Ayodhya Dham
Numerous notable rulers, including Ikshvaku, Prithu, Mandhata, Harishchandra, Sagar, Bhagirath, Raghu, Dileep, Dashrath, and Ram, governed the capital of Kosaldesh. Under their rule, the kingdom of Kosaldesh flourished, reaching its zenith and embodying the ideals of Ram Rajya.
Situated on the eastern bank of the River Saryu, Ayodhya is rich with remnants from a bygone era. The renowned epics, Ramayan and ShriRamcharitmanas, vividly depict the magnificence of Ayodhya.
Ayodhya serves as a chapter in the Ramayan, a piece of ancient history, and a collection of tourist attractions, making it a significant destination for pilgrims, historians, archaeologists, and students alike.
Summer in Ayodhya, from April to June, is warm, with temperatures occasionally soaring up to 47°C. Winter, spanning from November to February, sees temperatures drop to around 10°C. The optimal time to plan a visit is between October and March.
Places to Visit
Hanumangarhi
Built in the form of a fortress and approached by a staircase of seventy-six steps, this ancient 10th-century temple is nestled at the heart of the pilgrimage town. Featuring circular fortifications in each corner, it is believed to be the site where God Hanuman dwelled in a cave, safeguarding the town. The temple houses a resplendent golden idol of God Hanuman, earning its place among the most revered. Each day, thousands of devotees flock to Hanumangarhi, offering prayers, seeking protection from malevolence, and invoking blessings for happiness and prosperity from the mighty God Hanuman.
Chhoti Devkali Temple
In proximity to Naya Ghat, this temple is intertwined with captivating tales from the Hindu epic Mahabharat. Mythology narrates that after her marriage to Jay Shri Ram, Mother Sita brought an idol of goddess Girija Devi to Ayodhya. King Dashrath, inspired, commissioned the construction of a splendid temple, where the idol found its sacred abode. Mother Sita devotedly worshiped here every day. Presently dedicated to goddess Devkali, the temple carries her name. The site preserves the essence of ancient lore, as the sanctum sanctorum echoes with the divine connection between Mother Sita and the deity, contributing to the cultural richness of Ayodhya.
Shri Nageshwarnath Temple
The primary deity of Ayodhya is God Nageshwarnathji, and the beautiful temple dedicated to him is believed to have been constructed by Jay Shri Ram's son, Kush. The ancient shivalinga enshrined in the temple adds to its sacred aura. According to legend, Kush, while bathing in the Saryu River, lost his armlet, which was returned to him by a nag kanya (snake woman). Their love led to the construction of the temple. As one of Ayodhya's revered temples, it draws large crowds during the Mahashivaratri festival. The current structure of the temple dates back to 1750 AD, embodying historical and spiritual significance.
Jain Shrines
Beyond being the birthplace of Jay Shri Ram, Ayodhya holds great significance for Jains, as it is believed to be the birthplace of five Jain Tirthankars. Devotees flock to this sacred town annually to pay homage to these revered saints and participate in special ceremonies. Ayodhya boasts numerous Jain temples, including the God Adinath Temple near Swargdwar, God Anantnath Temple at GolaGhat, God Sumantnath Shrine at Ramkot, God Ajitnath Temple near Saptsagar, and God Abhinandannath Temple in Sarai locality. Notably, Raiganj area hosts a grand Jain temple with a towering 21 ft idol of God Adinath (Rishabhdevji), the first Tirthankar.
Gurudwaras
Gurudwaras situated in the Brahm Kund and Nazarbagh areas hold profound connections with Sikh Gurus, namely Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, and Guru Govind Singh Ji. These sacred sites attract a substantial number of followers who pay homage and express deep reverence at the Gurudwaras. Associated with the teachings and legacies of the revered Sikh Gurus, these places of worship serve as significant pilgrimage destinations, fostering spiritual connection and devotion among the devotees who visit to seek inspiration, guidance, and blessings from the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, and Guru Govind Singh Ji.
