😲 Sources Here Says Ramayanam is Real!

Hey explorer,

The other day, I was going through the memories I made as a secondary school student. There were photos and video clips that put a bright smile on my face, while some filled my eyes with water.

But what caught my attention was the snaps of my answer sheet a faculty sent my parents for not doing well. Unfortunately, that's the subject my parents love the most and that I hate, Ramayanam.

I didn't like it because I thought the stories were fiction and how seriously my faculties used to take them. That was until I came to this place called Ramshila Hill in Bihar. Let's see what changed my perception!

Why Ramshila Hill?

Ramayanam is one of the greatest Indian epics influencing the Hindu religion. For good sake, Ramayanam is still a part of the educational curriculum in most parts of India, aiming to instil great lessons among students. 

Well, the problem is when the argument bursts. Some say it is a made-up story, while some argue it is a fact and based on true events dating back to centuries when gods roamed the earth freely. 

A part of the answer to end the argument lies in Ramshila Hill Station. Temples and shrines dating back centuries, a green environment all around, town views from the hilltop, beautiful sunrise and sunset, and fewer people add a whole different thing to your trip. 

Basic Information

History

Ramshila Hill boasts a rich and storied history that deals with the cultural tapestry of Bihar. Locals believe Ramshila Hill has ancient roots and was a significant site during the Ramayana era.

According to folklore, Lord Rama, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana spent a portion of their exile here. Over the centuries, Ramshila Hill has witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties, contributing to its historical significance. 

Geography

Situated in the picturesque landscape of Bihar, Gaya, Ramshila Hill offers scenic views that stretch across surge terrain. The geographical location of Ramshila Hill also positions it as a vantage point, providing stunning views of the surrounding plains. The whole site over here is religious, and it's no wonder why people call Gaya a religious district of Bihar. 

Local Culture

The people living in the vicinity of Ramshila Hill actively participate in preserving their cultural heritage. Festivals such as Makar Sankranthi and Budha Jayanthi exhibit traditional dances, music, and religious parades, providing visitors with an immersive experience of the local way of life.

Language Used

The predominant language spoken in the region surrounding Ramshila Hill is Hindi. While English is understood by many in the tourist areas, learning a few basic and daily phrases in the local language can boost the cultural exchange and foster a deeper connection with the community.

Climatic Conditions

Ramshila Hill experiences a warm and pleasant climate throughout the year. The hill's elevation contributes to a pleasant and cool atmosphere, especially during the evenings and early mornings. The monsoon season usually arrives in June and leaves in September. So, the most suitable time to enjoy Bihar is from October to April.

To-Do Information

Must-Do Things

The beauty from the hilltop and the wonderings at some points of the hill may leave you speechless and confused about what to do to get the most out of this trip. So, make a note of these things to must-try. 

• Visit Ramshila Temple

Start your adventure with some peace by exploring the iconic Ramsila Temple. While detailed designs and the spiritual aura of the temple attract a few, immersing yourself in the rituals and divine energy of Lord Ram is how you can get the most out of this site. 

• Sunrise Meditation at Hilltop

Enjoy the sunrise you will never see in cities by climbing onto the top of this hill. The breathtaking views of the sun breaking out of the yellow-coloured ceiling, the green surroundings, the cool breeze, and fewer people create a perfect setting for self-reflection.

• Explore the Caves

Explore the mysterious caves across Ramshila Hill and make your trip more adventurous. These caves date back centuries and can take you into the past, where you get to see the lifestyle of people who once ruled and the BTS of most shrines you see here. 

Places to Visit Nearby

You can explore Ramshila Hill within a day or two and use the remaining time to explore nearby places to boost your experiences. Some such notable places without much crowds are: 

• Veer Kunwar Singh Park

At a short distance of 98.3 km from Ramshila Hill, this park marks the legendary freedom fighter Veer Kunwar Singh. Take a moment to visit the memorial covered with lush greenery park and learn about the historical value of this legend through a digestible language carved on granite. 

• Sita Kund

With a 4-hour journey distance from the hill point, visit this mythological place to take your understanding of Ramayanam a step further. The locals here believe this pond was once a bathing spot of Goddess Sita. The calm aura and religious importance make it a noteworthy stop on your journey.

• Bodh Gaya

Nestled at 21.5 km, Bodh Gaya can take your spiritual journey to another level with some of the wonderings that it even got into a list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Mahabodhi Temple and Bodhi Tree are must-visit landmarks in this spiritual harbour.

