Things to do in Chitrakoot

Shri Kamta Nath Mandir

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  Kamadgiri, meaning 'the hill that fulfills desires’, is believed to be the original Chitrakoot where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a significant portion of their exile.

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  The temple is dedicated to Lord Kamtanath, a form of Lord Rama. The temple’s central chamber enshrines Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, and is a focal point for devotees seeking blessings.

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  Devotees perform a 5 km Parikrama around the Kamadgiri hill, which is believed to absolve sins and fulfill desires. The path is lined with various temples and ashrams.

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  Surrounded by greenery, the temple features traditional architecture, intricate carvings, and a peaceful ambiance enriched by nearby shrines.

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  Temple Timings: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm

Other Temples Nearby

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  Ram Bharat Milap (400 m): This temple marks the reunion of Lord Rama and his brother Bharata during Rama's exile. It's believed that the emotional intensity of their meeting caused even the rocks to melt. Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm

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  Shri Shridhar Dham (Sri Das Hanuman Devasthan) (3.3 km): Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is known for its tranquil atmosphere. It also serves as a centre for spiritual learning and meditation. Temple Timings: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm

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  Hanuman Dhara Mandir (Panchmukhi Hanuman) (5.8 km): Perched atop a hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. A natural spring (dhara) flows near the deity's feet, believed to have been created by Lord Rama to cool Hanuman after he set Lanka ablaze. Temple Timings: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm

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  Bharatkoop Temple (8.9 km): It is associated with a legend where Bharata, brother of Rama, poured sacred water collected from various pilgrimage sites into a well here, symbolising the presence of all holy places. Temple Timings: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm

Popular attractions in & Around the City.

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  Janaki Kund (3.2 km): Set on the banks of the Mandakini River, it is believed to be the bathing spot of Goddess Sita during her exile. The serene pond is surrounded by temples and the tranquil Pramod Van Forest.

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  Ramghat (3.3 km): It is a sacred riverfront on the Mandakini River, renowned for its evening aarti ceremonies. Pilgrims gather here for rituals, boat rides, and to witness the spiritual vibrancy of Chitrakoot.

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  Sphatik Shila (4.7 km): It features two large boulders believed to bear the footprints of Lord Rama and Sita. The site offers a peaceful setting for reflection amidst natural surroundings.

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  Ganesh Bagh (13.8 km): It is a historical complex comprising a temple, palace, and stepwell, built in the 19th century by Peshwa Vinayak Rao.

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  Gupt Godavari Caves (16 km): The Gupt Godavari Caves consist of two natural caves with a stream flowing through them, associated with legends of Lord Rama and Lakshmana.

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  Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary (42 km): Established in 1977, this sanctuary spans 230 sq.km and became Uttar Pradesh's 4th tiger reserve in 2022. It is home to diverse wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species.

Best Areas to Stay

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  Ramghat Area: Known for its riverside rituals and evening aarti, Ramghat offers a spiritual setting with nearby guest houses and mid-range hotels.

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  Sitapur Road: The area offers a quiet setting with a few local shops and spiritual spots, along with budget lodges and guest houses for a peaceful stay.

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  Kamadigiri Road: This is a key spiritual stretch with temples, religious shops, and eateries. The area offers budget lodges and mid-range hotels, ideal for pilgrims visiting Kamadgiri Hill.

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  Near Bharat Milap Mandir: This area has a peaceful, spiritual vibe with steady footfall from pilgrims. Nearby, visitors will find budget lodges and mid-range hotels for a convenient stay.

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  How to Reach: Chitrakoot Airport is 18 km from the temple, while Chitrakoot Dham Railway Station is 13 km away, offering easy access for travellers to reach the town.

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  What to Buy: Chitrakoot is known for its handcrafted wooden toys, reflecting the region’s spiritual and cultural charm, perfect as unique souvenirs.

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  What to Eat: Chitrakoot is known for its vegetarian fare, especially local favorites like kachori-sabzi, poha, samosas, litti-chokha, and the sweet rabri.

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  What’s more to Enjoy: Chitrakoot celebrates festivals like Makar Sankranti, Ram Navami, Somvati Amavasya, Janmashtami, Sharad Purnima, Shivratri, and Diwali with great enthusiasm and grandeur.