Nestled on the banks of the sacred Sarayu River, Ayodhya is a city steeped in history, mythology, and spirituality. Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya attracts pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage. Here are 7 things to do in Ayodhya that will immerse you in its fascinating tapestry of stories and sights:
Places to Visit in Ayodhya
Visit Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
Begin your journey by paying homage at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, the birthplace of Lord Rama. The temple complex houses the sanctum sanctorum where Lord Rama is believed to have been born. Explore the serene surroundings and marvel at the intricate architecture that reflects centuries of devotion.
Explore Hanuman Garhi
Situated atop a hillock, Hanuman Garhi is a prominent temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Climb the stairs to reach the temple and enjoy panoramic views of Ayodhya. The temple complex also includes shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga.
Seek Blessings at Kanak Bhawan
Visit Kanak Bhawan, a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Rama and his consort Sita. According to legend, the temple was gifted to Sita by her mother after her marriage to Lord Rama. Admire the beautiful murals and sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
Pay Homage at Nageshwarnath Temple
Explore the ancient Nageshwarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple holds immense historical significance as it is believed to have been established by Lord Rama’s son, Kusha. The temple’s architecture and tranquil ambiance make it a must-visit attraction in Ayodhya.
Experience Serenity at Treta Ke Thakur Temple
Step into the tranquil surroundings of Treta Ke Thakur Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple is believed to be situated at the spot where Lord Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yagna. Take a moment to soak in the spiritual vibes and peaceful atmosphere.
Visit the Ramkatha Museum
Dive deeper into the epic tale of Ramayana at the Ramkatha Museum. The museum showcases artifacts, paintings, and exhibits related to Lord Rama’s life and the Ramayana. Gain insights into Ayodhya’s cultural heritage and mythology through captivating displays.
Take a Riverside Walk
Conclude your Ayodhya exploration with a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Sarayu River. Enjoy picturesque views of the river, temples, and ghats. You can also opt for a boat ride to experience Ayodhya’s serene beauty from a different perspective.
Must Try Food in Ayodhya
Awadhi Biryani at Gupta Ji Ki Dukan: For an authentic taste of Awadhi cuisine, head to Gupta Ji Ki Dukan. This humble eatery is renowned for its flavorful Awadhi Biryani, a fragrant rice dish cooked with tender meat (usually chicken or mutton) and aromatic spices. The melt-in-your-mouth biryani is a culinary delight that shouldn’t be missed.
Kachori Sabzi at Ram Ki Bandi: Ram Ki Bandi is a popular street food stall known for its crispy and flavorful Kachori Sabzi. Kachori, a deep-fried pastry filled with a spicy lentil mixture, is served with a tangy and spicy potato curry (sabzi). The combination of crunchy kachori and savory sabzi is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Litti Chokha at Chhote Lal Ka Dhaba: Indulge in the rustic flavors of Bihar with a serving of Litti Chokha at Chhote Lal Ka Dhaba. Litti, a savory dough ball stuffed with spiced gram flour, is roasted to perfection and served with smoky and mashed chokha (roasted vegetables). This wholesome dish is a hearty and satisfying meal.
Peda at Thakur Ji Peda Wale: Treat your sweet tooth to the famous pedas (sweet milk fudge) at Thakur Ji Peda Wale. These soft and creamy pedas, made from condensed milk and sugar, are infused with flavors like saffron, cardamom, and nuts. Thakur Ji Peda Wale is known for its high-quality and delicious pedas that make for perfect souvenirs.
Banarasi Paan at Panditji Paanwale: Conclude your culinary journey with a flavorful Banarasi Paan from Panditji Paanwale. This traditional betel leaf preparation is filled with a blend of betel nuts, spices, and sweeteners, offering a refreshing and aromatic end to your meal. Panditji Paanwale’s expertise in crafting the perfect paan ensures a delightful experience.
How To Get To Ayodhya
By Air:
The nearest airport to Ayodhya is in Faizabad, approximately 7 km away. However, this airport has limited connectivity. The nearest major airport with better connectivity is the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, about 140 km from Ayodhya. Lucknow airport is well-connected to major cities across India with regular flights operated by various airlines.
Rail:
Ayodhya Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of India. There are direct trains from cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, Kanpur, Allahabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai to Ayodhya. The station is located in the heart of the city, making it convenient for travelers to reach their destinations.
Road:
Ayodhya has good road connectivity with nearby cities and towns. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates regular buses to and from Ayodhya, connecting it to major cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, Allahabad, Kanpur, and Gorakhpur. Additionally, private buses and taxis are also available for travel to Ayodhya from neighbouring areas.
For travellers coming from Delhi or other major cities, the road journey to Ayodhya is quite comfortable via the National Highways. The distance from Lucknow to Ayodhya by road is approximately 140 km, and from Varanasi, it’s around 200 km.
Overall, Ayodhya is easily accessible by air, rail, and road, making it a convenient destination for pilgrims, tourists, and travelers seeking to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of this sacred city.