Explore Ramayana Circuit in India: Places Associated with Ramayana

The Ramayana is not merely the life story of Lord Rama—it is a timeless guide to dharma, devotion, sacrifice, and righteousness. Composed by Valmiki, this sacred epic narrates the divine pastimes of Lord Vishnu, who incarnated as Sri Rama, the Prince of Ayodhya, to restore balance on Earth.

The Ramayana Circuit in India is a spiritually curated journey that allows devotees and seekers to walk through the footsteps of Lord Rama, visiting the places where he was born, ruled, went into exile, fought evil, and ultimately returned victorious. Introduced by the Government of India, this circuit connects sacred destinations across multiple states, offering a profound pilgrimage experience.

A Brief Overview of the Ramayana

Birth of Lord Rama

During the Treta Yuga, the glorious Ikshvaku dynasty ruled Ayodhya. King Dasharatha, the emperor of Ayodhya, was blessed with four sons:

• Rama (born to Kaushalya)

• Lakshmana (born to Sumitra)

• Bharata and Shatrughna (born to Kaikeyi)

Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was loved deeply by his parents, brothers, and the people of Ayodhya for his virtues, humility, and strength.

Marriage of Rama and Sita

Sage Vishwamitra took Rama and Lakshmana to protect sacred yajnas from demons. On this journey, they reached Mithila, where Sita Devi’s Swayamvar was being held. Rama broke the mighty Shiva Dhanush, winning Sita’s hand in marriage. Subsequently, Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna married Sita’s sisters.

Exile and Abduction of Sita

Just before Rama’s coronation, Queen Kaikeyi demanded two boons—sending Rama into 14 years of exile and crowning Bharata as king. Rama accepted this willingly, leaving Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana.

During the final phase of exile, Ravana, king of Lanka, abducted Sita with the help of Maricha, disguising himself as a golden deer.

Rescue of Sita and Victory over Ravana

With the support of Sugriva, Hanuman, and the Vanara Sena, Rama built the Rama Setu (Setubandhan) to Lanka. After a fierce war, Rama defeated Ravana and rescued Sita. Following purification, the trio returned to Ayodhya, where Rama was crowned king—ushering in Ram Rajya.

Ramayana Circuit in India

Ramayana Circuit in India – Major Sacred Destinations

Ayodhya – Birthplace of Lord Rama

The starting point of the Ramayana Circuit. Ayodhya is where Lord Rama was born and later ruled. The city is filled with temples dedicated to Rama and Sita and radiates deep spiritual energy.

Shringverpur (Uttar Pradesh)

Here, Rama crossed the Ganga River during exile. He was welcomed by Nishad Raj, the king of fishermen. Located near Prayagraj, this serene site holds great devotional importance.

Sitamarhi – Birthplace of Sita

Situated in the Mithila region, Sitamarhi is believed to be where Sita Devi was born. Nearby Janaki Mandir marks the site of Rama and Sita’s marriage celebrations.

Buxar (Bihar)

Home to Vishwamitra Ashram, where Rama killed Tadaka and protected sacred yajnas. Nearby Ahirauli is where Ahalya was liberated from her curse by Rama’s divine touch.

Darbhanga (Bihar)

Heart of Mithilanchal, with sites like Ahalya Asthan and Gautam Kund, deeply connected to the Ramayana narrative.

Nandigram (West Bengal)

During Rama’s exile, Bharata ruled Ayodhya symbolically by placing Rama’s padukas (footwear) on the throne, governing from Nandigram with devotion and humility.

Mahendragiri (Odisha)

Also called Mahendra Parvat, where Parashurama retreated for penance after realizing Rama’s divine identity.

Jagdalpur – Dandakaranya (Chhattisgarh)

A vast forest region where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a significant part of their exile. Rich in natural beauty and tribal culture.

Bhadrachalam

Located on the banks of the Godavari, Bhadrachalam is where Rama blessed Bhadra and meditated after Sita’s abduction. Home to the revered Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple.

Nashik – Panchavati

The place where Sita was abducted. Key sites include Sita Gufa and Kala Ram Temple.

Ramtek (Nagpur, Maharashtra)

Associated with Rama’s stay during exile and Agastya Muni’s ashram.

Chitrakoot

Where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent most of their exile. Filled with temples and sacred ghats.

Hampi – Kishkindha

Here Rama met Hanuman, Sugriva, and Shabari near the Pampa (Tungabhadra) River. Central to the Kishkindha Kanda of Ramayana.

Rameswaram

After defeating Ravana, Rama consecrated the Shiva Lingam here to absolve the sin of Brahma-hatya. One of the Char Dham sites, housing the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple.

Conclusion

The Ramayana Circuit in India is a sacred spiritual journey that transcends geography and time. From the birth of Lord Rama in Ayodhya to his victory in Lanka and return to Ram Rajya, this circuit allows devotees to experience the epic not as a story—but as a living spiritual path.

For seekers of devotion, history, and inner awakening, the Ramayana Circuit is truly a journey toward dharma and moksha.