Kanak Bhawan
In 1891, Queen Vrishbhanu Kuvari of Teekamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, commissioned the construction of a splendidly adorned temple. The central structure encompasses an open inner space that hosts the revered shrine of Rampada. Visitors can admire the exquisite idols within, featuring Goddess Sita alongside Jay Shri Ram and his three brothers. The temple stands as a testament to the artistic vision of Queen Vrishbhanu Kuvari, showcasing intricate embellishments. Pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike find solace and aesthetic delight within the sacred precincts, as the temple stands as a cultural gem, reflecting the devotion and creativity of its founder.
Tulsi Smarak Bhawan
TulsiSmarakBhawan is a tribute to the revered saint-poet, Goswami Tulsidas Ji. The venue hosts regular prayer sessions, devotional concerts, and religious discourses. Within the complex, Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan preserves an extensive collection of literary works dedicated to Goswami Tulsidas Ji. The Tulsi Smarak Auditorium, where Ramleela is enacted daily from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, serves as a significant draw for visitors. This cultural hub not only pays homage to the great poet but also provides a vibrant platform for spiritual gatherings and artistic performances, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Ayodhya.
Treta Ke Thakur
Also known as Kaleram-ka-Mandir, this exquisite temple is thought to commemorate the location where Jay Shri Ram conducted the legendary Ashwamedh Yagna. Erected approximately three centuries ago by the Raja of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, the present structure underwent subsequent renovations by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The statues within are crafted from black sandstone, with a belief that they date back to the era of King Vikramaditya. Rich in historical and religious significance, the temple stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Jay Shri Ram and the patronage it received from various rulers throughout the centuries.
Ramkot
During summer, the temple opens from 6:30 am to 10:30 am and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, while in winter, the timings are 7:30 am to 10:30 am and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Positioned on elevated ground adorned with numerous temples and shrines, it stands as a prominent attraction in Ayodhya. The Ram Navami festival, celebrated in the month of Chaitra (March-April) according to the Hindu calendar, attracts pilgrims from across the country and the world. During this festive period, devotees converge in large numbers to pay homage to Jay Shri Ram, adding grandeur to the celebrations.
Mani Parvat
Legend has it that during God Hanuman's journey to Lanka, carrying the colossal mountain with the healing herb Sanjivani Booti to save the injured Lakshman, a portion of it accidentally fell in Ayodhya. This hillock, standing at approximately 65 feet in height, came to be known as Mani Parvat. The sacred lore intertwines the geography of Ayodhya with the heroic deeds of Hanuman, adding a mystical touch to the city's landscape. This divine connection, where remnants of the significant journey found a place in Ayodhya, elevates the spiritual aura of Mani Parvat within the cultural and religious tapestry of the region.
Sugreev Kila
According to mythology, a visit to Sugriva Fort in Ayodhya is believed to destroy the enemies merely by sight. Ayodhya, the sacred birthplace of Jay Shri Ram, hosts numerous temples with mythical tales. Sugriva Fort, near the Ram Janmabhoomi complex, holds historical significance, constructed by Maharaja Bharata in Tretayuga to welcome Jay Shri Ram back to Ayodhya. Maharaja Sugriva later received it from Jay Shri Ram. Renovated by Maharaja Vikramaditya, this mythical site, close to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, is a temple where King Sugriva is worshipped alongside Jay Shri Ram, Mata Sita, and Lakshmana Bharat Shatrughan, preserving its ancient history and mythology.
Queen-Huh Memorial Park
The sacred city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh annually welcomes hundreds of South Korean visitors who come to honor the legendary Queen Huh Hwang-ok. Also known as Princess Suriratna, she was believed to be Ayodhya's princess before marrying King Kim Suro of the Karak Clan in 48 AD. Legend has it that she arrived in Korea by boat, becoming the first queen of King Suro in Geumgwan Gaya at the age of 16. The presence of her monument in Ayodhya establishes a strong connection, with approximately 60 lakh Karak clan members considering the city as their maternal home. Inaugurated in 2001, the Queen Heo Hwang-ok Memorial Park stands as a testament to this historical and cultural bond.
