Ayodhya Dham
📍Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
The sacred birthplace of Lord Rama, first of the Sapta Mokshapuris. Situated on the banks of River Saryu in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya is the eternal capital of the Ikshvaku dynasty.
The Invincible City of Lord Rama
Ayodhya, derived from the Sanskrit a-yodhya meaning "invincible," is one of the most ancient and sacred cities in the world. Mentioned in the Atharvaveda as the unconquerable city of the gods, Ayodhya has been the spiritual beacon of Sanatana Dharma since time immemorial.
Sapta Mokshapuri
As proclaimed in the Garuda Purana: "Ayodhya Mathura Maya Kashi Kanchi Avantika, Puri Dwaravati chaiva saptaite mokshadayikah" — Ayodhya stands first among the seven cities that bestow liberation (moksha). A pilgrimage here is believed to free the soul from the cycle of birth and death.
Capital of the Ikshvaku Dynasty
According to the Ramayana, Ayodhya was established by Manu himself, taking a piece of Vaikuntha from Lord Narayana. It served as the magnificent capital of the Solar Dynasty (Surya Vansha) kings, including the great Raghu, Aja, Dasharatha, and the Supreme Lord Rama. The city is described as being shaped like a fish, spanning 12 yojanas in length and 3 yojanas in breadth.
Birthplace of Lord Rama
Lord Rama, the seventh avatara of Lord Vishnu, appeared here on the Navami tithi of Chaitra Shukla Paksha. He ruled the earth for eleven thousand years, establishing the ideal kingdom known as Ram Rajya. After His divine departure, the sacred tirthas, temples, kunds, and ghats of Ayodhya continue to radiate His spiritual presence.
Saryu River
The holy Saryu (Sarayu) river flows along the northern boundary of Ayodhya. Bathing in Saryu is considered highly meritorious. The famous ghats — Ram Ki Paidi, Guptar Ghat, Swargdwar — are centers of daily worship and grand festivals. The Saryu is described in the Padma Purana as flowing from the divine realm of Vaikuntha itself.
Spiritual Heritage
With over 100 temples, numerous sacred kunds, ancient ghats, and the newly consecrated Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir (inaugurated January 2024), Ayodhya attracts millions of pilgrims annually. The city also holds deep significance for Jainism — five Tirthankaras (Rishabhanatha, Ajitanatha, Abhinandananatha, Sumatinatha, and Anantanatha) were born here.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
October to March (pleasant weather). Ram Navami (Chaitra Shukla Navami) is the grandest festival.
🚗 How to Reach
By Air: Maharishi Valmiki Intl Airport (~8 km), Lucknow Airport (~135 km). By Rail: Ayodhya Dham Jn well-connected to Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi. By Road: NH-27 to Lucknow (134 km), Varanasi (209 km).
📜 History & Significance
Ayodhya is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India, with archaeological evidence dating to around 600 BCE. Known as Saketa in early Buddhist and Jain texts, the city was renamed during the Gupta period. King Vikramaditya restored its glory, building 360 temples. The Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, built in Nagara style with Bansi Paharpur sandstone, was consecrated on 22 January 2024.
Explore Ayodhya Dham
Ram Janmabhoomi Kshetra
The sacred precinct around Lord Rama's birthplace — the spiritual heart of Ayodhya.
The Holy Birthplace
Ram Janmabhoomi Kshetra is the most sacred area in Ayodhya, centered on the exact spot where Lord Rama appeared. The newly constructed Ram Mandir stands 161 feet tall with three stories in Nagara style. The complex includes the Ratna Singhasan, ancient Sita Kup well, Vidya Kund, Mani Parvat, Kanak Bhawan, and Vashistha Kund.
🔸 Key Spots in Ram Janmabhoomi Kshetra
Shree Ram Janmabhoomi (Ram Mandir)
The grand temple at Lord Rama's birthplace, one of the most sacred sites in Sanatan Dharma. A three-storey architectural marvel in Nagara style.
Kanak Bhawan
The magnificent Golden Palace — gifted by Queen Kaikeyi to Sita at her wedding. Houses three pairs of golden-crowned Rama-Sita deities in Bundelkhand architecture.
Shri RamLala Devsthanam Temple
Temple trust managing the sacred Ram Janmabhoomi site. Houses the revered Ram Lalla deity.
Raj Dwar Mandir
One of the traditional royal gates of Ayodhya near Ram Janmabhoomi. An important landmark of the ancient city.
