Ayodhya, sometimes the land of Lord Rama, and also called Awadh or Oudh. The city dwells in the centre of the state of Uttar Pradesh. In ancient times it was also known as the sacred city of Hindus. The connection between the mystical and beautiful mythology of Ramayana runs very deep. And this town was once fortified with a huge population that was always happy and cheerful. 

The city is full of traditions and cultural values. It is a place where Hindus, as well as Muslims, dwell together. Some archaeologists also believe that Buddha also resided in this holy place. Many famous Mughal emperors, as well as Indian rulers, made Awadh or Ayodhya their capital city. The city is not only rich in many temples and mosques.

There are innumerable places to visit in Ayodhya. If you ever visit Ayodhya, you can see many ancient palaces, kingdoms, temples, parks, and other things. Faizabad is also a famous town in Ayodhya that is worth visiting. If you want to embrace yourself in the blanket of warmth and devotion, this place is the best option. An erstwhile visit to this temple will make you calm and stress-free. Immerse yourself in bhakti music or visit a dargah nearby. Streets are filled with tasty and lip-smacking food items that can make you drool. Shop for some knick-knacks and several souvenirs. 

15 Most attractive places to visit in Ayodhya:

1. Ram Janmabhoomi

Lord Rama, who was the son of King Dashrath, was born in Ayodhya. That’s why it is called Ram Janmabhoomi, or the birthplace of Lord Rama. According to the legends, this Hindu deity was the eighth avatar of Lord Krishna. Rama kingdom was near the river Sarayu. The place is one of the best places to visit in Ayodhya, and millions of devotees and followers come during the festival of Diwali every year to Ayodhya. After being in the conflict and battleground between Hindus and Muslims. This place was finally handed over to the Hindu trustee to build the Rama temple instead of the Mosque. 

• Category: Religious
• Best time to visit: October to December 
• Location: Ram Janmabhoomi Rd, Sai Nagar in Ayodhya, state of Uttar Pradesh 
• Timings: All days of the week 8:00 am – 1:00 pm 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
• Entry fee: free

2. Hanuman Garhi

Hanuman was considered the loyal and ardent follower and worshipper of Lord Rama. This temple, found in the Sai Nagar of Ayodhya and is one of the uniquely religious places to visit in Ayodhya. Anyone who wishes to visit lord Rama beforehand visits this temple to pray. This Hindu God, known as Hanuman, always stood to guard the Ayodhya City as per belief. This temple is located on a small hill, and the devotees climb 76 stairs to reach the temple. The panoramic view of the surroundings makes it worthwhile. The temple is inside the premises of a big cave. The Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti Festival are celebrated across Ayodhya with zeal and enthusiasm. 

• Category: Religious
• Best time to visit: October-February; Preferably Early morning, before 8.
• Location: Sai Nagar, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 224123
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Entry fee: free

3. Nageshwarnath Temple

This temple is dedicated to God Nageshwarnath, as the temple name implies. This temple is one of the most religiously ancient places to visit in Ayodhya with friends. Hindus believe that this temple was constructed by the two Sons of Lord Rama, namely Kush or Kusha. This holy place has been well maintained for over 750 years since its inception. But, the temple underwent some renovations and reconstruction under the reign of Safar Jung’s minister, Naval Rai, in 1750. Every year on the festival of Mahashivratri and Trayodashi, famously called Vrat or Pradosh Vratam, in the Southern part of India, thousands of followers and devotees gather in this place. 

• Category: Religious
• Best time to visit: The weather is mostly pleasant in Ayodhya throughout the year. 
• Location: Ayodhya – 224123 (Near Ram Ki Paidi, District Faizabad).
• Timings: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm, Aarti: 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM; 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM
• Entry fee: Free

4. Kanak Bhawan

This Bhavan was built in the corner of Ram Janmabhoomi, which will become the Ram temple as the disputes are over. This place was established in the year 1891 and is also known as Sone-ka-Ghar. One of the best places to visit in Ayodhya, which can be linked to Lord Rama. This place is also built for his dear wife, Goddess Sita. Bhawan has the presence of three golden crown murals of two different deities placed under a silver roof in Garbhagriha( also called the temple sanctum sanctorum). Hindu followers believe this shrine was gifted to goddess Sita and Lord Rama by their stepmom, Kaikeyi. 

