Ramji Vanvas Route: A Spiritual Trail with Scenic Wonders

For centuries, the tale of Lord Rama has transcended time, faith, and geography. Among its most compelling chapters is the vanvas 14-year exile. This journey, rich with trials, wisdom, and divine intervention, is not only a foundational part of the Ramayana but also a spiritual path that continues to inspire millions.

The Ramji Vanvas Route, also known as the Ram Van Gaman Path, is more than a mythical trail. It's a symbolic and geographical journey through India's forests, rivers, mountains, and towns. As this sacred path is being revived, it offers travellers more than a spiritual connection; it invites them to witness the untouched beauty of nature. From tranquil riverbanks and dense green landscapes to historic caves and rolling hills, every stop along this route is a story waiting to be experienced.

A Journey Through Time and Terrain

The modern Ram Van Gaman Path has been envisioned to trace this route across multiple Indian states and into Sri Lanka. More than 240 places have been linked to the journey, and several of them are being developed as heritage, pilgrimage, and cultural sites.

Here are some of the most important stretches:

Ayodhya – The Beginning of the Journey:

Ayodhya is the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama and the cradle of his divine legacy. It marks the beginning of his 14-year exile, not as a retreat, but as a noble acceptance of destiny. Here, the journey begins not with anger or vengeance, but with calm dignity, unwavering resolve, and a deep sense of dharma. The farewell to the royal palace, the tearful parting with his people, and Rama’s composed departure set the spiritual tone for the epic path ahead.

Prayagraj – Sacred Confluence:

As Rama travels southward, he arrives at Prayagraj, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati, a place revered for spiritual cleansing and divine energy. It is here that he meets enlightened sages who not only welcome him but offer profound insights into the cosmic nature of his exile. Their wisdom helps Rama connect his personal sacrifice to a larger, divine mission, the purification of the self, the cleansing of karma, and the preservation of dharma for generations to come.

Chitrakoot – Forest of Reflection:

This tranquil, forested region is where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana built their first hermitage, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. Here, they embraced a life of simplicity and spiritual reflection, living in perfect harmony with the wilderness. They met revered sages like Atri and Anasuya, whose wisdom deepened their understanding of dharma. It’s in Chitrakoot that Bharata, overwhelmed with grief and love, journeys to meet Rama and pleads for his return to Ayodhya.

Dandakaranya – The Heart of Exile:

Spanning present-day Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Odisha and Maharashtra, Dandakaranya was a sacred forest filled with sages, ashrams, and lurking rakshasas. Here, Rama met Shabari, whose unwavering devotion touched his heart. This landmark marked the turning point, from a peaceful exile to a purposeful mission. It was in these wild woods that the warrior in Rama truly awakened.

Panchavati – The Turning Point:

Located in present-day Nashik, Panchavati is where Rama’s exile took a dramatic and fateful turn. It was here that Sita was abducted by Ravana, shifting Rama’s journey from spiritual retreat to a battle for justice. The deceit of the golden deer, the severing of Surpanakha’s nose, and Jatayu’s brave attempt to save Sita all unfolded in this sacred land. Panchavati marks the moment where divine destiny began to take its full form.

Kishkindha – Alliance and Brotherhood:

Near modern-day Hampi, this region, identified as Kishkindha, is where Rama met Hanuman and Sugriva, marking a pivotal chapter in his journey. Amidst ancient hills and flowing rivers, a divine alliance was forged, rooted in trust, loyalty, and shared purpose. It was here that friendships were sealed, promises made, and the search for Sita began in earnest.

Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi – Bridge to Destiny:

With the help of the devoted Vanara army, Rama built a bridge across the mighty ocean, the legendary Ram Setu, to reach Lanka. Before this divine crossing, he paused at Rameshwaram to worship Lord Shiva, seeking strength and blessings. This act of devotion established one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Rameshwaram thus became a symbol of faith, courage, and divine resolve.

Lanka – The Triumph of Dharma:

The journey culminated in Lanka, where Rama defeated the mighty Ravana and rescued Sita, bringing an end to her long captivity. But even in victory, Rama displayed restraint, mercy, and unwavering commitment to justice, reinforcing the values he lived by. He crowned Vibhishana as the rightful king, restoring peace to the land of Lanka.

Why This Route Still Matters?

Though millennia have passed, the route of Rama’s exile resonates profoundly even today. It represents:

• Spiritual Exploration: Each stop on the route offers not just a pause in the physical journey, but a sacred space for introspection, prayer, and inner awakening. Pilgrims find moments of silence, devotion, and a deeper connection with the divine self through the same landscapes once walked by Lord Rama.
• Cultural Legacy: These places are living, breathing embodiments of India’s timeless heritage, from oral traditions passed down through generations to intricate temple art, folk songs, and indigenous rituals that continue to celebrate the Ramayana’s enduring presence.
• National Integration: Spanning across more than 10 states and diverse terrains, the Ram Van Gaman Path beautifully weaves together people of different languages, beliefs, customs, and lifestyles into one shared spiritual narrative, reinforcing unity in diversity through the legacy of Lord Rama.
• Sustainable Tourism: By thoughtfully developing this sacred route with reverence for its ecological, spiritual, and cultural richness, the initiative not only promotes responsible tourism but also uplifts local communities, preserves heritage sites, and protects the natural environment for future generations.

