The grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya stands as one of India's most magnificent temples and a testament to centuries of devotion. Since its historic consecration in January 2024, millions of devotees from across the globe have visited this sacred site to seek Lord Ram's blessings. If you're planning your pilgrimage to Ayodhya in 2026, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.
🙏 Planning Tip: Book your Delhi to Ayodhya tempo traveller in advance, especially during peak festival seasons when demand is extremely high.
Ram Mandir Ayodhya: A Brief Overview
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple is built at the sacred birthplace of Lord Ram. The temple spans an impressive 2.7 acres, with the main structure rising to 161 feet. Built in the traditional Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture, the three-story temple is constructed entirely of sandstone and marble, without using any iron or steel.
Key Features of Ram Mandir:
- Height: 161 feet (49 meters) - tallest Hindu temple in the world
- Area: Built on 70 acres of land
- Sanctum: Houses the idol of Ram Lalla (infant Lord Ram)
- Architecture: Nagara style with 392 pillars and 44 doors
- Material: Pink Bansi Paharpur sandstone from Rajasthan
How to Reach Ayodhya
Ayodhya is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are your options:
By Air
The newly inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (Ayodhya) operates flights from major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Bangalore. The airport is just 10 km from Ram Mandir.
By Train
Ayodhya Junction (AY) and Ayodhya Cantt are the main railway stations. Direct trains connect from:
- Delhi - Ayodhya Express, Humsafar Express (10-12 hours)
- Mumbai - Lokmanya Tilak Express (24 hours)
- Lucknow - Multiple trains (3 hours)
- Varanasi - Several daily trains (4-5 hours)
By Road - Recommended for Comfort
For the most comfortable and flexible travel experience, we recommend hiring a tempo traveller or cab. This allows you to travel at your own pace and combine Ayodhya with other spiritual destinations.
Popular Road Routes to Ayodhya:
- • Delhi to Ayodhya - 630 km (10-12 hours via Lucknow)
- • Lucknow to Ayodhya - 135 km (3 hours)
- • Varanasi to Ayodhya - 200 km (4-5 hours)
- • Jaipur to Ayodhya - 650 km (10-12 hours)
Ram Mandir Darshan Timings 2026
The temple is open for darshan throughout the day with specific timings:
| Session | Timing | Ritual |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Aarti | 6:00 AM | Mangala Aarti |
| General Darshan | 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Open Darshan |
| Bhog Aarti | 12:00 PM | Raj Bhog Aarti |
| Afternoon Darshan | 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Open Darshan |
| Evening Aarti | 7:00 PM | Sandhya Aarti |
| Night Aarti | 9:00 PM | Shayan Aarti |
Pro Tip: For the most peaceful darshan experience, visit on weekdays during early morning (7-8 AM) or late afternoon (5-6 PM). Avoid weekends and major festivals if you prefer shorter queues.
Best Time to Visit Ayodhya
Ayodhya can be visited year-round, but certain times offer better experiences:
October to March (Peak Season) ⭐ Recommended
Pleasant weather with temperatures between 10°C to 25°C. Perfect for temple visits and exploring the city. This period includes:
- Diwali (Oct/Nov): Grand celebrations with stunning illuminations
- Ram Navami (Mar/Apr): Lord Ram's birthday - biggest celebration
- Kartik Purnima: Special religious significance
April to June (Summer)
Hot weather (35-45°C). Visit early mornings or evenings. Fewer crowds but challenging conditions.
July to September (Monsoon)
Moderate crowds, occasional rain. The Saryu River banks become picturesque during this time.
