Sita Temple and Avani Hill

Sita Temple and Avani Hill is a hilltop religious complex in Avani village, Kolar District, Karnataka, about 95 km from Bengaluru. The site comprises the Sita Temple within the Ramalingeshwara temple group atop Avani Betta. It is notable for its association with the Ramayana as the believed birthplace of Lava and Kusha, and for its historic Dravidian architecture built by Nolamba, Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties.

Visitors can expect a short trek up Avani Hill via stone steps and rocky paths to reach the temple complex at the summit. The complex includes the Sita Temple and the Ramalingeshwara group of temples with stone pillars, lingas and carved mantapas. The hilltop offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and rocky boulders. The environment is quiet and pilgrim-focused with small shrines, open courtyards and natural rock formations to explore.

The Ramalingeshwara temple complex at Avani dates to the 10th century under the Nolamba dynasty and was later expanded by the Cholas and Vijayanagara rulers. It exhibits Dravidian architecture with ornate pillars and shrines. The complex houses lingas traditionally associated with Rama and his brothers. Avani was historically an important religious centre in the Kolar region.

The site is revered in Hindu tradition as the ashram of Sage Valmiki where Goddess Sita is believed to have lived during exile and given birth to Lava and Kusha. It is an important pilgrimage destination, especially for devotees of Rama and Sita, and hosts religious gatherings and festivals related to the Ramayana.