Diwali
Diwali experiences in three of India’s best-known celebration destinations.
Nov 08, 2026
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Ayodhya
Ayodhya is a major pilgrimage city in Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the Saryu River. It is the birthplace of Lord Rama, and the newly built Ram Mandir has made it one of India's most visited pilgrim destinations. Aarti at the Saryu ghats in the evening is a must see. Expect huge crowds during Ram Navami and other festivals, so plan hotel and darshan timings in advance.
Ayodhya is a major pilgrimage city in Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the Saryu River. It is the birthplace of Lord Rama, and the newly built Ram Mandir has made it one of India's most visited pilgrim destinations. Aarti at the Saryu ghats in the evening is a must see. Expect huge crowds during Ram Navami and other festivals, so plan hotel and darshan timings in advance.
Top Places to Visit in Ayodhya
Popular attractions and places to visit in Ayodhya
Birla Ram Mandir
A beautifully crafted modern temple in Ayodhya built by the Birla foundation, dedicated to Lord Ram.
Chowk Bazaar
A lively traditional market in Ayodhya brimming with religious items, local handicrafts, and street food stalls.
Dashrath Mahal
The traditional palace of King Dashrath in Ayodhya, now a temple complex and an important stop on the Ayodhya pilgrimage circuit.
Faizabad Market
A historic commercial hub near Ayodhya offering a mix of traditional goods, local produce, and everyday shopping.
Geeta Press Bookshop
A legendary religious bookshop in Ayodhya run by the Geeta Press, offering sacred texts and spiritual literature at affordable prices.
Guptar Ghat
A serene riverside spot where Lord Ram is said to have taken his "Jal Samadhi".
Upcoming Events in Ayodhya
Festivals, cultural events, and celebrations
Best Time to Visit Ayodhya
Plan your trip around the right season
Nov-FebBest Window
Why visit
Cool mornings and evenings make Sarayu ghat walks and Ram Janmabhoomi visits comfortable. Deepotsav in November is spectacular - the entire riverfront is lit up.
Keep in mind
Ram Navami and major temple events bring very large crowds. Hotels and trains book out weeks ahead.
Mar-Jun
Why visit
Start temple rounds by sunrise and you can cover the main shrines before it gets hot.
Keep in mind
Typical North Indian summer on the plains. Afternoons outside are very tiring by April.
Jul-Oct
Why visit
Surroundings turn green. Shravan month has a good religious atmosphere.
Keep in mind
Humid days and rain - moving between temples takes longer and narrow lanes can get waterlogged.
How to Reach Ayodhya
Intercity connectivity and travel options
Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (Ayodhya); Ayodhya Junction / Ayodhya Dham rail; NH27 links Lucknow (~135 km) and Gorakhpur.
Getting Around Ayodhya
Local transport and practical tips
Local transport
Autos, e-rickshaws, app cabs, and shuttle buses cover temple zones and the bypass.
Best Areas to Stay in Ayodhya
Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip
Ram Janmabhoomi / temple corridor vicinity
Pilgrimage-first tripsShort walks or rickshaw hops to darshan schedules and evening riverfront.
Ayodhya Cantt / Station Road side
Rail + mixed budgetsStrong hotel spread for trains and highway hops toward Lucknow or Gorakhpur.
Bypass / NH27 hotel belt
Road trippers + parkingEasier car access and newer properties when old-city lanes feel crowded.
Articles and stories
Articles and stories from Ayodhya