Shri Kale Ram Temple
Historic temple built in 1782 AD in Nagara style. Houses a unique dark-complexioned idol of Lord Rama.
Valmiki Temple
Temple dedicated to Maharishi Valmiki, the Adi Kavi who composed the Ramayana. Located near Ram Janmabhoomi.
Shri Ram GuruPeeth Vashishth Dwar Mandir
Temple at Guru Vashistha's gateway, the royal preceptor who guided the Raghuvanshi dynasty and performed Rama's sacred rites.
Shri Ram Lala Bhawan Mandir
Sacred temple housing an idol of Ram Lalla (infant Rama). A popular darshan site within the Janmabhoomi Kshetra.
Shri Ram Lala Sadan Dev Sthan Mandir
Temple established near the sacred birthplace, serving as a centre for Ram Lalla worship and devotional activities.
Ram Janm Bhoomi Karyashala
Workshop and administrative centre supporting the Ram Janmabhoomi temple construction and maintenance activities.
Vidya Kund
East of Janmasthan — where Guru Vashistha taught Rama the 14 Vidyas and 64 Kalas. Japa of all mantras attains siddhi here.
Vashistha Kund
Sacred kund west of Janmasthan — residence of Guru Vashistha and Arundhati. Bathing destroys all sins.
Mani Parvat
Sacred gem-hill west of Vidya Kund — brought by Garuda on Rama's command for Sita's pleasure. Mere darshan grants all siddhis.
Central Ayodhya
The bustling heart of Ayodhya city — home to the iconic Hanuman Garhi fort-temple, Sapt Sagar tank, and Matta Gajendra.
Heart of the Sacred City
Central Ayodhya is dominated by Hanuman Garhi — the tallest structure in the city, visible from all directions. This 10th-century fort-temple sits atop 76 steps and houses Bal Hanuman in Anjani's lap. Lord Rama appointed Hanuman as Ayodhya's eternal guardian. The area includes Sapt Sagar and the Matta Gajendra shrine.
🔸 Key Spots in Central Ayodhya
Bade Hanuman Mandir (Hanumangarhi)
Ayodhya's most iconic landmark, a 10th-century fort-temple atop 76 steps. Tradition requires visiting Hanumangarhi before Ram Janmabhoomi.
Dasharath Mahal
The ancient palace of King Dasharath, father of Lord Rama. A sacred site commemorating the royal court of the Raghuvanshi dynasty.
Matta Gajendra
Guardian deity in the east of Ramkot — protector of the virtuous, punisher of the wicked. Darshan removes all obstacles.
Sapt Sagar Teerth
Ancient seven-ocean tank in the heart of Ayodhya — bathing equals ocean-bathing merit on Purnima. Grants all wishes.
Ksheereshwar Nath Mandir
Ancient Shiva temple near the Kuber Mound, one of the oldest sacred sites in Ayodhya with archaeological significance.
Lakshman Kila
Ancient fortification attributed to Lakshman, Lord Rama's devoted brother. An archaeological mound in central Ayodhya.
Shri Rangmahal
The colourful palace where Mata Sita was welcomed after her marriage to Lord Rama. Known for its vibrant decorations.
Ram Anand Bhawan
A sacred bhawan (hall) dedicated to Lord Rama, serving as a centre for devotional gatherings and kirtan in central Ayodhya.
Dashrath Bihari Mandir
Temple dedicated to Lord Rama as Bihari (one who revels in divine play), situated in the Dasharath palace area.
Hanuman Mandir
A popular Hanuman temple in the old city, dedicated to Lord Rama's greatest devotee and protector of Ayodhya.
Hanumanganj Mandir
Temple in the Hanumanganj locality, an important Hanuman worship centre in the commercial heart of old Ayodhya.
Shri Laxman Mandir
Temple dedicated to Lakshman, Lord Rama's devoted brother who accompanied him through 14 years of exile.
Shri Ram Darbar
Temple depicting Lord Rama's divine court (darbar) with Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughna, and Hanuman.
Mani Mata Mandir
Temple dedicated to Mani Mata, a revered goddess worshipped in the old city of Ayodhya.
Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir
Temple of the five-faced Hanuman (Panchmukhi), representing Hanuman's supreme powers in all five directions.
Shri Govardhan Mandir
Temple dedicated to Govardhan, celebrating Lord Krishna's divine leela of lifting Govardhan Parvat.
Shri Radha Krishna Mandir
Temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna, celebrating the divine love of the Supreme Lord and his eternal consort.
