Ayodhya

Nestled on the eastern shores of the River Saryu, Ayodhya is a treasure trove of historical remnants from a time long past. The city's grandeur is beautifully depicted in the renowned epics, Ramayan and ShriRamcharitmanas.

Ayodhya experiences quite a hot summer between April and June, with temperatures occasionally soaring up to 47°C. The winter months, from November to February, see a significant drop in temperature, sometimes as low as 10°C. The most favourable time to plan a visit is between October and March.

The city of Kosaldesh, Ayodhya's capital, was ruled by a succession of illustrious kings including Ikshvaku, Prithu, Mandhata, Harishchandra, Sagar, Bhagirath, Raghu, Dileep, Dashrath and Ram. It was under their rule that the kingdom flourished and reached its zenith, embodying the ideal of Ram Rajya.

Ayodhya, with its rich history, is like a chapter from the Ramayan come to life. It's a hub of attractions for tourists and a significant centre for pilgrims, historians, archaeologists and students alike.

Ram Mandir Overview:

Background:

The Ram Mandir, a Hindu temple currently under construction, is situated in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India. It's being built at the site known as Ram Janmabhoomi, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a key figure in Hinduism.

Current Status: In progress

Location: Ram Janambhoomi, Ayodhya

Completion Date: Expected to be completed by 22 January 2024; in 3 days' time

Temple Structure: One main temple surrounded by 6 others, forming a single temple complex

Architect: Chandrakant Sompura

Timings for Aarti at Ram Mandir Temple, Ayodhya:

Morning Aarti – 7:00 AM

Midday Aarti – 12:00 PM

Evening Aarti – 7:00 PM

Opening Ceremony Information:

The grand inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya took place on 5th August 2020. The ceremony was a significant event, attended by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, along with other prominent dignitaries. The ceremony was marked by rituals and prayers, celebrating the long-awaited construction of the temple.

Latest Updates on Ayodhya Ram Mandir-

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, is set to grace the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram temple on the 22nd of January, 2024. This significant event, which involves infusing the idol with divine consciousness, is a crucial ritual for any idol that is venerated in a temple. Following this consecration ceremony, the temple is anticipated to welcome the public from the subsequent day.

How to Reach Ayodhya?

By Flight:

The nearest airport to Ayodhya is the Faizabad Airport, which is approximately 8 km away. However, it has limited connectivity. The Lucknow International Airport, about 134 km away, is the most accessible airport with better connectivity. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ayodhya.

By Train:

Ayodhya is well-connected by rail to major cities across India. The Ayodhya Junction Railway Station is the main station serving the city. Trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other major cities frequently ply to Ayodhya, making it a convenient option for travellers. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Ram Mandir.

Ayodhya Tourist Attractions

There are many places to visit in Ayodhya: 

Tulsi Smarak Bhawan: Tulsi Smarak Bhawanis a tribute to saint-poet Goswami Tulsidas Ji, hosting regular prayer gatherings, music concerts, and religious talks. Notable for its daily Ramleela performances.

Kanak Bhawan: An intricately decorated temple built in 1891, housing the holy shrine of Rampada and beautiful idols of Goddess Sita, Lord Ram, and his brothers.

Guptar Ghat: A historic site on the Saryu River, believed to be where Lord Rama performed Jal Samadhi. Explore temples such as Ram Janaki and Hanuman.

Company Garden: A tranquil green space on the Saryu River bank, open from 5am-12noon & 4pm-9pm. Perfect for relaxation and admiring a variety of shrubs and trees.

Tomb of Bahu Begum: The final resting place of Begum Unmatuzzohra Bano, showcasing Awadhi architecture. Offers panoramic city views from Ayodhya's tallest structure.

Gulab Bari: Gulab Bariis a vast rose garden surrounding the tomb of Shuja-ud-Daula and his family. The garden, established in 1775, features a grand mausoleum.

Ghats and Kunds:Includes notable ghats like Raj Ghat, Ram Ghat, and landmarks like Amovan Temple, Dashrath Mahal. A significant part of Ayodhya's spiritual landscape.

Suraj Kund: A large tank surrounded by ghats, located 4 km from Ayodhya. Built by Suryavanshi rulers to honour the Sun god, it offers beautiful views.

Queen-Huh Memorial Park:A sacred site in Ayodhya honouring Queen Huh Hwang-ok, attracting South Koreans annually. The monument symbolises the ancestral home of the Karak clan.

Saryu River: A significant waterway in Uttar Pradesh, mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures. It's believed to purify Ayodhya, attracting devotees for sacred dips.

Ram ki Paidi: A series of ghats on the Saryu River, offering a platform for devotees to cleanse sins. Features lush gardens, temples, and a stunning riverfront.

Chhoti Devkali Temple: Near Naya Ghat, this temple is steeped in Mahabharat tales. Originally dedicated to Goddess Girija Devi, it's now dedicated to Goddess Devkali.

Mani Parvat: A mound believed to be a piece of the mountain Lord Hanuman carried to heal Lakhshman. Stands about 65 feet tall in Ayodhya.

Treta-ke-Thakur:Also known as Kaleram-ka-Mandir, this temple is where Lord Ram conducted the Ashwamedh Yagna. Houses black sandstone statues dating back to King Vikramaditya's reign.

Shri Nageshwarnath Temple:Shri Nageshwarnath templeis a revered temple built by Lord Ram’s son, Kush, housing an ancient shivalinga. Known for attracting large crowds during the Mahashivaratri festival.

Ramkot:A major attraction in Ayodhya, filled with temples and shrines. Celebrates the Ram Navami festival, attracting pilgrims worldwide to pay respects to Lord Ram.

Hanumangarhi:A 10th-century fortress-like temple believed to be Lord Hanuman's residence. Known for its golden idol of Lord Hanuman and daily influx of devotees.

Best Time to Visit Ayodhya

The city has a temperate monsoon climate, and the weather in Ayodhya remains typically pleasant throughout the year. However, there are occasional heat and cold waves during the peak of the seasons. Therefore, the best time to explore the tourist sites in the city is from the month of October to December. The time span is the best time to visit Ayodhyabecause of the weather and also the festivities. Ayodhya temperature during this season ranges around 22 degrees during days, and it can drop down to 8 degrees at night. Hence, these months are considered as the peak season to explore the tourist sites in the city by tourists.

Restaurants in Ayodhya

Makan-Malai Restaurant

Due to its status as a vegetarian eatery in the heart of a significant religious complex, Makan-Malai Restaurant has a small menu. Although it's not one of this citys more upscale restaurants, you can still have some delicious food here

Awantika

You can have Chinese, North Indian, and Punjabi food at Awantika. Chaat, which comprises dishes like Aloo Tikki, Pani Puri, Kachori, Papri Chaat, and Samosa, is famous for its vibrant colours and delicious flavours.

Aroma

At Aroma, you can enjoy delicious vegetarian, Chinese, Punjabi, South Indian, international, North Indian, Tandoori, and Awadhi dishes prepared in traditional styles.

Ayodhya Overview

Conclusion

Save your dates to tour the tourist sites in the city and get submerged in the aura of spirituality and divinity the city offers. You can reach the city of Lord Ram via road, rail network, and even air, and all these journeys provide you with great memories. The splendid city has so many sites for you to explore, including temples, mosques, rivers, forts, and ghats. The tourist sites in the city are ideal destinations for families, friends, couples, and even solo travellers. So, plan your expedition to get the best out of the tourist sites in the city.