Exploring Ayodhya: Best Places to Visit in the Sacred City

Ayodhya, the ancient city on the banks of the Sarayu River, holds a special place in the hearts of millions as the birthplace of Lord Rama. This sacred city in Uttar Pradesh is a timeless destination that blends spirituality, mythology, culture, and heritage. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking divine blessings or a traveller exploring India’s historic cities, here are the best places to visit in Ayodhya to make your journey meaningful and memorable.

1. Ram Janmabhoomi Temple

Ram Janmabhoomi Temple is undoubtedly the most significant among all places to visit in Ayodhya. It is believed to be the exact birthplace of Lord Rama. The temple is currently under construction and is set to become one of India’s grandest temples upon completion. Visiting here fills devotees with a sense of peace, devotion, and deep spiritual connection, making it the prime attraction in the city.

2. Hanuman Garhi

Situated in the heart of Ayodhya, Hanuman Garhi is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Devotees climb 76 steps to reach this hilltop shrine, where the idol of Lord Hanuman sitting on his mother Anjani’s lap is worshipped. According to belief, visiting Hanuman Garhi before Ram Janmabhoomi ensures that all obstacles in one’s path are removed. The temple also offers a panoramic view of the entire city.

3. Kanak Bhawan

Kanak Bhawan is a beautiful temple located near Ram Janmabhoomi. It is believed that this palace was gifted to Goddess Sita by Queen Kaikeyi after her marriage to Lord Rama. The temple is known for its intricately designed interiors and golden idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, making it a peaceful and divine place for devotees and visitors.

4. Nageshwarnath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Nageshwarnath Temple is one of the oldest temples in Ayodhya. According to legend, it was built by Kush, the son of Lord Rama, for a Nag-Kanya who found his armlet in the Sarayu River and was a devotee of Shiva. The temple is especially crowded during Mahashivratri when grand rituals are performed.

5. Treta Ke Thakur

Treta Ke Thakur is among the must-visit places to visit in Ayodhya as it is believed that Lord Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yagna here after his return from Lanka. The temple houses black sandstone idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharat, and Shatrughna. It opens only once a year on Kartik Ekadashi for public darshan, making it a special spiritual experience for devotees.

6. Sita Ki Rasoi

Sita Ki Rasoi is an ancient kitchen shrine located near Ram Janmabhoomi. It is believed to have been used by Goddess Sita during her stay in Ayodhya. The temple displays symbolic kitchen utensils and idols of Sita, Rama, and his brothers with their wives, reflecting the simplicity and grace of Goddess Sita.

7. Guptar Ghat

Guptar Ghat is a serene ghat on the banks of the Sarayu River where Lord Rama is believed to have taken Jal Samadhi (immersion into water) and departed from earth. The ghat has temples dedicated to Lord Rama and offers a peaceful ambiance for meditation, holy dips, and witnessing the mesmerizing evening aarti by the riverbank.

8. Mani Parvat

Mani Parvat is a small hillock that holds religious significance as it is believed that a part of the Sanjeevani Booti mountain carried by Lord Hanuman fell here. The hill offers panoramic views of Ayodhya and its temple spires. It is a calm spot ideal for meditation, photography, and understanding the mythological stories of the Ramayana era.

9. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan

Tulsi Smarak Bhawan is dedicated to the great poet-saint Goswami Tulsidas, who composed the Ramcharitmanas. The Bhawan houses a museum displaying manuscripts, artworks, and events from Tulsidas’s life. Regular Ramleela performances, cultural programs, and spiritual discourses are organised here, making it a cultural and spiritual hub for tourists and devotees.

10. Ramkatha Park

Ramkatha Park is a well-developed cultural park where spiritual discourses, cultural programs, yoga sessions, and religious gatherings are held. It has beautifully landscaped lawns and an open-air theatre, making it a perfect place to relax after temple visits or listen to Ram Katha and bhajans in the evening.

Best Time to Visit Ayodhya

The ideal time to explore the places to visit in Ayodhya is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. Visiting during festivals like Ram Navami, Diwali, and Kartik Purnima offers a spiritual experience with vibrant rituals, illuminated temples, and festive processions.

How to Reach Ayodhya

• By Air: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport connects Ayodhya to major Indian cities.
  
• By Train: Ayodhya Junction and Ayodhya Cantt are well connected to Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Prayagraj.
  
• By Road: Ayodhya is easily accessible by road with regular buses and taxis from nearby cities like Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Varanasi.
  

Conclusion

Ayodhya is not just a city but a timeless spiritual journey into India’s glorious past, mythology, and divine heritage. Each of these places to visit in Ayodhya holds stories of devotion, strength, and virtue that inspire millions of devotees and travellers. Plan your trip to this sacred city to experience peace, devotion, and the eternal blessings of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.