Lakshmi Narayan Mandir
Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Lakshmi-Narayan, representing divine prosperity and spiritual grace.
Shri Chardham Mandir
Temple representing all four sacred dhams (Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, Rameshwaram) at one location in Ayodhya.
Prachin Shri Jagannath Mandir
Ancient temple of Lord Jagannath (Vishnu) in Ayodhya, featuring the traditional triad of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.
Venkatesh Mandir
South Indian-style Vishnu temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara (Balaji), reflecting Ayodhya's pan-Indian spiritual character.
Shrimad Haigriv Peetham
Sacred peetham dedicated to Lord Hayagriva (Vishnu's horse-headed avatar), a centre of Vedic learning and wisdom.
Shri Radha Mohan Kunj
Garden-temple complex dedicated to Radha's beloved Mohan (Krishna), featuring serene gardens and devotional atmosphere.
Shri Janki Raman Kunj
Garden-temple devoted to Janki (Sita) and Raman (Rama), celebrating the divine couple in a serene garden setting.
Shri Shringar Kunj
Garden-temple dedicated to the divine adornment (Shringar) of Lord Rama and Mata Sita.
Shri Divya Kala Kunj
Garden-temple celebrating the divine arts (Kala) associated with Lord Rama's court in Ayodhya.
Shri Hanuman Kunj
Garden-temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering a serene space for meditation on Hanuman's devotion to Rama.
Shri Ram Kunj
Garden-temple dedicated to Lord Rama, featuring beautiful gardens and spaces for devotional gatherings.
Shri Ram Priya Kunj
Garden-temple celebrating Rama as the beloved (Priya), emphasizing the loving aspect of devotion.
Shri Ram Harshan Kunj
Garden-temple dedicated to the joy (Harsha) of Lord Rama, celebrating the bliss of divine remembrance.
Shri Yugal Madhuri Kunj
Garden-temple dedicated to the divine sweetness (Madhuri) of the eternal couple (Yugal Sarkaar).
Shri Yugal Sarkaar Kunj Mandir
Garden-temple honouring the divine sovereignty (Sarkaar) of Sita-Rama as the supreme couple.
Shri Ram Harshanam
Temple celebrating the divine glory (Harshanam) of Lord Rama through kirtan and devotional music.
Lakshmi Sagar Kund
Sacred water body in central Ayodhya, associated with Goddess Lakshmi's blessings of prosperity and spiritual wealth.
Dant Dhawn Kund
Sacred kund near Hanumangarhi where Lord Rama is believed to have brushed his teeth (Dant Dhawan) during his daily routine.
Ayodhya Madhav Mandir
Temple dedicated to Madhav (Vishnu/Krishna), reflecting the worship of Lord Vishnu in his various forms in Ayodhya.
Janki Vallabh Kunj
Garden-temple complex dedicated to Mata Janki (Sita), celebrating the divine mother's grace and compassion.
Keel Kunj
Garden-temple complex known as Keel Kunj, a serene devotional retreat in the old city of Ayodhya.
Kola Mandir
Historic temple in central Ayodhya, serving the local community with daily worship and spiritual activities.
Naval Var Bihari Mandir
Temple dedicated to Lord Bihari (the playful form of Vishnu), known for its traditional worship and community gatherings.
Sanatan Shiv Mandir
Ancient Shiva temple in Ayodhya, representing the timeless Sanatan tradition of Shiva worship alongside Rama devotion.
Sharvaneshver Mandir
Temple dedicated to Sharvaneshwar Mahadev (Lord Shiva), an ancient Shiva shrine in the old city.
Shiv Mandir
A neighbourhood Shiva temple in central Ayodhya, maintaining daily Shiva puja and abhishekam traditions.
Shravan Kunj
Garden-temple named after Shravan Kumar, the devoted son whose story of filial piety is narrated in the Ramayana.
Shree Saryu Vihar Kunj
Garden-temple on the banks of Saryu, offering scenic views of the sacred river and peaceful devotional spaces.
Shri Ananteshwar Mahadev Mandir
Ancient temple of Ananteshwar Mahadev (Shiva as the Infinite Lord), one of Ayodhya's important Shiva shrines.
Shri Hanuman Mandir Ranopali
Hanuman temple in the Ranopali area of Ayodhya, serving as a local centre of Hanuman worship and devotion.
Shri Hanumat Dhyan Mandir
Temple dedicated to meditative worship (Dhyan) of Lord Hanuman, offering spaces for contemplation and japa.
