Mani Parvat is a unique and sacred Place in Ayodhya, believed to have been formed from jewels associated with Sita Devi’s marriage to Lord Rama. It holds significant religious importance as Sita Devi’s favourite spot, hosts a temple dedicated to Sri Sri Sita Rama Lakshmana, and is the starting point for the annual Sita Rama Jhulan Utsava. This makes it a key site for both pilgrims and tourists, easily located near the Ayodhya railway station.

Exploring Mani Parvat: A Jewel of Ayodhya’s Spiritual Heritage

Ayodhya, the ancient city nestled on the banks of the sacred Saryu River, is replete with sites of immense spiritual and historical significance. Among these, Mani Parvat stands out as a unique and revered location, often referred to as a “hillock of jewels”. Its very existence is considered unusual in the natural landscape of Ayodhya, hinting at its mystical origins.

Historical Significance of Mani Parvat

The origins of Mani Parvat are deeply intertwined with the divine narrative of Lord Rama and Sita. According to tradition, this hillock of jewels was brought from Janakpur after the marriage of Lord Rama and Sita. The story goes that Queen Kaikeyi, one of Lord Rama’s stepmothers, gifted Sita with jewels she had received from Indrani, the consort of Indra. Lord Rama, in turn, passed these precious stones to his brothers. Satrughna, however, chose not to use them as his brothers did, instead offering them at Sita’s lotus feet. Sita, finding that Lord Rama had not been able to connect these jewels, suggested that King Janaka, her father, string them together. Through Sita’s divine favour, Janakpur experienced a massive increase in jewel production. King Janaka then sent all these newly acquired gems to Ayodhya, considering them his daughter’s treasure. These abundant jewels were then used to construct a grand palace and create a hill, measuring one yojana in height, which subsequently became known as Mani Parvat.

Religious Importance in Ayodhya

Mani Parvat holds profound religious significance, primarily due to its intimate connection with Sita Devi. It was Sita Devi’s favourite spot in Ayodhya. A temple dedicated to Sri Sri Sita Rama Lakshmana graces the summit of Mani Parvat, where devotees can offer their obeisances.

The site is particularly vibrant during the annual Sita Rama Jhulan Utsava, a swinging festival celebrated throughout Ayodhya during the month of Sravana (July-August). This festival traditionally commences at Mani Parvat, underscoring its pivotal role in the city’s spiritual calendar.

Geographic and Cultural Context of Mani Parvat Ayodhya

Geographically, Mani Parvat is identified as a distinct mound or hillock located in the Kami Ganj area of Ayodhya, close to the Ayodhya railway station. Its presence is noted as unique within the region’s natural topography.

Culturally, Mani Parvat is an integral part of the local pilgrimage routes. It is included in the Chhoti (Antarvedi) Parikrama, an inner circumambulation route of Ayodhya, which typically begins from Ram Ghat. This inclusion highlights its importance for pilgrims seeking spiritual merit through circumambulation.

Archaeological Findings and Research

It is noted that near Mani Parvat, to its southwest, there was once a Buddhist monastery and the remnant of a 200-foot high stupa. This stupa, believed to have been built by Emperor Ashoka, is said to contain sacred relics of Buddha, specifically Buddha’s nails and hair. This information, while not directly about Mani Parvat’s mythological origin, points to the ancient and multi-layered historical and religious significance of the general vicinity.

Mani Parvat in Local Folklore

The primary local folklore associated with Mani Parvat revolves around its miraculous formation from jewels and its designation as Sita Devi’s beloved spot. This narrative reinforces the divine connection of the site, making it a place of deep devotion and reverence for pilgrims and locals alike.

Tourism and Pilgrimage Activities

Mani Parvat is a noteworthy destination for both tourists and pilgrims. Visitors can ascend the mound to visit the temple situated atop it. The annual Sita Rama Jhulan Utsava, beginning at Mani Parvat, offers a vibrant cultural experience for those visiting during the Sravana month. Participating in the Antargrahi Parikrama also includes a visit to this sacred hillock.

Timings Of Mani Parvat

The provided sources do not specify exact opening or closing times for Mani Parvat or the temple located on it. Visitors are advised to check local timings upon arrival.

Location Of Mani Parvat Ayodhya

Mani Parvat is located in the Kami Ganj area of Ayodhya.

Address – Kami Ganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 224123

FAQ’s Of Mani Parvat Ayodhya

Here are the answers to your frequently asked questions about Mani Parvat:

Where is Mani Parvat in Ayodhya? 

Mani Parvat is located in Ayodhya, specifically in the Kami Ganj area, near Sita Kunda. It is also mentioned as a point in the Choti (Antarvedi) Parikrama.

What is Mani Parvat in Ayodhya? 

Mani Parvat is described as a “divine hillock of jewels”. It is stated that these jewels were used to create a palace and a hill measuring one yojana in height, which then became known as Mani Parvat.

Where did Mani Parvat fall in Ayodhya? 

Mani Parvat was “brought from Janakpur after the marriage of Lord Rama with Sita”. King Janaka sent these gems to Ayodhya, and they were housed in the southern part of Ramkot.

Why is Mani Parvat important? 

Mani Parvat holds significance as it was “Sita Devi’s favourite location”. Annually, the Sita Rama’s Jhulan Utsava (swinging festival) is observed throughout Ayodhya in the month of Sravana, and this festival starts from Mani Parvat. There is also a temple atop Mani Parvat, housing deities of Sri Sri Sita Rama Lakshmana.