The Ayodhya tour package allows you to get acquainted with the centuries-old history and traditions of this area. If solitude and enlightenment are what you seek, then you should book our Ayodhya tour package now. With this package, we will take you on a magical exploration of the famous travel destinations of this region. You'll also get to learn about the fascinating history of this city with our package.
Ayodhya is perched on the banks of the Sarayu River, and it has been the Koshala kingdom's capital. It is also known as Ram Janmabhoomi and is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. The city is also believed to be the centre stage of events in the Ramayana. It is further recognised as the place where four Tirthankaras were born. A major tourist attraction is the Ram Janmabhoomi, where Lord Rama was said to have been born. It is a magnificent architectural temple located next to the Sarayu River. Besides temples, Ayodhya houses the Gulab Bari, the tomb of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, and the Rose Garden.
With Ayodhya holiday packages, you will visit famous religious and sacred sites with rich history and culture. A few notable sites that you will visit in Ayodhya include Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi Temple, Nageshwarnath Temple, Sita Ki Rasoi, Dashrath Bhawan, etc.
Moreover, the Ayodhya pilgrimage tour allows visitors to immerse themselves in the native culture and traditions. You can savour traditional food, participate in colourful festivals, and buy handicrafts and souvenirs. Book the package now to know what this city has to offer you.
Popular Ayodhya Tour Packages
Ram Mandir Darshan 2026 — Timings, Sugam Darshan & Booking
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir was inaugurated on 22 January 2024 and now stands as one of India's most significant pilgrimage destinations. Built in Nagara style using pink sandstone from Bansi Paharpur, Rajasthan, the temple complex spans 70 acres and includes the main sanctum, multiple smaller shrines, a museum, library, Yatri facilitation centre, and gardens. The main idol is Ram Lalla — the infant form of Lord Ram — enshrined in the Garbhagriha. In June 2025, the Ram Darbar — the complete divine family of Lord Ram including Sita Mata, Laxman ji, and Lord Hanuman — was consecrated and installed on the first floor of the temple, with devotees welcomed from 6 June 2025 onwards. The Ram Darbar is now open for Darshan daily alongside the main Ram Lalla sanctum.
Ram Mandir Darshan Timings 2026
| Session | Timing | Note |
|---|
| Mangala Aarti (limited access) | 7:00 AM | 7:00 AM onwards (break 12–2 PM) |
| Shringar Aarti | Early morning (varies) | Most auspicious — Sugam/Aarti pass required |
| Madhyahna Aarti | Midday | Aarti pass required to attend |
| Sandhya Aarti | Evening (varies by season) | Popular for Darshan — arrive 45 min early |
| Shayan Aarti | Night | Last aarti of the day — pass required |
| Temple Closes | ~7:00–8:00 PM (varies seasonally; temple closes 12–2 PM for Bhog) | Last entry 30 min before closing; verify current schedule at Ram Mandir |
General Darshan is free of charge. Avoid 11 AM–2 PM for outdoor queuing — queues are longest and heat is strongest during this window.
Sugam Darshan (Free Online Pass) 2026
Sugam Darshan is the official free pre-booking system for Ram Mandir. It does not skip the queue entirely but provides an organised time slot and smoother crowd management — particularly helpful during Ram Navami, Diwali, Kartik Purnima, and long weekends when regular queues can run 2–4 hours.
Book at: Official Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust portal. Sugam Darshan is free — no payment required.
Booking window: Generally opens in advance — typically 15–30 days before your visit, subject to Trust guidelines and availability. Children below 10 years do not need a separate pass.
Arrive early: Reach the temple 30–45 minutes before your slot for security checks and QR verification. Carry original ID proof.
Photography: Mobile phones are generally permitted on temple premises. Photography inside the Garbhagriha (sanctum) is prohibited. Security and device policies are reviewed periodically — verify current rules at the entry gate before your visit.
Note on "VIP Darshan": As of 2026, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust does NOT offer any official paid VIP Darshan. Some travel agencies use the term "VIP Darshan" to describe their assisted queue management services — these are private arrangements, not official temple offerings. The only official booking is the free Sugam Darshan pass. Be cautious of any website or agent charging fees for "VIP Ram Mandir Darshan."
