Ayodhya is the birthplace of God Ram, the seventh Incarnation of God Vishnu.

Ayodhya, also known as Saketa, is an ancient city in India and is the birthplace of Rama and the setting of the great epic Ramayana. Ayodhya was once the capital of the ancient Kosala Kingdom.
Ancient Hindu Sanskrit-language epics, such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata mention a legendary city called Ayodhya. Top attractions in Ayodhya include the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, the Kanak Bhawan Temple, and the Saryu River. Each site delves into the city’s rich historical and religious significance, making them the ultimate highlights of the area.

Places To Visit In Ayodhya

Ram Janma Bhumi

The Ram Janmabhoomi site in Ayodhya is one of India’s most significant and contested religious landmarks. Here’s an overview of its historical, religious, and contemporary importance:

Historical Background

• Ancient Significance: The Ram Janmabhoomi site is traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a major deity in Hinduism and the hero of the epic Ramayana. The temple’s origins date back several millennia, and the site has been a focal point of Hindu devotion for centuries.
• Previous Structures: Historically, there were several temples constructed at this site. In the 16th century, a mosque, known as the Babri Masjid, was built by the Mughal emperor Babur. This mosque was said to have been constructed on the ruins of a Hindu temple.

Legal and Political Developments

• Legal Battle: The dispute led to numerous legal battles over the years. In 2010, the Allahabad High Court ruled that the site should be divided among Hindus and Muslims. The ruling was contested, and the matter was escalated to the Supreme Court.
• Supreme Court Verdict: On November 9, 2019, the Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark verdict favoring the construction of a Hindu temple at the Ram Janmabhoomi site. The court ordered the central government to provide land for a mosque in a separate location as compensation.

Current Status

• Construction: Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, the foundation stone for the new Ram Temple was laid on August 5, 2020, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The construction of the temple is ongoing, and it is expected to be a major pilgrimage site once completed.
• Visitor Experience: The site attracts numerous devotees and tourists. Visitors can explore the ongoing construction of the Ram Temple and the various smaller temples and shrines around the area.

Significance

• Religious: For Hindus, the Ram Janmabhoomi site is of immense religious significance, symbolizing the birthplace of a revered deity and a focal point of spiritual devotion.
• Cultural: The site is also important in the broader cultural and historical context of India, reflecting the country’s complex and diverse heritage.

Hanuman Garhi Mandir

Hanuman Garhi Temple in Ayodhya is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the deity revered for strength, devotion, and courage. Located on a hill, the temple offers panoramic views of the city. It is believed that Lord Hanuman, a key figure in the Ramayana, resides here to protect the city and its inhabitants. The temple is noted for its large statue of Hanuman and its rich history, making it a crucial part of Ayodhya’s religious landscape.

The 10th-century temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Hanuman. It is one of the most important temples in Ayodhya, as it is customary to Visit Hanuman Garhi before visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. It is believed that God Hanuman still lived at the temple site guarding Ayodhya.

Kanak Bhawan

Kanak Bhawan was constructed in 1891, this temple is also known as Sone-Ka-Ghar. It is a holy site dedicated to the Hindu deity God Ram and his wife, Goddess Sita.

Kanak Bhavan is a prominent temple in Ayodhya, revered for its historical and religious significance. Here’s a detailed look at this important site:

Historical and Religious Significance

• Dedicated to Sita and Rama: Kanak Bhavan is primarily dedicated to Goddess Sita and Lord Rama, two central figures in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. The temple is particularly associated with Sita, the consort of Lord Rama.
• Legendary Origins: According to tradition, the temple was built by Queen of Kaushal, a revered queen who was a devotee of Lord Rama. It is believed that this temple was originally constructed to commemorate the divine couple’s stay in Ayodhya.

Architecture and Features

• Structure: The temple features a distinctive architectural style with intricate carvings and ornate decorations. It houses beautiful idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, along with images of other deities from the Ramayana, including Hanuman and Lakshman.
• Idol Placement: The main deities are depicted in an elegant form, with Lord Rama and Goddess Sita seated together, symbolizing their eternal bond.

Cultural and Pilgrimage Importance

• Religious Practices: Kanak Bhavan is an important site for devotees, who visit to offer prayers and seek blessings. The temple holds special significance during festivals like Ram Navami and Diwali, when it becomes a hub of religious activities and celebrations.
• Historical Context: The temple has been a part of Ayodhya’s religious and cultural history for centuries. It reflects the deep-rooted connection of Ayodhya with the epic Ramayana and its characters.

Nageshwarnath Temple

The temple is dedicated to the local deity, God Nageshwarnath, it is believed that this temple was built by Kush, son of God Ram.

Nageshwarnath Temple in Ayodhya is an important Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, specifically in his form as Nageshwar, or the “Lord of Serpents.” Here’s a brief overview:

Historical and Religious Significance

• Mythological Importance: The temple is linked to various legends in Hindu mythology. It is believed that Nageshwarnath was established by Kush, the son of Lord Rama, which ties it to the Ramayana’s heritage.
• Devotional Significance: Lord Shiva, as Nageshwarnath, is worshipped here for protection and spiritual well-being. The temple is considered a significant site for devotees seeking blessings from Shiva.

