Ayodhya, the sacred Adipuri and the first city of Lord Vishnu, is much more than just the birthplace of Lord Rama. While the grand Ram Janmabhoomi is the heart of the city, the true soul of this temple, Ayodhya, is found in its ancient lanes and diverse shrines. As spiritual seekers, exploring these hidden gems allows us to connect with the layered history and divine energy of the land.
At Tour Ayodhya, we invite you to experience this spiritual tapestry firsthand. For personalised itineraries, visit tourayodhya.in or call us at +91 9628118151.
Table of Contents
1. Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya: The Guardian of the Holy City
Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya is the most popular shrine in the city. It is a tradition for pilgrims to visit this 10th-century temple before heading to the Ram Mandir, as Lord Hanuman is believed to be the eternal protector of the city.
The Legend of the Protector
According to local lore, when Lord Rama departed for Vaikuntha, he entrusted the care of Ayodhya to Hanuman. Hanuman is said to have lived in a cave at this site to guard the Janmabhoomi. This makes the temple not just a place of worship but a sentinel of faith.
Architectural Splendour and the Citadel
Built in the shape of a massive four-sided fort, the temple features circular bastions at each corner. To reach the main shrine, devotees must climb 76 steps, a journey that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire temple town.
Sacred Darshan of Bal Hanuman
In the inner sanctum, you will find a unique six-inch-tall idol of Hanuman in his youthful (Bal) form, seated comfortably in the lap of his mother, Anjani. The walls are inscribed with verses from the Hanuman Chalisa, creating a vibrantly spiritual atmosphere.
2. Kanak Bhawan Ayodhya: The Magnificent Golden Palace
Commonly known as “Sone-ka-Ghar” or the House of Gold, Kanak Bhawan Ayodhya is a stunning architectural jewel dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.
A Divine Wedding Gift from Kaikeyi
Mythology tells us that this golden palace was a “Muh-Dikhayi” (face-showing) gift from Queen Kaikeyi to Sita immediately after her marriage to Rama. It served as the private palace for the divine couple.
Royal Bundela Architecture and Art
The present structure was built in 1891 by Queen Vrishbhanu Kunwari of Tikamgarh. It features a grand central hall with arched doorways and a design that resembles the palaces of Rajasthan and Bundelkhand. The walls are adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
The Triple Idols of Rama and Sita
A unique feature of the sanctum is the presence of three pairs of idols. The largest was installed in 1891, the medium-sized pair is attributed to King Vikramaditya, and the smallest is said to have been gifted by Lord Krishna to a meditating hermit.
3. Nageshwarnath Temple: The Ancient Abode of Lord Shiva
In a city dominated by Rama-centric devotion, the Nageshwarnath temple in Ayodhya stands as a critical anchor for Shaiva traditions.
Kush’s Tribute to the Serpent Princess
Legend says the temple was established by Kush, the younger son of Lord Rama. After losing his armlet in the Sarayu River, it was retrieved by a Nag Kanya (serpent princess) who was a devotee of Shiva. In her honour, Kush built this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as the “Lord of Snakes”.
Classic Nagara Style Architecture
Rebuilt in 1750 by Naval Rai, the temple is an excellent example of North Indian Nagara architecture. The tall, intricately carved shikhara and the stone carvings of Shiva’s cosmic dance invite deep reflection.
Shivratri Celebrations at the Riverfront
Located near Ram Ki Paidi, the temple becomes the centre of celebrations during Maha Shivratri. A grand “Shiv Barat” procession is taken out, and the air resonates with the scent of incense and chants of Om Namah Shivaya.
4. Treta Ke Thakur: The Altar of the Ashvamedha Yagna
Located near Naya Ghat, this temple commemorates a significant moment in Hindu cosmology when Lord Rama asserted his sovereignty.
Commemorating the Vedic Victory Ritual
Treta Ke Thakur is believed to mark the exact spot where Lord Rama conducted the famous Ashvamedha Yagna to celebrate his triumph over Ravana. It serves as a gateway to Ayodhya’s glorious past.
The Rare Black Sandstone Idols
The shrine houses idols of Rama, Sita, and their brothers, all carved from a single block of black sandstone known as “Kasauti”. These idols are thought to have been preserved from the original temple that once stood along the Sarayu.
Visiting on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi
While the temple is historically significant, it is unique because its gates are famously opened for public darshan only once a year on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi. During this time, the temple stays open for 24 hours of non-stop prayer and celebration.
5. Sita Ki Rasoi: Celebrating Domestic Harmony
Nestled near the north-western edge of the Ram Janmabhoomi complex, this site is a beautiful tribute to the hospitality of Goddess Sita.
The Legend of Goddess Annapurna
Though it translates to “Sita’s Kitchen,” it is actually a temple where Sita is worshipped as the Goddess of Food, or Annapurna. It signifies her role as the ideal housewife who ensured no one in the kingdom went hungry.
Symbolic Utensils and the Ancient Kitchen
The basement-level temple features a model version of an ancient kitchen, complete with a mud chulha (stove) and symbolic utensils like rolling pins and plates.
Tradition of Free Food and Hospitality
In keeping with the spirit of Goddess Annapurna, the temple continues the tradition of offering free food to the hungry and pilgrims every day. Visitors can also see idols of the four brothers and their wives in the temple premises.
6. Mani Parvat: The Mythic Hillock with Panoramic Views
Standing 65 feet above sea level, Mani Parvat is an enchanting mound that offers some of the best views of Ayodhya.
Legends of Sanjeevani and Royal Jewels
One legend claims this hill is a fragment of the Sanjeevani mountain that fell when Lord Hanuman was carrying it to heal Lakshman. Another story suggests it was formed from the massive pile of jewels gifted to Sita by King Janak.
A Confluence of Hindu and Buddhist History
Mani Parvat is also a site of great historical importance for Buddhists. It is believed that Lord Buddha preached the Law of Dharma from this hill during his six-year stay in Ayodhya. The mound also houses a stupa built by Emperor Ashoka.
Capturing the Beauty of the Temple Town
For photography enthusiasts, the summit of Mani Parvat is a paradise, offering wide-open shots of the temple-studded skyline and the nearby Sarayu River.
7. Choti Chawni: An Architectural Marvel in White Marble
Also known as Valmiki Bhawan, Choti Chawni is a breathtaking complex crafted entirely out of white marble.
The 34 Heritage Caves of Ancient Cultures
This site is famous for its 34 heritage caves, representing a fusion of cultures. There are 17 Hindu caves in the centre, 12 Buddhist caves to the south, and 5 Jain caves to the north, showcasing the multilayered heritage of ancient India.
Intricate Marble Craftsmanship and the Kailasha Temple
The architectural brilliance is highlighted by the Kailasha Temple within the caves. The intricate carvings and artistic details on the marble walls make it one of the most visually stunning locations in the city.
A Peaceful Retreat for Spiritual Seekers
Choti Chawni offers a serene and quiet environment perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and find a moment of meditative peace.
Plan Your Spiritual Odyssey with Tour Ayodhya
Ayodhya is a city where every corner whispers tales of ancient traditions. Whether you are looking for the protective blessings of Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya or the royal grandeur of Kanak Bhawan Ayodhya, we are here to guide you.
Experience the soul of Ayodhya with Tour Ayodhya. 🌐 Website: tourayodhya.in 📞 Contact Us: +91 9628118151
