Located on the banks of the sacred Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya is revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama and one of the seven most sacred cities in Hinduism. With its newly built Ram Mandir, ancient temples, serene ghats, and vibrant festivals, Ayodhya is experiencing a tourism renaissance. This guide explores the most iconic and lesser-known Ayodhya tourist places that together create a deeply immersive experience.
🛕 1. Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
The spiritual heart of Ayodhya, Ram Janmabhoomi is believed to be the exact birthplace of Lord Rama. The newly constructed Ram Mandir is a stunning example of traditional Indian temple architecture, drawing millions of devotees and tourists.
- Highlights: Intricate carvings, grand sanctum, spiritual ambiance
- Experience: Attend the aarti, explore the temple complex, and witness the grandeur of the new structure
🏞️ 2. Ram Ki Paidi
A series of ghats along the Sarayu River, Ram Ki Paidi is a tranquil spot for spiritual reflection and ritual bathing. It’s especially vibrant during festivals like Deepotsav and Kartik Purnima.
- Highlights: Scenic river views, evening aarti, boat rides
- Experience: Take a holy dip, enjoy sunset views, and attend the mesmerizing Sarayu aarti
🕉️ 3. Hanuman Garhi
Located near Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi is a 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It’s customary for devotees to visit this temple before entering the Ram Mandir.
- Highlights: Fort-like structure, 76 steps leading to the shrine
- Experience: Offer prayers, climb the steps, and admire the panoramic view of Ayodhya
🛕 4. Kanak Bhawan
This ornate temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. Legend says it was gifted to Sita by Queen Kaikeyi after her marriage.
- Highlights: Golden-crowned idols, silver sanctum, vibrant interiors
- Experience: Witness the divine couple in their royal form and enjoy the peaceful ambiance
🕍 5. Dashrath Bhavan
Believed to be the royal residence of King Dashrath, father of Lord Rama, this site is steeped in mythology and devotion.
- Highlights: Traditional architecture, devotional chants
- Experience: Explore the palace-like structure and participate in daily bhajans
🛕 6. Nageshwarnath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is said to have been established by Kush, son of Lord Rama. It’s one of the oldest temples in Ayodhya.
- Highlights: Shiva lingam, historical significance
- Experience: Visit during Shivratri for special rituals and explore nearby bazaars
🏛️ 7. Treta Ke Thakur
This temple marks the spot where Lord Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna. It houses ancient idols carved from black stone.
- Highlights: Rare stone idols, spiritual importance
- Experience: Visit during Kartik Purnima when the temple opens to the public
🕌 8. Gulab Bari
A Mughal-era garden and tomb complex, Gulab Bari is the resting place of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula. It offers a glimpse into Ayodhya’s Islamic heritage.
- Highlights: Rose gardens, Indo-Islamic architecture
- Experience: Stroll through the gardens and admire the symmetrical design
🕌 9. Raja Mandir
Situated on the banks of the Sarayu, this temple is dedicated to various deities and offers a peaceful retreat.
- Highlights: Riverfront location, multiple shrines
- Experience: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and watch devotees perform rituals
🏞️ 10. Sita Ki Rasoi
Located near Ram Janmabhoomi, this site is believed to be the royal kitchen of Goddess Sita. It now functions as a temple and museum.
- Highlights: Ancient utensils, divine idols
- Experience: Learn about royal traditions and offer prayers to Sita Mata
🛕 11. Valmiki Ramayan Bhavan
Dedicated to Maharishi Valmiki, the author of the Ramayana, this temple celebrates the literary and spiritual legacy of the epic.
- Highlights: Ramayana murals, peaceful setting
- Experience: Explore the teachings of Valmiki and attend recitations
🛕 12. Bharat Kund
Located a short drive from Ayodhya, Bharat Kund is where Lord Rama’s brother Bharat performed penance and ruled in Rama’s name.
- Highlights: Sacred pond, quiet surroundings
- Experience: Meditate by the kund and learn about Bharat’s devotion
🛕 13. Mani Parvat
A small hillock believed to be part of the Sanjeevani mountain carried by Hanuman. It offers panoramic views of Ayodhya.
- Highlights: Mythological significance, scenic views
- Experience: Trek to the top and enjoy the spiritual serenity
🛕 14. Lakshman Ghat
Dedicated to Lord Lakshman, this ghat is another important bathing and ritual site along the Sarayu.
- Highlights: Peaceful riverbank, spiritual rituals
- Experience: Participate in morning prayers and enjoy riverside walks
🛕 15. Deepotsav Festival
Though not a place, Deepotsav is Ayodhya’s most iconic event, held annually around Diwali. Millions of diyas light up the ghats and temples, creating a surreal spectacle.
- Highlights: Guinness World Record for most diyas lit, cultural performances
- Experience: Visit during Deepotsav to witness Ayodhya in its most divine form
🧭 Planning Your Visit
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather and major festivals like Deepotsav and Ram Navami.
- April to June: Hot but ideal for early morning temple visits.
- Monsoon (July to September): Lush surroundings but occasional flooding near ghats.
🧳 Travel Tips
- Dress modestly and respectfully, especially in temples.
- Carry water and wear comfortable footwear for walking.
- Hire local guides for deeper insights into mythology and history.
- Book accommodations early during festival seasons.
✨ Final Thoughts
Ayodhya is not just a city—it’s a living epic. Every corner, ghat, and temple tells a story from the Ramayana, inviting you to step into a world where mythology meets reality. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or historical exploration, Ayodhya tourist places offer a journey that’s both timeless and transformative.
So pack your devotion, curiosity, and camera—and let Ayodhya reveal its divine secrets.
