Gupt Godavari
Gupt Godavari is counted amongst the most interesting places to visit in Uttar Pradesh. It is both a natural wonder and a place of immense spiritual significance. Like all the other famous tourist attractions in Chitrakoot, there is a fascinating mythological tale behind it.
Located at a distance of about 18 km from the district of Chitrakoot, this place is held in the highest respect by devotees. According to the Hindu mythological epic, Ramayana, it was here that Lord Rama and Lord Laxmana stayed for some time during their exile for 14 years. There are two cave systems inside the mountain, while the water inside them is filled up to the knees.
One of these caves is very high and wide, along with a narrow entrance which makes it quite difficult for anyone to pass through. The other cave though, is very long and narrow. A stream of water keeps flowing continuously from rocks deep inside the cave. These then flow towards another cave before simply disappearing into the ground. It is a strange phenomenon which has always bewildered tourists and has also led to this place being named as Gupt Godavari. The bigger of these caves also displays two stone carved thrones. These are believed to belong to Lord Rama and Lord Laxman.
Wading through the knee deep water, while admiring the beauty of the caves, is really an exciting adventure. The highlight of the entire trip is reaching the temple inside the cave called the Ram Darbar. There is a courtyard of the temple along with the statues of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Laxmana seated on a raised platform. There is an opening directly above it which allows sunlight to permeate through.
The caves are illuminated at regular intervals by lamps, along with stairs which makes it comfortable for tourists to explore the cave. What makes Gupt Godavari one of the most visited places in Chitrakoot is that it delivers adventure and spiritualism in equal measure.