• Category: Religious
• Best time to visit: All through the year
• Location: Q5XX+6M4, Tulsi Nagar in the city of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 
• Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Entry fee: Free

5. Gulab Bari

Gulab Bari also translates to Garden of Rose in the English language. This place which is one of the best places to visit in Ayodhya for couples is located in Vaidehi Nagar of Ayodhya. The famous third Nawab of Faizabad lived in Ayodhya ( Awadh or Oudh), and his tomb is built in this Gulab Bari. Along with that, his parents and Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula were also buried alongside him. If you look closely, you can see that this tomb is inspired by the Nawab-styled architecture of the 18th century. As the place itself is called a rose garden, you can see various species of roses planted here alongside a magnificent fountain. 

• Category: Historical
• Best time to visit: October to March.  
• Location: SH 9, Vaidehi Nagar, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh 224001
• Timings: All days from 4 am to 7 pm.
• Entry fee: Free

6. Treta Ke Thakur

Treta ke Thakur is a small temple built alongside the Naya Ghat of Ayodhya. This temple is home to many deities and Hindu Gods. Some of them can include Lord Ram, Lakshman, Hanuman, Sita, Sugreev and Bharat. It is also one of the most enticing places to see in Ayodhya. The idols of these deities are made out of black sandstone. The place was built more than 300 years ago by King Kullu. As per mythology Ramayana, this place was once the battleground, and this is where the famous Hindu ritual Ashwamedha Yagna was initiated by Lord Rama. The revamping and remodelling of this place were changed in the 1700s by Queen of Maratha, Ahilyabai Holkar. 

• Category: Religious
• Best time to visit: on the festival that falls in November
• Location: Naya ghat, Ayodhya
• Timings: Treta Ke Thakur is open for 24 hours on the day of the Ekadashi.
• Entry fee: Free

7. Sita ki rasoi

This famous place to visit in Ayodhya is not any temple or palace, but it is an ancient kitchen. This kitchen faces northwest towards Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya’s Rajkot. Sita ki Rasoi is the most sacred kitchen where goddess Sita herself made meals. This kitchen is near Ram Janmabhoomi. This holiest place has a small temple with all the large vessels used to prepare food in ancient times as an exhibit. There are two kitchens in this place; one of the largest ones is named this Sita Ki Rasoi, which is located in the basement of the building. 

• Category: food and cuisine
• Best time to visit: anytime 
• Location: Q6X5+998, Rani Bazar Colony, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 224123
• Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Entry fee: free

8. Choti Chawni

One of the best places to visit in Ayodhya with friends and is also known by several names such as Valmiki Bhawan, Maniramdas or Chawni Choti Chawni. The place is an example of magnificence and beauty combined. The place is entirely built of white marble. Due to its sheer beauty and elegance, it is the favourite spot of travelers. This heritage site has 34 caves, out of which 12 caves face in the south direction, which represents Buddhist culture, 5 in the north area are meant to be Jainism, and 17 in the centre are for Hindus. This division elaborates on the brilliant architecture of the caves built inside the place. 

• Category: Heritage
• Best time to visit: All around the year.
• Location: Chhoti Chhawani Rd, the city of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 
• Timings: 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Entry fee: Free

9. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan

This Bhawan or a residential area is built to remember the famous 16th-century saint-poet Goswami Tulsidas. As the name says, Tulsi Smarak Bhawan is where the famous poet sat and wrote some of the world’s famous dohas and poetry. The Tulsi Smarak Bhawan is one of the unique places to visit in Ayodhya. And this is also the home of the famous mythological book Ramcharita. You can visit this place by crossing the national highway at Rajgang Crossing in Ayodhya. The Bhawan is assumed to be built in 1969 by the Governor of Ayodhya, Sri Vishwanath Das. The government of Uttar Pradesh also constructed a museum called Ram Katha Sanghralaya in 1988. 

• Category: Heritage
• Best time to visit: any at anytime
• Location: Q6V4+X22, New Colony in the city of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 
• Timings: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. Ramleela Performance – 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Library – 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Office – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays and second Sundays of every month.
• Entry fee: free

10. Raja mandir 

Raja Mandir, situated on the river Ghaggar (Sarayu) in Guptar Ghat. The place is located near Faizabad. This temple has been linked with many tales and stories about Lord Rama. It is one of the best places to visit in Ayodhya. This mandir also has many idols and photographs of gods and goddesses. These idols are laden with silk cloth and various ornaments. The temple’s architecture is made exquisitely to reflect the essence of Hindu culture. The temple was basically devoted to Lord Rama, but now it houses various deities. The place is near the river, making it more mesmerizing and worthy of tourists.  

