Top 12 Sightseeing Places in Chitrakoot

Top Sightseeing Places in Chitrakoot Dham

Chitrakoot is a unique destination where deep spirituality meets breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in the Vindhya mountain range and bisected by the holy Mandakini River, this town offers a profound pilgrimage experience. Here are the top 12 must-visit sightseeing places in Chitrakoot.

1. Ram Ghat — Sacred Mandakini River Ghat

The most vibrant and spiritually significant ghat in Chitrakoot. It is believed that Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana bathed here. Don't miss the mesmerising evening Aarti when the river glows with hundreds of floating diyas.

• ✦ Aarti Timings: Morning 5:30 AM - 6:30 AM | Evening 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
• ✦ Activities: Holy dip, evening aarti, boat rides
• ✦ Read full Ram Ghat Guide →

2. Kamadgiri Parikrama — The Sacred Walk

A forested hill of immense religious importance, believed to be the original Chitrakoot. The 5 km paved parikrama (circumambulation) path around the base is lined with ancient temples.

• ✦ Duration: 2 to 3 hours (5 km walk)
• ✦ Best Time: Early morning (5:00 AM - 8:00 AM) to avoid heat and crowds
• ✦ Read full Kamadgiri Guide →

3. Hanuman Dhara — Hilltop Temple Trek

A dramatic shrine perched on a steep hill where a natural spring continuously cascades over an idol of Lord Hanuman. The climb offers panoramic views of the entire Chitrakoot valley.

• ✦ Access: Approx. 350-400 steps climb, or take the newly constructed ropeway
• ✦ Highlights: Sacred spring, panoramic viewpoint
• ✦ Read full Hanuman Dhara Guide →

4. Gupt Godavari — The Hidden Sacred Caves

A fascinating natural wonder consisting of twin caves. One cave is large with high ceilings, while the other is narrow with a knee-deep stream of crystal-clear water flowing through it.

• ✦ Experience: Wading barefoot through cold, sacred water inside the cave
• ✦ Location: Approx. 18 km from Chitrakoot town
• ✦ Read full Gupt Godavari Guide →

5. Sphatik Shila — The Crystal Rock

A picturesque spot on the banks of the Mandakini River featuring a smooth rock bearing the legendary footprints of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. The area is surrounded by dense forests.

• ✦ Highlights: Divine footprints, fish feeding in the river, serene atmosphere
• ✦ Read full Sphatik Shila Guide →

6. Janki Kund

Situated near Hotel Yatrika, Janki Kund is a peaceful stretch of the Mandakini River where Goddess Sita (Janki) is believed to have bathed during her exile. The pristine waters and quiet surroundings make it perfect for meditation.

7. Bharat Milap Temple

Located along the Kamadgiri Parikrama path, this temple marks the emotional spot where Bharat met Lord Rama to plead for his return to Ayodhya. The sacred footprints of the brothers are preserved here.

✦ Read full Bharat Milap Guide →

8. Sati Anusuya Ashram

Located 16 km deep in the forest, this tranquil ashram is dedicated to Sati Anusuya, wife of Sage Atri. It is considered the origin point of the Mandakini River in Chitrakoot.

✦ Read full Sati Anusuya Ashram Guide →

9. Bharat Koop

A huge well containing holy water from all the sacred rivers of India, brought by Bharat for Lord Rama's coronation.

10. Ram Darshan

A modern, well-maintained museum and exhibition centre situated on a hillock, depicting the life and moral values of Lord Rama through beautiful paintings and sculptures.

11. Valmiki Ashram

Situated on a hill, this is the historic site where Sage Valmiki, the author of the Ramayana, is said to have meditated and resided.

12. Mandakini River Boat Ride

Rent a colourful, hand-rowed wooden boat near Ram Ghat for a peaceful ride along the Mandakini River, especially enchanting during the evening twilight.

Sightseeing Distance Table from Hotel Yatrika