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Chitrakoot!

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Population

30,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Uttar Pradesh map North India πŸ•‰οΈ Spiritual 🦁 Wildlife Pilgrimage Chitrakoot Uttar Pradesh Ramayana Pilgrimage Temples Forest

Chitrakoot is a town of religious, cultural and historical importance, situated on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its association with the Hindu epic Ramayana, as it is believed to be where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent eleven and a half years of their exile.

Chitrakoot offers a tranquil and spiritual experience with its numerous temples and scenic beauty. However, the infrastructure is basic and can be crowded during festivals. Visit for the religious significance and natural beauty, but be prepared for a less developed tourist experience.

Plan at least two days to explore the major sites. It's best to arrive by train or bus, as the nearest airport is quite far. Local transport mainly consists of auto-rickshaws.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

20-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather. The skies are clear, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for exploring temples and participating in the Kamadgiri Parikrama. Major festivals like Diwali and Ram Navami are celebrated with fervor, adding to the cultural experience. The comfortable climate makes it easy to spend long hours outdoors.

Tip: Expect higher prices and more crowds, especially during festivals. Book accommodation and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with moderate to heavy rainfall. The surrounding landscape turns lush green.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season offers a unique, less crowded experience with the landscape at its greenest. The waterfalls are at their fullest, enhancing the natural beauty. However, some outdoor activities may be restricted due to the rain.

Tip: Be prepared for occasional disruptions due to heavy rainfall. Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extremely hot and dry weather. The heat can be unbearable for outdoor activities.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense heat. The high temperatures make it difficult to explore the attractions comfortably. The heat can also lead to dehydration and heatstroke.

Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated and avoid being outdoors during peak hours.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Kamadgiri Parikrama

⏱ 3-4 hours Free

Kamadgiri is the sacred hill around which the main part of Chitrakoot is situated. The Parikrama is a 5 km circumambulation of the hill, considered hi...

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Ramghat

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Ramghat is a series of ghats on the banks of the Mandakini River, where Lord Rama is believed to have bathed. It is a hub of activity with sadhus, pil...

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Hanuman Dhara

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Hanuman Dhara is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on a hilltop. A natural spring flows from the rocks, believed to have been created by Lor...

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Sati Anusuya Temple

⏱ 2 hours Free

Sati Anusuya Temple is dedicated to Anusuya, the wife of Sage Atri. It is believed that the Mandakini River originated here due to her devotion....

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Gupt Godavari Caves

⏱ 2-3 hours β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

Gupt Godavari are two caves, one narrow and long through which a stream flows. It is believed that Lord Rama and Lakshmana held court in these caves....

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Janki Kund

⏱ 1 hour Free

Janki Kund is a place where Sita is believed to have bathed in the Mandakini River. It is a serene and peaceful spot....

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Bharat Milap Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

Bharat Milap Temple marks the spot where Bharat met Lord Rama during his exile. It is believed that the footprints of Rama and Bharat are still imprin...

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Things To Do

attractions

Boat Ride on Mandakini River

⏱ 1 hour πŸ’° β‚Ή150-300 per person

Enjoy a serene boat ride on the Mandakini River. The boat ride offers scenic views of the ghats and temples along the ri...

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attractions

Kamadgiri Parikrama (Circumambulation)

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° Free

Participate in the Kamadgiri Parikrama, a sacred circumambulation of the Kamadgiri hill. The Parikrama is considered hig...

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attractions

Visit Sphatik Shila

⏱ 1 hour πŸ’° Free

Visit Sphatik Shila, a rock believed to bear the footprints of Lord Rama and Sita. It is said that Rama and Sita used to...

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attractions

Attend Ganga Aarti at Ramghat

⏱ 1 hour πŸ’° Free

Attend the Ganga Aarti at Ramghat, a beautiful and spiritual ritual performed every evening. The Aarti is a prayer cerem...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Ramayana Recitation

2 hours | Free

Experience the traditional recitation of the Ramayana, the epic tale of Lord Rama. The recitation is...

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celebration

Folk Music Performance

1-2 hours | β‚Ή100-200

Enjoy a traditional folk music performance. The music reflects the local culture and traditions of C...

