Ayodhya, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and religious significance, is surrounded by several fascinating destinations that attract tourists from all over the country. If you’re planning a trip to Ayodhya, exploring the nearby attractions can make your journey even more memorable. Let’s discover some of the best Places to Visit near Ayodhya that offer a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
1. Faizabad
Located just 7 km from Ayodhya, Faizabad is known for its historical monuments and ancient architecture. It was once the capital of the Nawabs of Awadh. The major attractions in Faizabad include Gulab Bari, Bahu Begum Ka Maqbara, and the Fort of Faizabad.
2. Allahabad (Prayagraj)
About 170 km from Ayodhya, Allahabad is famous for the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers at Triveni Sangam. It is also known for the Kumbh Mela, held once every 12 years. Key attractions here are Anand Bhavan, Allahabad Fort, and Khusro Bagh.
3. Varanasi
Varanasi, around 200 km from Ayodhya, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Known for its sacred ghats along the Ganges River, it is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Sarnath are must-visit places here.
4. Gorakhpur
Located 130 km from Ayodhya, Gorakhpur is known for the famous Gorakhnath Temple and the beautiful Ramgarh Tal Lake. The city is also home to the Gita Press, which is renowned for publishing Hindu religious texts.
5. Lucknow
The capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, is about 135 km from Ayodhya. It is famous for its Mughal and Awadhi architecture, delicious cuisine, and cultural heritage. Popular spots include Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and Hazratganj Market.
6. Chitrakoot
Situated around 260 km from Ayodhya, Chitrakoot is a significant religious destination. It is believed that Lord Rama spent part of his exile here. Key attractions are Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri Hill, and Bharat Milap Temple.
7. Naimisharanya
Naimisharanya, located about 150 km from Ayodhya, is an ancient pilgrimage site known for its spiritual significance. It is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu’s chakra fell. The main sites include Chakra Tirtha and Hanuman Garhi.
Best Time to Visit These Places
The ideal time to visit these places near Ayodhya is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.
Conclusion
Exploring these amazing destinations near Ayodhya will enrich your travel experience with history, culture, and spirituality. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a nature lover, these places offer something for everyone.
For more information on the cultural heritage of Ayodhya, you can visit Ayodhya on Wikipedia.
