n the Ramayana, Pampa Sarovar is mentioned as the place where Shabari , a disciple of the Rishi Matunga, directed Rama as he journeyed southwards on his quest to redeem Sita, his wife, from the demon king Ravana. According to the story, Shabari, a pious devotee of Rama, prayed faithfully everyday to see Rama. She lived in the ashram of her guru, Matunga in the place know known as Matunga Parvat, in Hampi. Before her guru Matunga Rishi died he told her she would certainly see Rama.


After his death, Shabari continued to live in the ashram awaiting Rama. Many years passed by and Shabari became an old woman, before Rama stopped at the ashram on his journey to Lanka. She proceeded to feed Rama and his brother Lakshman. Touched by her piety Rama and Lakshman bowed down at her feet. Then, they narrated to her the incident of Sita's kidnapping and Shabari suggested that they seek help from Hanuman and Sugriv of the monkey kingdom who lived further south near the Pampa lake.