For a walk down the memory lane of India’s rich and authentic culture, Ayodhya is your go-to place. This pilgrimage destination will be significant eternally because for every Goa that screams party, there’s an Ayodhya that relaxes the soul with the soothing rings of bells and chants. Let’s head there and see what the city has to offer and why it is one of the holiest places in India.
History And Culture Of Ayodhya
The history of Ayodhya dates back thousands of years, if not more. Ayodhya isn’t just another city in India. After all, this was the place where Lord Rama, the 7th avatar of Lord Vishnu, was born. Owing to this, it’s also one of the Mokshdayini Sapt Puris, or the 7 holiest places for a practising Hindu.
Ayodhya’s speciality is that it holds importance not just in the hearts of Hindus but even the Jains. Jainism also finds its roots in this sacred city, as 4 out of the 24 Tirthankaras were born in Ayodhya. What appeals to tourists and pilgrims alike is the inclusivity of faiths that the city offers. You’ll find temples here, but you’ll also find some historic mosques that maintain the spiritual vibe in the city. Where did a mosque come from, you ask? Babur, the founder of the mighty Mughal Empire, had built the now-demolished Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.
To witness Ayodhya in its full splendor, visit the city during its biggest festivals – Ram Navami and Diwali. The former marks Lord Rama’s birth while the latter marks his homecoming after his 14-year exile. Ayodhya comes to life with diyas and colorful rangolis lighting up the houses. All the women come together to cook tasty dishes, desserts, and offer prayers. The Ramleela is one of the most fun events that happens in Ayodhya. It’s a unique drama where you’ll see children and adults come together to present stories from the Ramayana.
With the Ram Mandir consecrated, now’s the best time to witness the grandeur of Ram Navami. Ayodhya is a sight to behold during this festival with the numerous diyas lighting up the ghats. Flocks of devotees come here during Ram Navami and offer prayers, chant bhajans, and seek the blessings of the Lord.
How To Get To Ayodhya
The history and culture of Ayodhya would have enticed you enough; now it’s time to start reaching there. How? Let’s find out.
By Air: Inaugurated in December 2023, Ayodhya has one airport – the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport – which is well connected to major cities.
By Train: Ayodhya has two railway stations – Ayodhya Cantonment (also known as Faizabad Junction) and Ayodhya Dham Junction. If you’re visiting the Ram Janmabhoomi, we recommend getting a train to Ayodhya Dham Junction as it’s just 1.5 km away.
By Road: Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) runs well to and from Ayodhya. The roadway transportation connects the city to the nearby major cities in the Northern belt daily.
Best Time To Travel To Ayodhya
The Summer – March To June
Possibly the best time to visit Ayodhya is in April. It’s because of the Ram Navami festival, which celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. You just know that no other place will have a celebration as glorious as Ayodhya. What you might want to keep in mind, however, is the weather during the summer months. Ayodhya gets scorching hot between March and June with temperatures ranging up to 40°C. Despite the heat, you’ll find a decent crowd, so book your accommodation in advance. Ensure you carry all the essentials to protect yourself from the heat whilst having a fun pilgrimage.
The Winter – October To February
If the summer heat bothers you, consider traveling to Ayodhya between October and February when it’s cooler. It also coincides with Diwali, which marks Lord Rama’s homecoming after his 14-year exile. As the weather begins to get cooler after Diwali, think of extending your stay to enjoy the pleasant weather and explore the city better. But remember, if you plan on staying between December and February, carry sufficient warm clothes because temperatures go as low as 10°C.
The Off-Season – July To September
If the weather isn’t an issue but the crowd is, it’s best you visit Ayodhya between July and September when the temperature sways between 24 and 30°C. The city experiences monsoons, which keep the crowd away, but hey, the monsoons can be tackled, especially since they aren’t torrential. Carry some extra clothes, throw in an umbrella, and you’re good to go exploring the streets of Ayodhya.
Where To Stay In Ayodhya?
Accommodation in Ayodhya has come a long way from the hermit life, where people stayed in ashrams. It’s still prevalent there, but if you decide to choose comfort, here are some hotels you can stay in:
1. Taraji Resort Hotel And Restaurant
Address: National Highway-27, Opposite Saketpuri Yojna, Near Deokali Bypass Chauraha
Price: INR 2,400 per night
2. Hotel Rambhoomi
Address: Panchkosi Parikrama Marg, Ranopali Village
Price: INR 2,549 per night
3. AP Palace Hotel
Address: Fatehganj Devkali Road, Near Indian Bank, Badi, Adarsh Puram
Price: INR 4,545 per night
4. Ayodhya Dham Guest House
Address: Parikrama Marg, Ranopali Village, Ranopali
Price: INR 5,598 per night
5. Hotel Beena Residency And Restaurant
Address: Beena Residency, Beside Ram Katha Sangrahalaya, Nayaghat
Price: INR 6,000 per night
6. Park Inn By Radisson
Address: Plot No.4108, Fatehganj Road – Civil Line Road, Lajpat Nagar
Price: INR 7,500 per night
Where To Eat In Ayodhya?
