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Ravan tried to build five stairs from Earth to Heaven, but fell asleep on the fourth. Discover the legend of the unfinished fifth stair
The four stairs are in Haridwar, Pauriwala, Churadeshwar Mahadev Temple, and Kinnaur Kailash.
When we hear the name Ravan, we often think of a mighty warrior, a learned scholar, and a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. But few know about one of his most extraordinary and audacious wishes: a desire that went beyond human imagination.
According to ancient mythology, Ravanaonce wished for humans to reach heaven directly, without having to perform good deeds. To fulfil this impossible dream, he performed severe penance to Lord Shiva and asked for the boon of immortality.
Lord Shiva’s Challenge
Lord Shiva agreed, but with one condition: if Ravan could build five stairs from Earth to Heaven in just one night, he would not only become immortal but would also open the pathway to heaven for humankind.
Determined and unwavering, Ravan began building the stairs with immense power and devotion. His effort was unmatched, and his story continues to symbolise sheer willpower and faith.
But destiny had other plans. Before completing the fifth stair, Ravan fell asleep, leaving his divine construction incomplete.
The Four Stairs To Heaven That Still Exist
It is believed that the four stairs Ravan built still exist today, each holding deep spiritual meaning and divine energy. The unfinished fifth stair remains a reminder of human limitation and the imperfection of even the greatest beings.
- Haridwar, Uttarakhand – The First Stair: The first stair is believed to be at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. The word Pauri itself means stair. Pilgrims bathe here in the sacred waters of the Ganges, believing it brings them closer to salvation, perhaps continuing Ravana’s dream in spirit.
- Pauriwala, Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh – The Second Stair: The second stair is said to have been built near the Pauriwala Shiva Temple in Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh. This site has been a centre of worship since ancient times and continues to draw devotees seeking divine blessings.
- Churadeshwar Mahadev Temple, Sirmaur – The Third Stair: The third stair leads to the Churadeshwar Mahadev Temple, located high in the mountains. The path to reach it is steep and challenging, symbolising spiritual ascent. Devotees say reaching this temple brings peace and divine visions.
- Kinnaur Kailash Mountain, Himachal Pradesh – The Fourth Stair: The fourth stair lies on Kinnaur Kailash, believed to be Lord Shiva’s sacred abode. Here, Ravan’s efforts came to a halt as he fell asleep, leaving the fifth and final stair unfinished. Even today, the site radiates a sense of divine energy and mystery.
A Legacy Of Faith And Determination
Ravan’s ‘Stairs of Heaven’ were not just a physical construction but a spiritual symbol, representing his quest to transcend human boundaries and unite mortals with the divine.
These four stairs still stand as reminders of Ravan’s intelligence, devotion, and indomitable will, echoing his unfinished journey to heaven.
October 24, 2025, 14:50 IST
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