It is 250 kms from Varanasi by road. Famed in Hindu mythology, Chitrakoot is celebrated in ballads and scriptures for its religious importance and close association with the epic Ramayan. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama and Sita spent 12 years of their exile and where the Sage Atri and Sati Anasuiya meditated. This holy town, spread over both the states UP and MP is set sylvan surroundings on the banks of the river Mandakini, also known as the river Payasvini. The riverside is lined with ghats and the town is dotted with several temples. Hanuman Dhara, Kamad Giri, Sphatik Shila and Ram Ghat are the important places in and around Chitrakoot.
Kamadgiri
Circumambulating of Kamadgiri is the most important ritual for the pilgrims who come here to seek blessings. Circumambulation route has various temples, important among them are Lord Kamtanath Temple and Bharat Milap Temple.
Sphatik Shila
It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama and Sita feasted their eyes on the beauty of Chitrakoot.
Hanuman Dhara
Located on a steep hillside, it is approachable by a flight of 360 steps. Here, the waters of a natural spring cascade over an image of Lord Hanuman.
Ram Ghat
On the banks of the River Mandakini, and centre of ritual activity, this ghat is the most beautiful place in Chitrakoot. The Aarti performed in the evening is main attraction of this place.
Janki Kund
It is an unusual cave over the Mandakini river, said to be the place where Sita used to bathe.