Ram Janmabhoomi, located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu. The Ramayana describes Ayodhya as Rama's capital, situated on the banks of the Sarayu River. The site has been central to religious and historical significance, with claims that a temple once stood there before being replaced by the Babri Masjid. The dispute over the land led to decades of legal battles and social movements. In 2019, the Indian Supreme Court ruled in favor of constructing a Hindu temple at the site, handing the land over to the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust. The construction of the grand Ram Mandir has since become a symbol of faith and devotion for millions of Hindus.
Hanuman Garhi is a revered temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Believed to have been established in the 10th century, it is one of the most significant temples in the city. According to legend, Hanuman resided in a cave here to protect Ram Janmabhoomi after Lord Rama’s return from Lanka. The temple is built like a fort, with circular ramparts at each corner. Devotees must climb 76 steps to reach the sanctum, where a six-inch idol of Bal Hanuman sits on the lap of his mother, Mata Anjani. The temple walls are adorned with verses from the Hanuman Chalisa, and a Victory Pillar (Vijay Stambh) stands within the complex.
Kanak Bhawan is a revered temple in Ayodhya, dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. It is believed that Queen Kaikeyi gifted this palace to Sita after her marriage to Rama, making it their personal residence. The temple is known as the "Golden Palace" due to its intricate gold embellishments. The structure has undergone multiple renovations, with the present temple built in 1891 by Queen Vrishabhanu Kunwari. The temple houses three pairs of idols of Rama and Sita, each with historical significance. The architecture reflects Rajasthani and Bundelkhand styles, featuring ornate carvings and a grand entrance. Kanak Bhawan is a major pilgrimage site, attracting devotees during Ram Navami and Janaki Navami.
This temple is at Ram Ki Paidi in Ayodhya. The temple of Nageshwarnath is said to have been established by Kush, the son of Rama. Legend is that Kush lost his armlet, while bathing in the Saryu, which was picked up by a Nag-Kanya, who fell in love with him. As she was a devotee of Shiva, Kush erected this temple for her. Even till the times of Vikramaditya the temple was in good shape. The present temple was built in 1750 by the minister of Safdar Jung, named Naval Rai. The festival of Shivratri is celebrated here in a big way, and Shiv Barat procession is taken out during these celebrations which is particularly significant. During the festival time of Mahashivratri the temple receive thousands of devotees.
Ram Ki Paidi is a series of sacred ghats along the banks of the Saryu River in Ayodhya, known for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty. Pilgrims visit this site to take a holy dip, believing it offers spiritual cleansing. The ghats are meticulously maintained, ensuring a safe and serene environment for devotees. During festivals like Deepotsava, Ram Ki Paidi transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle, with thousands of diyas illuminating the riverbanks. The site also serves as a summer retreat, attracting visitors seeking respite from the heat. The evening aarti at the ghats adds to its divine ambiance, making it a must-visit for those exploring Ayodhya.
Undoubtedly, one of Ayodhya's top tourist destinations is the Tulsi Smarak Bhavan Museum. It was founded in 1969 and established in memory of Goswami Tulsidas. Hanuman Chalisa and the Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas are written by the great Hindu poet Tulsidas. This place is believed to be the one where Tulsidas composed the great Ramcharitmanas. This museum in Ayodhya contains a sizable collection of Tulsidas' literary works. In addition to this, the museum is renowned for conducting religious lectures, prayer gatherings, and devotional music sessions. Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan, a research institute, is also located within the Tulsi Smarak Bhavan complex.
Mani Parvat is a sacred hillock in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, rising about 65 feet above sea level. It holds deep religious significance in Hinduism and Buddhism. According to legend, it is a fragment of the mountain carried by Lord Hanuman during the search for the sanjeevani herb to save Lakshman. Another tale links it to gems gifted during Lord Rama’s wedding, forming a hill. The site is associated with Sita Devi and is believed to be a place where Lord Buddha once preached. Mani Parvat features temples, a stupa, and offers panoramic views of Ayodhya.
Guptar Ghat, nestled on the banks of the sacred Sarayu River near Ayodhya, is a revered site in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama took Jal Samadhi, leaving his earthly form to return to Vaikuntha. The ghat is adorned with temples like the Sita-Ram Temple, Chakrahari Shrine, and Narsingh Temple, and is surrounded by serene gardens and spiritual calm. Devotees flock here to take a holy dip, believing it purifies the soul. With its peaceful ambiance, historical depth, and spiritual resonance, Guptar Ghat remains a cherished pilgrimage destination.
Surya Kund is a revered sacred pond located in Ayodhya, near the Ram Mandir complex. Dedicated to Surya Dev, the Sun God, it holds deep mythological and spiritual significance. According to legend, the kund was built where Surya’s chariot halted during Lord Rama’s coronation, blessing the event with divine light. The kund is surrounded by serene ghats and a temple complex, believed to have healing waters that purify the soul. Pilgrims visit to take a holy dip and perform rituals. Its tranquil setting and historical depth make Surya Kund a cherished destination for spiritual seekers and devotees alike.
Nandi Gram, also known as Bharat Kund, is a sacred site near Ayodhya, deeply rooted in the Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama’s brother, Bharat, ruled the kingdom from here during Rama’s 14-year exile. Out of devotion, Bharat placed Rama’s wooden sandals on the throne and governed as a caretaker. The site features a serene pond—Bharat Kund—where Bharat is said to have bathed daily. Pilgrims visit to perform ancestral rites, especially during Pitru Paksha. The area also houses temples and the revered Nandishwar Mahadev shrine, adding spiritual depth to this tranquil and historically rich destination.
