Are you craving a break from the hustle of Lucknow? Are you looking for a weekend getaway that offers peace, history, and a touch of divine mythology?
Pack your bags for a road trip to Chitrakoot. Nestled on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh amid the Vindhya range, Chitrakoot is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Known as the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent eleven years of their exile, this town pulses with stories from the Ramayana.
If you only have a weekend to spare, don’t worry. We have crafted the perfect 2-day Lucknow to Chitrakoot itinerarythat balances spiritual exploration with natural beauty, ensuring you make the most of every hour.
Here is your complete guide to a rejuvenating weekend trip from Lucknow.
Planning Your Trip: Lucknow to Chitrakoot Logistics
Before diving into the sights, let’s sort out the travel. A road trip is highly recommended for this 2-day excursion as it gives you the flexibility needed for a tight schedule.
- Distance: Approximately 230 kilometers.
- Drive Time: 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and breaks.
- Best Route: Take the NH30 via Raebareli and Unnao, then connect to SH71. The roads are generally in good condition.
- Why Drive? While trains like the Chitrakoot Express exist, their timings often cut into precious daylight sightseeing hours. A personal car or a hired cab is your best bet for a quick weekend trip.
Day 1: Arrival and the Spiritual Heart of the City
Your first day is dedicated to the journey and immersing yourself in the core spiritual vibe of the town.
Morning: The Road to Mythology
06:00 AM – Depart Lucknow: Start early. The morning drive out of Lucknow is smooth, and you’ll want to arrive in Chitrakoot by noon. Enjoy breakfast at a highway dhaba en route for that authentic road trip feel.
11:30 AM – Arrival & Check-in: Reach Chitrakoot and check into your hotel. The MPT Tourist Bungalow or UPSTDC Rahi Tourist Bungalow are reliable, centrally located options.
12:30 PM – Lunch: Fuel up with a traditional vegetarian North Indian thali at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: The Sacred Circumambulation
02:00 PM – Kamadgiri Parikrama: Head straight to Kamadgiri, a forested hill considered the holiest spot in Chitrakoot. It is believed to be the dwelling place of Lord Rama during his exile. The main activity here is the 5 km Parikrama (circumambulation) around the hill. The path is paved, mostly shaded, and absolutely serene.
04:00 PM – Bharat Milap Temple: Located on the Parikrama path itself, do not miss this small but significant temple. It marks the emotional spot where Bharat met Lord Rama to persuade him to return to Ayodhya.
Evening: The Magic of the Ghats
05:00 PM – Boating on Mandakini River: Make your way to the famous Ram Ghat. Before the evening rush, take a peaceful boat ride on the Mandakini River. The blue-green water and the colorful ghats provide a perfect backdrop for photos.
06:30 PM – The Evening Aarti: This is the highlight of Day 1. Secure a spot on the steps of Ram Ghat for the evening Aarti. The synchronized chanting, the aroma of incense, and the sight of hundreds of lit diyas reflecting in the river create a mesmerizing, deeply spiritual atmosphere.
08:00 PM – Dinner: Enjoy a quiet dinner near the ghats before retiring for the night.
Day 2: Mystical Caves, Footprints, and Hilltop Views
Day two of your Lucknow to Chitrakoot weekend trip is about exploring the unique natural phenomena and legendary sites surrounding the main town.
Morning: Adventure Deep Inside the Earth
- 08:00 AM – Breakfast & Check-out: Have an early breakfast and load up your car, as you will be departing directly after sightseeing.
- 09:00 AM – Gupt Godavari Caves: Drive about 18 km out of town to these fascinating natural wonders. This is a pair of caves; one is high and wide, but the other is narrow and adventurous. You’ll be walking through knee-deep, ice-cold water inside a cave—a truly unique experience!
- 11:30 AM – Sati Anusuya Ashram: Visit this tranquil ashram located in a dense forest area. It is said to be the spot where the Mandakini River originates. The vibe here is incredibly peaceful and perfect for a few moments of quiet reflection.
Afternoon: Legends and Panoramas
- 01:00 PM – Lunch: Grab a quick lunch back near the town center.
- 02:00 PM – Sphatik Shila: Visit this beautiful spot on the riverbanks featuring two massive rocks. Legend says Lord Rama and Sita used to sit here, and their footprints are believed to be imprinted on the soft stone. The surrounding jungle makes it a scenic spot.
- 03:30 PM – Hanuman Dhara: End your trip on a high note—literally. This shrine is located on a steep hill. You can either climb the 350+ stairs (a good workout!) or take the ropeway for stunning views. At the top, a natural spring cascades directly over the deity of Lord Hanuman. The panoramic view of Chitrakoot from up here is spectacular.
Evening: The Journey Home
- 05:30 PM – Depart for Lucknow: Begin your drive back as the sun starts to set.
- 11:00 PM – Home Sweet Home: Arrive back in Lucknow, refreshed and recharged from your divine weekend getaway.
Essential Tips for Your Chitrakoot Trip
To ensure your Chitrakoot itinerary goes smoothly, keep these tips in mind:
- Footwear Matters: You will be walking a lot, especially during the 5km Kamadgiri Parikrama, and you will need to remove shoes at every temple. Wear comfortable slip-on sandals.
- Dress for Gupt Godavari: Since you will be wading through water in the caves, wear shorts or trousers that can be easily rolled up above the knees.
- Beware of Monkeys: Chitrakoot has a very large and active monkey population, particularly around Hanuman Dhara and Kamadgiri. Keep food hidden, hold onto your phone tightly, and avoid carrying plastic bags that crinkle.
- Cash is King: While some hotels accept cards, many smaller shops, local eateries, and donation boxes at temples prefer cash. Keep sufficient change handy.
