One of India’s most sacred cities, Ayodhya lies on the banks of the Sarayu River in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. It is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus as the birthplace of the deity Rama and the setting of the legendary epic “Ramayana”.
Things to do in Ajodhya
Perched atop a raised platform is Ayodhya’s most important religious site, Ramkot, an ancient citadel built on the site of Lord Rama’s fort. It ignites during the annual Ram Navami festival, which celebrates the deity's birth and includes recitations from the “Ramayana”. Wander between the centuries-old earth mounds and the site of Rama’s cremation before admiring the stupa built by Ashoka the Great.
Constructed by the Nawab of Awadh in 1855 is Hanuman Garhi, a 10th-century fort dominated by circular bastions. It is said to be built on the site of a cave where Hanuman once lived with the purpose of guarding Ramkot. Within its temple dedicated to Hanuman is a highly-revered statue of Maa Anjani with Hanuman sitting on her lap.
North of Ayodha is the temple of Nageshwarnath, which overlooks the ghats of Ram ki Paidi. It is said to have been established by the son of Rama, Kush, after he lost his armlet while bathing in the Sarayu River. After it was discovered by a Shiva devotee, Nag-Kanya, Kush built this temple in her honour. Despite being ancient in origin, the current temple was rebuilt in 1750 and is particularly colourful during Pradosh Vrat.
Getting around Ajodhya
Ayodhya is around 15 minutes’ drive from Faizabad and three hours from Lucknow International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Ayodhya railway station while buses travel throughout the city. Rickshaws are readily available for getting around.