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Uttar PradeshThe birthplace of Lord Rama on the banks of the Saryu. Ayodhya is one of the seven holiest cities in Hindu tradition and the birthplace of Lord Rama. Since the consecration of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in January 2024, the town has changed fast β wider roads, a new railway station and airport, and a steady stream of pilgrims from across India β but the old temples and the quiet Saryu ghats still set its character.
A typical visit starts early at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex, where darshan involves security checks, a queue and strict rules about phones and bags, so it is worth planning the day around it. After that, most visitors climb the steps of Hanuman Garhi, visit Kanak Bhawan, and spend the evening at the Saryu river for aarti.
Ayodhya is at its most spectacular during Deepotsav, held around Diwali, when the ghats are lit with hundreds of thousands of earthen lamps. Ram Navami in spring is the other big festival and brings very heavy crowds, so book transport and stay well ahead.
From Varanasi, Ayodhya is an easy long day trip or a comfortable overnight. We handle the car, the hotel and the darshan planning, and our drivers know the current traffic and parking arrangements around the temple.
Related guides: Varanasi to Ayodhya guide
Uttar Pradesh
About 200 km from Varanasi (4β5 hours by road)
October to March; Ram Navami and Diwali (Deepotsav) are special
1β2 days
Contact for package
The new grand temple dedicated to Ram Lalla, the child form of Lord Rama. Entry follows security rules and queue timings that can change, so check current arrangements before travelling.
A hilltop fort-style temple reached by a long flight of steps, traditionally visited before other temples in Ayodhya.
A richly decorated temple associated with Sita and Rama, known for its golden-toned sanctum and courtyards.
The riverfront steps where pilgrims bathe and watch the evening aarti. Quieter at sunrise, lively at dusk.
One of the oldest Shiva temples in the city, said to have been founded by Kush, Rama's son.
The palace of King Dasharatha as the tradition remembers it, a peaceful complex with shrines and a hall of pilgrims.
A temple marking the spot where Rama is traditionally said to have performed the Ashwamedha yajna.
A calm stretch of the Saryu a short drive from the main town, linked in tradition to Rama's departure from the world.
Varanasi to Ayodhya is around 200 km by road, normally 4β5 hours via JaunpurβSultanpur or the expressway side, depending on the day. A private car allows an early start and flexible darshan timing.
Ayodhya Dham railway station and Maharishi Valmiki International Airport have made the town much easier to reach from other cities. Trains from Varanasi to Ayodhya take around 5β6 hours.
Tell us your dates, group size and interests. We'll share a customised itinerary and price on WhatsApp β car, hotel, guide and darshan arranged by locals.
Yes, with an early start. For a relaxed visit with the evening Saryu aarti, an overnight stay is better.
A government photo ID, modest clothing and as little as possible β phones, bags and electronics are usually not allowed inside and are kept at deposit counters. Rules change, so confirm before travelling.
October to March is comfortable. Deepotsav (around Diwali) and Ram Navami are special but extremely crowded, so book early.
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