Best Time to Visit Ayodhya
The best time to visit Ayodhya is between October and March, when the weather is pleasantly cool and ideal for exploring. During these months, temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 10°C to 30°C, perfect for sightseeing and participating in local festivals. Avoiding the intense summer heat and monsoon rains ensures a more enjoyable experience. The cultural and religious vibrancy of Ayodhya is most accessible during this period, offering a deeper connection to its rich heritage.
Key festivals and dates for Ayodhya in 2026:
- Ram Navami (April 2026): The most important festival at Ram Mandir. Celebrated on Chaitra Shukla Navami — Lord Ram's birthday. Massive footfall; book accommodation 2–3 months in advance.
- Diwali (October 2026): Ayodhya's Diwali is unique — the Sarayu Ghats are lit with lakhs of Diyas. The city celebrates the return of Lord Ram from Lanka. Book 3–4 months in advance.
- Kartik Purnima (November 2026): A major bathing festival on the Sarayu River. Thousands take a holy dip at Ram Ki Paidi on this day.
- Vivah Panchami (November/December 2026): Celebrates the marriage of Lord Ram and Sita Mata. Kanak Bhawan temple is the central site for this festival.
How to Reach Ayodhya
Ayodhya, a city in Uttar Pradesh, India, is known for its historical and religious significance. Here's how you can reach Ayodhya:
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Maharshi Valmiki International Airport, approximately 10 km from Ram Mandir, Ayodhya.
- From the Airport to Ayodhya: You can take a taxi or other local transportation options to reach Ayodhya from the airport.
By Train
- Ayodhya Railway Station: The city has its own railway station with good connectivity to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi.
- Popular Trains: Trains such as the Ayodhya Express, Avadh Express, and Humsafar Express connect Ayodhya to Delhi and other major cities across India.
By Road
- From Nearby Cities: Ayodhya is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby cities like Lucknow (134 km), Varanasi (200 km), or Kanpur (150 km).
- Road Networks: National Highway 27 (NH27) and other state highways connect Ayodhya to major cities and towns.
By Bus
- State Transport Buses: Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and other private operators provide bus services to Ayodhya from various cities.
- Types of Buses: Options range from ordinary to luxury buses.
Local Transport
- Auto Rickshaws and Taxis: Once you're in Ayodhya, local transport options like auto rickshaws and taxis are available for getting around the city.
Things to Do in Ayodhya
Ayodhya, steeped in history and spirituality, offers a range of activities and places to visit. Here are some things you can do in this ancient city:
- Visit the Ram Mandir: The newly constructed Ram Mandir, dedicated to Lord Ram, is a major attraction. Inaugurated on 22 January 2024, it is a significant pilgrimage site and a marvel of contemporary Nagara-style architecture built with Rajasthani pink sandstone. In June 2025, the Ram Darbar — depicting the full divine family of Lord Ram — was also installed on the first floor and opened to devotees.
- Explore Hanuman Garhi: A prominent temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is perched on a hill and offers panoramic views of the city.
- Discover the Kanak Bhawan: This temple is known for its beautiful architecture and its association with the divine couple, Lord Ram and Sita.
- Visit the Saryu River: Take a stroll along the ghats of the Saryu River. The river holds great significance in Hindu mythology, and you can enjoy serene moments and local rituals here. Evening aarti at Ram Ki Paidi ghat is a highlight.
- Explore the Treta Ke Thakur Temple: An ancient temple that is believed to be the place where Lord Ram performed his Ashwamedha Yagna.
- Visit the Tulsi Smarak Bhavan: This memorial is dedicated to the great poet-saint Tulsidas, who wrote the epic Ramcharitmanas. The complex includes a museum and exhibits about his life and works.
- Discover the Ramkot Fort: Ramkot is the old fortified area of Ayodhya that is traditionally associated with Lord Ram's kingdom in Hindu belief. It houses the Ram Janmabhoomi complex and several important temples. The area is an important religious zone in the city.
- Wander Around the Ayodhya Museum: Learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Ayodhya through various artifacts and exhibits.
- Visit the Nageshwarnath Temple: An important temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a legend connecting it to the epic Ramayana.
