Ayodhya, the ancient city situated on the banks of the holy Saryu River, is one of the most spiritually rich destinations in India. Known as the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, Ayodhya holds an irreplaceable place in the hearts of millions of devotees. With centuries-old temples, mythological landmarks, and a vibrant cultural heritage, Ayodhya beautifully blends spirituality with history. The inauguration of the magnificent Ram Mandir in 2024 marked a new era for the city, transforming it into a major global pilgrimage destination. From well-developed ghats to improved transport facilities and world-class amenities for tourists, Ayodhya today stands as a divine, peaceful and modern spiritual city.

If you are planning to visit Ayodhya, this guide provides a complete, detailed overview of the Best Places to visit in Ayodhya, ensuring you don’t miss any significant temple, sacred location, historical monument, or cultural site.

1. Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple (Ram Mandir)

The Ram Mandir stands as the grand centerpiece of Ayodhya and symbolizes centuries of devotion, faith, and perseverance of millions of Hindus. Built at the exact birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, the temple is a timeless testimony to ancient Indian architecture and spiritual energy. As soon as you walk inside the temple premises, the air fills with chants of “Jai Shri Ram,” creating an electrifying yet peaceful atmosphere.

The temple’s architecture is inspired by the classical Nagara style, crafted carefully using pink sandstone sourced from Rajasthan. It features three stories, more than 300 pillars, and exquisitely carved sculptures that depict scenes from the Ramayana. The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idol of Balak Ram (Ram Lalla), which is adorned with beautiful ornaments and radiates powerful spiritual vibrations. The experience of standing in front of Ram Lalla feels surreal, emotional, and deeply devotional.

During peak seasons, weekends, holidays, and festivals, the temple attracts lakhs of devotees. However, modern facilities, queue-management systems, security arrangements, and signboards make the darshan process smooth. The temple complex also includes gardens, resting areas, drinking water points, and designated spaces for elderly visitors. A morning visit around sunrise is highly recommended to experience serenity and minimal crowd.

Architecture & Design

• Constructed in the Nagara style
• 3 floors, 360 feet long, 235 feet wide, and 161 feet tall
• Over 300 pillars and 12 intricately designed gates
• Pink sandstone from Rajasthan

The inner sanctum houses the divine figure of Balak Ram (Ram Lalla) — beautifully sculpted and mesmerizing.

What to Expect During a Visit

• Long queues during weekends and festivals
• Security checks at multiple gates
• Digital signboards for Darshan management
• Full arrangement for elderly and disabled pilgrims

Tips:

✔ Visit early morning for peaceful darshan
✔ Carry minimal belongings
✔ Follow temple dress guidelines

2. Hanuman Garhi Temple 

Located about one kilometer from the Ram Mandir complex, Hanuman Garhi is one of Ayodhya’s most important temples. As per tradition, devotees are advised to visit Hanuman Garhi before taking the darshan of Lord Ram because it is believed that Lord Hanuman guards Ayodhya and the Ram Janmabhoomi.

Hanuman Garhi sits atop a small hill, and you need to climb about 76 steps to reach the entrance. Though the climb is short, it offers a beautiful view of the surrounding city. The temple houses an idol of Lord Hanuman lying in his mother Anjani’s lap — an image rarely seen elsewhere. The temple is always buzzing with devotees chanting “Jai Hanuman,” creating an energetic spiritual atmosphere.

Historically, the temple is believed to have been built in the 10th century and later renovated by kings and saints. The architecture features typical Awadhi-style designs, colorful walls, and decorated arches. From the top, you can get mesmerizing views of Ayodhya’s skyline, which looks particularly beautiful at sunset.

Legend & Mythology

It is believed that Lord Hanuman lived here and protected the Janmabhoomi. According to scriptures, devotees must visit Hanuman Garhi first before taking darshan of Lord Ram.

What Makes It Special?

• 76 stone steps lead to the temple
• The main idol of Bal Hanuman lying in his mother’s lap
• Vibrant spiritual chants and bells

Experience at the Temple

The temple is always full of energy, with devotees chanting “Jai Shri Ram” and “Jai Bajrang Bali”. The rooftop offers beautiful views of Ayodhya.

Tips:

✔ Climb steps slowly if traveling with elderly
✔ Try visiting during evening aarti

3. Kanak Bhawan

Kanak Bhawan is among the most beautiful and spiritually uplifting temples in Ayodhya. According to legends, the temple was gifted by Queen Kaikeyi to Sita after her marriage to Lord Ram. The temple’s present form was constructed in the 19th century by the Queen of Tikamgarh.

The moment you step inside Kanak Bhawan, you are welcomed by devotional music, fragrant flowers, and the mesmerizing sight of beautifully adorned idols of Sita-Ram. The idols are covered with intricate gold ornaments, which is why the temple earned the name “Kanak,” meaning gold.