Swarg Dwar Or Ram Ghat

This is an important bathing Ghat. As per the Hindu faith, God Ram has been cremated here. The stip of land from Shharshdhara to Nageshwar temple is commonly symbolized as Swarg Dwar.

Swarg Dwar, also known as Ram Ghat, is a significant and revered site in Ayodhya, located on the banks of the Saryu River. Here’s a detailed overview:

Historical and Religious Significance

• Mythological Importance: Swarg Dwar is believed to be the gateway to heaven (Swarg) in Hindu mythology. According to local traditions and beliefs, it is considered one of the most auspicious places for performing last rites and cremations.
• Role in Ramayana: The ghat is closely associated with the epic Ramayana and the legendary figure of Lord Rama. It is said that Lord Rama chose this location for his final departure from the mortal world, which adds to its sacredness.

Features and Activities

• Cremation Site: Swarg Dwar is primarily known as a cremation ghat where many people come to perform the last rites of their loved ones. It is believed that performing the last rites here ensures the soul’s smooth transition to the afterlife.
• Scenic Beauty: The ghat offers picturesque views of the Saryu River, with its serene and tranquil setting contributing to its spiritual ambiance. Pilgrims and visitors often take a moment to reflect and meditate by the riverside.

Ram Ki Paidi

Ram ki Paidi is a series of Ghats on the bank of River Saryu in Ayodhya. A large number of pilgrims visit every day to take a sacred bath in the holy river Saryu.

Ram Ki Paidi is an important and vibrant site in Ayodhya, notable for its religious and cultural significance. Here’s an overview:

Historical and Religious Significance

• Associated with Lord Rama: The name “Ram Ki Paidi” translates to “The Steps of Rama.” The site is associated with Lord Rama, a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana, and is considered a sacred place for devotees.
• Legendary Context: According to local tradition, Lord Rama visited this area during his lifetime. The steps and ghats here are believed to have been used by him, which contributes to the site’s spiritual importance.

Features and Activities

• Bathing Ghat: Ram Ki Paidi is primarily a bathing ghat located along the banks of the Saryu River. It features a series of steps leading down to the river, where pilgrims come to take a holy dip. This act of bathing is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.

On the occasion of Deepawali in 2019 Ayodhya created the Guinness record by lightning 450000 diyas on Ram Ki Paidi.

Dashrath Mahal

In Ayodhya Dasharath Mahal is an extraordinary place to Visit. It is Located in the heart of the city. Dashrath Mahal is the original residence of King Dashrath- the ruler of Ayodhya and father of God Ram.

Dashrath Mahal is a historical and architectural landmark in Ayodhya, closely associated with the royal lineage of the city. Here’s a detailed look at Dashrath Mahal:

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Royal Residence: Dashrath Mahal is traditionally believed to be the palace of King Dashrath, the father of Lord Rama, a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana. King Dashrath ruled Ayodhya and the palace is said to be where he lived with his family.
• Legendary Context: The palace is linked to various legends and stories from the Ramayana. It is thought to be the location where significant events in the epic took place, including the birth of Lord Rama and his brothers.

Architectural Features

• Historical Architecture: The palace’s architectural style reflects the grandeur of ancient Ayodhya. Though much of the original structure may not have survived, the remnants and ruins provide insights into the architectural prowess of the period.

MANI PARBAT

Mani Parbat is a notable site in Ayodhya with significant religious and historical importance. Here’s an overview:

Historical and Religious Significance

• Religious Context: Mani Parbat is believed to be a sacred hill or mound associated with Lord Rama and the epic Ramayana. It is considered a holy site where religious activities and rituals have been performed for centuries.
• Legendary Association: According to local traditions, Mani Parbat is linked to various legends from the Ramayana. It is often associated with the mythology surrounding Lord Rama and his divine activities.

Features and Activities

• Sacred Mound: The site features a small hill or mound, which is considered sacred by the local devotees. The mound is viewed as an important part of the religious landscape in Ayodhya.
• Pilgrimage Spot: Mani Parbat is a place of pilgrimage where devotees come to offer prayers and seek blessings. The site contributes to Ayodhya’s spiritual ambiance and is part of the broader pilgrimage experience in the city.

Ayodhya Sri Ram Mandir – All You Need to Know BEFORE …

–Timing: Devotees can enter the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir for Darshan from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Entry Pass: No entry pass is required for general Darshan. However, entry for special Aartis such as Mangala Aarti at 4 AM, Shringar Aarti at 6:15 AM, and Shayan Aarti at 10 PM requires an entry pass.

–The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra and Ayodhya administration have decided to ban the use of Mobile phones within the Ram Janmabhoomi temple premises.