Whether you’re a devotee tracing the Ramayana trail, a history buff exploring ancient kingdoms, or a traveler seeking offbeat experiences, the places to visit near Ayodhya promise a journey filled with wonder, wisdom, and cultural richness. Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a spiritual epicenter that draws millions of pilgrims each year. But beyond its iconic temples and ghats lies a constellation of nearby destinations that are equally captivating.
Here’s a curated guide to the best destinations within a 50–150 km radius of Ayodhya, ideal for day trips or short getaways.
🛕 1. Faizabad – The Twin City (7 km)
Once the capital of Awadh, Faizabad is Ayodhya’s twin city and a treasure trove of Nawabi heritage.
- Gulab Bari: A Mughal-style garden complex housing the tomb of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula.
- Bahu Begum ka Maqbara: A stunning mausoleum dedicated to the Nawab’s wife, known for its Indo-Islamic architecture.
- Moti Mahal and Guptar Ghat: Sites associated with Lord Rama’s final journey.
Travel Tip: Easily accessible by auto or cab from Ayodhya; ideal for a half-day heritage walk.
🏞️ 2. Sringverpur – The Kingdom of Nishad Raj (35 km)
Located on the banks of the Ganga, Sringverpur is believed to be the capital of Nishad Raj, who helped Lord Rama cross the river during his exile.
- Ancient Ganga Ghat: A peaceful spot for reflection and photography.
- Archaeological Ruins: Excavations have revealed ancient structures and water reservoirs.
Spiritual Significance: A lesser-known but deeply revered site in the Ramayana circuit.
🛕 3. Sitamarhi – Sita’s Exile Site (45 km)
Not to be confused with Sitamarhi in Bihar, this Sitamarhi in Uttar Pradesh is believed to be the place where Sita was swallowed by the earth.
- Sita Samahit Sthal: A temple complex with a large statue of Sita and a meditation hall.
- Mythological Importance: Said to be the site of Sita’s final departure from the mortal world.
Best Time to Visit: During Ram Navami or Kartik Purnima for special rituals.
🏯 4. Tanda – Textile Town with Nawabi Roots (35 km)
Tanda is known for its handloom industry and Nawabi-era architecture.
- Tanda Fort: A crumbling but atmospheric fort with panoramic views.
- Local Markets: Famous for cotton and silk textiles.
Cultural Insight: A great stop for those interested in crafts and local heritage.
🏞️ 5. Devkali – The Divine Mother’s Abode (10 km)
A short drive from Ayodhya, Devkali is home to a revered temple dedicated to Goddess Devkali, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
- Devkali Temple: A peaceful shrine surrounded by greenery.
- Local Belief: Devotees believe that visiting this temple completes the Ayodhya pilgrimage.
Ideal For: A quick spiritual detour or morning visit.
🛕 6. Chitrakoot – The Forest of Exile (135 km)
Though a bit farther, Chitrakoot is a must-visit for those tracing the Ramayana trail. It is where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshman spent a significant part of their exile.
- Ram Ghat: A sacred bathing ghat on the Mandakini River.
- Kamadgiri Hill: Circumambulated by devotees as a mark of reverence.
- Bharat Milap Temple: Commemorates the emotional reunion of Rama and Bharat.
Travel Tip: Best visited as an overnight trip from Ayodhya.
🏞️ 7. Prayagraj – The Triveni Sangam (165 km)
A confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, Prayagraj is one of Hinduism’s holiest cities.
- Triveni Sangam: Ideal for a holy dip and boat rides.
- Kumbh Mela Grounds: Site of the world’s largest religious gathering.
- Anand Bhavan: The ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family.
Combo Option: Many Ayodhya tour packages include Prayagraj for a broader spiritual circuit.
🛕 8. Varanasi – The Eternal City (200 km)
One of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi is a spiritual powerhouse and a perfect complement to Ayodhya’s Ramayana legacy.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
- Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: A mesmerizing spiritual experience.
- Sarnath: A major Buddhist site where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Travel Tip: Combine Ayodhya and Varanasi for a 3–5 day spiritual journey.
🏞️ 9. Dalmau – Riverside Heritage Town (120 km)
Located on the banks of the Ganga, Dalmau is a quiet town with historical and literary significance.
- Baithak Bhavan: Associated with poet Tulsidas.
- Raja Todarmal’s Fort: A Mughal-era structure with scenic views.
Offbeat Charm: Ideal for travelers seeking solitude and heritage.
🏞️ 10. Amethi – Royal Legacy and Temples (130 km)
Known for its political history, Amethi also has spiritual and cultural sites worth exploring.
- Hanuman Mandir: A popular local shrine.
- Rajiv Gandhi Smriti: A museum dedicated to the former Prime Minister.
Best For: A cultural detour on the way to or from Ayodhya.
🗺️ Suggested 4-Day Itinerary: Ayodhya + Nearby Gems
Day 1:
- Arrive in Ayodhya
- Visit Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, and Kanak Bhawan
- Evening aarti at Ram Ki Paidi
Day 2:
- Morning trip to Sringverpur and Sitamarhi
- Return to Ayodhya for Dashrath Bhavan and Treta Ke Thakur
Day 3:
- Full-day trip to Chitrakoot or Prayagraj
- Explore ghats, temples, and local cuisine
Day 4:
- Optional visit to Faizabad or Devkali
- Departure
📝 Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and festivals
- Transport: Hire a cab or join a guided tour for multi-site visits
- Stay Options: Base yourself in Ayodhya and plan day trips
- Local Guides: Enhance your experience with mythological and historical insights
🧭 Final Thoughts
The places to visit near Ayodhya offer a rich extension of the city’s spiritual and cultural narrative. Whether you’re following the footsteps of Lord Rama, exploring Buddhist heritage, or simply soaking in the riverside serenity, these destinations promise a journey that’s both enlightening and unforgettable. With thoughtful planning and the right itinerary, your Ayodhya trip can become a multidimensional pilgrimage through India’s sacred heartland.
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