Other Must-Visit Places in Ayodhya
While Ram Mandir is the primary attraction, Ayodhya offers several other spiritual sites worth exploring:
1. Hanuman Garhi
A 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on a hilltop with 76 steps. It's believed that Hanuman guards Ayodhya from this point. Distance from Ram Mandir: 600 meters
2. Kanak Bhawan
An ornate palace-temple where Lord Ram and Sita reside as king and queen. Known for its beautiful architecture and golden images. Distance: 500 meters
3. Saryu River Ghats
Take a holy dip in the sacred Saryu River at Ram Ki Paidi ghat. The evening aarti at the ghats is a mesmerizing experience. Distance: 1 km
4. Dashrath Mahal
The palace of King Dashrath, father of Lord Ram. A place of historical and mythological significance. Distance: 800 meters
5. Nageshwarnath Temple
An ancient Shiva temple believed to be established by Kush, son of Lord Ram. Distance: 1.2 km
Combine Ayodhya with These Destinations
Make the most of your trip by visiting nearby spiritual cities. Our religious tour packages offer perfect combinations:
🕉️ Ayodhya + Varanasi (3 Days)
Visit Ram Mandir and experience the spiritual energy of Varanasi's ghats and Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Starting: ₹12,000 per person
🙏 Ayodhya + Prayagraj + Varanasi (5 Days)
Complete spiritual circuit covering Triveni Sangam at Prayagraj.
Starting: ₹18,000 per person
Where to Stay in Ayodhya
Ayodhya has seen rapid hotel development since the Ram Mandir inauguration. Options range from budget dharamshalas to luxury hotels:
Luxury Hotels (₹5,000+/night)
- Ramada by Wyndham Ayodhya
- Sarovar Premiere Ayodhya
- Hotel Ramprastha
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2,000-5,000/night)
- Hotel Krishna Palace
- Hotel Raghunandan
- A P Palace
Budget & Dharamshalas (₹500-2,000/night)
- Birla Dharamshala
- Ram Sevak Dharamshala
- Various trust-run accommodations
Booking Tip: Reserve accommodations 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during festivals. Hotels near Ram Ki Paidi offer the best location.
What to Eat in Ayodhya
Ayodhya is known for its satvik (pure vegetarian) cuisine:
- Laddoo Prasad: Temple offering, a must-have
- Kheer: Rice pudding served at many temples
- Poori-Sabzi: Popular breakfast option
- Chole-Bhature: Street food favorite
- Lassi & Thandai: Refreshing local drinks
Essential Tips for Ram Mandir Visit
- Dress Code: Wear modest, traditional attire. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops.
- Mobile Phones: Allowed but photography inside sanctum is prohibited.
- Security: Be prepared for thorough security checks. Arrive 1 hour early.
- Footwear: Free locker facility available outside temple premises.
- Prasad: Available at designated counters after darshan.
- Queue Management: VIP darshan available through official booking. Regular queues can take 2-4 hours during peak times.
- Best Days: Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered auspicious.
- Avoid: Weekends, Ram Navami, Diwali if you prefer shorter queues.
How to Book Your Ayodhya Trip
For a hassle-free spiritual journey, book your transportation with us. We offer:
- ✅ Tempo Travellers (12-26 seater) for group pilgrimages
- ✅ SUVs for family trips
- ✅ Sedans for couples
- ✅ Experienced drivers who know the best routes and local areas
- ✅ Flexible itineraries with stops at all major temples
🙏 Ready for Your Ayodhya Pilgrimage?
Book your comfortable and safe transportation to Ayodhya. We handle the journey; you focus on the darshan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online booking required for Ram Mandir darshan?
Online booking is available but not mandatory. Walk-in darshan is allowed, though online booking helps reduce waiting time during peak hours.
How much time is needed for complete Ayodhya darshan?
Plan for 1 full day minimum. Ram Mandir darshan takes 2-4 hours depending on crowd. Add another half day for other temples.
Is Ayodhya safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Ayodhya is very safe with heavy police presence and CCTV coverage throughout the city. Solo travelers, including women, can visit comfortably.
What is the nearest airport to Ayodhya?
Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (Ayodhya) is just 10 km from Ram Mandir. Lucknow Airport is an alternative, 140 km away.
Can I visit Ayodhya and Varanasi together?
Absolutely! Many pilgrims combine both cities. Book our Varanasi-Ayodhya package for a complete spiritual experience.