The Fallen Crest of the Sanjeevani Mountain
Rising approximately 65 feet above the surrounding plains of Ayodhya stands Mani Parvat, a historic hillock steeped in dual mythological and historical significance. According to beloved regional legend, when Lord Hanuman was flying through the night carrying the Dronagiri mountain with the life-saving Sanjeevani herb to heal wounded Lakshmana in Lanka, a small crest of the sacred mountain broke off and dropped onto the soil of Ayodhya, forming this gentle hill.
Buddhist Relics and Archaeological Findings
Beyond its Ramayana lore, Mani Parvat is an important site for archaeological scholars. Ancient Chinese traveler Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) documented visiting Ayodhya (Saketa) in the 7th century CE, describing a great stupa erected by Emperor Ashoka near this hill containing relics of the Buddha. Excavations around the mound have uncovered early Mauryan and Kushan terracotta artifacts.
Exploring Mani Parvat & Adjacent Sugriva Parvat
Devotees climb a flight of stone stairs shaded by ancient trees to reach the top of Mani Parvat, where a shrine enshrines idols of Rama and Sita alongside a sacred footprint slab. The vantage point offers sweeping 360-degree views across the terracotta rooftops, temple spires, and green foliage of Ayodhya.