Shri Laxmi Narayan Mandir
Lakshmi-Narayan temple in central Ayodhya, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi in their divine form.
Shri Nishad Vansh Prachin Panchayati Mandir
Ancient community temple of the Nishad community, honouring the bond between Lord Rama and Nishad Raj Guha.
Shri Raghav Ji Mandir
Temple dedicated to Lord Raghav (Rama), maintaining traditional worship in the Raghu dynasty's sacred city.
Shri Ram Dham Mandir
A devotional centre (dham) dedicated to Lord Rama, serving as a spiritual retreat and worship space.
Shri Ramdhyan Gufa Tota Hanuman Mandir
Unique cave temple featuring a meditating form of Hanuman, located near the Tota area of Ayodhya.
Shri Saryu Mandir
Temple dedicated to the sacred Saryu river, honouring the divine river that flows through Lord Rama's holy city.
Shri Sidh Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir
Temple of the five-faced Siddha Hanuman, worshipped for granting spiritual powers and removing obstacles.
Shri Sita Ram Vihar Kunj
Garden-temple dedicated to Sita and Rama, offering a peaceful vihar (retreat) for devotional contemplation.
Vighneshwar Nath Shiv Mandir
Ancient Shiva temple dedicated to Vighneshwar Nath (Lord of obstacle removal), honouring the Shiva-Ganesha tradition.
International Ramkatha Museum
Museum showcasing the global tradition of Ram Katha (Rama's story) through art, manuscripts, and cultural exhibits.
Swargdwar & Saryu Ghat Area
The sacred Saryu riverfront — Sapt Hari temples, Lakshman's Shesha Sthali, and Guptar Ghat where citizens attained Vaikuntha.
The Divine Riverfront
The Saryu riverfront from Swargdwar to Guptar Ghat is among the holiest stretches of any river in India. Chandrahari and Nageshwarnath temples stand at Swargdwar. Sahasradhara is where Lakshman assumed Shesha form. At Guptar Ghat, Ayodhya's citizens entered Saryu for Vaikuntha. Nirmali Kund is so pure that Teerth-raj Prayag bathes here daily.
🔸 Key Spots in Swargdwar & Saryu Ghat Area
Nageshwar Nath Temple
Presiding deity temple of Ayodhya built by King Kusha, Lord Rama's son. Ancient Shivalinga with edifice dating circa 750 AD.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Kila
Fort-temple of Hanuman as Sankat Mochan (remover of troubles), located near the Saryu riverfront.
Chandrahari Mandir
Sapt Hari temple at Swargdwar — worship declared essential for all pilgrims. Annual yatra on Jyeshtha Shukla Purnima.
Sahasradhara & Lakshman Mandir
Where Lakshman shed his mortal body through yoga and assumed Shesha form on Rama's command. A thousand streams of amrit flow.
Guptar Ghat
Vishnu's abode west of Ayodhya — where Ayodhya's citizens entered Saryu and attained Vaikuntha. Snaan destroys all sins.
Nirmali Kund
So supremely pure that Teerth-raj Prayag comes to bathe here daily. Bathing destroys even sins equal to Brahmahatya.
Naya Ghat (Ram Ki Paidi)
The magnificent stepped ghat complex on the Saryu river, the primary bathing and worship site in Ayodhya.
Saryu Ghat
The main ghat on the sacred Saryu river, considered highly auspicious for ritual bathing and ancestor worship.
Lakshman Ghat
Ghat on the Saryu river where Lakshman is believed to have bathed daily. A serene spot for contemplation.
Jhunki Ghat
Historic ghat named after a devoted saint, known for its spiritual significance and connection to Sita worship.
Tulsi Ghat
Ghat named after Goswami Tulsidas, the author of Ramcharitmanas. Features a temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
Gau Ghat
A ghat of immense religious importance, offering a serene haven for pilgrims seeking spiritual purification.
Gauraghat
Sacred ghat where Lord Rama spent his first night of exile. Associated with the Tamsa river (now called Gaura).
Sri Ram Vallabha Kunj Janki Ghat
Temple-garden at Janki Ghat on the Saryu river, a major site for celebrating the marriage festival of Rama and Sita.
Shri Ram Vallabh Kunj
Garden-temple on the Saryu riverfront, dedicated to Lord Rama as the beloved (Vallabh) of all devotees.
Janki Mahal
Palace-temple dedicated to Mata Janki (Sita), showcasing the worship of Sita alongside Rama in Ayodhya.
Sita Kund
Sacred kund associated with Mata Sita, located in the southeast of Ramnagari. Believed to have special purifying powers.
