Ayodhya, located on the banks of the Sarayu river in Uttar Pradesh, India, serves as the administrative center for both the Ayodhya district and division. Known to many as Saket, this ancient city holds significant historical and religious importance as it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a central figure in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Historically, Ayodhya was the capital of the ancient Kosala Kingdom and is renowned as a vital pilgrimage site for Hindus, often cited in sacred texts like the Brahmanda Purana and the Garuda Purana as one of the seven holiest places in India.
The city’s spiritual significance is further highlighted by its elevation as one of the ‘Mokshdayini Sapt Puris’—the seven cities that grant moksha or liberation. Ayodhya’s association with Lord Rama enhances its sanctity, making it a focal point for numerous religious festivities and rituals that draw pilgrims from across the globe. The serene environment of the city, coupled with its rich cultural tapestry, offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Hindu traditions and lore.
Despite its elevation of 93 meters above sea level, Ayodhya’s charm isn’t just in its spiritual atmosphere but also in its historical architecture and community life that revolves around the teachings of the Ramayana. The city’s ancient origins and its continuous importance in Hindu worship underscore its role not only as a historical city but as a living monument to Hindu faith and spirituality. Whether one visits as a pilgrim or a curious traveler, Ayodhya provides a profound experience of peace and devotion.
Ayodhya, steeped in spiritual history, hosts several sacred sites for visitors. The Ram Janmabhoomi, revered as Lord Ram’s birthplace, lies beside the serene Sarayu River. Not far, the Hanuman Garhi temple challenges pilgrims with 76 steps leading to a tribute to Lord Hanuman. Kanak Bhawan, known for its golden idols of Rama and Sita, and the Nageshwarnath Temple, founded by Rama’s son Kush, enrich the city’s divine charm. Additionally, the Gulab Bari, a tomb set amidst rose gardens, and the ancient Treta Ke Thakur Temple, highlight Ayodhya’s historical and religious significance.
Ram Janmabhoomi, meaning “Ram’s Birthplace,” is a sacred site in Ayodhya believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, a major deity in Hinduism and the hero of the epic Ramayana. Situated along the Sarayu River, this revered location marks Ayodhya as the ancient capital of the Kosala Kingdom and the setting of many events in Lord Ram’s life, including his birth, exile, and return.
Hanuman Garhi, located in Sai Nagar, is a historic 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is a tradition for pilgrims to visit this temple before proceeding to the Ram Temple. The temple, which sits atop a hill and is reached by climbing 76 steps, houses a small idol of Hanuman and features an interior cave decorated with various statues, including that of Hanuman and his mother, Maa Anjani.
Kanak Bhawan, found in the northeastern part of Ram Janmabhoomi in Tulsi Nagar, is known as the “Golden Palace.” Established in 1891, this temple honors Lord Rama and his wife, Goddess Sita, with three golden-crowned idols housed under a silver roof. It is said to have been a gift from Rama’s stepmother, Kaikeyi.
Treta Ke Thakur Temple, situated along Naya Ghat, features idols of Lord Ram, Sita, and other important figures from the Ramayana, all carved from a single block of black sandstone. The temple, believed to have been built over 300 years ago by King Kullu on the site of Lord Rama’s Ashwamedha Yagna, was renovated in the 1700s by Maratha Queen Ahilyabai Holkar.
In Ayodhya, a variety of accommodations cater to different preferences and budgets. The Taraji Resort Hotel & Restaurant offers a relaxed setting near major attractions, while the Shri Ram Hotel is conveniently close to the Kanak Bhawan Temple and the train station. For those seeking affordability, Aagman Hotel is well-placed for exploring the city, and The Ramayana Hotel provides more luxurious options with superior and executive rooms.
This Informal Hotel Is 5 Km from The Enduring Kanak Bhavan Temple and 4 Km from Ghanta Ghar Chowk.
₹4,550
3 Star Hotel
Hotel is an 8-minute walk from the Kanak Bhawan temple and 11 minutes by foot from Ayodhya Junction train station.
₹2,464
2 Star Hotel
Great location overall for sightseeing, recreation, dining and getting around
₹1,431
3 Star Hotel
Superior rooms have king beds, while Executive Rooms offer a choice of king or twin beds.
₹ 5,996
4 Star Hotel
In Ayodhya, several hotels near the railway station offer convenient accommodations for visitors. LD Guest House is well-located for exploring local sights and dining, and boasts friendly service. Saket Hotel is known for its spacious rooms and moderate pricing, coupled with commendable staff and good food. RAMALAYAM, a short drive from major temples, provides a strategic base for spiritual and historical excursions. THE TRIBHUVAN RESIDENCY offers a comfortable stay, closely located to both the railway station and the famous Shree Ramjanmbhumi Temple, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for ease and convenience.
LD Guest House with spacious and clean rooms. The staff is cooperative and helpful, providing guidance for local sightseeing.
₹1,546
3 Star Hotel
Great Hotel With Large Rooms And At Moderate Rate Friendly Staff And Good Food served hot and quickly.
₹2,150
3 Star Hotel
Located 750 meters from Ayodhya Railway Station, this site is just a 2.8 km drive to the Shree Ramjanmbhumi Temple.
