Chapter XXXVIII: Section XXXVIII

Having been bent upon mounting Suvela, Rama, followed by Lakshmana, addressed in sweet and excellent words, Sugriva, and that righteous night-ranger, Bibhishana, versed in counsel and conversant with precepts, who was devoted to him,--saying,--"We shall all ascend this mount Suvela, bedight with metals; and pass this night even here. And (from here) will we view the abode of that Rakshasa who, foul of soul, hath carried off my spouse, to bring destruction down on himself,--who knoweth nor morality nor good conduct nor behaviour (conducive to the dignity of his descent),--and who, in consequence of his base propensity, hath committed himself to so heinous a course of action". Having decided thus, Rama, filled with wrath at Ravana, coming to Suvela, ascended its variegated plateau. And Lakshmana, collected, went in his wake. And, upraising bow and arrow, Sugriva, (ever) engaged in valorous acts, accompanied with Bibhishana as well as his counselors, following him, also ascended (the mountain). And all those rangers of mountains, gifted with the vehemence of the Wind in hundreds ascended mount Suvela, where Raghava was stationed. And ascending the mountain in a short time, they all beheld from its summit the city, appearing to be built on the air. And the monkey-leaders beheld Lanka, exceedingly splendid with noble gateways; gracefully enclosed with a wall; thronging with Rakshasas; and defended by sable Rakshasas. And the foremost of monkeys saw these appearing like another wall (overtopping the one beneath). And on seeing the Rakshasas, the monkeys burning for battle set up various roars in the presence of Rama. Then the Sun, crimsoned with Eve, ascended the Setting-hill and Night came, illumined by the Moon at his full. Then the master of the monkey-army, Rama, saluted and honored by Bibhishana, accompanied by Lakshmana as well as the leaders of the monkeys, sojourned happily on the breast of Suvela.