Did Ram, Hanuman, Sita and Ravan Actually Visit the Lepakshi Village in Andhra Pradesh?

A small village in Andhra Pradesh brims with countless legends and stories carved beneath the famous stone carvings. Lepakshi, a quaint village located 15 km east of Hindupur and 120 km north of Bengaluru, is known for its historical importance and religious connection. Both are integrated, making this place a curious spot to discover. Out of the many famous attractions, here is the Veerbhadra temple, which is associated with many mythological tales. One of which is the visit of Hanuman, Lord Ram and Mata Sita. The episode which gives this village its name—Lepakshi. 

Let us dive into the legends, but first, let’s unravel the meaning behind the name of the place. “Lepakshi” itself holds great significance in the epic Ramayan. According to legends, when Ravan (the 10-headed king of the demons) was heading towards Lanka after abducting Sita, a bird named Jatayu tried to intervene and save the Devi. While fighting in the fierce battle, Jatayu lost its strength and fell to the ground. The place where the bird fell was visited by Lord Ram and Lakshman. After knowing the bird’s valour in saving Sita, lord Ram helped him attain moksha by uttering the words “Le Pakshi,” which is Telugu for “Rise, bird”. Hence, the place was named Lepakshi.

Another ardent devotee of lord Ram, Hanuman, is also associated with this place. It is believed that he rested here while he was on his way to deliver a message to Lord Sita in Lanka. Some stories also mention that he met Ram at Lepakshi before his mission to Lanka. The famous Veerabhadra temple in this village has also been visited by Hanuman. He prayed to Veerabhadra—an incarnation of Shiva—as part of his journey’s spiritual strength.

Within the famed Veerabhadra Temple, there also lies a mysterious footprint, debated by many to be that of Sita and Hanuman. The large mark is preserved in stone and is constantly wet, even in the driest seasons. Local lore says this is where Sita rested while waiting for Hanuman’s return during the Lanka rescue mission. The constant presence of water is seen as symbolic of her purity and divine connection.

While the legends draw spiritual seekers, the Veerabhadra Temple attracts art and architecture lovers alike. Built-in the 16th century, the temple is an extraordinary example of Vijayanagara artistry—with intricate carvings, majestic sculptures, and paintings that narrate stories from the Ramayan, Mahabharat, and Purans.

The Lepakshi village has many attractions like the famous hanging pillar, which appears to defy gravity, barely touching the ground. It’s said that this architectural marvel symbolizes the suspension of disbelief that mythology often asks of its believers. When you enter the temple, you will find the depictions of gods, sages and scenes from Ram’s life and one of India’s largest monolithic Nandi statues of about 20 feet tall and 30 feet long. 

This small but mysterious village is a reminder of how mythology, mystery, history and architecture combine to create a magical destination.