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Ayodhya is an old city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, located on the banks of the Sarayu River. It's known as one of the seven sacred cities for Hindus, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, the hero of the epic Ramayana. Ayodhya has a rich history marked by religious and political events.
This ancient town is a popular pilgrimage center for Hindus, especially associated with Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, as per the epic Ramayana. The city served as the capital of the Surya dynasty where Lord Rama was born. The story of Ramayana revolves around Rama's life, his 14-year exile to the forest, and his celebrated return, which is observed as Diwali.
Religion In Ayodhya
Ayodhya has roots in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Islamic history. Five Jain Tirthankaras, including the first one, Rishabhdev, are believed to have been born here. However, Ayodhya's tourism also has controversial aspects, notably the destruction of the Babri Masjid in 1992, leading to tensions and communal violence.
The city was once the capital of the ancient Kosala kingdom, ruled by King Dasharatha and later by his son Rama. In 1527, Mughal emperor Babur built the Babri Masjid on a site considered Lord Rama's birthplace in the 16th century, sparking a longstanding dispute. In 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple, designed with five domes, 360 pillars, and a 161-foot tall statue of Rama.
Tourist Places In And Around Ayodhya
Ayodhya is one of the most sacred pilgrimage towns for the Hindus. Ayodhya tourism has lots to offer the spiritual minds. Some of the noteworthy temples include Nageshwarnath Temple, said to be built by Rama’s son, Kush, and Chakra Harji Vishnu Temple. The Tulsi Smarak Bhawan has been built by the Government of India in the memory of Tulsidas who rewrote the Ramayana. Ram Janmabhoomi is where the Babri Masjid was destroyed in 1992.
The Kanak Bhawan houses images of Ram and Sita wearing golden crowns. Then there is the Hanuman Garhi, a massive structure shaped like a four-sided fort with circular bastions at each corner. The Dasrath Bhavan is associated with King Dasrath, father of Lord Rama. Treta Ke Thakur is the location where Lord Rama is said to have carried out the Ashwamedha Yagna.
Sita Ki Rasoi is located near the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. It is believed that, it is here that Sita cooked the first meal after her marriage to Rama. Also visit Ram Ki Paidi, the bathing ghats along the river Sarayu. Then there is the Mani Parbat which was initially a Buddhist vihara but later became a Hindu temple. From here, you can enjoy fabulous views of the city.
Ayodhya Weather
The best time to visit is from November to March. The weather gets hot and dry during the rest of the year. However, given that Ayodhya is a popular pilgrim destination, the town attracts pilgrims throughout the year.
How To Reach Ayodhya
Ayodhya is well connected via air, road and train.
