5 places to see in Ayodhya
Posted on November 10, 2019 by Ghoomophiro
Ayodhya is a place associated with much importance in Hindu mythology. It is considered the birthplace of Lord Rama and so the place has many religious spots one can visit. But that is not Ayodhya’s only identity. Now that the Supreme Court’s verdict is out on the Ram Janambhoomi allotting the disputed land for the construction of a glorious temple, it becomes inevitable that one would wish to visit the land that put the country in turmoil for so many years. But apart from the Ram janambhoomi, these are the places you can visit in Ayodhya.
How to reach:
By flight, the nearest airport to Ayodhya is Faizabad Airport which is just 8 km away. The nearest major airport is 130 km away i.e Lucknow Airport.
By road, Ayodhya can be accessed from major cities in UP through government/ private buses.
By train, rails connect Ayodhya to major cities through Ayodhya Junction railway station.
Naya Ghat
Naya Ghat is the place you must visit for a magnificent view of the Saryu river. The ghats are quite clean and the evening aarti with a sunset view is a spectacle to watch. Saryu River is also considered a holy river among Hindus and is worshipped alongside Ganga, Narmada etc. You can get a fantastic view of the aarti from the bridge and even enjoy golgappas near the ghat.
Chhoti Devkali Temple
Near the Naya Ghat is a historic temple known as Chhoti Devkali temple. As per Hindu mythology, after Mother Sita wed Lord Rama, she brought an idol of Goddess Girija Devi to Ayodhya with her. King Dashrath constructed a temple for the idol and Mother Sita would visit it regularly for her prayers. The same temple exists today with a wonderful statue of Goddess Devkali.
Tulsi Smarak Bhawan
The Bhawan commemorates the 16th-century poet and philosopher Goswami Tulsidas ji. Tulsidasji is credited with composing the Hanuman Chalisa and also writing the Ramcharitmanas in Awadhi language.
Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan and Ayodhya Research Centre are housed in the Bhawan. Ayodhya Research Centre studies the historical significance of Ayodhya and its literary, cultural, and spiritual traditions. The Bhawan also houses a library and an exhibition of Ramayana Art and crafts. Daily Ramkatha is recited there throughout the year and also an enactment of Ram Leela. The Bhawan, in contemporary time, is used for cultural functions and religious ceremonies.
One can easily spend hours in the Tulsi Samarak Bhawan. Throughout the year, activities are going on and the presence of museums is especially amusing for tourists.
Mausoleum of Bahu Begum
Mausoleum of Bahu Begum is one of its kind structure in Avadh. Nawab Shuja-ud-daulah ordered the construction of this mausoleum after his wife Bahu Begum died. His chief advisor was responsible for its construction and today the building stands spectacular and attracts everyone’s eyes.
It is constructed with white marbles and was an attempt to recreate the mesmerizing Taj Mahal. The mausoleum offers a marvellous view of the entire Faizabad city. It is 42 meters high and a must-visit place when one goes to Ayodhya.
Moti Mahal/Pearl Palace
Pearl Palace popularly known as Moti Mahal was where Bahu Begum, Shuja-ud-daulah’s wife resided. She married the nawab in 1743 and died in 1816. Moti Mahal is a classic example of Mughal architecture which is renowned in the world. Only a few kilometres from Ayodhya, Moti Mahal can be found in Faizabad.
Some other must-visit places in Ayodhya are Hanuman Garhi Mandir, Kanak Bhawan, Mani Parvat Temple and Ram ki paidi. Located in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya is a city you must travel to once in your lifetime.
What to eat :
You can easily find vegetarian food in all restaurants in Ayodhya. Some of the best places to eat are:
Makan Malai Resturant that serves Chinese, Indian, and Continental cuisines. It is located in the basement of Hotel Ramprastha.
Awantika whose special Thali which costs just Rs 165 is a must try. The music and ambience of the restaurant is fantastic.
You can also enjoy street food like Mahaveer ki tikki at Reekabganj, Falooda Kulfi and Raamji ka samosa near Awadh University.
Such a great blog it is! You have written well informative with various beautiful lines. Very interesting. Thanks.
It’s a very much described blog about Ayodhya. As Hindu mythology it is considered the birthplace of Lord Rama and so the place has many religious spots one can visit. I think the spots you referenced in your article list are surely going to assist me with exploring this holy place effectively. Thanks for sharing this wonderful blog.