Gupt Godavari - A Secret River & Mysterious Caves in Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot, a renowned location from the era of Ramayana, is spread across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Commonly known as the 'hills of many wonders, the area is mostly made from ancient lava fields and large stretches of woods interspersed with rivers. The town also enjoys a spiritual legacy incomparable to any part of the country. Dotted with temples and religious tourist spots that are linked to Rama, Bharat, Hanuman, and Sita, Chitrakoot attracts pilgrims throughout the year.

One such spot, Gupt Godavari, was developed by a strange phenomenon that took place about 65 million years ago. It is a long, narrow crack developed in the earth's surface due to hot and molten lava oozing out and spreading across the surface. When the lava cooled, it formed flat-topped plateau-like structures.

Ramayana Chapter

It is believed that the Gupt Godavari is the place where the peeping-tom monster, Mayank, tried to spy on Sita while she was bathing in a pool. Enraged by his action, Lakshmana petrified him and stuck him to the roof of this cave. Today, that place is an outcrop of black rock protruding from the paler roof of the cave.

The fairly narrow mouth of this cave opens out into a large cavern with two interesting features, one of them being a cave with black rock. The second feature is known as Sita Kund, a small pond in which Sita was bathing when Mayank tried to spy on her.

Not to be missed! The two-cave system inside a mountain is always filled with knee-high water. The bigger cave, with two stone, carved thrones, is considered to belong to Rama and Laxmana. The second cave connects with the story of Sita Kund.

Chitrakoot with its major significance in the Ramayana, witnesses a major share of pilgrims in the heart of Incredible India. Among all the tourist places in Chitrakoot, Gupt Godavari holds an exceptional level of prominence. The caves also boast intricately carved sculptures of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Source of Godavari

Outside the cave, a stream is said to flow that originates from several little springs that flow from the mountain. Pilgrims that seek spiritual benefits are often seen walking the length of the stream and exiting through the mouth of the lower cave. As per legend, River Godavari flowed from Nasik to this place simply to have a glimpse of Rama. The Gupt or the hidden Godavari emerges from the cave, flows into a pond, and vanishes underground.

While you visit this mythological city, make sure to explore the hills of Maihar, meet the White Tiger at Mukundpur, and explore the widlife of Panna National Park.

Visitor Timings: - 7 AM to 6 PM

How to Reach?

Situated in the Satna region of Rewa district of Madhya Pradesh, Chitrakoot is easily accessible from Khajuraho and Jhansi. The nearest airport is at Khajuraho approximately 175 km, while the nearest railhead is at Chitrakootdham (11 km) on Jhansi-Manikpur main line. Apart from this, regular bus services also connect Chitrakoot with Jhansi, Mahoba, Chaitrakootdham, Harpalpur, Satna and Chhatarpur.