Top 10 Ayodhya Visiting Places for a Spiritual and Historical Experience
Ayodhya, the ancient city on the banks of the Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh, holds an unparalleled place in Indian culture, mythology, and history. Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, this sacred city attracts pilgrims, history lovers, and spiritual seekers throughout the year. If you are planning a visit, here are the top 10 Ayodhya visiting places that will offer you a deeply enriching spiritual and historical experience.
1. Ram Janmabhoomi
No visit to Ayodhya is complete without visiting Ram Janmabhoomi, the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama. The newly built grand Ram Temple, which is under rapid construction for inauguration in full scale, is the most revered site here. Pilgrims experience profound peace and devotion while witnessing the grandeur of the temple complex, which embodies centuries of faith and cultural significance.
2. Hanuman Garhi
Located in the heart of Ayodhya, Hanuman Garhi is a fortress-like temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Devotees climb 76 steps to reach the main shrine, where Lord Hanuman is enshrined in a seated posture holding baby Rama. It is believed that visiting this temple before Ram Janmabhoomi darshan makes your pilgrimage complete, making it an essential stop among Ayodhya visiting places.
3. Kanak Bhawan
Kanak Bhawan is one of the most beautiful temples in Ayodhya, dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. It is believed that this palace was gifted to Sita by Kaikeyi after her marriage to Lord Rama. The richly decorated idols adorned with gold crowns and jewellery are mesmerising, offering visitors a glimpse into the royal devotion of ancient times.
4. Sita Ki Rasoi
Located near Ram Janmabhoomi, Sita Ki Rasoi is an ancient kitchen believed to have been used by Goddess Sita. This small temple houses utensils and showcases a symbolic kitchen set-up that highlights the simplicity and domestic traditions of the Treta Yuga. For those exploring Ayodhya visiting places to connect with mythology, this is a humble yet powerful site.
5. Treta Ke Thakur
Treta Ke Thakur is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama, built on the spot where he performed Ashwamedha Yagna. The temple houses black sandstone idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharat, Shatrughna, and Hanuman. The temple is opened only once a year on Ekadashi after Diwali, but its historical significance makes it worth viewing from outside during other times.
6. Nageshwarnath Temple
This temple is believed to have been established by Kush, the son of Lord Rama, in honour of Lord Shiva. It is said that when he lost his armlet while bathing in the Sarayu River, it was returned by a Nag-Kanya (serpent girl) who was a devotee of Lord Shiva. Kush built this temple for her. It is also an important site during Shivratri and ranks high among Ayodhya visiting places for Shiva devotees.
7. Guptar Ghat
Guptar Ghat, located along the serene banks of Sarayu River, is where Lord Rama is believed to have taken Jal Samadhi to leave the earthly realm. It is a peaceful spot with steps leading into the holy river, making it ideal for meditation, evening aarti, and witnessing beautiful sunsets, adding a serene touch to your Ayodhya visit.
8. Mani Parvat
Mani Parvat is a small hillock with great mythological importance. According to legends, it is a part of the Sanjeevani mountain carried by Hanuman that fell here while he was flying back with the medicinal herb to save Lakshmana. Today, the hill has a Buddhist stupa, a Shiv temple, and offers panoramic views of Ayodhya city and its surroundings.
9. Dasrath Bhavan
Dasrath Bhavan, situated in Ramkot, is believed to be the original palace of King Dasrath, father of Lord Rama. It has shrines dedicated to Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Bharata. The temple is filled with devotional chants, and its colourful architecture and spiritual ambience provide an immersive experience into Ramayana-era life.
10. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan
Dedicated to the great saint-poet Goswami Tulsidas, who wrote Ramcharitmanas, Tulsi Smarak Bhawan preserves manuscripts and hosts Ramleela performances and cultural events. There is also a research centre here for scholars interested in Ramayana studies. It is a must-visit among Ayodhya visiting places for those who wish to understand the literary and cultural heritage of this holy city.
Conclusion
These top 10 Ayodhya visiting places offer a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and cultural richness. From Ram Janmabhoomi’s grandeur to the quiet banks of Guptar Ghat and the historical legends of Mani Parvat, each site narrates a story that has shaped India’s spiritual consciousness for centuries. Whether you are a pilgrim, a cultural traveller, or a history lover, Ayodhya will fill your journey with blessings, wisdom, and timeless memories.
