Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day circuit, these places to visit near Ayodhya promise a journey that’s both soulful and scenic. Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a spiritual epicenter that draws millions of pilgrims and cultural travelers each year. But the magic doesn’t end at Ram Janmabhoomi. The surrounding region is dotted with destinations that deepen the Ramayana experience, offer historical insights, and provide serene escapes into nature and devotion.
🛕 Faizabad (7 km)
Once the capital of Awadh, Faizabad is Ayodhya’s twin city and a treasure trove of Nawabi heritage.
- Gulab Bari: The rose garden and tomb of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, featuring Mughal architecture and fountains.
- Mausoleum of Bahu Begum: A striking Indo-Islamic structure with intricate carvings.
- Faizabad Museum: Showcases Awadh’s cultural legacy, coins, manuscripts, and artifacts.
Faizabad offers a refreshing contrast to Ayodhya’s temple circuit, ideal for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
🕉️ Prayagraj (170 km)
A sacred confluence of rivers and faith, Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) is a must-visit for spiritual seekers.
- Triveni Sangam: The meeting point of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers.
- Kumbh Mela Grounds: Host to the world’s largest religious gathering every 12 years.
- Anand Bhavan: The ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family, now a museum.
- Allahabad Fort: Built by Akbar, featuring the Akshayavat tree and Patalpuri Temple.
Prayagraj is perfect for a day trip or overnight stay, especially for those interested in rituals, history, and riverfront serenity.
🏞️ Chitrakoot (135 km)
A forested retreat steeped in Ramayana lore, Chitrakoot is where Lord Rama spent 11 years of his exile.
- Ramghat: A sacred riverbank on the Mandakini River, ideal for evening aarti and boat rides.
- Gupt Godavari: A pair of caves believed to be Rama and Lakshmana’s secret meeting place.
- Kamadgiri Hill: A forested hill considered the heart of Chitrakoot, circled by pilgrims.
- Hanuman Dhara: A spring-fed shrine atop a hill, offering panoramic views and spiritual calm.
Chitrakoot is a tranquil extension to Ayodhya, ideal for nature lovers and devotees.
🛕 Varanasi (200 km)
India’s spiritual capital, Varanasi, is a timeless city of temples, ghats, and mysticism.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for its evening Ganga Aarti.
- Sarnath: A Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha gave his first sermon.
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU): A cultural and academic landmark.
Varanasi pairs beautifully with Ayodhya for a multi-faith, multi-sensory experience.
🏰 Lucknow (135 km)
The capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow offers a blend of Nawabi elegance, colonial charm, and culinary delight.
- Bara Imambara: A grand Mughal-era complex with a labyrinth and mosque.
- Rumi Darwaza: An iconic gateway symbolizing Awadhi architecture.
- Hazratganj Market: Ideal for shopping chikankari garments and local crafts.
- Residency Ruins: A British-era site from the 1857 revolt.
Lucknow is perfect for those seeking culture, cuisine, and history beyond Ayodhya.
🏞️ Shringverpur (45 km)
Located on the banks of the Ganga, Shringverpur is where Lord Rama crossed the river during his exile.
- Shringverpur Ghat: A peaceful riverside ideal for reflection and rituals.
- Excavated Ruins: Archaeological remains of ancient settlements and temples.
- Local Legends: Associated with Nishadraj, the boatman who ferried Rama across the Ganga.
Shringverpur is a quiet, offbeat destination for Ramayana enthusiasts and nature lovers.
🛕 Sitamarhi (45 km)
Not to be confused with the Sitamarhi in Bihar, this Sitamarhi in Uttar Pradesh is believed to be the site where Sita entered the earth.
- Sita Kund: A sacred pond linked to Sita’s final departure.
- Temple Complex: Dedicated to Goddess Sita, surrounded by peaceful gardens.
Sitamarhi adds emotional depth to the Ayodhya circuit, especially for devotees of Sita.
🏞️ Deva Sharif (120 km)
Located near Barabanki, Deva Sharif is a symbol of communal harmony and Sufi spirituality.
- Shrine of Haji Waris Ali Shah: A revered Sufi saint whose teachings emphasized unity and love.
- Annual Urs Festival: Draws devotees from all faiths for music, prayer, and celebration.
Deva Sharif is a soulful detour for those seeking interfaith experiences near Ayodhya.
🧭 Suggested Multi-Day Circuit Itinerary
5-Day Ramayana Trail
- Day 1: Ayodhya – Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan
- Day 2: Faizabad – Gulab Bari, Mausoleum of Bahu Begum
- Day 3: Chitrakoot – Ramghat, Gupt Godavari, Kamadgiri
- Day 4: Prayagraj – Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort
- Day 5: Sitamarhi and Shringverpur – Sita Kund, Ganga Ghat
This itinerary offers a deep dive into the Ramayana’s geography and spiritual essence.
💡 Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and festival season.
- Transport: Ayodhya is well-connected by road and rail; taxis and buses available for nearby destinations.
- Stay Options: Budget to luxury hotels available in Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Varanasi.
- Local Etiquette: Dress modestly, respect temple customs, and engage with local guides for deeper insights.
Ayodhya is not just a destination—it’s the beginning of a sacred journey. The places to visit near Ayodhya offer a spiritual and cultural circuit that brings the Ramayana to life, connects diverse traditions, and invites travelers to explore India’s soul beyond the obvious.
