It is difficult to escape the hold of spirituality in the holy and ancient city of Ayodhya. As Rama's birthplace, the city where the ring of temple bells echo in the air welcomes millions of Hindu pilgrims each year. Walking through the lanes of Ayodhya is much like stepping into the epic world of Ramayana, with temples devoted to the principal deity, Rama, dotting every corner. But for those who seek, there's more than that. The city grips you with its sandalwood-infused air and the reverberant chants, immersing you in a state of calm. In case you've always longed to visit Ayodhya, and you never have before, we have put together a guide to the must-explore gems of this enchanting city.
Must Visit Places
Ram Ki Paidi
On the Saryu River are many ghats called Ram Ki Paidi. The riverfront presents a stunning landscape, particularly when it is lit up at night. According to legend, these act as platforms for devotees who bathe in the river to wash away their sins.
Ram Janmabhoomi
The Ram Janmabhoomi, which translates to "the Birthplace of Ram," is considered the location of Ram's birth. Worshippers greatly regard this place, where a massive temple is being built, which will be inaugurated sometime this year.
Sita Ki Rasoi
It is thought that Sita Ki Rasoi, located in Rajkot on the northwest side of the Ram Janmanhoomi, was Sita's original kitchen. This holy location is now a temple with some vessels on display.
Hanuman Garhi
It's believed that King Vikramaditya ordered the construction of a temple now known as Hanuman Garhi. Hanuman is said to have resided here to protect Ayodhya. At the main temple, you will witness a stunning statue of a bal (young) Hanuman resting on his mother's lap.
Kanak Bhawan
One of Ayodhya's best and most well-known temples, Kanak Bhawan, is thought to have been given to Sita by Kaikei soon after her nuptials to Ram. Sita and Ram's private palace is located here.
Gulab Bari
It is the mausoleum of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, the third Nawab of Oudh (now Awadh). The actual tomb is located in the middle of a Charbagh Garden, which also features modest water channels and fountains. The structure is allegedly connected to a boali (stepwell) in Lucknow and served as a haven for the Nawab's heirs.
Places to Eat
Restaurants in Ayodhya serve mainly vegetarian food. The few places you might get non-vegetarian food are outside the city. Here are some vegetarian restaurants where you will get fresh and tasty food at nominal prices.
Where to go
Makan-Malai Restaurant, located on NH-27, Naya Ghat Hotel Ramprastha
Shri Kanak Sarkar Rasoi, located on Kanak Bhawan Road
Chandra Marwadi Bhojanalaya, located on Shringaar Haat
How to Reach
By air
The closest airport, Lucknow International Airport, is 152 kilometres away from Ayodhya. The distances between Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, and Varanasi airports are 158 km, 172 km, and 224 km, respectively.
By train
The district's two main railroad stations, Faizabad and Ayodhya, have excellent connections to all significant towns and cities. Faizabad is 128 kilometres away from Lucknow on the rail route.
By road
Bus services provided by the Uttar Pradesh Transport Corporation are accessible round-the-clock, and getting to Ayodhya is easy from everywhere.
Pro Tips
1. You cannot carry personal belongings (phone, wallet, charger, pen, notebook, etc.) inside the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. You can lock them up in the many lockers available outside the area, costing you around INR 40-50.
2. Book an e-rickshaw for the day, which will take you around the city. This will cost you INR 1000-1500.
RELATED Rebirth Of A Temple Town
ALSO READ Ayodhya to Vaishno Devi all you need to know about Indian Railways' 'Uttar Bharat Darshan' tour
