Chitrakoot, a town in Madhya Pradesh, is nestled on the tranquil banks of the Mandakini River. It is known as the “City of Many Wonders” due to its mythological significance and natural beauty.  Chitrakoot whispers tales of the epic of Ramayana as Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a significant portion of their 14-year exile here, making it one of the most sacred places in India. This town is the perfect location for pilgrims and travellers looking to enrich their journey with ghats, caves, and forests where faith seamlessly blends with serenity.   

Chitrakoot, located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, is where mythology, devotion, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Often described as the heartland of the epic Ramayana, the town is dotted with sacred ghats, ancient caves, and timeless temples that continue to echo the stories of faith and dharma. Pilgrims believe that many attractions in Chitrakoot carry divine energy, from the holy waters of the Mandakini River to the sacred chants at Ram Ghat and the spiritual circumambulation of Kamadgiri Hill. For centuries, saints, sages, and devotees have visited this pure land, seeking peace, blessings, and a deeper connection with the gods.

Today, Chitrakoot is not only a pilgrimage site but also a place where spirituality meets history and natural beauty. So, are you ready to pack your bags and embark on a soulful spiritual journey? If yes, you can check out several Madhya Pradesh tour packages that include Chitrakoot as a must-visit destination. 

Here’s your ultimate guide to the top attractions in Chitrakoot for a soothing sojourn! 

List of Top Chitrakoot Attractions 

• Ram Ghat 

• Kamadgiri 

• Gupt Godavari Caves 

• Bharat Milap Temple 

• Hanuman Dhara 

• Sati Anusuya Ashram 

• Janaki Kund and Spatik Shila 

Ram Ghat 

Ram Ghat, a popular pilgrimage site, is also one of the most iconic Chitrakoot attractions resting along the Mandakini River. Ancient legends narrate that Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent much of their exile here, and even today, the ghat resonates with divine energy. At dusk, the spectacular evening aarti transforms the river into a glowing canvas, as countless diyas drift across the water. You can sit by the river, join in the rituals, or take a boat ride to soak in the beauty. 

• Opening & Closing Hours: Open all day 

• How to Reach: Centrally located; easily accessible by rickshaw or taxi. 

Kamadgiri 

Kamadgiri, meaning “hill of desires,” is among the most famous Chitrakoot sightseeing places. Believed to be the original Chitrakoot in Ramayana, it is covered with lush forests and dotted with shrines. Here, you will encounter temples, ponds, and the hum of chanting devotees. A walk along the route offers a chance to connect with nature and spirituality. You can also take part in the parikrama ritual, which will allow you to connect with the divine aura of the sacred site.  

• Opening & Closing Hours: Open throughout the day 

• How to Reach: Located near Ram Ghat; walkable or accessible by rickshaw. 

Gupt Godavari Caves 

The Gupt Godavari Caves are known as the most mystical places to visit in Chitrakoot. According to folklore, Lord Rama and Lakshmana held court here. Inside, cool waters stream through the narrow limestone caves, creating an enchanting setting. You can wade barefoot through the shallow waters to reach chambers with throne-like rock formations. The play of light and sound inside the caves makes it a fascinating stop. 

• Opening & Closing Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM 

• How to Reach: 18 km from Chitrakoot; reachable by taxi or shared jeep. 

Bharat Milap Temple 

Bharat Milap Temple is one of the most emotional sightseeing spots in Chitrakoot. It commemorates the meeting between Lord Rama and his brother Bharat, who urged him to return to Ayodhya. The legend says their love and bond were so strong that it left an imprint on the rocks here. The temple is simple yet powerful, often buzzing with chants and prayers. It is especially crowded during Ram Navami, but at quieter times, you’ll find it quite soul-soothing. 

• Opening & Closing Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM 

• How to Reach: Located on the Kamadgiri parikrama path; walkable or by rickshaw. 

Hanuman Dhara 

Hanuman Dhara is a hilltop shrine that combines spirituality with stunning natural scenery. A perennial spring pours directly over an idol of Hanuman, believed to have been created by Rama to cool Hanuman after the burning of Lanka. The climb of 360 steps is rewarding in itself, offering panoramic views of forests and valleys. If you pause along the way, you will notice a calming atmosphere which makes the ascent feel more meditative than tiring. 

