Ayodhya: Ram's Birthplace
The sacred city of Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama, and it holds immense significance in the 'Ramayana' narrative. Historically, Ayodhya is believed
to have been the capital of the Kosala kingdom, where Rama ruled. Today, visitors can explore the Ram Janmabhoomi temple and other sites, which adds depth to your understanding of the epic. The city's temples and ghats along the Saryu River create an environment steeped in religious devotion, offering a tangible link to the revered locations described in the Ramayana.
Chitrakoot: Exile's Haven
Chitrakoot holds a significant place in the Ramayana, as it was the location where Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, spent a considerable amount of time during their exile. The region is dotted with natural beauty, including the Kamadgiri Parbat and the Mandakini River, which are mentioned in the epic. Exploring Chitrakoot allows one to visualize the challenges and solace experienced by Rama and his companions, thus connecting visitors with the raw, untamed beauty that provided shelter for Rama during his years in exile.
Panchavati: Seclusion's Embrace
Panchavati, near Nashik, is where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana built their cottage during their exile. This is also the site where Ravana's sister, Surpanakha, made her advances. The lush landscapes of Panchavati, with the Godavari River flowing through it, offer a sense of the serenity that once prevailed. Visit the place to witness the natural beauty that provided the backdrop for several pivotal moments of the epic, and see firsthand how it resonates with the tale of the Ramayana.
Hampi: Kishkindha's Kingdom
Hampi in Karnataka, known for its ancient ruins, is believed to be the Kishkindha of the Ramayana. This was the kingdom of the monkey king, Vali, and later, Sugriva. The Anjaneya Hill, believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman, further enhances the site's connection to the epic. Visitors can explore the boulder-strewn landscape and the remnants of temples and palaces, which gives a glimpse into the life during the Ramayana period. Hampi’s unique terrain transports visitors into a realm where mythology seamlessly merges with history.
Rameshwaram: The Bridge's Beginning
Rameshwaram, located in Tamil Nadu, is where the Rama Setu, or the bridge to Lanka, was constructed by the Vanara Sena (the monkey army) under the guidance of Nala and Neela. The town is significant for its connection to the Ramayana, serving as the starting point for the army’s journey to Lanka. This is where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva, to seek blessings, before heading to Lanka. The iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple and the beaches are reminders of the divine journey undertaken in the epic.
Dhanushkodi: Lanka's Proximity
Dhanushkodi, a ghost town on Pamban Island, is the point from which Rama’s army launched their assault on Lanka. Once a thriving town, it was destroyed by a cyclone in 1964. The geographical proximity to Sri Lanka provides a strategic perspective, as described in the Ramayana. The journey to Dhanushkodi provides a haunting, yet powerful, glimpse into the epic, and the immense challenges faced by the army of Rama.
Sigiriya: Ravana's Fortress?
Sigiriya, in Sri Lanka, is a historical site and fortress believed by some to be the fortress of Ravana, known as Alaka. The rock fortress, with its frescoes and ancient gardens, offers stunning views and a sense of the grandeur that might have surrounded Ravana. Exploring Sigiriya allows for a deeper understanding of the epic's context, and the challenges faced by Lord Rama in retrieving Sita.
Ella: Hanuman's Leap?
Ella, a picturesque town in Sri Lanka, offers panoramic views and is believed to be the area where Hanuman made his leap from India to Lanka. The scenic beauty and the proximity to the areas central to the Ramayana create a tangible link to Hanuman's journey. The natural beauty of the region, with its lush mountains and stunning vistas, sets the stage for the heroic feats and the vast expanse of the epic.
Kandy: Sita's Imprisonment?
Kandy, also in Sri Lanka, is where Sita was held captive in Ashok Vatika. This location is important for understanding the emotional landscape of the epic. It is a beautiful city with various temples and natural attractions, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic. The town's tranquil setting and its historical relevance offer a sense of the imprisonment of Sita and give depth to the narrative.