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celebration

Local Handicraft Shopping

2-3 hours | Varies

Explore the local markets and shop for traditional handicrafts. Chitrakoot is known for its wooden t...

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celebration

Participation in Local Festivals

Varies | Free

Participate in the local festivals and celebrations. Chitrakoot celebrates various festivals through...

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celebration

Attend a Bhajan Session

1-2 hours | Free

Attend a Bhajan session in one of the local temples. Bhajans are devotional songs that are sung in p...

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celebration

Visit a Local Village

3-4 hours | β‚Ή200-500

Take a trip to a nearby village to experience rural life in India. See how the locals live and learn...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Pede
Pede

A sweet delicacy made from condensed milk (try at Kamadgiri shops)

Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi

A savory dish made from sago (available at local restaurants)

Thandai
Thandai

A refreshing milk-based drink (try at Ramghat)

Lassi
Lassi

A yogurt-based drink (available at various shops)

Where to Eat

Annapurna Restaurant

Annapurna Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian

πŸ“ Near Ramghat

A popular restaurant serving delicious and affordable Indian meals. The atmosphere is simple and clean, and the service is friendly.

Thalis

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Shri Ram Bhojnalaya

Shri Ram Bhojnalaya

β‚Ή

Indian

πŸ“ Near Kamadgiri

A budget-friendly restaurant serving authentic vegetarian cuisine. A great place to enjoy local flavors.

Vegetarian dishes

β‚Ή200-400 for two

Street Food Spots

Ramghat Market

Ramghat Market

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene and choose stalls that look clean. Try the local chaat for a burst of flavors.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Chitrakoot

More restaurants & dishes from Chitrakoot

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Ramghat Area

Best for pilgrims who want to be close to the river and temples. Can be crowded and noisy, especially during festivals.

Best For: Pilgrims

Sitapur Area

A quieter area with a mix of hotels and guesthouses. Suitable for travelers seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.

Best For: Families, couples

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Mandakini

πŸ“ Near Ramghat

Basic but clean rooms, close to the main ghat. Good for budget travelers seeking a convenient location.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Shri Rajaram Niwas

πŸ“ Near Kamadgiri

Simple guesthouse with essential amenities, near Kamadgiri Parikrama. Ideal for pilgrims on a budget.

β‚Ή700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

MPSTDC Tourist Bungalow Chitrakoot

πŸ“ Near Sati Anusuya

Comfortable rooms and a restaurant, located in a peaceful area. Offers a decent stay with good service.

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Hotel Uma Shankar

πŸ“ Sitapur

Well-maintained hotel with modern amenities and a restaurant. Provides a comfortable and pleasant stay.

β‚Ή1800-2800/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή3500+/night

The Roseland Hotel

πŸ“ Near Jankikund

Offers luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, and a multi-cuisine restaurant. Provides a premium experience with excellent service.

β‚Ή3500+/night

Hotel Raghunandan Palace

πŸ“ Raghavpur

Spacious rooms, a restaurant, and banquet facilities. A great choice for a comfortable and luxurious stay.

β‚Ή3000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Khajuraho Airport (HJR), 175km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Chitrakoot Dham Karwi (CKTD)

Main railway station connecting to major cities. Located about 8 km from Chitrakoot.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 10-12 hours (β‚Ή800-1500)
  • From Mumbai: 24-26 hours (β‚Ή1200-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Chitrakoot Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Allahabad: 4-5 hours (β‚Ή300-500)
  • From Khajuraho: 5-6 hours (β‚Ή400-600)

Note: Trains more comfortable, but buses are more frequent.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200

Best for: Short distances

Bargain for the price before starting your journey. Confirm the fare before you hop in.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή800, Mid: β‚Ή2000, Luxury: β‚Ή4000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Chitrakoot town.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for most transactions. Cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water. Avoid drinking tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Be cautious of spicy food if you are not used to it.

Common Issues: Carry basic medications for common ailments. Consult a doctor if you feel unwell.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. A sim card costs around β‚Ή200 with necessary documents.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and restaurants.

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Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is the primary language. English is spoken by some locals in tourist areas.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή20-50

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