The town of Panchwati is situated on the shores of the River Godavari and is considered quite sacred. The literal meaning of Panchwati is five, which stands for Panch and banyan trees, which is vata. It is this place where five such banyan trees are found and is holy according to the Hindu mythology.Every part of Panchwati has a deep connection with the epic Ramayana. During the 14 years exile period of Lord Rama, accompanied by his wife Sita and brother Laxmana had stayed at Panchwati. A cave here is also dedicated to Sita to commemorate this visit and is known as the Sita Gumpha. At this cave, legend says that, Lord Rama had offered his prayers to Lord Shiva. This age-old cave has a temple that contains an old Shivalinga, which is also popular.