1. Read a review of Prof. Robert Goldman's translation of The Ramayana from the LA Times Book Review for an appraisal of the enduring significance and impact of the cycle of tales recounting the words and deeds of Rama, king of Ayodhya.

2. Read through Prof. Vartak's essay on the "Astronomical Dating of the Ramayan" for an overview of the historical and astronomical evidence warranting belief in the existence of an "historical" Rama.

3. Visit the Library of Hindu History for information on the history and development of the cultures of the Indian sub-continent. Of special interest will be the Chronology of the History of Bharat (India); links to resources dealing with the controversy over the Aryan Invasion Theory; and a brief discussion of the Builders of Indian Civilization, which outlines the secular and religious literary traditions of India.

4. Visit the official web site of the Indian Government's Ministry of External Affairs featuring information on culture, politics, trade, history and technology. Of particular interest are the Culture and History sections where you'll find a brief overview of Indian history from the Indus Valley Civilization to the Vedic Age and the Emergence of the State.

5. Visit the Hindu Universe's Scriptures Vault for a collection of Hindu sacred texts. Among other texts, you'll find online versions of the following scriptures:

Vedas

Ramayana

Bhagavad Gita

Upanishands

6. Rama's Quest for Sita (British Library): View a drawing depicting how Rama and his allies begin the attack on Lanka, Ravana's domain, to rescue Sita.

7. For an overview of the influence of The Ramayana on Thai arts & letters, read through John Hoskin's essay on "Ramakian in Thai Art."

8. Visit The Ramayana Story, a gallery of ten scenes from The Ramayana compiled, by Jean Johnson (NYU) who also provides a useful synopsis and reader's guide.

9. Don't forget to visit the Exploring Ancient World Civlization's Ancient India page for a comprehensive introduction and overview of Hindu history and culture. Here you'll find links to pictures, essays and links to materials dealing with Ancient India.

10. For an extensive time line of Ancient India scan through EAWC's "Chronology: India" page. Each entry is accompanied by an image or annotation which makes repeat visits a must.