Places to Visit near Ayodhya – A Complete Travel Guide

Ayodhya, located on the banks of the sacred Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most revered cities in India. Exploring Places to Visit near Ayodhya allows travelers to experience a blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, this ancient city is a hub of spirituality, culture, and history. While Ayodhya itself offers countless temples, ghats, and heritage sites, the surrounding region is equally rich in attractions.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top destinations near Ayodhya, their significance, travel tips, and sample itineraries. Whether you’re a devotee, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, these nearby places promise unforgettable experiences.

Why Explore Places to Visit near Ayodhya?
Spiritual Significance: Many nearby towns and cities are linked to the Ramayana and other sacred traditions.
Cultural Heritage: Ancient temples, forts, and monuments showcase centuries-old history.
Natural Beauty: Rivers, gardens, and scenic landscapes offer peaceful retreats.
Convenience: Most destinations are easily accessible by road or rail from Ayodhya.

Famous Places to Visit near Ayodhya

1. Faizabad (7 km from Ayodhya) Once the capital of Awadh, Faizabad is rich in Mughal and Nawabi heritage. Key attractions include Gulab Bari, Bahu Begum’s Tomb, and the Faizabad Fort. A perfect blend of history and culture, making it a must-visit near Ayodhya.
2. Lucknow (135 km from Ayodhya) The capital city of Uttar Pradesh, known for its Nawabi culture and heritage. Famous attractions include Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and Hazratganj market. Renowned for its cuisine, especially kebabs and biryanis.
3. Varanasi (200 km from Ayodhya) One of the oldest living cities in the world, located on the banks of the Ganga. Famous for Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and evening Ganga Aarti. A spiritual hub attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists.
4. Prayagraj (165 km from Ayodhya) Known for the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. Hosts the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Attractions include Anand Bhavan, Allahabad Fort, and Khusro Bagh.
5. Chitrakoot (130 km from Ayodhya) Associated with Lord Rama’s exile period. Famous sites include Ramghat, Kamadgiri, and Bharat Milap Temple. A serene destination combining spirituality and natural beauty.
6. Gorakhpur (140 km from Ayodhya) Known for Gorakhnath Temple and Geeta Press. Offers a mix of spirituality and cultural heritage. A gateway to Nepal for adventurous travelers.
7. Shravasti (120 km from Ayodhya) An important Buddhist site where Lord Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons. Attractions include Jetavana Monastery and Anathapindika’s Stupa. A peaceful retreat for spiritual seekers.
8. Kushinagar (190 km from Ayodhya) The place where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. Key sites include Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa. A major destination for Buddhist pilgrims worldwide.
9. Kapilvastu (Nepal, 230 km from Ayodhya) Birthplace of Lord Buddha, located across the border in Nepal. Famous for Tilaurakot Palace ruins and Buddhist monasteries. A must-visit for those interested in Buddhist heritage.
10. Jaunpur (160 km from Ayodhya) Known for its Sharqi dynasty monuments. Attractions include Atala Masjid, Shahi Bridge, and Jama Masjid. Offers a glimpse into medieval Indo-Islamic architecture.

Cultural Highlights of Places near Ayodhya
Festivals: Ram Navami in Ayodhya, Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Diwali in Varanasi.
Cuisine: Lucknow’s kebabs, Varanasi’s sweets, and Gorakhpur’s traditional dishes.
Art & Architecture: Nawabi palaces, Mughal forts, Buddhist stupas, and Hindu temples.
Community Life: Pilgrims, monks, and locals engaged in devotion and service.

Types of Tours Covering Places near Ayodhya
Tour Type
Highlights
Best For
Duration
Pilgrimage Tours
Ayodhya, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot
Devotees
5–7 days
Heritage Tours
Lucknow, Faizabad, Jaunpur
History lovers
4–6 days
Buddhist Circuit Tours
Shravasti, Kushinagar, Kapilvastu
Spiritual seekers
6–8 days
Family Tours
Ayodhya, Lucknow, Gorakhpur
Families
3–5 days
Festival Tours
Ram Navami, Diwali, Kumbh Mela
Culture enthusiasts
2–4 days

Best Time to Explore Places near Ayodhya
Winter (October–March): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and temple visits.
Summer (April–June): Hot, but manageable for dedicated pilgrims.
Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery, though travel may be affected by rains.
Festivals: Ram Navami, Diwali, and Kumbh Mela are the most vibrant times to visit.

Activities to Experience
Temple visits and darshan in Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Chitrakoot.
Evening aarti at Ram Ki Paidi and Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Pilgrimage walks across sacred sites.
Exploring museums and heritage centers in Lucknow and Faizabad.
Attending cultural programs and Ramayana recitations.
Shopping for handicrafts, sweets, and souvenirs.

Sample Itinerary for a 7-Day Tour near Ayodhya
Day 1: Arrival in Ayodhya – Visit Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan.
Day 2: Faizabad – Explore Gulab Bari, Bahu Begum’s Tomb, Faizabad Fort.
Day 3: Lucknow – Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, Hazratganj market.
Day 4: Varanasi – Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, evening Ganga Aarti.
Day 5: Prayagraj – Triveni Sangam, Anand Bhavan, Allahabad Fort.
Day 6: Chitrakoot – Ramghat, Kamadgiri, Bharat Milap Temple.
Day 7: Shravasti – Jetavana Monastery, Anathapindika’s Stupa. Departure.

Travel Tips for Places to Visit near Ayodhya
Dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries.
Respect local customs and traditions.
Carry light cotton clothes for summer and warm layers for winter.
Book accommodations in advance during festival seasons.
Keep cash handy as some areas may lack digital payment options.
Hire local guides for deeper insights into history and culture.

Why Places to Visit near Ayodhya Attract Global Travelers
Spiritual depth: Direct connection to Lord Rama and Lord Buddha’s life.
Cultural richness: Blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Nawabi traditions.
Global appeal: Pilgrims from Asia, Europe, and America visit regularly.
Peaceful atmosphere: Ideal for meditation and inner reflection.
Historical importance: Sites rooted in centuries-old traditions.

Conclusion
Ayodhya is not just a city—it is a living embodiment of faith, culture, and history. Exploring Places to Visit near Ayodhya is more than a journey; it’s an experience of devotion, wisdom, and cultural richness. From the grandeur of Lucknow’s Nawabi heritage to the serenity of Kushinagar’s Buddhist stupas, each destination offers a unique story and spiritual connection.
If you’re planning your next cultural or spiritual holiday, let Ayodhya and its nearby places be your choice. The memories you create here—whether it’s attending evening aarti at Varanasi, celebrating Ram Navami in Ayodhya, or meditating in Shravasti—will stay with you forever.