- Explore the Dashrath Mahal: Dashrath Mahal — also known as Dashrath Bhawan or Badi Jagah — is a palace-temple complex in the Ramkot area, traditionally believed to stand on the site of King Dashrath's royal residence. Today it is an active and vibrant temple housing idols of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, and Shatrughna. Saffron-clad monks chant bhajans continuously inside. Entry is free. Open 8:00 AM–12:00 PM and 4:00 PM–9:00 PM daily. Located about 100 metres from Hanuman Garhi.
- Take a Boat Ride on the Saryu River: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Saryu River, especially during sunrise or sunset, to experience the tranquility of the river and the beauty of the surroundings.
- Attend Local Festivals and Rituals: Participate in local festivals like Ram Navami, Diwali, and other religious celebrations to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Ayodhya.
Travel Tips for Ayodhya
- Plan Ahead: Prioritise key sites and allow time for reflection.
- Book Transportation: Confirm flights, trains, or buses; arrange local transport.
- Reserve Accommodation: Book hotels or guesthouses in advance — especially during Ram Navami, Diwali, and long weekends.
- Check Weather: Pack appropriate clothing for the season. Winters (Dec–Feb) can be cold at night.
- Dress Modestly: Wear modest attire, especially in temples. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops inside temple complexes.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and eat at reputable places.
- Carry Cash: Have some cash on hand — ATMs are available but smaller vendors near ghats may not accept cards.
- Respect Customs: Follow temple rules and local practices.
- Ram Mandir Sugam Darshan: Book your free Sugam Darshan pass online before arriving — same-day availability is limited during peak season.
- Photography inside Ram Mandir sanctum is prohibited. Mobile phones are allowed on the premises — deposit nothing; simply do not photograph inside the garbhagriha.
- Footwear: Free locker facility is available outside Ram Mandir premises. Wear slip-on shoes for ease.
- Arrive 45–60 minutes early for Ram Mandir to complete security checks. Queues are lightest between 7–10 AM and after 6 PM.
- Ram Ki Paidi Ghat: Attend the evening aarti here — it is a moving ritual on the Sarayu riverbank. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for a good spot.
- Sarayu boat ride: Available early morning (5–7 AM) and evening — the pre-dawn light on the river is particularly peaceful.
Popular India Pilgrimage Tour Packages
| Package Type | Days | Price |
|---|
| Varanasi Temple Tour Package | 3 Days / 2 Nights | ₹8,000 per person |
| Varanasi Sightseeing Tour | 1 Day | ₹6,900 per person |
| Chardham Yatra from Delhi | 12 Days / 11 Nights | ₹43,900 per person |
| Chardham Yatra by Helicopter | 5 Days / 4 Nights | ₹2,25,000 per person |
Ayodhya Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1 (Morning): Arrive Ayodhya, check-in hotel. Attend Ram Ki Paidi Ghat — Sarayu River for holy dip at sunrise. Day 1 (Forenoon): Ram Mandir Darshan (arrive before 10 AM). Walk to Hanuman Garhi (100 metres from Ram Mandir area). Day 1 (Afternoon): Kanak Bhawan (300 metres from Dashrath Mahal). Dashrath Mahal (open 4 PM–9 PM). Day 1 (Evening): Sarayu Ghat Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi — arrive 30 min before sunset. Day 2 (Morning): Nageshwarnath Temple, Treta Ke Thakur Temple. Day 2 (Afternoon): Tulsi Smarak Bhavan, Ayodhya Museum. Day 2 (Evening): Depart Ayodhya.
Practical Guide — Ram Mandir Visit
Lockers and footwear: Free locker facility available outside the main complex. Wear slip-on footwear for easy removal at security. Queues: Lightest between 7–10 AM and after 6 PM. Longest queues on Sundays, Ram Navami, and Diwali. Senior citizens and accessibility: Battery-operated carts are available inside the complex for elderly and differently-abled visitors. Wheelchair access is available at the main entrance. Food: The temple premises are strictly vegetarian. Several pure-veg restaurants and prasad counters are within walking distance on Ram Path. Parking: Designated parking zones are available off Ram Path. During peak seasons, use the designated bus service from Nayaghat parking.
Prices are indicative and may vary based on travel dates, hotel category, group size and availability. Contact us for current pricing.
