Story of Mani Parvat in Ayodhya
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama and a city rich with spiritual heritage, is home to many sacred sites. Among them, Mani Parvat holds a special place as it is considered the maternal home of Sita Ji. This serene hill is one of the most cherished spots for Sita Ji in Ayodhya.
It is said that when Sita Ji married Lord Rama and arrived in Ayodhya, her father, King Janaka, gifted numerous precious gems to King Dasharatha. These gems were so abundant that King Dasharatha had them stored in the forest near Vidya Kund. The sheer quantity of these gems formed a hill, which came to be known as Mani Parvat. This hill became a sacred site with the manifestation of Lord Mani.
Today, a temple stands atop Mani Parvat, housing the idols of Lord Mani, Sita Ji, Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Hanuman Ji.
Unique Rituals and Practices
Symbolically, Mani Parvat is considered Sita Ji's maternal home. It is believed that during the month of Sawan, Sita Ji used to come here to celebrate Hariyali Teej and swing with Lord Rama. This tradition from the Treta Yuga continues today, with a grand fair held annually during Sawan. Women from all over gather to participate in the festivities, which include temple visits, prayers, and swinging on decorated swings.
How to Reach Mani Parvat
Mani Parvat is around 3 kilometers from Ram Mandir and can be easily reached.
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Ayodhya, which is about 10 kilometers away. From there, taxis and buses are available for the temple.
- By Train: Ayodhya Junction, the city's railway station, is connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi. Local transport can be easily accessed from the station.
- By Road: Ayodhya is well connected by roads. Regular bus services and taxis are available from nearby cities and towns.