A perfect guide is incomplete without the mention of food. Check out these restaurants where you can devour the best homely meals:
1. New Parag Restaurant & Dairy
Address: Ayodhya – Faizabad Road, Rano Pali, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh 224123
Prices: Starting from INR 200 per person
Must-haves: Chilli Paneer, Afghani Paneer
2. Shri Kanak Sarkar Rasoi
Address: Kanak Bhawan Road, Tulsi Nagar, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 224123
Prices: Starting from INR 80 per person
Must-haves: Vegetarian Thali
3. Shri Sita Rasoi Bhojnalaya & Atithi Niwas
Address: Near Kanak Bhawan Mandir, Dakshin Gate, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 224123
Prices: Starting from INR 200 per person
Must-haves: Aloo puri, Thali
4. Amma Ji Ki Rasoi
Address: Kanak Bhawan Temple Tulsi Nagar Rajkot, Tulsi Nagar, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 224123
Prices: Starting from INR 90 per person
Must-haves: Vegetarian thali
5. The Auras Restaurant
Address: 1633, Chowk Ayodhya Road, Opposite. ITI, Phase 3, Beniganj, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh 224001
Prices: Starting from INR 200 per person
Must-haves: Dal Tadka and Paneer Masala, The Aura Special Platter, Butter Scotch Ice Cream
6. Ramprastha Hotel – Makhan Malai Restaurant
Address: Naya Ghat, Ayodhya, Faizabad 224123
Prices: Starting at INR 200 per person
Must-haves: Thali, Veg Hakka Noodles
Places To Visit In Ayodhya
You may find that Ayodhya almost sounds synonymous with the Ram Mandir and temples, but allow us to break it to you that the city is a lot more than the temples. Many other places hold significance and have a lot of history that’s waiting to be heard. Some of the places are:
1. Sita Ki Rasoi
Rasoi translates to kitchen. Now that it’s obvious, this was Mother Sita’s royal kitchen from where she heartfully fed many people, earning the resemblance to Goddess Annapurna. Today, this place is a temple where the tradition of feeding everyone for free continues. Inside the temple, you’ll also find idols of the four Ikshvaku-descendant brothers, Ram, Lakshman, Bharata, and Shatrughan, along with their consorts.
2. Moti Mahal
Alliterating well in Hindi and English, Moti Mahal translates to The Pearl Palace. Situated in Faizabad, the palace was Queen Begum Unmatuzzohra Banu’s residence. Today, it stands as an architectural marvel because of the Nawabi influences that scream its rich culture.
3. Ram Ki Paidi
Situated along the River Sarayu, Ram Ki Paidi is a series of ghats or river banks. You must visit here at night to see the river in its full glory as it reflects the moonlight, creating a mesmerizing landscape. On a lucky day, you’ll even get to see numerous earthen lamps or diyas afloat on the river that radiate warm vibes and positivity. Also, don’t forget to take a dip in the holy river.
4. Gulab Bari
This is the Garden of Roses. Ironically, the Garden of Roses doesn’t house anything remotely romantic. Instead, it’s the tomb of the third Nawab of Awadh, Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula. Surrounding the tomb is the Charbagh Garden, which has water fountains that run through shallow canals. You’ll have a great time exploring this place if you have a thing for aesthetics and nature together. Not to forget the history of the Nawab, that’s super interesting!
Summing Up
Take a stroll through the land of different faiths and have the most peaceful time of your life as your mind relaxes to the soothing sounds of the Aarti by the ghats in Ayodhya. Also, with the largest temple in India now open for all, it only makes sense that your next trip be to Ayodhya. Get packing and get going!
FAQs
How To Plan The Ayodhya Tour?
Ayodhya is a must-visit place if you love to explore pilgrimage destinations. Your trip planning will become a lot easier if you jot down the hotels, restaurants, and places to visit beforehand, so you can give time to each activity and have a good trip.
How Many Days Are Sufficient For Ayodhya?
2 days are sufficient to explore Ayodhya if you’re in a time crunch. However, if you’ve got sufficient time on your hands, you can spend 3-4 days in Ayodhya.
Is It Worth Visiting Ayodhya?
Ayodhya is one of the holiest places in India. It houses the famous Ram Mandir along with several temples, mosques, and Jain temples, making it an important pilgrimage site that can be visited by people of all age groups.
How Many Places To Visit In Ayodhya?
Besides worship spots, you can also visit the Ram Katha Park, Mani and Sugriv Hill, Sarayu Ghat, and other tourist attractions.
What Is Special In Ayodhya?
Ayodhya is an ancient city in India that’s mainly known for its religious significance. It’s believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, who is a celebrated deity in Hinduism.
Which River Is Near Ayodhya?
The Sarayu River, also known as the Ghaghara River, flows by the city of Ayodhya.
