Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot is a forested pilgrimage landscape on the Mandakini river along the Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh border in India, about 130 km from Prayagraj and roughly three hours away. Hindu tradition holds that Rama, Sita and Lakshmana spent part of their exile here. A car via NH76 costs about ₹3,500-5,500, trains from Prayagraj to Chitrakoot Dham Karwi cost around ₹100-400, and UPSRTC buses cost about ₹150-300. A car makes the day easier because the sights are spread out, and a train arrival may need a local auto for the final stretch. Ram Ghat on the Mandakini is the main gathering place, with boats and an evening aarti. Kamadgiri is a sacred hill circled on foot by pilgrims, with shrines around its base. Hanuman Dhara is a temple on a hill reached by a long flight of steps, with a spring, and Sphatik Shila and Janaki Kund are further points along the river. A one-day arc starts with an early departure from Prayagraj, a morning at Ram Ghat and Kamadgiri, a vegetarian lunch at a dharamshala or local eatery, the Hanuman Dhara climb in the afternoon, and a return after the evening aarti if the long drive is acceptable. Many visitors prefer an overnight stay. The site is busiest on Amavasya and on festival days. October to March is the most pleasant season, and summer heat makes the hill climbs trying. Modest clothing is expected, and visitors should carry water and small cash for boats and offerings.