Rama and Lakshmana along with Sage Viswamitra crossed the river Ganga and reached its northern shore. Before reaching the city of Mithila, Rama saw an Ashrama in a state of antiquity, and made enquiries to Viswamitra. Viswamitra informed the prince that the ashram belonged to Sage Gauthama who was held in reverence even by the Devas. He was living with his wife Ahalya in the ashram. Once, when the sage had gone to the river for bathing, Lord Indra came to the ashram disguised as the sage, desiring Ahalya. When she realised that the head of the devas himself approached her evincing an interest in her, she happily consented out of pride.

After enjoying the ephemeral pleasure, Ahalya hurried Indra to leave the place before Gauthama returned, but as the latter was leaving, the sage returned and came to know about their daring escapade. He cursed them by which Ahalya turned into a stone. He cursed her that she would stand petrified and will be invisible to everyone, till Rama comes to see her.

Viswamitra, then asked Rama to enter the ashram. On entering, Rama saw the beautiful form of Ahalya. She looked like a full moon hidden by the clouds and mist, like the flame leaping out of the fire hidden by the smoke, and like the Sun's rays which appear uncontrollable on the surface of the water. She got absolved from Gauthama's curse as soon as Rama entered the ashram. She became visible to others too.

Rama and Lakshmana paid their respects to her and she reciprocated with equal reverence. Sage Gauthama who had left the ashram to perform penance, returned and honoured the guests. Then Viswamitra along with Rama and Lakshmana entered the city of Mithila (Valmiki Ramayanam, Balakandam, Sargam 49).