• Opening & Closing Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM 

• How to Reach: Located at a distance of 3 km from Ram Ghat; autos drop you at the base, followed by the climb. 

Sati Anusuya Ashram 

Tucked in quiet forests, Sati Anusuya Ashram is among the most serene places to visit in Chitrakoot. Dedicated to sage Atri and his wife Anusuya, the ashram is linked with stories of virtue. It is also said to be the origin of the Mandakini River. Tourists can enjoy peaceful meditation, attend morning prayers, or simply stroll along the riverbank. The ashram is less crowded, making it a great place to slow down and absorb Chitrakoot’s natural charm. 

• Opening & Closing Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM 

• How to Reach: 16 km from Chitrakoot; easily reached by cab or jeep. 

Janaki Kund & Spatik Shila 

Janaki Kund is where Goddess Sita is believed to have bathed during exile; its waters are still considered holy. Just nearby lies Spatik Shila, a smooth rock where Rama and Sita are said to have rested, leaving their footprints behind. These twin sites are quieter places of interest in Chitrakoot, perfect for travellers seeking reflection. Take a ritual dip or sit by the riverside, and your soul will thank you.  

• Opening & Closing Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM 

• How to Reach: Located at a distance of 2 km from Chitrakoot; easily walkable or via an auto-rickshaw. 

Places to Visit Near Chitrakoot 

If you are looking to explore further, there are equally captivating places to visit near Chitrakoot. The Kalinjar Fort, about 80 km away, is an architectural wonder with its hilltop fortifications, temples, and breathtaking views of Bundelkhand. It’s an absolute paradise that takes you back in time. About 70 km from Chitrakoot lies Maihar, famous for the widely revered Sharda Devi Temple, located atop Trikuta Hill. For nature seekers, the Panna National Park, which is around 110 km away, offers wildlife safaris where you can spot tigers, leopards, and gharials basking by the Ken River. These tourist places near Chitrakoot provide the perfect balance of history, spirituality, and nature, making your trip even more enriching.

Apart from being a culture-rich destination, Chitrakoot offers a timeless experience where mythology comes alive and nature whispers its secrets. From sacred ghats to mystical caves, every site invites you to pause and reflect. If you’re looking to explore these heavenly places along with other gems of the state, you can opt for thoughtfully curated Madhya Pradesh tourism packages that will help you uncover Chitrakoot MP tourism treasures with ease. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a traveller seeking peace, Chitrakoot ensures that your journey is one you will cherish forever. 

FAQs 

Q1. What unique crafts can you find here in Chitrakoot? 

Chitrakoot is known for its exquisite lac-turnery—a woodworking craft where artisans use a lathe and molten lac to create intricate, lacquered items like decorative pieces and furniture. Some crafts even use goat-hair brushes for detailed work. 

Q2. What’s a quirky cave legend in Chitrakoot? 

The Gupt Godavari Caves near Chitrakoot are believed to be secret meeting spots for Lord Rama and his brother. Inside, two boulders resembling thrones add to the mystique. 

Incredible India 

Q3. Are there wildlife areas in Chitrakoot? 

Yes, Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary spans 230 km², designated as a tiger reserve in 2022. Though tigers aren't resident, tigers from the nearby Panna Tiger Reserve are known to visit. The sanctuary hosts leopards, sloth bears, blackbucks, peafowl, and more. 

Q4. What infrastructure is enhancing tourism? 

Bundelkhand Expressway, inaugurated in 2022, connects the region efficiently to the Agra-Lucknow corridor - boosting access to Chitrakoot. 

Recently announced plans include riverfront development along the Yamuna and enhanced pilgrimage infrastructure, aiming to transform Chitrakoot into a hub of faith and self-reliance. 

Q5. What practical infrastructure improvements help visitors? 

Local authorities are investing in water supply, electrification, sanitation, mobile connectivity, public toilets, and waste management, especially around key religious sites and festival areas.