THEN - This is another
place near Hampi related to Rama's journey. After obtaining Sugreeva's help and
the monkey army, Rama journeyed southward to Lanka to rescue Sita. Beset by
monsoons, they had to take shelter, and the Malyavanta hill was where they
spent their time until the monsoon season was over.
NOW – This is one of the
few hilltops in Hampi where you can reach by a vehicle. The highlight of this
hill is the large temple campus at the top. The main temple, popularly known as
Malayavanta Raghunatha Temple, is dedicated to Rama.
There is a gigantic
boulder, over which a whitewashed shrine tower is located. The shrine beneath
it houses a Shiva Linga. In front of the shrine, on the rocky floor, is an
array of carved Nandi statues and Shiva Lingas. There is a cleft of the floor,
which is believed to have been caused by Laxmana's arrow.
The view and ambiance here
are remarkable, and tranquil. The west side opening of the temple leads to a
cliff with a 360 degree panoramic view.