Walking the Path Today

Whether you’re a pilgrim, a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious, exploring the Ramji Vanvas Route can be a profound experience. Here are a few practical insights:

• Start Small: Begin with a manageable stretch like Ayodhya to Chitrakoot or Chitrakoot to Nashik. These regions are well connected by road and rail, offer comfortable accommodations, and are steeped in stories, temples, and natural beauty, perfect for first-time travellers seeking a meaningful experience.
• Local Wisdom is Key: Many places on this path still thrive on oral traditions and ancient memories not found in books. Speak with locals, temple priests, forest dwellers, and elders to uncover hidden stories, lesser-known shrines, and the living spirit of Rama that still lingers in these lands.
• Travel Respectfully: This is not just a journey, but a sacred pilgrimage. Many sites are spiritually active, with ongoing rituals and deep emotional significance for local communities. Dress modestly, remove shoes where needed, avoid loud behaviour, and walk with humility and reverence.
• Avoid the Rainy Season: The monsoons can make forest trails slippery, remote areas inaccessible, and rivers unpredictable. Plan your journey during winter or early spring for pleasant weather, clear views, and safe travel, ensuring a more peaceful and enriching experience.

How to reach Ayodhya

By Air:

Ayodhya International Airport (Maharishi Valmiki International Airport) is the newest and most convenient way to reach the city. It is located around 8–10 km from the main town.

The airport is currently connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi, with more routes expanding rapidly. Alternatively, Lucknow Airport (approx. 135 km away) serves as a secondary option, with road or rail connectivity to Ayodhya.

By Train:

Ayodhya is well-connected by rail through Ayodhya Junction and Ayodhya Cantt Railway Station.

• Trains from Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Kolkata, and other cities run regularly.
• Advance booking is recommended, especially during festivals or pilgrimage seasons.

By Road:

Ayodhya is accessible via a network of national and state highways.

• Buses (government and private) connect Ayodhya with major nearby cities like Lucknow (135 km), Varanasi (200 km), Gorakhpur (165 km), and Prayagraj (170 km).
• Private taxis and self-drive cars are also convenient options for a more flexible journey.

By Car:

• From Lucknow: Approx. 3.5 hours via NH27.
• From Varanasi: Around 4.5 hours by road.

Roads are generally well-maintained, with dhabas and rest stops along the way.

Where to stay in Ayodhya

Praveg Tent City Ayodhya Brahma Kund is a tented resort located near the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Uttar Pradesh. It offers well-maintained, air-conditioned tents with essential amenities in a peaceful and spiritual setting. Guests can experience traditional vegetarian meals and evening cultural programs. This resort in Ayodhya provides comfort, convenience, and a close connection to Ayodhya’s heritage.

Club Mahindra membership offers unforgettable vacations with access to over 140+ Club Mahindra resorts worldwide. With premium stays in exotic destinations across India and beyond, members can enjoy diverse experiences, from serene beaches to majestic mountains. The membership ensures 25 years of exotic, flexible holidays, perfectly tailored for families. It’s a gateway to hassle-free, memorable getaways year after year.

10-Day Itinerary of Faith and Discovery

Here’s a suggested 10-day route for first-time travellers eager to explore the sacred journey of Lord Rama. This itinerary blends spirituality, history, and natural beauty, offering a meaningful experience through some of the most significant stops along the Ram Van Gaman Path.

Day 1–2: Start in Ayodhya

Begin your journey in the sacred city of Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. Visit the revered Ram Janmabhoomi, take a peaceful walk along the Sarayu ghats, and explore ancient temples echoing with devotion. Soak in the spiritual energy of the city as you prepare for the path ahead.

Day 3: Head to Prayagraj

Travel to Prayagraj, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge. Witness the divine Triveni Sangam, considered one of the holiest sites in India. Visit ancient ashrams and temples that preserve centuries of Vedic wisdom and experience the quiet power of this sacred meeting point.

Day 4–5: Move to Chitrakoot

Journey into the peaceful forests of Chitrakoot, where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent the early years of exile. Visit Gupt Godavari, Ramghat, and Kamadgiri, and take time to absorb the spiritual stillness of the hills. This is a place for inner reflection and connection with Rama’s early vanvas life.

Day 6–7: Travel toward Dandakaranya

Head deeper into the heart of Rama’s exile, the Dandakaranya forest region. Explore areas filled with tribal traditions, sacred groves, and ancient ashrams. Interact with local communities and immerse yourself in the raw, untouched landscapes that once echoed with Rama’s footsteps.

Day 8–9: Reach Nashik

Arrive in Nashik, home to the sacred land of Panchavati, where the narrative of Rama’s exile took a decisive turn. Visit Sita Gufa, Kapaleshwar Temple, and other significant sites. Reflect on the trials faced here, from the golden deer to Jatayu’s sacrifice, and how they shaped Rama’s destiny.

Day 10: Reflect and Rest

Conclude your journey with a quiet day of reflection. Whether beside a river, in a forest resort, or at a temple, allow yourself time to absorb the profound experiences of the path. Rest in the peaceful surroundings, letting the spiritual essence of the Ram Van Gaman Path settle within you before returning home.

The Ramji Vanvas Route is not just a trail through India’s forests and rivers; it’s a path through the soul of civilisation. Every bend in the road, every shrine and tree and story, echoes the timeless values of courage, devotion, humility, and righteousness. Walking this route, even if just through stories or thoughts, reminds us that exile is not always punishment. Sometimes, it is preparation. And like Rama, each of us is on a journey, through choices, trials, moments of despair, and finally, illumination.

Whether you walk this route in person or in spirit, may it guide you toward your own truth, just as it guided Rama toward his destiny.