Things to Do in Ayodhya

The newly consecrated Ram Mandir, inaugurated in January 2024 after a historic Supreme Court verdict and decades of devotion, stands as the spiritual heart of Ayodhya. As you approach, the pink sandstone structure, adorned with intricate carvings of deities and floral motifs, rises majestically against the sky. Inside the sanctum, the idol of Ram Lalla (infant Rama) is dressed in ornate gold, drawing hushed reverence. The temple complex is vast, with 50 temples planned within its premises; currently, the main structure and several subsidiary shrines are open. Pilgrims often queue for hours, but the atmosphere is electric with bhajans and the scent of marigolds and incense. Entry is free, but a paid 'darshan ticket' (₹100–₹300) can reduce waiting time. Photography is prohibited inside the sanctum. The best time is early morning (6–8 AM) for a serene darshan, or during evening aarti (7 PM) when the temple glows with lamps. Dress modestly, remove footwear at the gate, and be prepared for security checks. The temple is wheelchair accessible, but expect crowds, especially during festivals like Ram Navami.

Perched on a hillock in the heart of Ayodhya, Hanuman Garhi is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and tradition holds that pilgrims must visit here before proceeding to the Ram Mandir. The temple is reached by climbing 76 steps, flanked by shrines and bustling with monkeys that are considered sacred. Inside, the idol of Hanuman is depicted as a child seated on the lap of his mother Anjani, a unique form. The temple’s architecture is a mix of North Indian styles, with a red-painted facade and a golden flag atop the dome. Devotees offer laddoos and sindoor (vermilion) to the deity, and the air is thick with the sound of conch shells and bells. The temple is open from 5 AM to 10 PM, and the best time to visit is during the early morning 'mangala aarti' (5 AM) or the evening aarti (6 PM) when the atmosphere is deeply spiritual. There is no entry fee, but donations are welcome. Be cautious with your belongings as monkeys are notorious for snatching items. The climb is moderate, but assistance is available for elderly pilgrims. The temple offers panoramic views of the city and the Ram Mandir in the distance.

Kanak Bhawan, also known as Sita Rasoi, is one of Ayodhya’s most beautiful temples, believed to have been gifted to Goddess Sita by Queen Kaikeyi. The temple’s name means 'golden palace', and its ornate architecture reflects a royal grandeur. As you enter, you are greeted by a courtyard with intricate arches and pillars, leading to the sanctum where idols of Lord Rama and Sita are adorned in resplendent gold crowns and jewelry, seated on a silver throne. The walls are adorned with murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. The temple is known for its serene ambiance, unlike the bustling Ram Mandir, making it a peaceful spot for contemplation. The temple is managed by the Ramanand Sampradaya and is open from 6 AM to 9 PM. A special darshan is offered during the evening aarti (7 PM) when the deities are dressed in their finest. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated. The temple is located near the Ram Janmabhoomi complex, so it can be combined with a visit to the main temple. The best time to visit is during the festival of Diwali when the temple is illuminated with thousands of lamps. Photography is allowed in the courtyard but not inside the sanctum.

Ram Ki Paidi is a series of ghats along the Saryu river, built for ritual bathing and meditation. The ghats are a hive of activity, with pilgrims taking holy dips, priests performing rituals, and vendors selling flowers and prasad. The most spectacular time to visit is during the evening aarti, when the ghats come alive with the chanting of mantras, the lighting of brass lamps, and the synchronized waving of lamps by priests. The reflection of the illuminated ghats on the calm waters of the Saryu is a mesmerizing sight. The annual Deepotsav festival, held on the eve of Diwali, sees lakhs of diyas (earthen lamps) lit along the ghats, setting a Guinness World Record. For a serene experience, take a boat ride on the river (around ₹50–₹100 per person) to view the ghats from the water. The best time to visit is during the evening aarti (around 6:30 PM), but arrive early to secure a good spot. The ghats are accessible via a long staircase; there is no entry fee. The atmosphere is deeply spiritual, with the sound of bells and the fragrance of incense filling the air. October to March offers pleasant weather for this experience.

