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Chitrakoot is a pilgrimage center and a spiritual retreat known as “the hill of many wonders“, it is located in the northern Vindhya range of mountains, spread over the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. There are various places to visit in Chitrakoot that includes Chitrakoot Parvat Mala that have various famous and historical tourist attractions like Kamad Giri, Hanumaan Dhara, Janki Kund, Lakshman Pahari, and Devangana’s famous religious mountains.
It holds great importance according to Hindu mythology and the epic Ramayana. Its famous for its mythological, cultural, historical, and archaeological significance as Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh are believed to have taken their incarnation in Chitrakoot. According to folklore, Lord Ram, his brother Lakshman, and Sita spent eleven of their fourteen years of exile in the deep jungles of Chitrakoot and it is the place where Bharat, brother of Lord Rama came to visit him and asked him to return to Ayodhya and rule the kingdom. Chitrakoot is also the place where Goswami Tulsidas, author of ‘The Ramcharitmanas’, spent many years of his life. It is known for many temples and sites mentioned in Hindu scriptures.
In this blog, we are going to talk about the best places to visit in Chitrakoot.
So, here are a few places to visit in Chitrakoot-
Kamad Giri – A forested hill of prime religious significance, this is believed to be the original Chitrakoot. It is a forested hill with the base surrounded by multiple Hindu temples on all sides and is considered to be the heart of Chitrakoot. The name Kamad Giri is derived from the name of Lord Rama. Some part of Kamadgiri Mountain falls in Uttar Pradesh, while some are in Madhya Pradesh. A grand fair is also held here every month on Amavasya (full moon day).
Gupt Godavari – This is a pair of caves, in which there is a tiny entrance, through which one can barely pass. Water flows from streams through the other cave, which can rise to the length of our knees. It is believed that Lord Rama and Lakshman once held their secret meetings, which explains the throne-like structures present in the cave. Even though Chitrakoot is known as a spiritual destination, these caves have a mystic charm to them. Thus, this is a place that is slowly emerging as one of the most popular destinations in India.
Ramghat – located on the banks of the Mandakini River, Ramghat is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chitrakoot. This is one of the most serene and peaceful places in India. Ramghat is the center of all religious activities in Chitrakoot. The place is very calming and being here will touch you to the soul. It is believed that taking a dip at Ramghat would absolve a person of all sins. The ghat offers boating facilities to the tourists, and you can find these boats lining the steps leading to the river.
Hanuman Dhara – There is a stream of water falling upon the deity of Lord Hanuman released in a kund. This place is called Hanuman Dhara because of a gentle stream that flows over the statue of Lord Hanuman. To the devotees, this is perhaps the most beautiful sight to come across. The statue of Bajrang Bali has been built of red stone marble. It is believed that Lord Hanuman, after setting fire to Lanka, returned to this spot. He was fuming with anger and could not contain it in any way whatsoever. It was Lord Rama, finally, who helped him pacify his anger. Lord Hanuman then took a bath under the stream of water that flowed from above which then cooled him from within.
Bharat Koop – Bharat Koop is a huge well near Bharatpur village, located around 20 KMs west of Chitrakoot. It is believed that Lord Rama’s brother Bharat brought water from all the holy places to honor Lord Ram as the King of Ayodhya. Bharat was unsuccessful in persuading Lord Ram to return to his kingdom and take his place as the king. Lord Bharata collected water from all the sacred rivers and holiest pilgrimage destinations across India. He poured the water into a well, and from that day onwards, it came to be known as Bharat Koop (well).
Bharat Milap Temple – Bharat Milap temple is believed to be the marking the spot where Bharat met Lord Rama during his period of exile to persuade him to return to the throne of Ayodhya. It is said that the meeting of the four brothers was so overwhelming that even the rocks and mountains of Chitrakoot melted. Located along the Parikrama of Kamadgiri, a visit to this temple is a must here. One can also see the footprints of Lord Rama and his family here.
Sati Anusuya Ashram – This ashram is known to be the resting place of the sage Atri. Atri meditated here with his devout wife Anusuya. Legend says that during the exile Lord Rama and Mother Sita visited Sati Anusuya at this ashram. Sati Anusuya used to teach Mother Sita during this time. Also, it is said that Anusuya offered sincere dedication to praise the god to end famine and thus the town was blessed with the river Mandakini.
Some other worth places to visit in Chitrakoot are- Sphatik Shila, Ram Darshan Temple, Ganesh Bagh, Janki Kund, Panna National Park.
This place has its own beauty and people flock to this place because of its religious importance. Consider planning a trip to Chitrakoot for a unique holiday that will refresh and rejuvenate your mind. If you are someone looking for an escape from the noises of everyday life in today’s world, you should Visit Chitrakoot.