Chasing Legends – 7 Indian Destinations Steeped in Myth and Mystery
Amanpreet Singh | Apr 10, 2025, 19:11 IST
India is more than just a land of monuments and festivals—it's a living storybook of myths, gods, and ancient wisdom. From floating stones believed to be from Ramayana to caves where sages are said to have meditated, every corner whispers a tale. In this article, we explore seven places in India where myth and travel meet, offering not just a journey through landscapes but also through timeless legends.
1. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu – The Bridge to Lanka
Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
According to the Ramayana, Rameswaram is where Lord Rama and his vanara army built the legendary Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge) to cross over to Lanka. Some locals believe remnants of the bridge can still be seen between India and Sri Lanka. The Ramanathaswamy Temple here is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and offers spiritual depth along with historical intrigue.
Legend: Built with floating stones etched with Lord Rama’s name.
2. Kurukshetra, Haryana – Battlefield of the Mahabharata
Legend: The chariot wheels of time turned here—literally and spiritually.
3. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh – The Suspended Pillar Mystery
Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
This temple town is associated with the Ramayana, where Jatayu is believed to have fallen after his battle with Ravana. The Veerabhadra Temple here is famous for its architectural marvel—a hanging pillar that does not touch the ground.
Legend: Jatayu's spirit is said to still guard this space.
4. Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh – Where Buddha Performed Miracles
Myth & Mind: A place of peace and Buddhist wisdom.
5. Guwahati’s Kamakhya Temple – Goddess Power Personified
Kamakhya Temple
Kamakhya is one of the most powerful Shakti Peethas, where the goddess’s womb is believed to have fallen. It is a major center of Tantra and mythological energy. The annual Ambubachi Mela here marks the goddess’s menstruation cycle.
Legend: Sacred femininity embodied in stone and devotion.
6. Mount Kailash (via India’s Lipulekh Pass) – Abode of Shiva
Myth: Time is said to move differently near this divine peak.
7. Hampi, Karnataka – The Kingdom of the Vanaras
Myth: The mighty Hanuman trained and lived here.
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