Ayodhya has grown to be a popular tourist attraction during recent times. This city is a perfect spot for people interested in the history of religion and spirituality. With both airline and train accessibility, Ayodhya has become one of the top most influential places attracting tourists from all around the world.
1. Ram Janmabhoomi Temple:
I am sure we all must have heard of this magnificent temple by now. The Ram Janmabhoomi Temple was recently inaugurated on the birthplace of Lord Ram. Pilgrims from everywhere around the world are curious to find out the history of the temple, how it was made and why it holds so much importance for Hinduism. The temple was inaugurated with great pomp and show, studded with famous celebrities who wished to get a glimpse of the new statue.
2. Hanuman Garhi:
As the name suggests, Hanuman Garhi is a temple shaped like a fort dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Hanuman was one of the biggest supporters of Lord Ram who was on a conquest to get his wife Sita back home after she was captured by Ravana. This tourist attraction offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere for believers and allows them to immerse themselves in the prayers of their lord.
3. Kanak Bhavan:
Kanak Bhavan is another Hindu temple located in Ayodhya and is dedicated to Lord Ram and Sita. The story that follows this place is that it was a palace given as a present by Kaikeyi to Lord Ram and Sita just after their marriage. This bhavan is also known as Sone ka Ghar or the Golden Palace because it hosts three golden-crowned statues of Lord Ram and wife Sita, under a roof made of silver. It is one of the most important temples in this spiritual city.
4. Treta ke Thakur:
Treta ke Thakur is another very special and unique temple which creates an experience that takes you back to the Treta Yug. Some sources say that this temple was originally built by Dashrath, the father of Lord Ram. Recently, Treta Ka Thakur inscription was also found in Ayodhya by the Archaeological Survey of India. This place is a must visit for Hindus as it gives you the feeling of having an insider connection with your precious god.
5. Guptar Ghat:
Guptar Ghat is one of the most peaceful spots in Ayodhya, making it perfect for people who enjoy stillness and quietness in their surroundings. Sitting along the Sarayu River, you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and soak in the beautiful views of the holy city. The soft sounds of the water as well the prayers happening in a distance all blend together to create a magical and calming symphony. After a long day of visiting all the tourist spots, some relaxing time with yourself at the Guptar Ghat will end your day on a perfect note.
6. Nageshwarnath Temple:
Another temple that absolutely cannot be missed in Ayodhya is the Nageshwarnath Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has some of the most stunning architecture in the whole city. It is said the temple was created by Lord Rama’s son Kush and is one of the oldest temples in the city. The religious vibe of the temple will completely immerse you and you would just not want to leave.
7. Valmiki Bhawan:
This place is the hermitage of Sage Valmiki, where he wrote down the story of Ramayana. People from all around the world come here to pay their respects to the great sage. For literary enthusiasts who wish to know the geographical history of Ramayana, this place will tick all your boxes. Even for devotees, this place is very respected and close to people’s hearts due to the importance it carried in terms of Hindu religious texts.
8. Gulab Bari:
Gulab means rose, and hence Gulab Bari stands for a rose garden. It is a majestic sight seeing experience and offers a serene environment for tourists to sit and relax. This is a perfect example of how Ayodhya is not only filled with temples and other spiritual places. This rose garden made around the tomb of Nawab Shujauddala doesn’t only provide tourists with an aesthetic view but also with a piece of history.
9. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan:
This bhawan was created so that worshippers could come here and pay their respects to the famous poet Tulsidas. Tulsidas was mostly known for his unnerving devotion for Lord Ram. Some legends say that he was in his mothers womb for 12 months and came out with 32 teeth. He has written several important works in many Indian languages, but his most important work is the Hanuman Chalisa. His work has been shown through manuscripts and artefacts in the bhawan.
10. Swarg Dwar:
Another name for this place is Ram Ghat and it is situated nearly 500 metres upwards of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple. It is a bathing ghat for the priests and for people who come from distant lands to wash away their sins. The Indian mythological legend says that this site is associated with the last rites of Lord Ram and hence adds a lot of importance as a religious place to Hindus.
Ayodhya has become the newest and a favourite spot especially for tourists interested in Hinduism. The serenity mixed with the religious and enchanting atmosphere will fully immerse you and would never want to leave.