Top 15 Ramayana-Related Places to Visit in India

The Ramayana, one of India’s oldest and most revered epics, is more than just a story—it's a spiritual journey that spans the length and breadth of the Indian subcontinent. Many places in India are intricately linked with the life events of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. In this blog, we highlight the top 15 Ramayana-related places to visit in India that offer a blend of myth, history, and devotion.

1. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh – Birthplace of Lord Rama

Ayodhya is one of the most sacred Ramayana places in India. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama and holds immense religious importance for Hindus. Located on the banks of the Sarayu River, the city is home to prominent attractions like the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, and Kanak Bhawan. Devotees from across India visit Ayodhya to retrace the divine journey of Lord Rama. With its deep mythological roots and grand temples, Ayodhya stands as a central pillar in Ramayana tourism.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple

• Hanuman Garhi

• Kanak Bhawan

• Ram Ki Paidi

2. Chitrakoot, UP/MP – Forest Where Rama Lived in Exile

Chitrakoot is a tranquil town associated with Lord Rama’s 14-year exile. According to the Ramayana, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a major part of their vanvas (exile) here. The serene forests and riverbanks of Chitrakoot witnessed many pivotal events, including the Bharat Milap. Key attractions include Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri Hill, and Sati Anusuya Ashram. This spiritual destination lies on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, making it a prominent stop for those following the Ramayana trail in central India.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Ram Ghat

• Kamadgiri Hill

• Bharat Milap Temple

• Sati Anusuya Ashram

• Gupt Godavari Caves

3. Nashik (Panchavati), Maharashtra – The Place of Sita’s Abduction

Panchavati in Nashik is a significant Ramayana destination in Maharashtra. This is where the golden deer incident occurred, leading to Sita’s abduction by Ravana. According to the epic, it’s also where Lakshmana cut off Shurpanakha’s nose. Devotees can visit the Sita Gufa (cave), the ancient Kalaram Temple, and the sacred Ram Kund on the Godavari River. The area’s mythological significance, combined with its cultural heritage, makes Panchavati one of the most visited Ramayana places in western India.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Sita Gufa (Cave)

• Kalaram Temple

• Tapovan

• Ramkund

• Kapaleshwar Mandir

4. Hampi (Kishkindha), Karnataka – Monkey Kingdom of Sugriva

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is believed to be the ancient Kishkindha—the monkey kingdom ruled by Sugriva. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama met Hanuman and Sugriva here before the Lanka war. The region is surrounded by mythical hills like Anjanadri Hill (birthplace of Hanuman), Matanga Hill, and Rishyamukha Hill. With its boulder-strewn landscapes and sacred sites, Hampi is a must-visit destination for those seeking Ramayana-linked places in South India.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Anjanadri Hill (Hanuman’s birthplace)

• Rishyamukha Hill

• Matanga Hill

• Sugriva’s Cave

• Virupaksha Temple

 5. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu – Building the Ram Setu

Rameswaram is one of the most sacred Ramayana-related places in South India. It is believed to be the starting point of the Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge), which Lord Rama and his army built to reach Lanka. The city is also home to the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple, where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva before his battle with Ravana. Pilgrims visit Dhanushkodi and other nearby sites for their mythological and spiritual relevance. Rameswaram is a crucial part of the Ramayana pilgrimage route.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Ramanathaswamy Temple

• Dhanushkodi (End of Ram Setu)

• Ram Tirtham

• Lakshmana Tirtham

• Gandhamadana Parvatam

6. Bhadrachalam, Telangana – Devotee Bhadra’s Abode

Bhadrachalam is a sacred town on the banks of the Godavari River, associated with the deep devotion of Bhadra, a disciple of Lord Rama. It is home to the famous Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, built in the 17th century. The temple is an important center for Rama bhakti in South India and attracts thousands of pilgrims during Rama Navami and other festivals. Bhadrachalam is one of the most revered Ramayana-related temples in India and an essential stop for spiritual travelers.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple

• Godavari River Ghats

• Parnasala (Sita-Rama hut replica)

7. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh – Where Jatayu Fell

Lepakshi is a mythologically rich village in Andhra Pradesh, known as the place where Jatayu, the vulture god, fell after trying to save Sita from Ravana. The story is immortalized in the stunning Veerabhadra Temple, which features intricate carvings and the famous "hanging pillar." The massive footprint near the temple is believed to be that of Lord Hanuman. Lepakshi’s connection to Ramayana, combined with its architectural marvels, makes it a fascinating spiritual and historical destination.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Veerabhadra Temple

