Chitrakoot, on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, is where Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman are believed to have spent much of their exile. Quiet forests, the Mandakini river and sacred caves make it one of the most peaceful stops on a Ramayana pilgrimage.
- Location: on the UP–MP border, about 3–4 hours from Prayagraj
- Must-see: Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri, Sphatik Shila, Hanuman Dhara, Gupt Godavari
- Time needed: 1.5–2 days
- Our tour: Spiritual Heartland 7N/8D, ₹17,500 per person
Top tourist places in Chitrakoot
Ram Ghat
The main ghat on the Mandakini river, with temples, boats and an evening aarti. Tulsidas is believed to have met Lord Ram here.
Kamadgiri
A forested hill considered the main deity of Chitrakoot. Devotees walk the 5-km parikrama path around it.
Sphatik Shila
A riverside rock believed to bear the footprints of Ram and Sita.
Hanuman Dhara
A temple high on a cliff where a stream of water falls on a Hanuman idol. Reaching it involves several hundred steps – a ropeway operates for those who need it.
Gupt Godavari
Two caves with water flowing through them; you wade through knee-deep water in one cave. Wear clothes that can get wet.
Sati Anusuya Ashram and Bharat Milap temple
Peaceful forest ashrams linked to the Ramayana.
Chitrakoot in the Spiritual Heartland Tour
On our tour, Day 6 drives from Varanasi to Chitrakoot for Ram Ghat and Sphatik Shila, and Day 7 visits Hanuman Dhara and the Gupt Godavari caves before transferring to Prayagraj. Read our guides to Ayodhya and Prayagraj.
Best time to visit
October to March is pleasant. The monsoon makes the forests green and waterfalls full, but some paths are slippery. Deepawali and Amavasya days attract large crowds.
Tips
- Carry a change of clothes for Gupt Godavari.
- Hanuman Dhara has many steps – use the ropeway if needed.
- Dress modestly and carry small change for offerings.
Message us on WhatsApp to book your Ramayana pilgrimage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main tourist places in Chitrakoot?
Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri, Sphatik Shila, Hanuman Dhara, Gupt Godavari caves and Sati Anusuya Ashram.
Why is Chitrakoot important?
Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman are believed to have spent much of their exile here.
How many steps are there to Hanuman Dhara?
Several hundred steps. A ropeway is available for those who need it.
What is Gupt Godavari?
A pair of caves with flowing water where visitors wade through knee-deep water.
How far is Chitrakoot from Prayagraj?
About 3–4 hours by road.
What is the best time to visit Chitrakoot?
October to March.
Is Chitrakoot included in your spiritual tour?
Yes, Days 6 and 7 of our Spiritual Heartland Tour are in Chitrakoot.
How do I book?
Tap "Book on WhatsApp" on the Spiritual Heartland package page or message +91 89102 77805.
