Ayodhya is a very ancient religious city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is located on the banks of the sacred river Saryu. The city was founded by Manu and named 'Ayodhya' which means a-yuddha i.e. 'where it is impossible to wage war'. It was also called 'Kaushal Desh'. The city of Ayodhya, where Lord Shri Rama was born, where the epic Ramayana began and where the Ramayana also ended. The city of Ayodhya, which every child born in India knows about.
And Ayodhya was historically known as Saket. Early Buddhist and Jain canonical texts mention that religious leaders Gautama Buddha and Mahavira visited and stayed in this city. Jain texts also describe it as the birthplace of five Tirthankaras, Rishabhanatha, Ajitanatha, Abhinandanatha, Sumatinatha and Anantanatha and associate it with the legendary Bharata Chakravartin. From the Gupta period, Ayodhya and Saket have been mentioned in many sources as the name of the same city.
In recent years, Ayodhya has transformed into a modern pilgrimage destination, attracting millions of devotees, history buffs and cultural tourists alike.
Why Visit Ayodhya?
Ayodhya is not just a city – it is a living symbol of India’s spiritual heritage, mythological richness and cultural depth. Located on the banks of the sacred Sarayu river in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya holds immense religious significance for Hindus, Jains and Buddhists alike. It is famous as the birthplace of Lord Shri Rama, the hero of the epic Ramayana, and has been a focal point of devotion, pilgrimage and storytelling for centuries.
Birthplace of Lord Rama – Sacred Ram Janmabhoomi
Visit Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir
Explore Hanuman Garhi Temple
Attend Evening Aarti at Saryu River Ghat
Walk Through Ram Ki Paidi Ghats
Discover Kanak Bhawan – Temple of Sita-Ram
Experience Deepotsav During Festivals
Visit Treta Ke Thakur Temple
Explore Ancient Temples & Ramayana Sites
Spiritual Vibes & Devotional Chants in the Air
Top Places to Visit in Ayodhya
Ram Janmabhoomi – Birthplace of Lord Ram
Hanuman Garhi – Temple of Lord Hanuman
Kanak Bhawan – Palace temple for Sita & Ram
Ramkot – Main fort-like temple area
Treta Ke Thakur – Site of Ram’s yagna
Nageshwarnath – Lord Shiva temple
Guptar Ghat – Sacred riverside spot
Mani & Sugriv Parbat – Small mythological hills
Ramayan Bhawan – Ramayana museum
Ayodhya Centre – Culture & history hub
Faqs
Ayodhya is renowned as the birthplace of Lord Rama and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is also home to the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The best time to visit Ayodhya is between October and March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing and temple visits.
Ayodhya is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya. There are also regular trains and buses from major cities in India.
Major attractions in Ayodhya include the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, Sita Ki Rasoi, and several other ancient temples and ghats along the Sarayu River.
Yes, Ayodhya is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to follow local guidelines, respect religious sentiments, and remain aware of your surroundings, especially during large festivals.
Yes, Ayodhya offers a wide range of accommodations including budget hotels, guesthouses, dharamshalas, and a few luxury options. Advance booking is recommended during peak seasons and festivals.
Major festivals in Ayodhya include Ram Navami, Diwali (celebrated as Deepotsav), and Makar Sankranti. These festivals are celebrated with grandeur, attracting thousands of devotees.
Yes, visitors are welcome to participate in various religious rituals, bhajans, and aartis, especially at temples like Ram Janmabhoomi and Hanuman Garhi. Respectful attire and behavior are encouraged.
Photography rules vary by temple. While outdoor photos are usually allowed, many temples restrict photography inside sanctums. It’s best to ask temple staff or observe posted signs before taking pictures.
While in Ayodhya, try local vegetarian dishes such as kachori-sabzi, jalebi, poori-bhaji, and various sweets like peda and laddoo. Street food is popular, especially near temple areas.