Uttar Pradesh
Ayodhya Travel Guide
Sacred city on the Saryu with the Ram Mandir and ancient temples.
- Best months Oct–Mar
- Ideal trip length 1–2 days
Ayodhya on the banks of the Saryu river in Uttar Pradesh is one of Hinduism's seven sacred cities and the birthplace of Lord Ram in tradition. Since the Ram Mandir was consecrated in January 2024, it has become a major pilgrimage destination, with a new airport and a redeveloped railway station. One to two days is enough for the main temples and ghats.
Best time to visit
Recommended
October to March is the most comfortable season. Festival periods such as Ram Navami in spring and Diwali bring very large crowds, and the Deepotsav lamp festival before Diwali is a major event. April to June is hot, and the monsoon brings humid weather and rain.
How to reach
Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (AYJ) has flights from Delhi and several other cities, and it connects Ayodhya directly to major hubs. Check current schedules, as routes are expanding.
Ayodhya Dham Junction is the main railway station, redeveloped and connected to Lucknow, Delhi, Varanasi and other cities. Several fast and overnight trains serve the route.
Ayodhya is connected by highway to Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj and Gorakhpur, and buses and taxis run regularly. Expect traffic controls and restricted zones near the temple during peak times.
Where to stay
Hotels, guesthouses and dharamshalas are available around the old town and the newer areas, with more options being added. Book early for festivals and weekends, since rooms fill quickly. Staying slightly away from the temple area can mean easier access by road.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir
The grand temple dedicated to Ram Lalla, consecrated in January 2024. Darshan requires following the arrangements set by the temple trust.
- 2
Hanuman Garhi
A hilltop temple dedicated to Hanuman, reached by a flight of steps and traditionally visited before the Ram temple.
- 3
Kanak Bhawan
A beautiful temple associated with Ram and Sita, known for its ornate interior.
- 4
Saryu Ghats
The riverfront at Ram ki Paidi, with bathing ghats, evening aarti and, in the festival season, large crowds and lamps.
- 5
Nageshwarnath Temple
An old Shiva temple on the river, believed to be among the city's earliest shrines.
- 6
Treta Ke Thakur and Guptar Ghat
Quieter temples and a ghat along the Saryu, associated with episodes from the Ramayana.
Food to try
Look for sweets such as peda and laddoo offered as prasad, along with kachori, jalebi and simple vegetarian thalis. Many eateries serve vegetarian food only, in keeping with the pilgrimage setting.
Travel tips
- Follow the temple trust's official channels for darshan arrangements, and avoid unofficial booking sites or agents.
- Security is strict; mobile phones, bags and electronic items are usually not allowed inside the temple area, so check the current instructions and use cloakrooms provided.
- Wear modest clothing and comfortable footwear that is easy to remove, as you will walk a fair distance.
- Plan for queues and traffic restrictions, especially on weekends, festivals and Tuesdays and Saturdays at Hanuman Garhi.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need for Ayodhya?
One full day covers the main temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan and the ghats. Stay two days if you want to avoid rushing or add Lucknow or Varanasi.
Do I need to book darshan in advance?
Arrangements for darshan are set by the temple trust and may change. Check the official information channels before you travel and avoid unofficial sources.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Early morning is usually quieter and cooler. Evening is atmospheric at the Saryu ghats, though weekends and festivals are crowded throughout.
Official sources
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.