Chitrakoot is a town located in the state of Madhya Pradesh in central India. It is situated on the banks of the Mandakini River and is known for its natural beauty and religious significance.
Chitrakoot is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Rama spent a significant portion of his exile.
The town is home to numerous temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Rama and other Hindu deities.
Some of the popular attractions in Chitrakoot include the Ramghat, which is a sacred bathing spot on the banks of the Mandakini River;
the Kamadgiri Mountain, which is considered to be a sacred site for meditation and worship; and the Hanuman Dhara temple, which is situated atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Chitrakoot is also known for its natural beauty, with numerous waterfalls, forests, and scenic spots in the area. Some of the popular natural attractions in Chitrakoot include the Sati Anusuya Ashram, which is situated in a serene forest setting;
and the Gupt Godavari caves, which are located within a rocky hill and are believed to be the site of Lord Rama’s coronation.
How to reach Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is well connected by road and rail and can be easily reached from various parts of Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states. Here are some ways to reach Chitrakoot:
By Air: The nearest airport to Chitrakoot is the Khajuraho Airport, which is located about 180 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chitrakoot.
By Train: Chitrakoot has its own railway station, which is well connected to major cities in India. Some of the popular trains that stop at Chitrakoot station include the Vindhyachal Express, Bundelkhand Express, and Chambal Express.
By Road: Chitrakoot is well connected by road and can be easily reached by bus or taxi from nearby cities. The town is located on National Highway 35, which connects it to major cities like Allahabad, Varanasi, and Jabalpur.
Once you reach Chitrakoot, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to explore the town and its various attractions. It is also possible to explore Chitrakoot on foot or by bicycle, as the town is small and easy to navigate.
Best time to visit Chitrakoot
The best time to visit Chitrakoot is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The winter months are also the peak tourist season in Chitrakoot, so it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit Chitrakoot, as the town receives moderate rainfall during this time and the surroundings become lush and green.
However, heavy rainfalls can cause inconvenience, so it is recommended to check weather conditions before planning a trip during this time.
The summer months, from March to May, should be avoided as the temperature can soar up to 45°C, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities.
However, if you do visit during this time, make sure to carry sufficient water and sunscreen to avoid dehydration and sunburn.
Nearest places to visit
There are several places to visit near Chitrakoot that are worth exploring. Here are some of the popular ones:
Allahabad: Located about 120 km from Chitrakoot, Allahabad is a major pilgrimage center for Hindus and is famous for its Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years. Some of the popular attractions in Allahabad include the Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort, and Anand Bhawan.
Khajuraho: Known for its stunning temples, Khajuraho is located about 180 km from Chitrakoot. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its erotic sculptures and carvings.
Varanasi: One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi is located about 220 km from Chitrakoot and is a major pilgrimage center for Hindus. The city is famous for its ghats on the banks of the Ganges River, as well as its temples and ancient architecture.
Panna National Park: Located about 100 km from Chitrakoot, Panna National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. The park is also known for its beautiful waterfalls and lush forests.
Bandhavgarh National Park: Known for its high density of tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park is located about 250 km from Chitrakoot. The park is also home to other wildlife such as leopards, deer, and birds.
Maihar: Located about 60 km from Chitrakoot, Maihar is famous for its ancient temple of Goddess Sharda, which is located atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Stay options
Chitrakoot offers a range of stay options to suit every budget and preference, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are some popular options:
Chitrakoot Safari Lodge: Located near the Ramghat, Chitrakoot Safari Lodge offers a luxurious stay in the lap of nature. The lodge offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves delicious Indian and Continental cuisine.
Hotel Ram Kripa Inn: Located in the heart of the town, Hotel Ram Kripa Inn is a budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves vegetarian food.
Hotel Payal: Located near Kamadgiri Mountain, Hotel Payal offers spacious rooms and basic amenities at affordable prices. The hotel also has a rooftop restaurant that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Kharau Cottage: Located near the Sati Anusuya Ashram, Kharau Cottage offers cozy and comfortable rooms in a peaceful setting. The cottage also has a garden and a restaurant that serves homemade vegetarian food.
MPT Tourist Bungalow: Located near the Ramghat, MPT Tourist Bungalow offers basic rooms and amenities at reasonable prices. The bungalow also has a restaurant that serves delicious Indian food.
These are just a few of the many stay options available in Chitrakoot. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
FAQ about Chitrakoot
here are some frequently asked questions about Chitrakoot:
What is Chitrakoot famous for?
Chitrakoot is famous for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent their 14 years of exile. The town is also known for its scenic waterfalls, ancient temples, and holy ghats.
What are the popular tourist attractions in Chitrakoot?
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Chitrakoot include Ramghat, Hanuman Dhara, Kamadgiri Temple, Bharat Milap Temple, and Sati Anusuya Ashram.
Is Chitrakoot a good place for adventure activities?
Yes, Chitrakoot offers a range of adventure activities such as trekking, hiking, and boating. The town is surrounded by lush forests and scenic waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
What is the best time to visit Chitrakoot?
The best time to visit Chitrakoot is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit as the surroundings become lush and green.
How to reach Chitrakoot?
Chitrakoot is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Khajuraho, which is about 175 km away, and the nearest railway station is Chitrakoot Dham Karwi. The town is also well connected by road and can be reached by bus or taxi from nearby cities such as Allahabad and Kanpur.