. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Chitrakoot:
- Aloo ki Sabzi – Aloo ki Sabzi is a simple and delicious potato curry that is a staple food in Chitrakoot. It is usually eaten with puri or paratha.
- Baati Chokha – Baati Chokha is a popular dish in Chitrakoot, which is made of wheat flour, ghee, and served with spicy chokha made of roasted eggplant, tomato, and potato.
- Dal Tadka – Dal Tadka is a simple and flavorful lentil soup made with pigeon pea lentils and tempered with spices, ghee, and cumin seeds.
- Kachori – Kachori is a deep-fried pastry filled with spiced peas, lentils, and spices. It is a popular breakfast and snack item in Chitrakoot.
- Puri Sabzi – Puri Sabzi is a popular breakfast dish in Chitrakoot, which is made of deep-fried bread served with potato curry.
- Litti Chokha – Litti Chokha is a popular snack in Chitrakoot, which is made of wheat flour dough stuffed with spiced gram flour and roasted on fire. It is served with spicy chokha made of roasted eggplant, tomato, and potato.
- Khasta Kachori – Khasta Kachori is a crispy and flaky pastry filled with spiced peas, lentils, and spices. It is a popular snack item in Chitrakoot.
- Rabri – Rabri is a sweet dish made of thickened milk and sugar, which is flavored with cardamom and saffron.
- Lassi – Lassi is a refreshing drink made of yogurt, water, and sugar, which is flavored with cardamom or saffron. It is a popular drink in Chitrakoot, especially during the summer season.
- Thandai – Thandai is a traditional drink made of milk, almonds, saffron, and cardamom. It is a popular drink in Chitrakoot, especially during the Holi festival.
Things You Can Buy as a Tourist
Chitrakoot is known for its handicrafts, especially those made by local artisans. Some of the things you should consider buying as a tourist in Chitrakoot include:
- Stone Carvings – Stone carvings are one of the most popular handicrafts in Chitrakoot. They are made from various types of stones such as sandstone and marble.
- Wood Carvings – Wood carvings are another popular handicraft in Chitrakoot. They are made from different types of wood such as teak, rosewood, and sandalwood.
- Terracotta Artifacts – Terracotta artifacts such as pots, vases, and figurines are also popular in Chitrakoot. They are made from baked clay and are usually hand-painted.
- Handmade Jewelry – Handmade jewelry made from silver, gold, and other metals is also available in Chitrakoot. The designs are inspired by local culture and tradition.
- Textiles – Chitrakoot is also known for its textiles such as saris, shawls, and scarves. The fabrics used are usually cotton, silk, or wool and are often handwoven.
- Papier Mache Artifacts – Papier mache artifacts such as boxes, bowls, and figurines are also popular in Chitrakoot. They are made by layering paper pulp over a mold and then painting it.
- Miniature Paintings – Miniature paintings depicting local scenes and mythology are also available in Chitrakoot. They are usually painted on silk or paper using natural dyes.
Nightlife in Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is a holy city with a predominantly religious and spiritual atmosphere, and there are not many options for nightlife activities. The city typically winds down early in the evening, and most places shut down by 10 PM. However, there are a few options for entertainment in Chitrakoot:
- Attend the evening Aarti ceremony: The evening Aarti ceremony at the famous Kamadgiri temple is a beautiful experience, and it is a must-attend for all visitors to Chitrakoot.
- Enjoy a boat ride: You can enjoy a serene boat ride on the Mandakini river during the daytime or early evening.
- Cultural programs: Some hotels and resorts in Chitrakoot organize cultural programs, such as traditional dance performances and music shows, which can be an enjoyable way to spend an evening.
- Star gazing: Due to the lack of light pollution in the area, Chitrakoot is an excellent place for star-gazing. You can sit back and enjoy the beauty of the night sky on a clear night.
Overall, Chitrakoot may not be the place for party-goers, but it offers unique and peaceful experiences that are well worth exploring.
Chitrakoot is a small town located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. Here are some activities and things to do in Chitrakoot:
Activities and Things to Do in Chitrakoot
- Visit Ramghat: Ramghat is a popular bathing ghat located on the banks of the river Mandakini. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama and his brothers took a dip in the river during their exile.
- Explore Kamadgiri: Kamadgiri is a hill located in the heart of Chitrakoot. It is considered to be a sacred place for Hindus and is believed to have been visited by Lord Rama himself.
- Visit Hanuman Dhara: Hanuman Dhara is a temple located on a hilltop in Chitrakoot. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is known for its scenic beauty and natural waterfalls.