The temple is designed in a harmonious blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture with multiple courtyards, domes, and arched gateways. The spiritual energy inside the temple calms your mind instantly. Many devotees love to sit inside the courtyard and chant mantras or meditate. Kanak Bhawan is not just a temple — it’s an emotional and divine experience, especially for couples seeking blessings for a harmonious married life.

What to See

• Golden-crowned idols of Sita-Ram
• Beautiful courtyard and pillars
• Daily chanting of bhajans

Experience

The moment you step inside, the fragrance of flowers and the sound of mantras create an enchanting atmosphere. The temple architecture is a perfect blend of devotion and royalty.

4. Ram Ki Paidi & Saryu River Ghats

Ram Ki Paidi is one of the most serene and scenic places in Ayodhya. This series of beautifully constructed ghats along the sacred Saryu River is a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty. Whether you visit during sunrise or sunset, the ghats radiate peace and divine charm.

Taking a holy dip in the Saryu River is considered extremely auspicious. Devotees believe that bathing here washes away sins and brings purity to the mind and soul. The water is clean, well-maintained, and the surroundings are peaceful. The evening Saryu Aarti is a grand spectacle where priests perform synchronized rituals with lamps, conch shells, and devotional chants. The scene of moving flames reflecting on the river surface is breathtaking.

At night, the entire Ram Ki Paidi glows with thousands of lights, making it a favorite site for photographers. During festivals like Diwali and Kartik Purnima, lakhs of lamps illuminate the ghats, creating a divine atmosphere.

Why It Is Special

The ghats are known for their crystal-clean water, stunning lighting, and the famous Saryu Aarti.

What You Must Experience

• Sunrise at the ghats
• Evening aarti ceremony
• Holy dip in Saryu River
• Night photography of illuminated ghats

Additional Info

During festivals like Diwali, the entire riverfront lights up beautifully with lakhs of diyas.

5. Treta Ke Thakur Temple

Treta Ke Thakur Temple is one of Ayodhya’s oldest and most respected temples. It stands at a location where Lord Ram is believed to have performed the Ashwamedha Yajna after his return to Ayodhya. The temple contains rare idols of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, and Sugreev — all carved from a single block of black stone.

The temple opens only on special occasions like Kartik Purnima and Ekadashi, making it a unique and rare place to visit. The architecture is simple but carries immense historical significance. Visiting this temple gives a strong sense of connection to the Ramayana era.

Special Features

• Idols carved from a single black stone
• Includes images of Ram, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughan, Sita, Hanuman, Sugreev
• Opens only on Ekadashi and special days

Why Visit?

This place connects travelers directly with the historical stories from the Ramayana.

6. Nageshwarnath Temple

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is believed to have been founded by Kusha, the son of Lord Ram. According to legend, Kusha lost his armlet (kada) in the Saryu River, and it was found by a Naga princess who fell in love with him. To honor her devotion, Kusha built the Nageshwarnath Temple.

The temple attracts thousands of devotees during Maha Shivratri. Its shikhara, carvings, and peaceful courtyards make it an ideal place for meditation. It stands in the heart of Ayodhya and adds a unique Shaivite dimension to this Vaishnavite city.

Ancient Legend

Built by Kusha, the son of Lord Ram, after a Naga princess saved him from drowning.

What to See

• Beautiful Shiva Lingam
• Devotees performing Abhishek
• Special celebrations during Maha Shivratri

7. Dashrath Mahal

Dashrath Mahal is one of the most fascinating places for Ramayana lovers. Believed to be the palace of King Dashrath, the father of Lord Ram, this place gives you a glimpse into the royal heritage of Ayodhya. Though renovated, the palace still reflects the grandeur of ancient times.

Inside the palace, you’ll find stunning paintings depicting scenes from Ramayana, decorated arches, colorful walls, and life-size idols of Lord Ram, Lakshman, Sita, and Bharat. The entrance is bright and festive, often decorated with flower garlands and rangoli. This palace is extremely popular during festivals such as Ram Navami, Diwali, and Kartik Purnima.

Highlights

• Colorful paintings
• Stunning wooden carvings
• Open courtyards and ancient design

Why Visit?

It gives a glimpse of Ayodhya’s royal heritage and the life of Lord Ram before exile.

8. Sita Ki Rasoi

Situated near the Ram Janmabhoomi premises, Sita Ki Rasoi is a symbolic representation of Goddess Sita’s kitchen. According to legends, this was the place where Sita cooked meals for the royal family after her marriage. The ancient-style utensils displayed here — including clay pots, metal vessels, ladles, and grinders — remind visitors of life in the Treta Yuga.

The place is small but spiritually powerful. It emphasizes the values of purity, patience, love, and devotion that Sita Mata represents. Many women visit this temple to seek blessings for a peaceful and prosperous household.

Importance

It showcases ancient utensils and artifacts depicting how Sita cooked and served food to the royal family.

Experience

Quiet, simple, and spiritually rich — it reminds visitors of Sita Mata’s grace and devotion.