Nageshwarnath Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to have been established by Kush, the son of Lord Rama. Legend holds that Kush lost his armlet while bathing in the Saryu and, upon recovering it with the help of a Nag (snake) prince, built this temple in gratitude. The temple is a fine example of ancient Indian architecture, with a tall spire and intricate carvings. The sanctum houses a large Shiva lingam, and the temple is particularly crowded on Mondays and during the month of Shravan (July-August) when devotees offer water and bilva leaves. The temple’s courtyard is peaceful, with old trees and a small pond. The temple is located about 1 km from the Ram Mandir and is open from 5 AM to 9 PM. Entry is free, but offerings like milk, flowers, and coconuts can be purchased from vendors outside. The best time to visit is early morning or during the evening aarti (7 PM). The temple is less crowded than other major sites, offering a more intimate spiritual experience. The architecture, with its weathered stone and carvings, gives a sense of antiquity. Combine this visit with a walk through the old lanes of Ayodhya to see traditional houses and local life.

Treta Ke Thakur is a historic temple that houses idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman, believed to be from the Treta Yuga (the second age in Hindu cosmology). The temple was originally built by King Vikramaditya and later renovated by the famous saint Tulsidas. The current structure, though modest, is steeped in legend. The idols are made of black stone and are said to have been installed by Tulsidas himself. The temple is located near the Ram Janmabhoomi site, making it a convenient stop. The atmosphere is quiet and contemplative, with fewer crowds than the main temple. The temple is open from 6 AM to 8 PM, and entry is free. The best time to visit is during the morning hours when the sunlight filters through the temple’s carved pillars, creating a divine ambiance. The temple is a testament to the enduring devotion of Tulsidas, who composed the Ramcharitmanas here. Visitors can also see a small museum adjacent to the temple displaying artifacts related to the Ramayana. The temple is easily accessible by foot or auto-rickshaw (₹20–₹50). Combine this visit with a stroll to the nearby Dashrath Mahal.

Dashrath Mahal, also known as Bada Asthana, is the site of the ancient palace of King Dasharatha, father of Lord Rama. Though the original palace is in ruins, the present structure is a temple complex that commemorates the royal heritage of Ayodhya. As you walk through its courtyards, you can almost hear the echoes of the Ramayana—where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana grew up. The main shrine houses idols of King Dasharatha and his queens, and there is a separate shrine for Rama and Sita. The architecture is reminiscent of Rajput style, with carved arches and balconies. The temple is less visited than others, offering a peaceful retreat. It is located in the old city, about 500 meters from Kanak Bhawan. Entry is free, and the temple is open from 6 AM to 8 PM. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the golden light illuminates the sandstone walls. The site is also a center for cultural events, with Ramlila performances during Dussehra. A guide can enrich your visit with stories of the palace's history; hire one for around ₹200–₹300. The atmosphere is nostalgic, evoking the epic's grandeur.

Guptar Ghat is a serene riverbank on the Saryu, believed to be the spot where Lord Rama took 'jal samadhi' (entered the waters) to conclude his earthly life. The ghat is less crowded than Ram Ki Paidi, offering a tranquil setting for reflection. A prominent temple, Nageshwarnath, is nearby, but the ghat itself features a large footprint of Rama carved in stone, which devotees venerate. The ghat is surrounded by ancient trees and has a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere, especially at sunrise. Pilgrims perform ritual bathing and offer prayers for their ancestors here. The ghat is also associated with the legend of the boatman Kevat, who ferried Rama across the river. A boat ride from here offers a panoramic view of the ghats and the city. The ghat is open 24 hours, but the best time is early morning (around 6 AM) when the mist rises from the river. Entry is free. You can hire a boat for ₹100–₹200 for a short ride. The ghat has basic facilities like changing rooms and restrooms. This is a place for quiet contemplation, away from the hustle of the main temple areas. The sunset view is also spectacular.