Ram ki Paidi
Stretching along the banks of the River Saryu, a series of ghats offer a sanctified space for devotees seeking spiritual purification by cleansing their sins in its holy waters. Surrounding these ghats are verdant gardens and temples, enhancing the serene ambiance. Particularly captivating in floodlit nights, the riverfront unveils a breathtaking panorama. Pilgrims believe in the purifying properties of the sacred river, symbolized by the ritualistic dips. The Irrigation Department, under the Government of Uttar Pradesh, diligently maintains the ghats, ensuring a constant flow of Saryu's waters to uphold the spiritual sanctity of this revered site.
Saryu River
As one of Uttar Pradesh's significant waterways, the river, mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Ved and Ramayan, holds profound cultural and religious significance. Translating to 'that which is streaming,' it gracefully courses through Ayodhya, believed to bring rejuvenation and cleanse impurities from this sacred town. Throughout the year, hundreds of devotees visit its banks, immersing themselves in the holy waters during various religious occasions. The river's presence not only reflects its historical importance in Hindu scriptures but also underscores its role as a spiritual source, attracting pilgrims seeking purification and divine connection in the heart of Ayodhya.
Suraj Kund
Situated along the Chaudah Koshi Parikrama Marg in the Darshan Nagar area, approximately 4 km from Ayodhya, Suraj Kund stands as a sizable tank encircled by ghats, offering a captivating spectacle to visitors. Legend holds that the Suryavanshi rulers of Ayodhya erected this kund to express reverence to the Sun god. The scenic surroundings and architectural marvel of the ghats enhance the allure of Suraj Kund, making it a destination that not only reflects historical significance but also beckons admirers seeking a serene and aesthetically pleasing experience in the vicinity of Ayodhya.
Ghats and Kunds
Renowned ghats and kunds such as Raj Ghat, Ram Ghat, Lakshman Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Naya Ghat, Swargdwar Ghat, Janaki Ghat, along with sacred sites like Vidya Kund, Vibhishan Kund, Dant Dhavan Kund, Sita Kund, among others, grace the landscape of Ayodhya. The cultural richness extends to architectural marvels like Amovan Temple, Dashrath Mahal, Janaki Mahal, Lakshman Qila, Luv-Kush Temple, Mattagayandaji Temple, Raj Gaddi, Shri Ram-Janaki Birla Temple, and Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan. This array of revered locations reflects the profound historical, religious, and mythological tapestry that defines Ayodhya's significance as a spiritual and cultural hub.
Guptar Ghat Garden
The expansive Guptar Ghat Garden, a sprawling botanical haven, offers a delightful space for leisurely strolls, relaxation, and communion with nature, providing a respite from the daily grind and urban clamor. Nestled along the Saryu riverbank, the garden invites visitors to appreciate the diverse array of shrubs and trees meticulously planted in the serene surroundings. It serves as a tranquil retreat, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, fostering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Guptar Ghat Garden stands as a serene oasis, beckoning those seeking solace and tranquility by the river.
Guptar Ghat
Nestled along the Saryu riverbanks, this sacred site marks the exact location where Jay Shri Rama performed Jal Samadhi. Constructed by King Darshan Singh in the early 19th century, it holds deep historical and religious significance. The vicinity also includes notable landmarks like the Ram Janaki Temple, Old Charan Paduka Temple, Narsingh Temple, and Hanuman Temple, enriching the spiritual aura of the ghat. Pilgrims and devotees visiting this site not only witness the revered Jal Samadhi spot but also have the opportunity to explore other sacred places, creating a comprehensive and spiritually enriching experience on the banks of the tranquil Saryu river.