Madhya Pradesh Trip-3: Visit to Chitrakoot

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Watch the full video here Overview: I first heard about Chitrakoot while watching the TV series Ramayan in the 1980s. Then later read several books and heard from different people how important Chitrakoot is in Indian history. I reached Chitrakoot from Gwalior at around 4am in the morning, and I had booked the Retiring room at Chitrakoot Railway station for my accomodation. But unfortunately after reaching ChitrakootDham railway station, I found the Retiring room in a shabby conditon and in complete darkness. People were sleeping on the platform and there was nobody to guide me on the retiring room. So finally I decided to move out of the station and look for accomodation. I managed to get a single room just opposite the Railway station for Rs 800. There are several options for stay near the railway station, and since I had my next train past midnight, I preferred some place quite close so that I can just walk to the train station. I got freshened up and at around 7:30am, I ventured ou
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SurajKund, Haryana: Remains of the 10th century reservoir

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Overview: Suraj Kund, as the name suggests, is a reservoir which was dedicated to Sun God. Built in the 10th century in what is a part of the old city of Delhi and belongs to the state of Haryana. Situated on the banks of the Aravalis, the base of the reservoir measures about 130m in diameter, and it expands as we go upwards. The entire structure resembles a Roman amphitheater, and it resembles the rising Sun when viewed from the top. The Southern part resembles the temples of Mexico, which were also built for the Sun God.
The reservoir was originally built by the Tomar kings in the 10th century, who were known to worship the Sun God. Though many theories exist behind the name of the reservoir, almost all of them date this back to pre- 10th century.
The place is not very far from the Lal Kot, or Kila Rai Pithora, which was built by Prithviraj Chauhan, one of the last Hindu kings of Delhi.


Suraj Kund

Suraj Kund

Suraj Kund

Qila Rai Pithora

Suraj Kund, viewed from Google maps

How to reach: Located around 20kms south of Delhi, Suraj Kund lies at the border of Haryana and Delhi. The nearest metro station to Surajkund is Badarpur. The place is around 15 kms from Mehrauli.

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