Ayodhya, the sacred city associated with Lord Rama, attracts millions of pilgrims each year. However, the region around Ayodhya is equally blessed with spiritual, cultural, and historical treasures that make your journey enriching and memorable. Here are the top 10 places to visit near Ayodhya for a trip that combines heritage, devotion, and serenity.
1. Faizabad
Just 7 km from Ayodhya lies Faizabad, the former capital of Awadh. It houses monuments reflecting Nawabi grandeur, such as Gulab Bari, the tomb of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula surrounded by rose gardens. Also visit Bahu Begum ka Maqbara, a majestic Mughal-style tomb, and explore Chowk, the old market, for ethnic chikan and zardozi embroidery. Among the top places to visit near Ayodhya, Faizabad offers a blend of Nawabi culture and historical architecture.
2. Shringverpur
About 40 km from Ayodhya on the banks of river Ganga, Shringverpur is an ancient village believed to be the kingdom of Nishadraj Guha, who helped Lord Rama cross the Ganga during his exile. The excavated site shows remnants of a fortified settlement and an ancient ghat, enhancing your Ramayana circuit pilgrimage.
3. Prayagraj
Approximately 170 km from Ayodhya, Prayagraj (Allahabad) is a prominent spiritual destination, famous for the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, called the Triveni Sangam. It hosts the grand Kumbh Mela every 12 years. Don’t miss Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of Nehru-Gandhi family, and Allahabad Fort built by Akbar. Among the places to visit near Ayodhya, Prayagraj offers both spiritual and historic experiences.
4. Varanasi
Situated around 200 km from Ayodhya, Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India. The ghats along the Ganga, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath (where Buddha gave his first sermon), and the evening Ganga aarti create an atmosphere of deep devotion. For those seeking places to visit near Ayodhya with heritage and spirituality, Varanasi is unmissable.
5. Chitrakoot
Located 130 km from Ayodhya, Chitrakoot is another significant destination associated with the exile years of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana. Visit Ramghat, Kamadgiri Hill, Bharat Milap temple, and Gupt Godavari caves. Chitrakoot’s serene ghats and forested hills offer a peaceful spiritual retreat.
6. Lucknow
About 135 km from Ayodhya lies Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, known for its Nawabi heritage, arts, and cuisine. Visit Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and indulge in kebabs at Tunday Kababi. For travellers combining Ayodhya pilgrimage with cultural exploration, Lucknow ranks high among places to visit near Ayodhya.
7. Jaunpur
Located nearly 215 km from Ayodhya, Jaunpur is famous for its Sharqi dynasty architecture. Explore Atala Masjid, Jama Masjid, and Shahi Bridge built in the 16th century. The town reflects a unique Indo-Islamic architectural blend, ideal for history enthusiasts.
8. Naimisharanya
Around 95 km from Ayodhya, Naimisharanya is an ancient forest mentioned in the Puranas and Mahabharata, believed to be where sages performed yagnas. Visit Chakra Tirth, Hanuman Garhi, Vyas Gaddi, and Lalita Devi Temple. Naimisharanya is one of the most sacred places to visit near Ayodhya for spiritual seekers.
9. Gonda
Situated approximately 50 km from Ayodhya, Gonda is popular for the historic Devi Patan temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Patan Devi and is visited by thousands during Navratri. You can also explore the ruins of Sahet-Mahet near Gonda, which is part of ancient Sravasti.
10. Sravasti
About 110 km from Ayodhya, Sravasti is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons preaching his disciples. Visit Jetavana Monastery, Anathapindika’s Stupa, Angulimala’s Stupa, and Thai Buddhist temple complex. For those exploring spiritual places to visit near Ayodhya, Sravasti offers peaceful monasteries and ruins that narrate Buddha’s teachings.
Why Visit These Places near Ayodhya?
- Spiritual Diversity: From Ramayana-linked sites like Shringverpur and Chitrakoot to Buddhist centres like Sravasti.
- Architectural Heritage: Explore Mughal, Nawabi, and medieval Hindu temple architecture across these towns.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience local crafts, cuisines, and religious festivals that reveal Uttar Pradesh’s rich tapestry.
- Extended Pilgrimage Circuit: Combine Ayodhya with these destinations for a holistic religious and heritage tour.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore these places to visit near Ayodhya is between October and March when the weather is pleasant for temple visits and sightseeing. Festivals like Diwali, Ram Navami, Navratri, and Kartik Purnima add to the spiritual aura.
How to Plan Your Trip
- Transport: Ayodhya is well connected by rail and road to Lucknow, Varanasi, and Prayagraj. Hire taxis or use buses for nearby sites like Faizabad, Shringverpur, and Gonda.
- Stay Options: Ayodhya offers dharmshalas, budget hotels, and newly emerging spiritual resorts. For luxury options, stay in Lucknow or Varanasi and plan day trips.
- Local Tips: Dress modestly for temples and monasteries. Carry snacks and water when visiting remote archaeological sites.
Conclusion
These top 10 places to visit near Ayodhya enrich your spiritual and heritage trip, taking you through ancient legends, royal histories, and divine landscapes. Whether you seek devotion, architectural beauty, or quiet moments of reflection, this circuit promises a truly memorable journey.
