Ayodhya Shri Ram Mandir, is situated in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, stirring a prolonged religious and political debate. Set to open on January 22, 2024, with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurating it, the temple marks the birthplace of Shri Ram.
Following the inauguration of Shri Ram Mandir on January 22, 2024, visitors will have the opportunity to witness and visit the new temple.
Centuries old, the temple stands on the believed birthplace of Lord Ram, demolished by Babur in the 16th century, replaced by the Babri Masjid. In 1992, Hindu nationalists demolished the mosque, leading to prolonged disputes. The Indian Supreme Court settled the matter in 2019, allowing the construction of a Ram Janmabhoomi temple.
The grand Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya spans an impressive area of 2.7 acres with a built-up space of 57,400 sq. ft. The temple boasts a length of 360 feet and a width of 235 feet, reaching a total height, including the peak, of 161 feet. Structured across three floors, each floor stands at a height of 20 feet. The ground floor is supported by 160 columns, the first floor by 132 columns, and the second floor by 74 columns. The temple features 5 pedks and pavilions, along with 12 gates, adding to its architectural magnificence.
A crucial pilgrimage site, Ayodhya Shri Ram Mandir symbolizes victory for Hindus after prolonged efforts. Expected to boost Ayodhya's cultural and religious prominence, the temple is likely to draw millions of devotees, contributing to regional development and economic growth.
The upcoming Ayodhya International Airport, officially named Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport, is designed to serve Ayodhya and Faizabad in Uttar Pradesh, India. Located approximately 8.5 km from Faizabad, adjacent to NH-27 and NH-330 at Naka, the airport's name was changed in 2021 to honor Lord Shri Rama.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the airport on December 30, 2023, with flight operations expected to commence from January 10, 2024. For alternative travel, Lucknow's Charan Singh International Airport, about 135 km away, can be considered, and Ayodhya is well-connected by road and rail, including the Ayodhya Junction railway station.