Must Buy Things

Buying souvenirs is one of the best things you could ever do when visiting a new place to keep those memories alive in real time. So, here are some things you might want to consider buying. 

• Handcrafted Souvenirs

One of the best things about Bihar and most other parts of India is that the local people pass the handicraft skills to the incoming generations to save the culture. These are inexpensive and can give a retro look around. Wooden artefacts, handmade textiles, and intricate jewellery can be a few souvenirs to carry home. 

• Religious Artefacts

Most places in Bihar are famous for temples and shrines, while the locals believe devotees will buy a few spiritual things when they visit temples. You will find people selling small idols, prayer beads, and sacred trinkets at almost every temple and local market. These items serve as reminders of your spiritual journey at Ramshila Hill.

• Ayurvedic Products

Bihar is one of the Indian states with most of the land covered with dense trees and forests that are good at natural healing factors. Explore local markets for Ayurvedic products such as herbal oils, soaps, and incense. Yet, be careful of the items you intake or apply to your skin, especially if you are allergic to particular items. 

Travel Itinerary

Transportation

The journey to Ramshila Hill is something you have never seen before - lush greenery, temples, and shrines as long as you travel by road, while a green with multi-coloured polka dots blanket covers the land when seen from the air. Let's see the multi-transport options to reach this Bihari adventurous site. 

• By Air

The nearest airport to Ramshila Hill is Gaya International Airport, at 12.5 km away approximately. Regular domestic and international flights connect to major cities across countries. You can then use a taxi or public transportation to reach Ramshila Hill.

• By Train

Gaya Junction serves as the primary railhead for those travelling by train. The railway station is well-connected to major cities, and from there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Ramshila Hill.

• By Road

An extensive network of roads connects Ramshila Hill to nearby cities and towns. The journey offers scenic views, making it a delightful road trip for those who enjoy the charm of the countryside.

The price of public transport ranges from ₹200, depending on the distance. 

Accommodation

Gaya, the nearest town to Ramshila Hill, offers some of the best hotels and restaurants to spend your nights in. Here are some hotels you should check out. 

Relax Hotel - ₹643 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 4.5-star hotel with paid parking services and a washing machine. 

Nandan Inn - ₹1,241 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 3.1-star rating hotel with a restaurant and a caretaker, including an ATM.

Hotel Gharana - ₹1,613 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 4.1-star rating hotel with a restaurant and provide kids meals. 

Local Food Hotels

Eating local food in the local hotels with the local people is one of the best memories you can create as a new person in the locality. Check out these local hotels to enjoy your next meal or snacks here:

Anas Biriyani House - Best for biriyani.
The Spice Affair - Best for all types of food. 
Food Plaza - Best for South Indian breakfast Items. 

Popular Bihari Food

• Litti Chokha: Treat your taste buds with the traditional Bihari dish, Litti Chokha. Made with wheat flour and gram flour, Litti comes with a spicy mixture of mashed vegetables known as Chokha.

• Thekua: Satisfy your sweet tooth with Thekua, a famous Bihari sweet made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee. The unique blend of ingredients gives it a distinct flavour.

• Sattu Paratha: Start your day with a hearty breakfast of Sattu Paratha, a stuffed flatbread filled with roasted gram flour, spices, and herbs. It's a nutritious and flavoursome choice.

Travel Expenses

Your trip to Ramshila Hill is a budget-friendly destination and depends on how you spend on things. You can explore this site within a day and use the remaining time to explore the nearby places mentioned above. Hotels, food, accommodation, and transportation charges are some mandatory expenses, and you might need ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per day for a person. 

Travel Tips

• Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the hill and its surroundings. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the diverse terrain.

• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: The climate here can sometimes be unexpected. So pack with layers for cooler evenings and comfortable clothing for daytime exploration.

• Local Etiquette: Make yourself home with local customs and traditions. Respect cultural norms, particularly when visiting religious sites, and interact with locals with politeness.

Safety Tips

• Health Precautions: Carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications. Stay hydrated, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities, and be mindful of any health advisories.

• Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure. Use a money belt or secure pockets to deter pickpockets, and be cautious with your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

• Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency contact numbers and the contact details of your embassy or consulate. Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member for added safety.

Conclusion

Ramshila Hill is one of the unexplored gems of Bihar and India. Only a few people visit this site each year, making it an ideal destination to enjoy a peaceful and hassle-free travel place. From giving an adventurous feeling to nature vibes, Ramshila Hill will go beyond your expectations. 

Thought to Inspire 🏃‍♂️

“Travel becomes a strategy for accumulating photographs.” – Susan Sontag

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