₹2,595
3 Star Hotel
Positioned 1.3 km away from Ayodhya Railway Station, it is only a 1.7 km drive to reach the Shree Ramjanmbhumi Temple.
₹5,656
3 Star Hotel
In Ayodhya, a variety of restaurants offer delightful dining experiences. Hanuman Vatika Restaurant is known for its decorative ambiance and a wide range of delicious foods. Raghukul Restaurant provides a homely food experience with polite service staff. New Parag Restaurant & Dairy in Ranopali is ready to serve delicious meals, while Chitra Bhojnalaya is celebrated for its tasty and reasonably priced food, making it a top choice for visitors.
well decorative and fully comfortable to enjoy ur day and delicious foods on ur choice.
₹200–400
Food is just like home and very good service staffs are very polite
₹200–400
New Parag Restaurant Ranopali Ayodhya is Ready to Serve you tha delicious food.
₹200–400
Tasty food at reasonable price. Best Place for tasty foods.
₹200–400
Ayodhya is accessible by various modes of transportation. You can fly into Mahirishi Valmiki International Airport, just 10 kilometers from the city, or use other nearby airports in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, and Varanasi. The city is also well-connected by train, with Ayodhya Cantt and Ayodhya Station linking to major cities. Additionally, a strong road network makes it easy to reach Ayodhya by bus from cities like Lucknow, Delhi, and Gorakhpur.
Ayodhya is well-served by its two main railway stations, Ayodhya Cantt and Ayodhya Station, which connect the city to nearly all major cities and towns.
Flights from major cities land at Mahirishi Valmiki International Airport, which is about 10 kilometers from Ayodhya Dham.
Ayodhya enjoys a robust road connection with major cities in Uttar Pradesh. The city is approximately 130 kilometers from Lucknow.
In Ayodhya, private buses primarily serve the city’s busiest routes as government buses are not part of the local transport system. There’s a push to replace shared auto-rickshaws with vans, but for now, shared auto-rickshaws are a common sight and operate on various routes throughout the city.
Rs. 200 for short-distance journeys
In Ayodhya, the availability of traditional cabs is limited, as the area is not a major tourist destination yet. However, travelers can still find auto-rickshaws and manual rickshaws readily available for getting around. While these provide a simple and efficient way to explore the city, bike taxis are also an option.
Starting at only 9₹/KM
Rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Ayodhya, offering both shared and individual rides. They operate 24/7, making it easy to travel to different parts of the city. Typically, rickshaws don’t use meters. Rental taxis are becoming increasingly popular among tourists for city travel.
Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10-200.Rs
For those looking to explore Ayodhya at their own pace, renting a vehicle is a convenient option. Various rental services provide cars and bikes, allowing visitors to tailor their travel to their preferences and schedules. This flexibility makes it easier to visit multiple sites and attractions throughout the city without depending on scheduled transport.
Starting at only ₹1499.
Ayodhya, located in the northern part of India, experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, particularly in March and October when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city. While winter, from November to February, is considered peak tourist season due to the cold but comfortable climate, summers can be quite harsh. Monsoon season sees less tourist activity due to considerable rainfall, although the city’s well-equipped tourist spots ensure comfort and accessibility.
The recent consecration of the Ram Mandir has significantly boosted Ayodhya’s popularity as a major tourist attraction. Traveling during October is especially recommended as the post-monsoon weather is pleasant and the city prepares for the grand celebrations of Diwali, decking itself in festive decor. This period allows visitors to not only enjoy the mild weather but also experience Ayodhya’s cultural richness at its peak.
The Distance of Ayodhya to Mumbai is (1,573.3 km) via Mumbai – Agra Rd
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The Distance of Ayodhya to Delhi is (707.8km) via Agra – Lucknow Expy and Yamuna Expy
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The Distance of Ayodhya to Bangalore is (1,896.3 km) via NH 44.
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The Distance of Ayodhya to Chennai is (1,929.6 km) via NH 16.
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When planning a visit to Ayodhya, it’s crucial to book your travel and accommodation well in advance, particularly during peak seasons such as Diwali or other major Hindu festivals when the city attracts a large number of pilgrims and tourists. Early planning helps avoid the hassle of last-minute bookings and ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable trip. Ayodhya is a city with deep historical and religious significance, so respecting local customs and traditions during your stay is important. This respect includes dressing modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites, and being mindful not to damage any historical structures.
For a safe and pleasant experience, it’s advisable to eat at established and reputable restaurants rather than street food stalls, which might not meet hygiene standards. Ayodhya offers a variety of local cuisines that can be safely enjoyed in cleaner, more reliable eateries. Always ensure you have adequate travel insurance, and familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts. It’s also a good idea to travel in groups, especially when exploring more secluded areas of the city, to ensure safety and easier navigation.
Lastly, make sure to keep track of all necessary tickets and passes required for entering various historical and religious sites in Ayodhya. Purchasing these in advance can save time and avoid the inconvenience of long lines, making your visit smoother. By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Ayodhya and enjoy a memorable visit to this sacred city.
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