Plan your Ayodhya trip: Must-visit places and devotional sites

New Delhi: Ayodhya, located on the banks of the Saryu River in Uttar Pradesh, is a holy city that resonates with spirituality, mythology, and history. It is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Ram and is one of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations. The city invites travellers and devotees from all around to soak into devotion and legacy. Ayodhya has many iconic temples, ancient ghats, and spiritual landmarks, each depicting tales of divinity and legendary acts.

A visit to Ayodhya is more than just a trip. It is an experience of faith and cultural richness. From the magnificence of the Ram Mandir, which is the epicentre of devotion, to the peaceful ghats of the Saryu River, the city offers an impressive mix of divinity and peace.

Must-Visit Temples in Ayodhya

Located in Uttar Pradesh, India, Ayodhya is one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and is known as the birthplace of Lord Ram. The city is home to many ancient temples that attract millions of devotees and tourists. Here are some of the famous temples in Ayodhya that are a must-visit while planning your trip to this holy city:

1. Hanuman Garhi

This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is considered one of the most significant temples in Ayodhya. Situated on a hilltop, one needs to climb 76 steps to reach it. The temple has an idol of Lord Hanuman. According to legends, Lord Hanuman guards the city from this spot.

3. Kanak Bhawan

Dedicated to Lord Ram and Goddess Sita this temple has detailed architecture and gold-plated idols of them. It is believed that it was gifted to Sita by Kaikeyi as a wedding present.

4. Nageshwarnath Temple

It is one of the ancient temples in Ayodhya dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that the temple was built by Kush, the son of Lord Ram as he was a great devotee of Lord Shiv. The temple hosts grand celebrations during Mahashivaratri.

5. Treta Ke Thakur

This temple has the spot where Lord Ram is believed to have executed the Ashwamedha Yagna. It has ancient idols of Ram, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharat, and Shatrughna, engraved from black sandstone.

6. Dashrath Bhawan

This temple depicts the royal palace of King Dashrath. Decorated with colourful adornments, the temple displays the tales of Ramayana.

7. Guptar Ghat Temples

Situated along the Saryu River, these temples are considered to be the place where Lord Ram took Jal Samadhi. The ghat is peaceful and carries immense spiritual significance for devotees.

8. Mani Parbat

Related to Lord Hanuman, this temple is believed to be a part of the hill that was brought by Hanuman having the Sanjeevani buti (medicinal herb). It offers a scenic view of Ayodhya.

Ram Mandir: The Heart of Ayodhya

The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is also known as the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is believed to be his birthplace, as per holy Hindu scriptures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 5, 2020, laid the foundation stone, in a grand Bhoomi Pujan ceremony. The Ram Mandir is not just a place of worship but a cultural landmark and the centrepiece of Ayodhya’s spiritual and historical identity.

Other Places to Visit in Ayodhya

The city of Ayodhya is soaked in history and mythology. Here are some of the must-visit places in Ayodhya:

1. Saryu River

It is a sacred river that is associated with Lord Rama. Boating, evening aarti, and bathing rituals are some of the activities that can be performed here.

2. Bharat Kund

It is the place where Bharat, Lord Ram’s brother, is believed to have meditated. It is a peaceful site for reflection and spiritual practices.

3. Valmiki Ramayana Bhawan

It is a cultural centre that honours the holy scripture Ramayana, written by Valmiki. It depicts Ramayana’s scenes in art and sculpture.

4. Ram Ki Paidi

It is a series of ghats along with the Saryu River built for taking a holy dip and rituals. It is a must-visit during sunset or evening aarti for a divine experience.

5. Tulsi Memorial Bhawan

This place is dedicated to the poet-saint Tulsidas, who wrote the Ramcharitmanas. The place has a museum, library, and also various cultural performances related to Ramayana.

6. Chhoti Devkali Temple

It is dedicated to Goddess Ishani, known as the family deity of Sita.

7. Jain Shrines

Ayodhya is also a sacred city for those who follow the Jain religion. It is believed to be the birthplace of five Jain Tirthankaras, that includes Rishabhdev. There are many ancient Jain temples in and around Ayodhya.