Madhya Pradesh
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3 Days in Chitrakoot for a Tasty Food Trip
Chitrakoot isn't just about its spiritual vibes; it's a hidden gem for food lovers too. Over three days, you'll taste everything from street snacks to traditional Bundeli thalis, all while soaking in the town's peaceful charm. I've spent years exploring the local eateries here, and this itinerary covers the best bites without missing the must-see spots.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Chitrakoot
Start your Chitrakoot journey with its most iconic spiritual sites and local flavors, blending history, culture, and delicious food.
Activities
Ram Ghat Sunrise & Morning Rituals
Begin your day at Ram Ghat, the heart of Chitrakoot, where the Mandakini River flows gently. Witness the mesmerizing sunrise and the lively morning aarti (prayer ceremony) performed by priests. Take a dip in the sacred waters or simply soak in the peaceful vibes. Don’t miss the small stalls nearby selling fresh flowers and offerings—locals believe floating them in the river brings blessings.
- Carry a change of clothes if you plan to take a dip.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the aarti.
Kamadgiri Temple & Parikrama
Head to Kamadgiri Temple, considered the spiritual center of Chitrakoot. The temple is surrounded by a 5-km circular path called the 'Parikrama,' which devotees walk around for blessings. Even if you’re not up for the full walk, the temple itself is serene, with ancient vibes and a peaceful atmosphere. The surrounding area is dotted with smaller shrines and stalls selling prasad (religious offerings) like laddoos and coconut.
- Wear comfortable shoes if attempting the Parikrama.
- Try the local laddoos sold outside—they’re delicious!
Lunch at a Local Dhaba
After a morning of exploration, stop by a no-frills local dhaba (eatery) for an authentic taste of Bundelkhandi cuisine. Try the must-have 'Bafla' (wheat dumplings) served with ghee and dal, or the spicy 'Kadhi Chawal' (yogurt-based curry with rice). These places are simple but serve hearty, flavorful meals that locals swear by.
- Don’t shy away from the ghee—it’s part of the experience!
- Wash it down with a glass of chaas (spiced buttermilk).
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Chitrakoot’s Hidden Treasures
A mix of spiritual sites, nature spots, and local flavors that show a different side of Chitrakoot beyond its famous temples.
Activities
Gupt Godavari Caves & Sacred Ponds
A fascinating pair of natural caves where Lord Rama and Lakshmana are believed to have held court. The lower cave has a stream flowing through it, considered as sacred as the Godavari River. Locals whisper that the water level mysteriously rises and falls. The upper cave has a stone throne-like formation—great for photos. The peaceful ponds outside add to the serene vibe.
- Wear grippy shoes—the cave floor can be slippery
- Bring a small torch for better visibility inside
Sphatik Shila & Hanuman Dhara
Two spiritual spots in one scenic hillside location. Sphatik Shila is a quartz rock with footprints said to be Lord Rama’s, offering panoramic views of the valley. A short climb up leads to Hanuman Dhara, where a waterfall cascades over a Hanuman statue—devotees stand under the water for blessings. The 200-step climb is shaded but best done before noon.
- Carry a handkerchief—the waterfall spray feels great but you’ll get wet
- Local priests may offer tilak—keep small change handy
Evening at Janaki Kund & Local Sweets
A quiet spot where Sita is believed to have bathed, with stepped ghats and fewer crowds than Ram Ghat. Perfect for sunset views over the Mandakini River. Afterwards, head to the lanes near Kamadgiri Temple for Chitrakoot’s famous 'kheer mohan'—a saffron-infused milk sweet sold by street vendors near the Hanuman statue.
- Try the warm kheer mohan—it’s creamier than the cooled version
- Vendors near the temple entrance have the freshest batches
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Chitrakoot’s Local Flavors & Hidden Gems
A relaxed day diving into Chitrakoot’s lesser-known spots, local crafts, and authentic flavors, wrapping up the trip with a taste of its rural charm.
Activities
Morning at Bharat Milap Temple & Surrounding Villages
Start your day at Bharat Milap Temple, where Lord Rama reunited with his brother Bharat. The temple’s serene vibe is perfect for quiet reflection. Afterward, take a short walk to nearby villages like Sitapur, where you can see traditional mud houses and locals weaving bamboo baskets—a craft passed down for generations. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a spontaneous folk song or two.
- Carry small change for village artisans if you’d like to buy handicrafts
- Dress modestly for temple visits
Late Breakfast at a Village Home
Skip the usual dhabas and head to a local’s home for a true Bundeli-style breakfast. Many families in Sitapur or nearby villages offer simple, hearty meals like poha (flattened rice with spices) or besan chilla (gram flour pancakes), served with fresh curd and homemade pickles. It’s a chance to chat with locals and hear their stories over steaming cups of chai.
- Ask your guide or temple priest to connect you with a host—it’s not a commercial setup
- Try the local jaggery (gur) as a sweetener in your chai
Afternoon by the Mandakini River & Sunset at Panna National Park Viewpoint
Spend your final afternoon unwinding by the quieter stretches of the Mandakini River, away from the ghats. Pack a picnic or grab some fresh guavas from roadside vendors. Later, drive to the outskirts (about 30 mins) for a sunset view over Panna National Park’s buffer zone—no safari, just the sounds of the forest and golden light over the hills.
- Carry insect repellent for the riverside
- Binoculars enhance wildlife spotting at the viewpoint