Sita / Dudheshwar Kund
Sacred kund associated with both Mata Sita and Lord Dudheshwar (Shiva), combining Vaishnava and Shaiva traditions.
Saryu Aarti
The nightly aarti ceremony on the Saryu river, a mesmerising spiritual experience with lamps, chants, and devotion.
Prahlad Ghat Mandir
Temple at Prahlad Ghat, honouring the great devotee Prahlad whose unwavering faith in Vishnu is celebrated in Hindu tradition.
Shri Luv Kush Mandir
Temple dedicated to Luv and Kush, Lord Rama's twin sons, located near the Saryu riverfront.
Shri Laxmi Narayan Mandir Swarg Dwar
Lakshmi-Narayan temple near Swargdwar, combining the worship of Vishnu-Lakshmi with the sacred Swargdwar area.
Vaidehi Bhavan Janki Ghat Mandir
Temple at Janki Ghat dedicated to Vaidehi (Sita), offering worship spaces with views of the Saryu river.
Surrounding Teerth Kshetras
Sacred kunds, Shakti peethas, and teerths surrounding the main city — Surya Kund, Devkali, and Manorama Teerth.
Teerths Around the City
Beyond central Ayodhya are powerful teerths described in the Skanda Purana. Surya Kund cures diseases. Devkali is the seat of Adi Shakti in Ashtabhuja form. Manorama Teerth across the Saryu is where King Dasharatha performed the Putrakameshti Yagya that led to Rama's birth.
🔸 Key Spots in Surrounding Teerth Kshetras
Surya Kund
South of Vaitarni river — bathing cures leprosy, boils, poverty, all diseases. Special merit on Sundays and in Bhadra/Pausha/Magha.
Devkali
Adi Shakti Durga Kund — seat of the Goddess in eight-armed (Ashtabhuja) form. Darshan-pujan grants all desires.
Manorama Teerth
Opposite bank of Saryu — Manorama-Saryu confluence where King Dasharatha performed Putrakameshti Yagya leading to Rama's birth.
Dakshinmukhi Shri Hanuman Mandir
South-facing Hanuman temple, a rare and powerful form where Hanuman faces Dakshin (south) to guard against negative forces.
Vibheeshan Kund
Sacred kund on Rajghat road, associated with Vibheeshan (Ravana's righteous brother) who joined Lord Rama's cause.
Bamdev Kund
Sacred water body associated with the sage Bamdev, located in the southern sacred periphery of Ayodhya.
Bamdev Ashram
Ashram of sage Bamdev (Vamadeva), a centre of Vedic learning and spiritual practice in southern Ayodhya.
Astikan Ashram
Ancient ashram associated with Vedic traditions, serving as a retreat for spiritual seekers in the Ayodhya periphery.
Janmejay Kund (84 Kosi Route)
Sacred kund on the 84 Kosi Parikrama route, associated with King Janmejay who performed great yagyas.
Medha Rishi Ashram
Ashram of Medha Rishi, a sage known for imparting spiritual knowledge. Located on Ayodhya's outskirts amidst forests.
Shravan Ashram
Ashram honouring Shravan Kumar, the devoted son whose story is deeply connected to the Ramayana narrative.
Bilvahari & Punyahari Area
Part of the Sapt Hari pilgrimage circuit — sacred Vishnu temples ~16 km east of Ayodhya on Saryu bank.
The Eastern Sapt Hari Temples
About 16 km east of the city on the Saryu bank stand Bilvahari and Punyahari — two of the Sapt Hari temples. Bilvahari liberates from Rina Traya. Punyahari cures Pandu Roga. These remote teerths preserve ancient pilgrimage traditions predating even the Ramayana.
🔸 Key Spots in Bilvahari & Punyahari Area
Nandigram
18 km south — where Bharat installed Rama's Padukas and lived 14 years in austere penance.
Bharat's Seat of Devotion
Nandigram, 18 km south of Ayodhya, is where Bharat installed Rama's Charan Padukas on the throne and administered the kingdom for 14 years as an ascetic. The first reunion with Rama after Lanka occurred here. The Skanda Purana declares darshan here equals 1000 Manvantaras of Kashi-vaas.
Quick Info
Dham Hierarchy
This dham is organized into 4 tiers. Browse from the broadest sacred region down to exact meditation points.
The entire spiritual ecosystem — a sacred region of divine pastimes.
Similar Dhams
Vrindavan DhamMathura, Uttar Pradesh