9. Guptar Ghat

Guptar Ghat is one of the most peaceful and spiritually moving locations in Ayodhya. Located slightly away from the main temple area, the ghat is believed to be the place where Lord Ram took Jal Samadhi, ending his earthly incarnation and returning to Vaikuntha.

Standing on the steps of Guptar Ghat, watching the calm river flow, one feels an overwhelming sense of peace and divinity. The adjacent Chakra Harji Vishnu Temple also adds spiritual depth to the surroundings. Boating is available here, offering serene river views. If you want to spend some quiet time away from the crowds, this is the ideal place.

Spiritual Significance

Believed to be the place where Lord Ram took Jal Samadhi and left his mortal body.

What to Expect

• Meditation-friendly environment
• Clean ghats
• Boating options
• Nearby temples like Chakra Harji Vishnu Temple

10. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan & Ram Katha Museum

This cultural center is dedicated to Goswami Tulsidas, the saint-poet who wrote Ramcharitmanas. The complex includes a museum filled with manuscripts, scriptures, paintings, and artifacts related to the life of Tulsidas and the Ramayana.

The Ram Katha Museum displays sculptures, terracotta artifacts, ancient coins, and objects that showcase Ayodhya’s history from ancient times. Daily performances of Ram Katha and Ramleela make this place a complete cultural experience. If you want to explore the literary and artistic side of Ayodhya, this museum is a must-visit.

What You Can Explore

• Exhibits of Ramayana manuscripts
• Ram Katha performances
• Audio-visual galleries
• Ramleela shows

Best Time to Visit

Evenings, when cultural events take place.

11. Mani Parvat

Mani Parvat is a small hillock believed to be a part of the mountain that Lord Hanuman carried during the Sanjeevani incident. According to belief, a piece of the Sanjeevani mountain fell here when Hanuman was flying over Ayodhya.

The hilltop offers a panoramic view of Ayodhya city. A small shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha is also located nearby, signifying Ayodhya’s connection to other ancient cultures. Climbing Mani Parvat during sunrise or sunset provides an excellent photography opportunity.

Mythology

It is believed that a portion of the Sanjeevani Mountain fell here when Hanuman was carrying it from the Himalayas.

Attractions

• Peaceful surroundings
• Small shrines on top
• Beautiful view of Ayodhya city

12. Raj Sadan Palace

Raj Sadan Palace is a beautiful heritage structure that reflects the royal past of Ayodhya. With old-style arches, carved pillars, and open courtyards, this palace is a treat for history enthusiasts and photographers. Though lesser known among tourists, it is one of the most peaceful and culturally rich places to explore.

What to See

• Traditional architecture
• Courtyards
• Carvings
• Royal artifacts

Great spot for photography lovers.

13. Shri Maniram Das Chavani

One of the major monastic centers of Ayodhya, Shri Maniram Das Chavani is a beautiful ashram complex known for its spiritual discussions, yoga sessions, and peaceful environment. Saints associated with this place have played a major role in the Ram Mandir movement. The campus is spacious, green, and perfect for meditation.

Why Visit?

• Peaceful ambience
• Ashram environment
• Large halls and spiritual discussions
• Historical importance of Ram Bhakti

14. Ram Katha Park

A modern open-air entertainment and cultural park, Ram Katha Park is a favorite spot for families and tourists alike. It hosts cultural events, devotional music performances, and dramatic shows related to Ramayana. In the evenings, the park becomes lively with food stalls, lights, and visitors enjoying walks along the river.

Activities

• Cultural shows
• Music concerts
• Open-air theatre
• Kids’ play area

A perfect place to spend evenings with family.

15. Ayodhya Local Market (Chowk Bazaar)

No trip to Ayodhya is complete without exploring the vibrant local markets. The Chowk area is filled with bustling shops selling Ram Mandir souvenirs, brass idols, puja items, wooden toys, local sweets, and traditional clothing. Food lovers must try Ayodhya’s famous pedas, kachori-sabzi, jalebi, and khurchan.

What to Buy?

• Ram Mandir souvenirs
• Brass idols
• Local sweets
• Wooden handicrafts
• Saffron and puja items

Food to Try:

• Ayodhya Peda
• Jalebi
• Kachori-Sabzi
• Khurchan

Conclusion

Ayodhya is not just a city; it is an emotional and spiritual journey that takes you closer to devotion, culture, tradition, and inner peace. From grand temples like the Ram Mandir to peaceful areas like Guptar Ghat, from ancient heritage sites to modern cultural centers — Ayodhya offers a rich, diverse, and deeply meaningful travel experience.

Whether you are coming for pilgrimage, tourism, photography, or cultural exploration, Ayodhya welcomes you with divine energy. This guide covering the Best Places to Visit in Ayodhya ensures you explore the city completely and meaningfully.

FAQs About Best Places to Visit in Ayodhya