Ayodhya
The sacred birthplace of Lord Ram on the Saryu river
About Ayodhya
Ayodhya, on the banks of the holy Saryu river, is one of Hinduism's seven sacred cities and revered as the birthplace of Lord Ram. Since the grand Ram Mandir opened in 2024, this ancient city has become one of India's most visited pilgrimage and cultural destinations.
Beyond the magnificent new temple, Ayodhya enchants with riverside ghats, the lamp-lit evening Saryu aarti, centuries-old shrines and a profound sense of devotion. It pairs naturally with Varanasi and Prayagraj for a spiritual journey through the heart of North India.
Top Things to Do
Visit the Ram Mandir
Experience the centrepiece of Ayodhya, the grand temple at Ram Janmabhoomi.
Saryu river aarti
Witness the lamp-lit evening prayer ceremony on the riverbank.
Temple circuit
Visit Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan and other revered shrines across the old city.
Experience a festival
If timed right, see Ram Navami or the spectacular Deepotsav, when countless lamps light the ghats.
Highlights
- The grand Ram Mandir at Ram Janmabhoomi
- Evening Saryu Aarti on the ghats
- Hanuman Garhi temple on its hilltop
- Kanak Bhawan, the ornate 'golden palace' temple
- A peaceful boat ride on the Saryu river
- The dazzling Deepotsav festival around Diwali
Know Before You Go
- Temples get very busy on weekends and festival days — early mornings are calmer.
- Dress modestly; you'll often remove footwear and leave bags before entering shrines.
- Photography is restricted inside the main temple sanctum.