• Category: Religious 
• Best time to visit: February to mid-October
• Location: Q6W2+FP4, Tulsi Nagar, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 
• Timings: Morning- 8 am – 12:30 pm & Evening- 5 pm – 10 pm.
• Entry fee: Free

11. Bahu Begum Ka Maqbara

Bahu Begum Ka Maqbara is situated in the town of Faizabad, Maqbara Road. This place is sometimes referred to as the “Taj Mahal of the East”. The unique and equally beautiful is for the wife of Nawab Shuja- ud- Daula, Begum Unmatuzzohra Bano. This mausoleum is one of the tallest places and is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Ayodhya. This place can be an exemplary example to define and showcase Awadhi architecture. The mausoleum consists of three dome-like structures that have magnificent interiors and are intricately designed and carved with beautiful walls, poles and ceilings.    

• Category: Archaeological site
• Best time to visit: Months of October to march
• Location: Begum Ganj, Maqbara, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh 224001
• Timings: 7 am – 4 pm
• Entry fee: Free

12. Ram Katha park

If you want to visit open theatres and well-kept lawns, then this might be a perfect place for you. The park is spread over a large area and is one of the most popular venues to organize devotional programs, bhakti sangeets, religious events, dance, poetry and other functions. There are also free occasions on evenings organised by different community members. This park is also used as a playground for children and adults. The park is also famous for other cultural activities, and the airy amphitheatre is the most visited place. 

• Category: Religious
• Best time to visit: you can visit anytime
• Location: Ram Katha Park, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 
• Timings: Sunrise to sunset
• Entry fee: free

13. Moti Mahal

Moti Mahal is also referred to as the Pearl Palace. This place can be visited by traveling a few kilometres away from Faizabad. The mahal was constructed in the year 1743 AD and was also the home of Queen Begum Un Tuz Zohra Banu. She was the wife of former Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah. This is one of the grand examples of the elegance and grandeur of the monument. The place is one of the best places to visit in Ayodhya and the influence of Nawabi culture. 

• Category: Historical 
• Best time to visit: Summer and winter are both are suitable
• Location: Q5P2+MXV, Gudri Bazar, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh
• Timings: Monday to Friday – 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm. Sundays – 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM.
• Entry fee: Free

14. Dashrath Bhavan

This Bhawan is located in the heart of Ayodhya and is located in Ramkot, and was the home of Lord Rama’s father, Dashrath. The place is referred to by many names, such as Bada asthan and also Badi jagah. There are several shrines of Lord Rama in this Bhawan. It is one of the most pious places to visit in Ayodhya with friends. This house is believed to have memories of Lord Rama and Father Dashrath. Along with idols and photographs, several paintings increase the glamour of this place. You can also see some saffron-clad monks and pandits roaming in the Bhawan, reciting chants and prayers. During the festivals of Diwali and carnivals, the place attracts thousands of tourists. 

• Category: Religious 
• Best time to visit: mostly weekends
• Location: Chowk Ayodhya Rd, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 
• Timings: 8 am–12 pm, 9–10 pm
• Entry fee: Free

15. Gupta Ghat

This ghat is located on the banks of a river called Saraya. This is one of the revered places in Faizabad near Ayodhya. You have to climb some steps to see the ghat more appreciated. This place was once the close neighbour of company gardens, referred to as Gupta Ghat van. Gupta Ghat was once the place of meditation, and this is where Lord Rama attained Jal Samadhi. It is one of the most historically beautiful places to visit in Ayodhya. 

• Category: historical places
• Best time to visit: Every day at sunset
• Location: Gupta Ghat, Faizabad Cantt, Fatehpur Saraiya Manjh, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
• Timings: open on all days. 
• Entry fee: Free

Frequently Asked Questions For Best Places To Visit In Ayodhya:

1. What was the ancient name of Ayodhya? 

Earlier, this city was called Oudh or Awadh. This city is in the south-central part of Uttar Pradesh. And the Ghaghara river flows just opposite the city. 

