Countdown To Ayodhya: 10 Lord Ram Temples Across India

While Ayodhya's Ram Mandir stands out, India has many temples dedicated to Lord Rama, showcasing diverse history and architecture, reflecting its deep cultural ties to the Ramayana epic.

Image used for representational purposes only.

Source : Getty Images

While the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya draws millions of devotees, India's rich tapestry of Rama temples extends far beyond this iconic site. Each shrine, steeped in history and architectural splendor, offers a unique window into the enduring legacy of Lord Rama and the diverse cultural expressions of his worship across the country. So, embark on a spiritual journey beyond Ayodhya and explore these 10 magnificent Rama temples:

1. Raghunath Temple, Jammu: Rising majestically against the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas, Jammu's Raghunath Temple is a replica of the Ayodhya structure. Built in the 19th century by Maharaja Gulab Singh, the temple's intricate sandstone carvings and gold-plated domes draw thousands of devotees every year.

 

Raghunath Temple, Jammu (Image Source: Getty Images)

2. Triprayar Sri Rama Temple, Kerala: Nestled amidst lush paddy fields in Kerala, the Thriprayar Sri Rama Temple boasts a distinct Dravidian style. Dating back to the 12th century, the temple is famous for its unique "vallamkali" or boat festival held during Onam, showcasing intricately decorated snake boats.

 

Triprayar Sri Rama Temple, Kerala (Image Source: X/@AnuSatheesh5)

3. Shri Ram Tirth Temple, Amritsar: In the holy city of Amritsar, bordering Pakistan, stands the Shri Ram Tirath Temple. Believed to mark the spot where Rama and Sita rested during their exile, the temple attracts pilgrims seeking spiritual solace and blessings.

 

Shri Ram Tirth Temple, Amritsar (Image Source: X/@TheIndia_co_in)

4. Ramaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu: The sprawling Ramaswamy Temple in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is a testament to Dravidian architecture. Built in the 17th century, the temple features intricately carved gopurams (gateway towers) and a chariot festival that attracts massive crowds during Rama Navami.

 

Ramaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu (Image Source: Getty Images)

5. Kalaram Temple, Maharashtra: Located in Nashik, Maharashtra, the Kalaram Temple is shrouded in legend. Believed to be built by Rama himself during his exile, the temple holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus. The annual Ramlila pageant here is a vibrant spectacle.

 

Kalaram Temple, Maharashtra (Image Source: X/@Supreme99640876)

6. Sita Ramachandraswamy Temple, Telangana: Nestled in the dense forests of Andhra Pradesh, the Sita Ramachandraswamy Temple is a major pilgrimage site. Dedicated to Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, the temple complex features stunning Dravidian architecture and attracts devotees year-round.

 

Sita Ramachandraswamy Temple, Telangana (Image Source: X/@IncredibleTmpl)

7. Kodandarama Temple, Andhra Pradesh: Situated in the coastal town of Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, the Kodandarama Temple is famous for its exquisite Vijayanagara architecture. Built in the 12th century, the temple houses a majestic idol of Rama holding a bow and arrow, known as Kodanda Rama.

 

Kodandarama Temple, Andhra Pradesh (Image Source: Getty Images)

8. Kondanda Ramaswami Temple, Karnataka: Perched atop a hillock in Chikmagalur, Karnataka, the Kondanda Ramaswami Temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Built in the 16th century, the temple is known for its unique Dravidian-Hoysala architectural blend and its serene atmosphere.

 

Kondanda Ramaswami Temple, Karnataka (Image Source: X/@ani_kr9)

9. Ram Raja Temple, Madhya Pradesh: Located in the charming town of Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, the Ram Raja Temple is a former palace-turned-temple. Built in the 17th century, the temple features stunning Rajput architecture and intricate murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana.

 

Ram Raja Temple, Madhya Pradesh (Image Source: Getty Images)

10. Raghunathji Temple, Varanasi: In the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, stands the Raghunathji Temple, considered one of the oldest Rama temples in India. The temple's origins are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been built sometime in the 11th or 12th century. The temple features a unique blend of Mughal and Hindu architectural styles.

 

Raghunathji Temple, Varanasi (Image Source: https://www.kulluonline.in/)

These are just a few of the many Rama temples that adorn India's landscape. Each temple, with its unique history, architecture, and traditions, offers a glimpse into the profound devotion and enduring legacy of Lord Rama in the hearts of millions.