A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Ram Janmbhoomi Temple in Ayodhya
Today, I’m excited to share my experience visiting the Ram Janmbhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, a place of profound spiritual significance. If you’re planning a visit, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your way.
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a sacred town located in Uttar Pradesh, India. Ayodhya holds immense religious significance and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
How to Reach Ayodhya
By Air: The nearest airport is the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya. However, if you’re flying from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, you can also land at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, which is about 140 km away. From Lucknow airport, you can hire an outstation cab or taxi or take a bus to Ayodhya.
By Train: Ayodhya is well-connected by rail. The Ayodhya Junction railway station is very close to the temple, making it a convenient option. Trains from major cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, Kolkata and Delhi run frequently. To enquire about reservation and to check the latest train timing, please reach IRCTC website.
By Road: Ayodhya is accessible by road from nearby cities like Lucknow (140 km), Varanasi (209 km), and Allahabad (166 km). You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ayodhya. The excellent road condition will invite you to drive from different cities, particularly availing the Purvanchal Expressway.
Car Parking facility
If you are visiting Ayodhya in a hired cab or bringing your own car, there is a large paid parking area near Lata Mangeshkar Chowk. You can park your car safely and avail e-rickshaw or electric bus to visit the temple.
Reaching the Ram Janmbhoomi Temple
Once you’re in Ayodhya, you can avail electric buses operated by UPSRTC and golf cars operated by the Ayodhya municipality. Local electric rickshaws can drop you to the temple gate only until 8 AM. After that, you’ll be dropped 300 meters before the temple.
Facilities for Senior Citizens and Differently Abled Persons
The Ram Janmbhoomi temple complex is happy to welcome senior citizens and differently-abled persons. The temple management has made efforts to ensure accessibility for everyone. Wheelchairs are available at the temple entrance. There are ramps and designated pathways for wheelchair users in the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple complex.
Wheelchairs are available at the entrance gate for those who need them. To avail of the wheelchair facility, you will need to provide a valid ID card.
While the use of wheelchairs is free within the temple premises, there is a nominal fee of 150 INR as of December 2024 for the assistance provided by volunteers. The wheelchair takes a separate route, allowing quick access inside the temple, and one person can accompany the wheelchair.
Temple Timings
The Ram Janmabhoomi Temple is open to visitors from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM daily. It’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Also early in the morning you can take any e-rickshaw till the temple gate.
Cost for Services
There is no entry fee to visit the temple. However, if you wish to participate in special rituals or ceremonies, there may be a nominal fee. It’s advisable to check with the temple authorities for the exact costs. For latest update please click here.
You are not allowed to carry flowers or prasad inside the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple. But as you leave the temple, you will be handed over a packet of prasad.
There is a series of special cloak room counters for keeping all your belongings as you will not be allowed to carry anything inside the main temple. You will be handed over the locker key which you have to produce while collecting your belongings.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple is a deeply enriching experience. The serene atmosphere and the spiritual ambiance make it a pilgrimage worth undertaking. I hope this guide helps you plan your visit smoothly. Safe travels, and may you have a blessed journey!
There are many other temples in Ayodhya. You can read this article to have a fair idea before travelling to the holy city of Ayodhya.
