Ayodhya, located on the banks of Sarayu in Uttar Pradesh, is a sacred city for Hindus that holds tremendous spiritual significance. Legend has it that Lord Rama was born here and four out of Jainism’s 24 Tirthankaras (religious teachers) were also said to have been born in this religious town. Ayodhya offers tourists breathtaking views with its peaceful ghats along the riverbanks – making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking solace or enlightenment.
For over a decade, Ayodhya has been embroiled in controversy as thousands of tourists flock to the city each year. This site holds immense spiritual significance due to its connections with the 1992 Babri Masjid fiasco, where Hindus and Muslims clashed over an alleged temple built on Ram Janmabhoomi Temple grounds. In 2005 this holy place was sadly subjected to another tragedy when terrorists attacked the Ramlalla Temple located nearby.
Despite the controversy, Ayodhya is teeming with color and spirituality for all of its visitors. It has become a noteworthy spiritual center and boasts crowded yet tranquil streets that are sure to captivate each traveler who visits this multi-faith temple town. If you have never experienced it for yourself, now is your chance!
Ayodhya has traditionally been associated with the Hindu epic Ramayana as it is believed to be founded by Saint Manu and handed over to the Ikshvaku clan. As per legend, King Dasaratha of Kosala was a descendant from this particular family that used to rule Ayodhya in ancient times. Even though historical accounts cite proof of an urban center existing during that period consisting of multiple buildings and palaces, archaeological findings show evidence for primitive life at present-day Ayodhya.Consequently, it has been concluded that Ayodhya from the Ramayana was merely a figment of imagination.
According to a local legend, after Lord Rama’s ascension to heaven, the city of Ayodhya was left desolate and barren. But in 50 BCE King Vikramaditya from Ujjain brought life back into it. The renowned poet Kalidasa discusses this same subject in his masterpiece Raghuvamsa but claims that it was actually Lord Rama’s son Kusa who led Ayodhya’s rejuvenation.
According to the ancient Brahmanda Purana and Garuda Purana, Ayodhya is considered one of the holiest cities in India by Hindus. Furthermore, five Tirthankaras- Rishabhanatha (first), Ajitanatha (second), Abhinandananatha (fourth), Sumatinatha (fifth) and Anantanatha (fourteenth)- were born in this sacred city, as indicated according to Jain tradition.
By flight
Faizabad Airport is the closest airport to Ayodhya, located 8 km away. However, if you’re after a greater selection of flights and destinations, Lucknow (Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport) provides an ideal option – 130 km from your destination. This international hub links travellers with cities all over India; so hiring a cab for around INR 2,000 can easily take you where you need to go. Another major airfield nearby is Bamrauli in Allahabad at 166km away should any other needs arise during your journey.
By road
Ayodhya is well-connected to all other major cities in Uttar Pradesh, with a reliable road network for tourists. A comfortable cab can be easily arranged from neighbouring urban areas such as Faizabad (7 km), Allahabad (166 km), Lucknow (134 km) and Varanasi (209km).
By train
Ayodhya is a city located in north India that is well-connected to nearby railway stations and other major cities by train. The Ayodhya Railway Station is situated on the Northern Indian Railway’s Mughalsarai-Lucknow line, where daily trains such as the Lucknow Express, Varanasi Doon Express, and Delhi Faizabad Express arrive and depart.
By bus
The closest bus stand to Ayodhya is the Faizabad Bus Stand, which has UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) buses running daily to Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Allahabad and other large cities in Uttar Pradesh. You can catch a cycle rickshaw from the Faizabad Bus Stand to the railway station for only INR 30.
