The newly inaugurated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is one of India's most significant religious landmarks. Here is everything you need to know — darshan timings, free entry details, nearby temples and how to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi.
Ram Mandir Ayodhya — A Historic Pilgrimage
Inaugurated on 22 January 2024, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is the fulfilment of a centuries-old aspiration for millions of Hindus across the world. The magnificent temple houses the idol of Ramlalla (Lord Ram as a child, approximately 5 years old) in a beautifully adorned sanctum. A visit here is both a deeply emotional and spiritual experience.
Darshan Timings
- Morning Session: 7:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Afternoon Session: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Daily Aarti Schedule: Mangala Aarti (5:30 AM), Shringar Aarti (7:30 AM), Rajbhog Aarti (12:00 PM), Sandhya Aarti (7:30 PM), Shayan Aarti (10:00 PM)
Entry — Completely Free
Darshan at Ram Mandir is completely free of charge. No ticket booking is required. Simply join the queue near Saryu Ghat and proceed for darshan. During peak season and festivals, waiting time can be 2–3 hours. Early morning (7–8 AM) and afternoon (2–3 PM) slots tend to have shorter queues.
Other Important Temples in Ayodhya
- Hanuman Garhi: Located just 500 metres from Ram Mandir, this is a very important Hanuman temple. You need to climb 76 steps to reach the main shrine — the view from the top is worth it.
- Kanak Bhawan: Famous for its exquisite gold and silver idols of Sita and Ram, gifted by Queen Kaikeyi herself according to legend.
- Saryu Ghat: A beautiful ghat on the Saryu River. The evening aarti here is serene and peaceful.
- Nageshwarnath Temple: One of the oldest temples in Ayodhya, believed to have been established by Kush, son of Lord Ram.
- Ram Ki Paidi: A beautiful ghat complex on the Saryu River — especially stunning during Dev Deepawali when thousands of oil lamps are lit.
Getting to Ayodhya from Varanasi
The distance from Varanasi to Ayodhya is approximately 200 km. By road, the journey takes about 4–5 hours via NH27 through Sultanpur. Direct trains from Varanasi Junction to Ayodhya Junction take 2.5–3 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Ram Navami (March–April) and Diwali are the most festive times to visit Ayodhya. During Dev Deepawali, hundreds of thousands of lamps illuminate the banks of the Saryu River — an absolutely mesmerising sight.
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