On January 22nd, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi successfully inaugurated the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. Nationwide celebrations marked Lord Ram’s successful return to his birthplace, Ayodhya. The city of Ayodhya, also known as ‘Ram Nagri,’ attracted international attention. It sparkled with an immense display of clay lamps and lit the night sky with brilliant fireworks in numerous locations. While the new Ayodhya Temple is the most popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Rama, numerous lesser-known temples across India offer a unique and enriching experience for devotees and history buffs alike.
Here are some of the must visit lesser known Ram Temples across India:
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Ramateertham, Andhra Pradesh
Nestled in the beautiful hills of Vizianagaram, Ramateertham lures travelers with its serenity and rich tradition. The old temple, which is thought to have been built in the 17th century, features a splendid idol of Lord Rama alongside those of Lakshmana and Sita. The temple’s calm atmosphere, enhanced by the babbling waters of the Ramateertham tank, makes it an excellent location for spiritual refreshment.
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Ranganathaswamy Temple, Trichy, Tamil Nadu
This enormous temple complex, called Srirangam, is India’s highly respected Vaishnavite pilgrimage site. The temple’s primary deity is Ranganatha, a reclining form of Vishnu, but it also has a magnificent shrine devoted to Rama. The Dravidian architectural style and the elaborate sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayana add to the temple’s grandeur.
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Raghunath Temple, Jammu
The Raghunath Temple, located in the center of Jammu, is devoted to Lord Ram. Although Jammu is well known for the Vaishno Devi temple, the Raghunath temple has its allure. The temple complex, created in the nineteenth century, combines North Indian and Dravidian architectural traditions.
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Ram Mandir, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
The historic town of Orchha, decorated with historical forts and palaces, also has a lesser-known Ram Temple. The temple, built during Raja Madhukar Shah’s reign in the 17th century, features beautiful paintings representing Lord Rama’s life. Surrounded by thick greenery and overlooking the Betwa River, the Orchha Ram Mandir is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its architectural magnificence.
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Triprayar Sri Rama Temple, Thrissur, Kerala
The Triprayar Sri Rama Temple is located in the peaceful town of Thrissur, in the heart of Kerala’s rich landscapes. While Kerala is known for its extravagant temple celebrations, this temple is notable for its rites and customs. The yearly Kodiyettam festival, marked by the ceremonial flag hoisting, draws devotees from all over.
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Rama Raja Temple, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
The Rama Raja Temple in Orchha is a must-see for anybody visiting. Raja Madhukar Shah originally built the structure as a palace, but it was eventually converted into a temple devoted to Lord Ram. This temple is unique blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural elements distinguishes it.
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Kodandarama Temple, Munnar, Kerala
Nestled atop a scenic hill station in Munnar, Kerala, the Kodandarama Temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding region. This temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, is well-known for its unique Kerala architectural style and serene setting. The temple’s yearly Ramayana Kathakali performance, which showcases scenes from the epic, is a notable cultural draw.
