Ram Darshan Temple, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chitrakoot, offers much more than just a spiritual experience. The temple is common to other temples as far as the statues of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Hanuman is concerned. What makes it different from the others is the complete prohibition on puja and offerings.
Inside the temple, there is an artistic depiction of various events from the Hindu mythological epic, Ramayana. Various episodes are depicted in the form of statues, carvings and paintings. The intricate depictions which boast meticulous attention down to the last detail evoke nothing but admiration. In addition, there are also depictions of the Ramayana from the perspective of various countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Japan and Korea. These depictions also involve colorful masks and costumes which are used in those countries.
Of particular interest to visitors to Ram Darshan Temple, counted amongst the most visited places in Chitrakoot, is the giant statue of Lord Hanuman. It occupies the entrance and blesses visitors at the entrance. Two other crowd favorites are sculptures of Goswami Tulsidas and Maharshi Valmiki. The temple itself is located close to River Mandakini, which lends it an air of serenity and solitude.
Popular Tourist Attractions Nearby
Ram Darshan Temple is counted among the top places to visit in Chitrakoot, and for good reasons. After visiting the temple and seeking blessings, these are other tourist attractions in Chitrakoot which you should check out.
- Gupt Godavari
- Sati Anusuya Ashram
- Ram Ghat
- Janki Kund
- Bharat Milap Temple
- Kamadgiri
- Sphatik Shila
- Ganesh Bagh
- Hanuman Dhara
Best Time to Visit
Visiting the district of Chitrakoot, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, depends mainly on the kind of weather you are comfortable travelling in. During the summers, it can get extremely hot in this region and the heat can be quite daunting for most tourists. If you are used to travelling in hot weather, then visiting it during this time should not be a problem. If you prefer cool and pleasant weather, then winters is the best time to visit Chitrakoot. The friendly weather conditions during this time allow you to explore the temple and enjoy some quiet moments by River Mandakinin in leisure.
How to Reach?
Ram Darshan Temple is located in the district of Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh. Although it does not have its own airport, it can easily be reached by train and road. Here is the best way of reaching it.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Chitrakoot is Chitrakoot Dham Karwi. It is situated at a distance of almost 22 km from Ram Darshan Temple. After getting down at the railway station, you can hire a taxi or any other private vehicle to reach the destination. The driving time should take you around 38 minutes.
By Air
There is no airport in Chitrakoot. The nearest airport is Bamrauli Airport, located in the city of Prayagraj (Allahabad). The distance from the airport to Ram Darshan Temple is about 118 km with the total driving time being 3 hours approx. After landing at the airport, you can hire a taxi or any other private vehicle.
By Road
Ram Darshan Temple is well connected by road to the major cities of India as well as those located in close proximity like Varanasi (246 km), Vindhyachal (171 km), Ayodhya (270 km) and Prayagraj (Allahabad) (115 km). NH 35 connects all these cities to Chitrakoot.