Planning darshan of Ram Lalla? Here is how to reach Ayodhya from Gorakhpur, Lucknow and Varanasi, what you can and cannot carry inside, and the temples to add to your visit.
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Since the consecration of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir on 22 January 2024, Ayodhya has become one of the most visited pilgrimage cities in India. The good news is that darshan is well organised and free for everyone. A little planning helps you avoid queues and enjoy the rest of this beautiful riverside city.
The Temple at a Glance
Built in the traditional Nagara style from pink sandstone, the three-storeyed temple is richly carved with deities and scenes from the Ramayana. In the sanctum stands the 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla - Lord Ram as a five-year-old child - sculpted from black stone by Arun Yogiraj.
How to Reach Ayodhya
Ayodhya Dham Junction railway station is well connected to Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi and Gorakhpur, and the new airport receives flights from several major cities. Travelling by road? Here is how to book a reliable cab service in Gorakhpur.
Darshan Rules: What You Can Carry
- Mobile phones, cameras, smart watches and bags are not allowed inside the temple complex. Free lockers are provided near the entrance.
- Leather belts and wallets are best left in your hotel.
- Offerings such as flowers and prasad from outside are generally not permitted; prasad is distributed inside.
- Wear comfortable, modest clothing - there is a fair amount of walking.
Temples & Ghats to Add to Your Visit
Hanuman Garhi
By tradition, pilgrims seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman before visiting Lord Ram. This fort-like hilltop temple is reached by a flight of 76 steps.
Kanak Bhawan
Said to have been gifted to Sita by Kaikeyi, this graceful temple houses beautiful golden-crowned idols of Sita and Ram.
Dashrath Mahal
The palace of King Dashrath, now a temple, is especially lively during bhajans in the evening.
Ram ki Paidi & the Saryu Aarti
This series of ghats along the Saryu is where pilgrims take a holy dip. Stay for the evening Saryu Aarti at Naya Ghat, and visit nearby Lata Mangeshkar Chowk with its giant veena.
Best Time to Visit
October to March offers the most comfortable weather. Deepotsav, on the eve of Diwali, fills the ghats with lakhs of diyas, and Ram Navami in March or April is celebrated with great devotion - both are spectacular but very crowded, so book early.
Travelling from Gorakhpur or Lucknow? Our two-day Ayodhya Ram Mandir Darshan includes pick-up, a comfortable hotel and a guide who knows the best times for each temple.
Nepal Trip Holiday Travel Desk
The same team that plans and operates our tours across Nepal, India and Bhutan. Questions about this guide? Call or WhatsApp us on +91 63071 02408 - we are happy to help.
