Ayodhya is a sacred city that draws thousands of Hindu devotees every day. Situated near the banks of the Sarayu River, Ayodhya has numerous beautiful temples and historic places where you can see tourists from all across India praying to get blessings from God.
Also known as Saketa, Ayodhya is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. Being one of the oldest cities in the world, there are numerous places to visit in Ayodhya, which will allow you to learn about the history and oldest religion of the world. Ayodhya, which comes under the Faizabad District, is a sacred city in the Hindu religion that has many Hindu religious places to visit. In this article, we have listed some of the tourist attractions in Ayodhya that you should not miss out on during your visit to the holiest city in India.
Places to Visit in Ayodhya
1. Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi
Sri Ram Janma Bhoomi, the most anticipated Hindu temple of the past decade, is set to open in the near future. Construction of the huge temple was officially started on August 5, 2020, by the Prime Minister of India.
Just several kilometers away from Ayodhya Junction, Ram Janmabhoomi Site is the place where the infamous Babri Masjid once stood; it was believed that Babri Masjid was constructed over an ancient Hindu temple. The land dispute among Hindus as well as Muslims was settled in October in the Supreme Court in favor of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
The construction of this incredible temple is currently in progress. However, the government has permitted devotees to have glimpses of the soon-to-be popular, most-awaited, and well-known temple around the globe.
In spite of the fact that it is still in the process of completing the huge structure, This tourist place in Ayodhya draws devotees to Lord Ram from across the globe. Prior to visiting the temple, make sure to put your personal belongings out of the temple, such as cameras, mobile phones, food items, medicines, etc. The police within the temple won’t permit any of your possessions inside the temple complex.
2. Kanak Bhavan Temple
Located in Tulsi Nagar, Ayodhya, Kanak Bhavan Temple is a historic and sacred place that was gifted by Kaikeyi to her daughter, goddess Sita, as a present for her wedding. Also known as Sone Ka Mandir, the temple complex is home to three pairs of golden-crowned gods.
Dedicated to Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, the architectural design of Kanak Bhavan Temple is gorgeous and beautiful, as it is a blend of Rajasthani as well as North Indian styles. Rebuilt around 1891 by Vrish Bhanu Kunwari, the Temple has a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, with prayers of devotion that will give the visitor a sense of peace. So, if you’re contemplating a trip to this sacred city, then Kanak Bhavan Temple should definitely be included on your list of places to see in Ayodhya.
3. Hanumangarhi
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Hanumangarhi Temple is one of the most ancient temples located in Ayodhya city. Built-in the 10th century, Hanumangarhi Temple is situated just a few kilometres from the railway station of Ayodhya.
It was believed that after defeating Ravana, Lord Hanuman used to reside in this place to guard the hometown of Lord Ram. The trek takes you 72 steps to the top of Hanumagarhi, from where you can enjoy the stunning views of the area. According to the customs, you should go to Hanumangarhi prior to going to Ram Janambhoomi to complete your journey properly. Therefore, Hanumangarhi Temple should definitely be on your list of places to see in Ayodhya.
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4. Ram Ki Paidi
Another well-known pilgrimage destination that you must go to in Ayodhya is Ram ki Paidi. Ram Ki Paidi is a complex of religious significance that includes a number of Ghats as it is situated close to the banks of the Saryu River.
The steps of the ghats were renovated in 1894 as the strong current of water had washed away the original steps. Nowadays, Ram Ki Paidi is an important religious and tourist destination in Ayodhya for many worshippers. There, you can see Hindu pilgrims from across the globe having a bath in the holy water since the belief is that a dip in the water will purify your soul and grant you peace of mind.
The complex is home to over 20 Ghats, which are surrounded by lush trees and temples with stunning views. You can also participate in daily arti ceremonies to offer prayers to Lord Ram, seeking his blessing. Spend some quality time with your loved ones by enjoying the boating facility offered by locals in this peaceful environment of the Saryu River.
5. Sita Ki Rasoi
Just on the northwestern side of Shri Ram Janma Bhoom, you will find another oldest religious place to visit in Ayodhya, with the name of Sita Ki Raso. Sita Ki Rasoi is the name of a kitchen that goddess Sita used during the time of the Ramayana.
Now, this rasoi (kitchen) has been converted into a temple. Inside the basement of the temple, devotees can visit Sita Ki Rasoi, where they can view the kitchen utensils as well as other kitchen items that date back to the period of Ramayana. Inside the temple, visitors can offer their prayers to the idols of Ram and his brothers, along with their respective wives. At Sita Ki Rasoi, visitors can eat a free meal as the temple premises serve free food to their visitors.
6. Nageshwarnath Temple
Another popular tourist spot in our list of the 8 best places in Ayodhya will be found near the famous Theri Bazaar of Ayodhya, with the name of Nageshwarnath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple and its almost 2000-year-old shivling were founded by Kush, the son of Lord Ram. This beautiful temple attracts a lot of devotees from all over because of its significant value in the Hindu religion.
The architectural design of this temple has been made by taking inspiration from North Indian and Rajasthani designs, adding charm to the temple. You will see so many monkeys near the temple, so you need to carry your belongings carefully, specifically your mobile phone and eyeglasses. The temple remains crowded during popular Hindu festivals such as Diwali or Mahashivratri, so it is always preferable to visit the temple as early as possible.
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7. Gulab Bari
The first place in our list, which is not a religious place, is Gulab Bari. Found in Vadehi Nagar, Gubari Bari is a lush greenery place and is home to the burial place of Nawab Shuja-ud Daula and his parents. Nawabs Shuja-ud-Daula was the 3rd Nawab from Awadh who was the ruler for 25 years.
The tomb of the Nawab is among the most beautiful tombs that have been constructed and is among the top monuments to see in Faizabad. The gate that leads to the tomb is constructed of a large, elegantly designed wood, which looks very classy. This popular tomb is listed under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act.
Also referred to as the Garden of Roses, this famous place is home to various varieties of Roses with some beautiful large palm trees around the tomb. Within the complex of Gulab Bari, you’ll discover water-based streams and fountains that are surrounded by a lush green environment, which adds appeal to the site.
We’ve put together the best tourist places in Ayodhya that are integral to the past and also the religious part of India.
These places are ideal to go to with friends and family. Make sure to mention in the comment section about which place you prefer to visit first in this list of the most popular destinations in Ayodhya.
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