- Take a boat ride in the Mandakini river: You can hire a boat and take a ride in the Mandakini river to enjoy the scenic beauty of Chitrakoot.
- Visit the Bharat Milap temple: Bharat Milap temple is dedicated to the reunion of Lord Rama and his brother Bharata. It is a popular temple in Chitrakoot and is visited by many pilgrims.
- Explore the Gupt Godavari caves: The Gupt Godavari caves are located near the Godavari waterfall in Chitrakoot. They are believed to be the place where Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana stayed during their exile.
- Attend the Ram Navami festival: Ram Navami is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Chitrakoot and is a good time to visit the town.
- Visit the Sati Anusuya temple: Sati Anusuya temple is dedicated to the wife of sage Atri. It is located near the Kamadgiri hill and is a popular temple in Chitrakoot.
- Enjoy nature at the Hanuman Dhara park: The Hanuman Dhara park is located near the Hanuman Dhara temple. It is a beautiful park with many trees and flowers and is a good place to relax and enjoy nature.
- Visit the Janaki Kund: Janaki Kund is a sacred pond located near the Ramghat. It is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita used to take a bath during her exile.
Lesser Known Facts About Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is a town with a rich history and culture. Here are some lesser-known facts about Chitrakoot:
- The name Chitrakoot means ‘the hill of many wonders’ in Sanskrit.
- It is believed that Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana stayed in Chitrakoot during their exile.
- Chitrakoot is also associated with the sage Valmiki, who is believed to have written the epic Ramayana in this town.
- Chitrakoot is home to many ancient temples and shrines, including the Kamadgiri Temple, Sphatik Shila, and Bharat Milap Temple.
- The town is also known for its natural beauty, with the Mandakini River and the Godavari Waterfall being popular tourist attractions.
- Chitrakoot is believed to be the birthplace of the poet Tulsidas, who wrote the famous Ramcharitmanas.
- The town has a rich tradition of music, art, and literature, and is known for its folk music and dance forms like the Raai and the Khayal.
- The Chitrakoot Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Vindhya range, is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and deer.
- Chitrakoot is also known for its handicrafts, including woodcarving, pottery, and weaving.
- The town has a spiritual atmosphere and is visited by pilgrims from all over India and the world, who come to seek the blessings of Lord Rama and other deities.
FAQ About Chitrakoot
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about Chitrakoot:
Q: Where is Chitrakoot located?
A: Chitrakoot is a town located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India. It is situated on the banks of the river Mandakini and is surrounded by the Vindhya mountain range.
Q: What is the best time to visit Chitrakoot?
A: The best time to visit Chitrakoot is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The monsoon season from July to September is also a good time to visit, as the town is surrounded by lush greenery and the waterfalls are in full flow.
Q: What are the popular tourist attractions in Chitrakoot?
A: Chitrakoot is home to many ancient temples and shrines, including the Kamadgiri Temple, Hanuman Dhara Temple, Sati Anusuya Temple, Bharat Milap Temple, and Ramghat. The Mandakini River, Gupt Godavari caves, and the Chitrakoot Wildlife Sanctuary are also popular tourist attractions.
Q: Is Chitrakoot a pilgrimage site?
A: Yes, Chitrakoot is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana stayed during their exile. The town is also associated with the sage Valmiki and the poet Tulsidas, who wrote the Ramayana and Ramcharitmanas, respectively.
Q: What is the significance of Ramghat in Chitrakoot?
A: Ramghat is a popular bathing ghat located on the banks of the river Mandakini. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama and his brothers took a dip in the river during their exile. Ramghat is also a popular site for performing rituals and offering prayers to the deities.
Q: What are the popular festivals celebrated in Chitrakoot
A: Chitrakoot is a town with a rich spiritual heritage and is known for its festivals. Some of the popular festivals celebrated in Chitrakoot are:
- Ram Navami: This is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Chitrakoot.
- Deepavali: Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated in Chitrakoot with great fervor. The town is beautifully lit up with diyas and candles, and people exchange sweets and gifts.
- Mahashivaratri: Mahashivaratri is a festival that celebrates Lord Shiva and is celebrated with great devotion in Chitrakoot.
- Dussehra: Dussehra is a festival that celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Chitrakoot, with people burning effigies of Ravana.
- Holi: Holi is a festival of colors and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm in Chitrakoot. People smear each other with colored powders and water and exchange sweets and greetings.
- Janmashtami: Janmashtami is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. It is celebrated with great devotion in Chitrakoot, with people fasting and praying.
- Navratri: Navratri is a festival that celebrates the nine forms of the goddess Durga. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Chitrakoot, with people fasting and performing puja.