About Ayodhya
Ayodhya is an ancient and sacred city which is located on the banks of the holy Saryu River in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is revered as the birthplace of lord Rama who is known to be the seventh incarnation of lord Vishnu. Ayodhya holds immense religious significance for Hindus across the world and the city is steeped in mythology and history, and it finds prominent mention in the Ramayana and various other Hindu scriptures. Once the capital of the Kosala kingdom Ayodhya is believed to be one of the oldest living cities on earth, with a spiritual legacy that spans thousands of years. Pilgrims visit Ayodhya to experience its divine aura and explore its many temples and ghats, the most important being the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, built at the very spot where Lord Rama is believed to have been born.
How to Reach Ayodhya
- By Air: Nearest major airport is in Lucknow (135 km). A new Ayodhya airport is also nearing completion.
- By Train: Well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Kolkata
- By Road: Excellent road connectivity with frequent buses and taxis from Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Prayagraj and Varanasi.
Historical Significance
Ayodhya was once the capital of the ancient Kosala kingdom and is mentioned in several Hindu scriptures, including the Ramayana, Skanda Purana, and Atharva Veda. The city is believed to be more than 9,000 years old, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Places to visit in Ayodhya
Ayodhya is part of the Sapta Puri, the seven sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Pilgrims from across India and abroad visit the city to walk in the footsteps of Lord Rama and witness the divine aura that still lingers in its air. The most revered sites include:
Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya marks the birthplace of Lord Rama, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. Currently under construction, the grand temple is designed in traditional Nagara style and symbolizes India's spiritual heritage. It has become a major pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from all over the world.
Hanuman Garhi
Hanuman Garhi is a prominent temple in Ayodhya dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located near the Ram Janmabhoomi site. Built in the 10th century, it is perched on a hilltop and reached by climbing 76 steps. Devotees believe that Hanuman guards the city of Lord Rama from this sacred spot. It is one of the most visited temples in Ayodhya.
Kanak Bhawan
Kanak Bhawan is a beautiful temple in Ayodhya dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. It is believed to have been gifted to Sita by Queen Kaikeyi after her marriage. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and richly adorned idols of Ram and Sita, making it a favorite spot for devotees.
Sita Ki Rasoi
Sita Ki Rasoi is an ancient kitchen located in Ayodhya, believed to be the place where Goddess Sita cooked meals after her marriage to Lord Rama. Now a small shrine, it features symbolic kitchen utensils and idols of Sita, Ram, Lakshman, Bharat, and Shatrughna. It’s a popular spiritual site reflecting the domestic life of divine figures.
Saryu Ghat
Saryu Ghat is a sacred riverfront in Ayodhya on the banks of the Saryu River, where pilgrims come to take holy dips and attend the evening aarti. It is believed that Lord Rama took jal samadhi here. The ghat offers a peaceful, spiritual ambiance and is especially beautiful during festivals and sunset.