• Jatayu Theme Sculpture

• Nagalinga Statue

 8. Sitamarhi, Bihar – Birthplace of Sita

Sitamarhi, located in northern Bihar, is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. According to legend, King Janaka found Sita in a furrow while plowing the field. Sitamarhi is home to the famous Janki Temple, dedicated to Sita, and the ancient Sita Kund, a sacred water tank. This town is an important pilgrimage destination for followers of the Ramayana and devotees of Sita. Sitamarhi forms a key part of the Mithila region's Ramayana heritage.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Janki Mandir

• Sita Kund

• Haleshwar Sthan

• Panth Pakar (Ancient Banyan Tree)

 9. Janakpur (Nepal) – Sita’s Marriage to Rama

Janakpur, located near the India-Nepal border, is the ancient capital of Mithila and the site where Sita was married to Lord Rama. Though it lies in Nepal, it holds strong cultural and religious ties with India. The Janaki Mandir is the main attraction, known for its stunning architecture and deep spiritual resonance. Janakpur is also the venue for Vivaha Panchami, a festival reenacting the divine wedding. It is a must-visit for those tracing the complete Ramayana journey.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Janaki Mandir

• Vivah Mandap

• Ram Mandir

• Sita Kund

10. Allahabad (Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh – Confluence of Paths

Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) holds mythological significance in the Ramayana as the place where Bharata met Lord Rama after King Dasharatha’s death. It is believed that Rama gave his sandals to Bharata here, asking him to rule Ayodhya in his absence. The holy confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers adds spiritual importance to the city. While Prayagraj is better known for the Kumbh Mela, it also plays a subtle but vital role in the Ramayana narrative.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Triveni Sangam

• Bharadwaj Ashram

• Akshayavat Tree

• Hanuman Mandir

11. Shringverpur, Uttar Pradesh – Boat Ride by Nishadraj

Shringverpur is a lesser-known but highly significant Ramayana site located near Prayagraj. It is where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana crossed the Ganga River with the help of Nishadraj, the tribal king. A temple and ancient ruins here mark this historic and devotional event. This site symbolizes humility, devotion, and unity across social lines. Shringverpur is ideal for travelers interested in uncovering hidden Ramayana gems beyond the mainstream circuit.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Nishadraj Ghat

• Rama Ganga Temple

• Ancient Shringverpur Fort

12. Devipattinam, Tamil Nadu – Navagraha Worship by Rama

Devipattinam is a coastal village in Tamil Nadu believed to be the place where Lord Rama calmed the sea and performed a Navagraha pooja to seek favorable conditions for his Lanka expedition. The submerged Navagraha stones in the sea are unique and attract many pilgrims. Located near Rameswaram, Devipattinam holds an important place in South India's Ramayana trail and is ideal for those looking to deepen their mythological exploration.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Navagraha Stones in Sea

• Thilakeshwar Temple

• Navapashanam Temple

13. Dandakaranya Forest (Chhattisgarh) – Land of Rishis and Demons

The dense forests of Dandakaranya span across modern-day Chhattisgarh and parts of Odisha. According to the Ramayana, this forest was home to many sages and demons, including Surpanakha. It was here that many significant events took place during Rama's exile. Today, the region is dotted with tribal villages and ancient temples. For those seeking offbeat and immersive Ramayana travel, Dandakaranya offers both mythological and cultural depth.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Jagdalpur Temples

• Dantewada Danteshwari Temple

• Valmiki Ashram (mythical site)

14. Mahendragiri, Odisha – Where Hanuman Leapt to Lanka

Mahendragiri Hill in Odisha is believed to be one of the places from where Lord Hanuman leaped across the ocean to reach Lanka. It is also said to be where many sages meditated and where Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, performed penance. The hill offers a mix of mythology, scenic beauty, and spiritual ambiance. Mahendragiri is perfect for nature lovers and spiritual seekers tracing Hanuman’s journey in the Ramayana.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Mahendragiri Hill Trek

• Parashurama Temple

• Pandava Caves

15. Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu – Hanuman's Return with Sanjeevani

Nagapattinam is a coastal town in Tamil Nadu linked to the return of Lord Hanuman after bringing the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana. It is believed that Hanuman rested here on his way back from the Himalayas. The region is dotted with ancient temples and mythological references, making it a peaceful yet meaningful stop on the Ramayana circuit in South India.

Must-Visit Sites:

• Soundararajaperumal Temple

• Hanuman Temple

• Sikkal Singaravelan Temple