2. Why is this place so famous? 

Ayodhya is popular because it is located on the banks of the river Sarayu. This place is considered a sacred and holy location for Hindus in India. This site is also linked to one of the famous mythology stories, Ramayana.  

3. Where is the famous Babri masjid located? 

This Mosque is in Ayodhya city. This Mosque is often called the Babur or Babri mosque. It was formerly called the Masjid -i- Janmasthan. 

4. What is built in the famous Ram Janmabhoomi?

In the Rama Janmabhoomi, there will be a huge and magnificent temple. Recently the current prime minister of India has laid its foundation. The temple is managed by the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra. 

5. Is Ayodhya called a city or a town? 

Ayodhya is called a city. It was also called by various names such as Awadh, Oudh, or Saketa. This place is famous for being the place where the Hindu deity Lord Rama was born.

6. Who is known as the creator of Ayodhya city? 

As per the religious text and book Ramayana, this city was established by Manu, who is known as the progenitor of Mankind. The books also describe Awadh as the traditional capital of the dynasty of Ikshvaku.

7. What are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Ayodhya? 

Some of the topmost favourite places to visit in Ayodhya that are the most preferred by the tourists are: 

• Hanuman Garhi Mandir.
• Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi. 
• Kanak Bhavan Temple. 
• Sri Maniram das Chavani. 
• Sita Ki Rasoi.
• Nageshwarnath Temple. Religious 
• Ramkatha Park. 
• Tulsi Smarak Bhavan Museum.

8. What is the famous cuisine of this place? 

Veg biryani is the viral dish of this place. This dish is made using loads of veggies, spices and rice. This biryani, also called pulao, can be a wholesome lunch or dinner. 

9. What are the best souvenirs to purchase in Ayodhya? 

As Ayodhya is considered the town or city of God, it is best to purchase some beautiful photographs of Lord Rama and Sita. You can also purchase all the things related to the prayers like flowers, idols, etc. 

10. Can you eat meat in Ayodhya? 

Ayodhya is surely considered a holy and pious place of god and goddess. You cannot find a single restaurant that makes or sells non-vegetarian food in Ayodhya. There is no market to sell meat or other items. Even weddings that want to have non-vegetarian food items are organised in the neighbourhood of Faizabad. 

11. What is the traditional costume of Uttar Pradesh? 

The traditional costume of Uttar Pradesh is intermixed with cultures and traditions. People wear traditional as well as traditional styles of clothing. Some people wear lungi or dhoti with colourful dresses like sarees and Kurtis. 

12. What is the total number of temples in Ayodhya? 

Ayodhya has more than 7000 temples; some might have lost their relevance. But they are close to 100 temples that are still standing and preserved. There are so many temples located near the Rama Janmabhoomi, where the birth of Lord Rama happened. 

13. Name the seven kandas of Ramayana. 

Ramayana was written by Valmiki, and it is based on Lord Rama’s life and journey. The book consists of 24,000 poetries which are classified as seven kandas, namely 

• Bālakāṇḍa
• Ayodhyakāṇḍa
• Araṇyakāṇḍa
• Kiṣkindakāṇḍa
• Sundarākāṇḍa
• Yuddhakāṇḍa
• Uttarakāṇḍa. 

There are also seven chapters called sargas. 

14. Ramayana was written by which writer? 

Ramayana was written by maharishi Valmiki. The book was believed to be published in 300 BCE and composed in the Sanskrit language. The book contains 25,000 couplets. 

 15. What is called the most attractive tourist place in Uttar Pradesh? 

Agra is called the most attractive place in Uttar Pradesh as the place has the famous Taj Mahal, which is the country’s most preserved and prized location. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built this ivory-white mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz. 

16. Which is considered the best city to live in Uttar Pradesh? 

Varanasi or Banaras is the most loved city to live in Uttar Pradesh. As per the Uttar Pradesh rating called ‘ease of index’, Banaras is the most liveable place on Earth. 

17. What attracts so many tourists to the state of Uttar Pradesh? 

Uttar Pradesh has lots of tourism. More than thousands of people come to visit the Taj Mahal only. Taj Mahal is considered the most famous tourist attraction in India. Taj serves itself renowned place among the seven wonders of the World.

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