šļø Akash's Rider Trail: Lucknow to Ayodhya on My Bike
Riding from Lucknow to Ayodhya (135 km) on my bike via the smooth four-lane Lucknow-Gorakhpur National Highway (NH27) takes under 2.5 hours. The ride takes you past lush Uttar Pradesh sugarcane fields into the holy city. Rider Pro Tip: Park your bike safely at the designated multistorey parking near Naya Ghat and use the electric shuttle autorickshaws to navigate the temple corridors comfortably!
Complete Travel Guide to Ayodhya
Revered globally as the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is one of the seven sacred Mokshadaayini Saptapuri cities in India. Perched gracefully on the banks of the holy Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya has undergone a breathtaking spiritual and infrastructure transformation. If you are exploring the spiritual heartland of Northern India, combine Ayodhya with holy ghats in Varanasi, royal nawabi heritage in Lucknow, sacred Sangam waters in Prayagraj, Krishna pilgrimage trails in Mathura and Vrindavan, and Mughal architecture in Agra.
During my motorcycle journey across Uttar Pradesh on my bike, Ayodhya resonated deep within my soul. The evening Sarayu River Aarti, illuminated Ram Path corridors, and the grand Nagara-style architecture of the new Ram Mandir create an uplifting atmosphere that every traveler should experience. Official tourism guidelines are available on the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Official Portal.
Top 10+ Places to Visit in Ayodhya
1. Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir
The grand Ram Mandir is a masterpiece of traditional Indian Nagara architecture built entirely out of pink Bansi Paharpur sandstone without using iron or steel. Housing the idol of Ram Lalla (five-year-old infant Rama), the 161-foot tall temple complex features 392 intricately carved pillars and 44 teakwood doors.
Akash's Insider Tip: Mobile phones and electronic items are strictly prohibited inside the main temple complex. Store your belongings at the free locker counter near the entry plaza before joining the queue.
2. Hanuman Garhi Temple
According to local tradition, one must pay homage at Hanuman Garhi before visiting the Ram Mandir. Situated atop a 76-step hillock in the heart of Ayodhya, this 10th-century fortress-like temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is believed to guard the city of Ayodhya.
3. Kanak Bhawan ("Golden Palace")
Constructed in 1891 by Maharani Vrishbhanu Kuwari of Tikamgarh, Kanak Bhawan is a magnificent palace temple gifted to Goddess Sita by Kaikeyi upon her marriage to Lord Rama. The central sanctum houses idols adorned with glittering gold crowns and exquisite silver ornaments.
4. Nageshwarnath Temple
Believed to have been established by Lord Rama's son Kusha, Nageshwarnath Temple is one of the oldest Shiva shrines in Ayodhya situated near Ram Ki Paidi. It attracts tens of thousands of devotees during Mahashivratri and Shravan month.
5. Sarayu River & Naya Ghat Evening Aarti
The holy Sarayu River is integral to Ayodhya's identity. Take a morning dip at Naya Ghat or hire a traditional wooden rowboat for a peaceful river cruise. At sunset, the ghats light up with thousands of brass diyas during the solemn Sarayu Maha Aarti.
6. Ram Ki Paidi Waterfront
Ram Ki Paidi is a series of beautifully landscaped steps along the Sarayu riverfront. Illuminated by vibrant LED light shows and musical fountains every evening, it's a popular spot for evening strolls and photography.
7. Dashrath Mahal & Tulsi Smarak Bhawan
Located near Hanuman Garhi, Dashrath Mahal is the legendary royal seat of King Dashratha, father of Lord Rama. Nearby, Tulsi Smarak Bhawan commemorates Saint Tulsidas, author of Ramcharitmanas, featuring a cultural museum and daily Ramleela performances.
8. Old Ayodhya Markets & Authentic Sweets
Treat your tastebuds to Ayodhya's iconic street food: hot Keshariya Doodh in clay kulhads, crispy Rabri Jalebi, freshly made Ayodhya Peda, and Hanuman Garhi Besan Laddu.
Best Time to Visit & Practical Travel Tips
- Best Season: October to March offers pleasant 12Ā°Cā25Ā°C winter weather ideal for temple visits and ghat walks.
- Diwali & Deepotsav: Visiting during Diwali allows you to witness the world-record Deepotsav when over 22 lakh oil lamps light up Ram Ki Paidi.
- Dress Code & Footwear: Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Wear easy slip-on shoes as footwear must be removed at temple entrances.
- Rider Tip: Riding on two wheels from Ayodhya to Varanasi or Prayagraj along the UP heritage highway belt is an enriching experience.
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