HOW TO REACH AYODHYA:
BY AIR: The Lucknow airport, situated 150 km west of Ayodhya, offers regular flights to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Jaipur, and Mumbai. From the airport, travelers can easily find taxis and jeeps to reach Ayodhya.
BY TRAIN: Ayodhya railway station serves as a crucial junction in North India, providing excellent connectivity to Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Gonda. The railway station is conveniently located less than two km away from the city center.
BY ROAD: While Ayodhya doesn’t have direct road links with neighboring cities, buses are available to the nearest bus station. Distances to key locations include approximately 130 km from Varanasi, 160 km from Allahabad, 140 km from Gorakhpur, and around 636 km from Delhi. Travelers can opt for tempo or taxi services for transportation.
Things To Do In Ayodhya :
Ayodhya, a mystical city nestled in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is a pilgrimage site that draws countless visitors seeking spiritual solace and a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Renowned as the birthplace of Lord Ram, Ayodhya boasts numerous temples, ghats, and magnificent structures that showcase the city’s spiritual significance and historical grandeur. Beyond the temples, Ayodhya offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate the hearts of tourists and pilgrims alike. Let’s embark on a virtual tour of Ayodhya’s hidden gems and cultural delights.
1. Sita ki Rasoi: A Culinary Journey Through Mythology Sita ki Rasoi, once the royal kitchen of Goddess Sita during the Ramayan era, has transformed into a temple that preserves the essence of ancient culinary traditions. Explore the model version of the historic kitchen, complete with utensils and rolling plates. The temple’s significance lies in its association with Goddess Annapurna, the deity of food. Priests continue the tradition of serving free meals to the poor, embodying the spirit of generosity.
2. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan Museum: Commemorating Tulsidas Ji Built in 1969, the Tulsi Smarak Bhawan Museum pays homage to the famous poet-saint Goswami Tulsidas Ji. Also known as Ram Katha Sanghralaya, the museum houses a collection of literature and antiques from Lord Ram’s era. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural performances like Ramleela at the adjoining cultural center. The library within the Bhawan is a treasure trove of literary works related to Lord Ram.
3. Ramkatha Park: Where Culture Takes Center Stage Ramkatha Park provides a serene space for cultural activities amidst Ayodhya’s religious fervor. This expansive park hosts devotional prayer meetings, cultural performances, poetry sessions, and storytelling during festivals. It serves as a cultural haven, offering a respite from crowded temples. Families can enjoy the open grounds, and cultural enthusiasts can partake in various events held in the park.
4. Raja Mandir: A Glimpse into Mythology Raja Mandir, situated on the riverbank, is steeped in mythological tales from the Ramayan era. Adorned with idols of Hindu deities, the temple exemplifies exquisite Hindu architecture. Its proximity to the river adds to the tranquility, inviting visitors to experience a moment of peace. The locals believe that taking a dip in the sacred river near Raja Mandir cleanses the soul.
5. Mani Parbat: A Sacred Hillock In Kami Ganj, Ayodhya, lies Mani Parbat, a sacred hillock with a fascinating legend. According to belief, a piece of the mountain carried by Lord Hanuman fell in Ayodhya during his quest for the Sanjeevani Booti. This piece became Mani Parbat, a revered spot with shrines and a Buddhist Monastery. The 65-ft high hillock stands as a testament to Ayodhya’s sacred geography.
6. Moti Mahal: Majestic Mughal Architecture Built in 1743 A.D, Moti Mahal stands as a testament to Mughal architecture’s grandeur. Located in Faizabad, away from Ayodhya, the palace once housed Nawab Suja-Ud-Daula’s wife, Begum Unmatuzzohra Banu. The intricate design and cultural significance make Moti Mahal a captivating historical site. Winter is the ideal time to explore its beauty without the scorching heat.
7. Choti Chawni Caves: Architectural Brilliance in White Marble Choti Chawni, crafted from white marble, boasts 34 heritage caves representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cultures. The caves make Choti Chawni a masterpiece of architectural brilliance. The Kailash Temple within the structure adds to its serene ambiance. A stroll through this complex offers a glimpse into the diversity of ancient Indian cultures.
8. Bahu Begum ka Maqbara: A Stroll Amidst Architectural Elegance Bahu Begum ka Maqbara, the tomb of Nawab Suja-ud-Daula’s wife, Begum Unmatuzzohra Bano, is a remarkable architectural gem. Constructed by Darab Ali Khan, the chief advisor to the queen, the structure offers a picturesque view of the city. Stroll through the maqbara and immerse yourself in the historical and cultural legacy it represents.
9. Ram ki Paidi: Riverside Serenity Along the sacred River Sarayu, Ram ki Paidi encompasses numerous ghats adorned with temples and places of worship. A boat ride during sunrise or sunset offers breathtaking views, with priests chanting prayers and performing aarti. The ghats provide a serene atmosphere, and taking a dip in the holy waters is believed to cleanse the soul.
10. Guptar Ghat and Chakra Harji Vishnu Temple: Mythological Marvel A short distance from Ayodhya lies Guptar Ghat in Faizabad, hosting the Chakra Harji Vishnu Temple. Legends speak of footprints inside the temple believed to be Lord Ram’s. The temple, steeped in mythology, attracts tourists and pilgrims alike, offering a unique spiritual experience.
Ayodhya beckons seekers of spirituality and cultural enthusiasts with its diverse array of experiences. Whether exploring ancient kitchens, museums, or architectural marvels, Ayodhya unfolds as a city where history, mythology, and spirituality converge harmoniously. Visit Ayodhya to witness the timeless beauty of a city steeped in cultural richness and divine significance.
