Ayodhya, famously known as Lord Rama's birthplace, was historically called the city of Saketa. It is a sacred city situated on the banks of the River Sarayu, which holds great importance in Hinduism. It was the capital of the ancient Kosala Kingdom, ruled by King Dashratha, as mentioned in the epic Ramayana. Ayodhya is one of the top pilgrimage sites for Hindus, with key attractions like Ramkot, Hanuman Garhi, and Mani Parbat.
The grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is set to be inaugurated with great enthusiasm on January 22, 2024, which marks a historic celebration. After witnessing the grand opening, you can explore other significant sites in Ayodhya and throughout Uttar Pradesh. You can check out our list of must-see places for your visit this January during the grand opening of the Ram Mandir.
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh located 136 km from Ayodhya, is known for its cultural and historical legacy. Lord Rama gifted the city to his brother Lakshmana after returning from a 14-year exile. Later, it flourished under the Mughals and Nawabs of Awadh, resulting in several famous architectural feats. Today, Lucknow is a cultural mosaic of Hindu and Islamic heritage with many heritage sites and monuments to explore.
The Bara Imambara is a famous 18th-century monument in Lucknow. The iconic Bhul Bhulaiya, or Labyrinth, is the most famous feature of the monument that often bewilders visitors. Additionally, the site houses the historic Asfi Mosque and a Shahi Baoli, or stepwell, which are worth exploring for their intricate details and beauty.
Address: Hussainabad Trust Rd, Machchhi Bhavan, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226003
Timings: 6 am to 5 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fees: INR 50 for adults and INR 25 for children. INR 500 for foreign tourists.
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple in Lucknow has a miraculous history. Constructed by Hindu saint Neem Karoli Baba, it was destroyed in a flood, leaving only the Hanuman statue in the innermost sanctum unharmed. The Uttar Pradesh government funded the temple's reconstruction, and today, it has a magnificent idol of Lord Hanuman and impressive frescoes depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
Address: Maurya Path, Khargapur, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226010
Kalagaon, aka Arts Village, is a unique hub in Lucknow, bringing to life the region's traditional arts and crafts. It's a living museum where visitors can witness the crafting of chikan work, traditional embroidery that has adorned garments for centuries. Visitors can also enjoy traditional dishes on wooden planks.
Address: Anaura, Indira Naher, Faizabad Rd, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 227308
Gomti Riverfront Park, situated on the banks of the Gomti River, is an ideal getaway for families, fitness enthusiasts, nature lovers, travellers, picnickers, and joggers. It features well-maintained walkways, lush lawns, boating facilities, and mesmerising musical fountain shows. According to the Puranas, bathing in the river on Ekadashi can wash away your sins.
Address: Jiamau, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226010
Timings: 6 am to 10 pm
Entry Fees: INR 10
Prayagraj, also known as Allahabad, is a city located just 160 km from Ayodhya, where three major rivers meet at the Triveni Sangam. This holy pilgrimage site is a gathering place for Hindu pilgrims during the Kumbh Mela. The city has a rich history with ancient temples and Mughal and colonial-era structures. Learning about India's vibrant history and traditions is a must-visit destination.
Triveni Sangam is a holy site in Hinduism where three sacred rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, and Sarasvati—converge. It is a place of immense spiritual significance, visited by pilgrims from all over the country during the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years. The banks of the Triveni Sangam are lined with temples and ghats, creating a spiritual atmosphere that reflects centuries of religious devotion and cultural heritage.
Address: 38k/11a, Naya Purwa, Kareli, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211016
Nagvasuki Mandir is an important site in Hinduism situated on the banks of the River Ganga. It's believed to be where Lord Vasuki rested after churning the ocean of milk. The temple, along with one in Nashik, is believed to have the power to liberate one from the effects of "Kaal Sarp Dosha." The temple's origins date back to the 10th century, and it's believed to have been built by Shridhar Bhonsle in the 18th century. The inner sanctum of the temple houses Lord Vasuki and other deities. The temple observes a grand fair during Naag Panchami. Don't miss the chance to visit this ancient temple, which is a great example of mediaeval Indian temple architecture.
Address: Daraganj Ghat, nearby Rameshwar Mandir, Daraganj, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211006
Timings: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm
Devari Village in Prayagraj, located on the banks of the Tons River, is well-known for its vibrant handmade bamboo and pottery goods. It's slated to be a bustling tourist destination by the time of Mahakumbh 2025. Visitors can enjoy picnics and boat rides and buy local products. Plans to set up bamboo cottages are in the pipeline to promote local tourism and businesses.
Address: Devari, Koraon Tehsil, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, 212106
Naimisharanya and Chhapaiya are both important for Hinduism. Naimisharanya is a sacred forest mentioned in the Puranic texts Ramayana and Mahabharata. Chhapaiya is the birthplace of Swaminarayan and a crucial pilgrimage site. Explore both places which house some of the most important sites and monuments.
Chakra Tirtha is a sacred pond in Hinduism. It was created by Lord Brahma during a yajna. A dip in the pond purifies the body, mind, and soul. Visitors can take a holy dip, offer prayers, or meditate at the site.
Address: Shri Mahakali Mansa Devi Temple, Near Lalita Devi Temple Chakratirth Road Naimisharanya, Uttar Pradesh 261402
Timings: 5 am to 8 pm
The Lalita Devi temple in Naimisharanya is a revered Hindu shrine with impressive architecture and grand elephant statues. It's an important site for worship and a must-visit for travellers in the area.
Address: Naimisharanya, Misrikh-cum-Neemsar, Uttar Pradesh 261402
Timings: 5 am to 6 pm
Shree Swaminarayan Mandir is a grand temple dedicated to Swaminarayan, who founded the Swaminarayan Sampraday. The temple boasts intricate architecture and a serene ambience. It is a must-visit destination for travellers.
Address: Babhnan - Mankapur Rd, Chhapaiya, Tenduva Ranipur, Uttar Pradesh 271305
Timings: 5 am to 8 pm
Narayan Sarovar Lake is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located outside the Swaminarayan temple complex in Chhapaiya. Swaminarayan used to take a bath here every day. A dip in the pond is believed to cleanse one of their mortal sins. Visitors can enjoy a spiritual bath or stroll in the serene natural surroundings.
Address: Babhnan - Mankapur Rd, Chhapaiya, Tenduva Ranipur, Uttar Pradesh 271305
