Chitrakoot (Near Manikpur) Guide
Chitrakoot: Where Gods Walked and Legends Live On Guide
Chitrakoot, nestled near Manikpur in India, is more than just a place; it's an experience steeped in mythology and spirituality. This sacred town, straddling the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent eleven and a half years of their exile. The very air hums with devotion, and the landscape is dotted with temples, ashrams, and sites of profound religious significance. Prepare to be transported to a world where ancient legends come alive. The history of Chitrakoot is inextricably linked to the epic Ramayana. It is said that Lord Rama chose this secluded location for his exile, drawn by its natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere. The name "Chitrakoot" itself means "hill of many wonders." Over the centuries, the town has attracted countless pilgrims and ascetics, drawn by its sanctity and the opportunity to connect with the divine. The region has also been ruled by various dynasties, each leaving their mark on the cultural landscape. A visit to Chitrakoot offers a plethora of activities for the spiritually inclined and culturally curious. Take a boat ride on the Mandakini River, visiting the Ram Ghat, where Lord Rama is believed to have bathed. Explore the Hanuman Dhara, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, where a natural spring flows from the rocks. Visit the Sati Anusuya Ashram, a serene retreat associated with the virtuous wife of Sage Atri. Don't miss the Kamadgiri Parvat, a sacred hill that pilgrims circumambulate. The local cuisine is predominantly vegetarian, with simple yet flavorful dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Try the "peda," a sweet made from condensed milk, a local specialty.
Transportation
The nearest railway station to Chitrakoot is Manikpur Junction (MKP), which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Manikpur, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Chitrakoot, which is approximately 10 kilometers away. **By Bus:** * **From Allahabad:** Take a direct bus to Chitrakoot. * **From Varanasi:** Take a bus to Manikpur, then a local bus or taxi to Chitrakoot. * **From Lucknow:** Take a bus to Banda, then another bus to Chitrakoot.