Places to Visit near Ayodhya – A Complete Travel Guide

Ayodhya is one of India’s most sacred cities, but its charm extends beyond its borders. This guide highlights the most popular places to visit near Ayodhya, their significance, and what makes them worth including in your itinerary. Within a few hours’ drive, travelers can explore historical towns, spiritual centers, and natural retreats. 

1. Faizabad (7 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: Once the capital of Awadh, Faizabad is rich in Nawabi heritage.
• Key Attractions: Gulab Bari (rose garden and tomb of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula), Bahu Begum ka Maqbara, and military cantonment sites.
• Experience: A blend of Mughal architecture and Nawabi culture, perfect for history lovers.

2. Lucknow (135 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: The capital of Uttar Pradesh, known for its Nawabi culture and cuisine.
• Key Attractions: Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, Hazratganj market.
• Experience: Famous for kebabs, chikankari embroidery, and Mughal-era monuments.

3. Varanasi (200 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: One of the oldest living cities in the world, sacred to Hindus.
• Key Attractions: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sarnath (Buddhist site).
• Experience: Evening Ganga Aarti is a mesmerizing spiritual experience.

4. Prayagraj (165 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: Known for the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
• Key Attractions: Sangam, Allahabad Fort, Anand Bhavan, Khusro Bagh.
• Experience: Hosts the world-famous Kumbh Mela every 12 years.

5. Gorakhpur (125 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: A gateway to Nepal and Buddhist circuits.
• Key Attractions: Gorakhnath Temple, Geeta Press, Ramgarh Tal Lake.
• Experience: A mix of spirituality and cultural heritage.

6. Chitrakoot (190 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: Associated with Lord Rama’s exile.
• Key Attractions: Ramghat, Kamadgiri, Bharat Milap Temple.
• Experience: A serene pilgrimage town with mythological importance.

7. Shravasti (130 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: A major Buddhist site where Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons.
• Key Attractions: Jetavana Monastery, Anathapindika Stupa, Angulimala Stupa.
• Experience: A peaceful destination for Buddhist pilgrims.

8. Kapilvastu (Nepal, ~200 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: Birthplace of Prince Siddhartha (later Gautama Buddha).
• Key Attractions: Tilaurakot Palace ruins, monasteries, and stupas.
• Experience: A must-visit for those exploring Buddhist heritage.

9. Jaunpur (190 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: Known for Sharqi dynasty architecture.
• Key Attractions: Atala Masjid, Shahi Bridge, Jama Masjid.
• Experience: A historical town with Indo-Islamic architecture.

10. Dudhwa National Park (250 km from Ayodhya)

• Significance: A wildlife sanctuary in the Terai region.
• Key Attractions: Tigers, elephants, swamp deer, and migratory birds.
• Experience: Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Suggested 7-Day Itinerary Covering Places near Ayodhya

Day 1: Explore Ayodhya (Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan). Day 2: Visit Faizabad for Nawabi heritage. Day 3: Head to Lucknow for monuments and cuisine. Day 4: Travel to Prayagraj, visit Sangam and Anand Bhavan. Day 5: Explore Varanasi, attend evening Ganga Aarti. Day 6: Visit Gorakhpur and Shravasti for spiritual experiences. Day 7: Optional trip to Chitrakoot or Kapilvastu.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
• Transport: Ayodhya is well-connected by road and rail; nearby cities are accessible within 3–5 hours.
• Accommodation: Hotels and dharamshalas available in Ayodhya; luxury stays in Lucknow and Varanasi.
• Festivals: Plan trips around Deepotsav in Ayodhya, Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, and Ganga Aarti in Varanasi.

Conclusion

Ayodhya is the spiritual heart of India, but its surroundings offer equally enriching experiences. Exploring places to visit near Ayodhya such as Faizabad, Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, and Shravasti allows travelers to combine devotion with culture, history, and nature. Whether you are a pilgrim, historian, or casual traveler, these destinations promise a journey filled with heritage, spirituality, and unforgettable memories.