Top 12 Places to Visit in Ayodhya Near Ram Mandir

Ayodhya — the birthplace of Bhagwan Shri Ram — is one of India's most sacred tirthas. With the grand inauguration of the Ram Mandir in January 2024, the city has transformed into a world-class pilgrimage destination. But beyond the magnificent Ram Janmabhoomi temple, Ayodhya is home to dozens of ancient mandirs, serene ghats, and heritage sites that most visitors miss. If you're planning your Ayodhya yatra, knowing the top places to visit in Ayodhya will help you experience the city's full spiritual depth. Whether you have one day or three, this guide covers every must-see destination — with timings, distances from Ram Mandir, and practical tips from our local team at Mahakaal Tours.

Ram Mandir (Ram Janmabhoomi) — The Crown Jewel

No Ayodhya yatra is complete without darshan at the magnificent Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir. This Nagara-style temple, built with Bansi Paharpur sandstone, stands 161 feet tall with three floors and 392 pillars — each carved with depictions from the Ramayana. The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine Ram Lalla idol.

Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan & Nearby Temples

Just a short walk from Ram Mandir, three iconic temples form the spiritual heart of old Ayodhya. Hanuman Garhi sits atop 76 steps on a hillock — this 10th-century fort-temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is believed to be the spot where Hanuman ji stood guard over Ayodhya. It's a steep but rewarding 10-minute walk from Ram Mandir. Kanak Bhawan, the "Golden Palace," is a stunning temple gifted by Mata Kaikeyi to Sita ji after her wedding. The main shrine features gold-crowned idols of Ram-Sita, and the intricate wall paintings are breathtaking. It's a 15-minute walk from the main temple. Dashrath Mahal, the palace of King Dashrath, is another important stop just 15 minutes away. All three are free to enter and open from 6 AM to 9 PM.

Saryu Ghat & Riverside Attractions

The holy Saryu River (also called Sarayu) flows through Ayodhya and its ghats are among the city's most peaceful spots. Ram Ki Paidi is the most famous ghat — a beautifully renovated stepped embankment where the grand Deepotsav celebrations are held every year with lakhs of diyas. In the evening, the Saryu Aarti at sunset is a deeply moving experience, reminiscent of the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi but more intimate. Guptar Ghat, about 12 km from the city, is believed to be where Lord Ram took jal samadhi. The peaceful Lakshman Ghat is another sacred spot. Plan your ghat visit for late afternoon so you catch the magical golden-hour light and the evening aarti around 6:30 PM.

Lesser-Known Gems — Nageshwarnath, Treta Ke Thakur & More

Beyond the famous spots, Ayodhya rewards the curious traveller with hidden heritage. Nageshwarnath Temple, one of the oldest Shiva temples in Ayodhya, was established by Kush (son of Lord Ram) and is the only structure that survived the passage of centuries — Vikramaditya used it as a landmark to rediscover Ayodhya. It's a 20-minute walk from Ram Mandir. Treta Ke Thakur is an ancient temple marking the spot where Lord Ram performed the Ashwamedha Yagna. Chhoti Devkali Mandir and Badi Devkali Mandir, dedicated to Goddess Durga, are popular with local devotees. For a peaceful retreat, visit Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, a memorial to poet-saint Tulsidas who composed the Ramcharitmanas.

Suggested 1-Day & 2-Day Sightseeing Itineraries

For a well-planned multi-day spiritual experience, explore our Ayodhya tour packages that cover darshan, accommodation, meals, and an expert local guide — so you don't miss any of these sacred sites.

Book a Local Taxi for Hassle-Free Sightseeing

Ayodhya's temples are spread across the city and walking between all 12 sites can be exhausting, especially in summer. The smartest way to cover everything comfortably is to book an AC taxi from Mahakaal Tours. Our drivers are locals who know every shortcut, the best parking spots, and the right sequence to visit temples to avoid peak crowds.

All vehicles are clean, AC-equipped, and driven by professional, courteous drivers. Whether you're a solo yatri, a couple, or a family of eight — we have the right vehicle for your Ayodhya darshan.