Discover the best routes to How to Reach Chitrakoot by road, rail, and air. Plan your journey with travel tips, distances, and transportation options to this spiritual destination.
Chitrakoot, the eternal land of spirituality and mythological grandeur, is nestled on the borders of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Revered as the place where Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman spent eleven years of their exile, Chitrakoot is a significant stop for pilgrims and spiritual seekers. To help you plan a hassle-free journey, here’s a comprehensive transportation guide on how to reach Chitrakoot from various parts of India.
How to Reach Chitrakoot
Where is Chitrakoot Located?
Chitrakoot lies in the Chitrakoot district of Uttar Pradesh, with a part extending into the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh. The town is well-connected by road, rail, and air routes, making it accessible for travelers and pilgrims from across the country.
By Air: Nearest Airports to Chitrakoot
While Chitrakoot doesn’t have its own commercial airport, several nearby airports make air travel feasible.
1. Prayagraj Airport (IXD) – 115 km
- Nearest and most convenient airport
- Well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata
- From Prayagraj, you can take a taxi or bus to Chitrakoot (approx. 3-hour journey)
2. Khajuraho Airport (HJR) – 185 km
- Ideal for those visiting Khajuraho and nearby heritage sites
- Limited flights but well-connected to Delhi and Varanasi
- Scenic road trip to Chitrakoot
3. Varanasi Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport) – 270 km
- Good choice if combining Kashi with Chitrakoot
- Regular flights and well-developed airport facilities
Travel Tip: For international travelers, Varanasi or Lucknow (275 km away) may serve as ideal arrival hubs.
By Train: Nearest Railway Stations to Chitrakoot
1. Chitrakoot Dham Karwi Railway Station (CKTD) – 10 km
- The main railhead for Chitrakoot
- Direct trains from Delhi, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Lucknow, Kanpur, Jabalpur
- Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses available outside station
2. Satna Railway Station – 75 km
- Major junction on the Howrah–Mumbai route
- More frequent train options and better connectivity
- Regular taxis and shared cabs to Chitrakoot
Pro Tip: Book trains at least 2 weeks in advance if traveling during festive seasons like Ram Navami or Diwali.
By Road: Reaching Chitrakoot via Bus and Private Vehicles
Chitrakoot is well connected by a network of highways and state-run buses from nearby cities and pilgrimage towns.
From Prayagraj (Allahabad) – 115 km
- Route: NH 35 → Manikpur → Karwi
- Travel Time: Approx. 3 hours by car/bus
From Varanasi – 270 km
- Route: NH 35 → Mirzapur → Prayagraj → Chitrakoot
- Travel Time: Approx. 6-7 hours
From Satna – 75 km
- Route: SH 11 → Majhgawan → Chitrakoot
- Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours
From Lucknow – 275 km
- Route: NH 30 → Raebareli → Kunda → Manikpur → Chitrakoot
- Travel Time: Approx. 6-7 hours
From Jhansi – 280 km
- Scenic route through Orchha and the Bundelkhand region
Types of Road Transport Available:
- UPSRTC and MPRTC buses
- Private Volvo and AC buses
- Self-drive cars or private taxis
- Shared jeeps from nearby towns
Travel Tip: Roads are mostly well-maintained, but night travel is not recommended due to limited lighting in some rural areas.
Local Transportation in Chitrakoot
Once you reach Chitrakoot, getting around is simple and inexpensive.
1. Auto-Rickshaws & E-Rickshaws
- Most affordable option
- Ideal for short distances and temple visits
2. Cycle Rickshaws
- Popular in old town areas and near ghats
- Eco-friendly and budget-friendly
3. Private Taxis & Tour Operators
- Recommended for elderly travelers or families
- Ideal for day trips to Hanuman Dhara, Sati Anusuya Ashram, and Gupt Godavari
Local Tip: Negotiate the fare beforehand, especially with local taxis and auto-rickshaws.
Suggested Travel Routes Based on Starting Point
From Delhi:
- Train: Board the Chitrakoot Express or Bundelkhand Express to Karwi
- Road: Approx. 11-12 hours via NH 44 and NH 35
From Varanasi:
- Train: Varanasi to Chitrakoot Dham Karwi (direct trains available)
- Road: 6-7 hours scenic drive via NH 35
From Prayagraj:
- Fastest route to Chitrakoot
- Both trains and road options are available
- Daily UPSRTC buses from Civil Lines Bus Stand
Travel During Festivals or Special Events
High Travel Seasons:
- Ram Navami
- Diwali
- Kartik Purnima
- Makar Sankranti
During these times, train and bus tickets are in high demand, and accommodation prices surge. Plan your travel well in advance, and consider traveling a day before the main festival day to avoid traffic and crowd congestion.
Final Thoughts: Smooth Journey to a Sacred Destination
Chitrakoot is a divine blend of mythology, spirituality, and serenity, and reaching this sacred town is now easier than ever. With improving connectivity by road, rail, and air, you can plan a short pilgrimage or a longer spiritual retreat with ease.
Whether you’re coming from Prayagraj, Varanasi, Lucknow, or even Delhi, there’s a route for every budget and preference. Be sure to check seasonal conditions, pre-book during festivals, and choose the right mode of transport that matches your comfort and schedule.
