Top 5 Sacred Temples to Visit in Ayodhya: A Magh Mela Pilgrim’s Complete Guide

Namaste 🙏 to our brothers and sisters residing in the USA, UK, and across the globe.
Your journey to Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj is a powerful step toward spiritual renewal. Yet, no pilgrimage to North India is complete without visiting Ayodhya — the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama, where every corner echoes with the chant “Jai Shri Ram.”

Just a few hours from Prayagraj lies Ayodhya, a city that has transformed into a world-class spiritual destination, while still preserving its ancient soul. For NRIs and international pilgrims, deciding which temples to prioritize among hundreds of sacred sites can be overwhelming.

To help you experience Ayodhya with clarity and devotion, we present this curated guide to the Top 5 Temples to Visit in Ayodhya, especially suited for Magh Mela pilgrims.

The 5 Must-Visit Temples in Ayodhya for Every Pilgrim

1. Hanuman Garhi

Tradition in Ayodhya begins here. Before seeking darshan of Lord Rama, devotees first visit Hanuman Garhi to seek blessings from Lord Hanuman, the greatest devotee and guardian of Rama.

Why This Temple Comes First

This 10th-century fort-like temple sits atop a hillock. A climb of about 76 steps leads to the sanctum, where a rare idol of young Hanuman seated on his mother Anjani’s lap is worshipped.

Why Pilgrims Visit

• To seek permission before Ram Mandir darshan

• For strength, protection, and removal of obstacles

Timings:

• 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM

• 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

2. Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir (Ram Mandir)

The spiritual heart of Ayodhya, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir is built at the exact birthplace of Lord Rama and is the most important shrine in the city.

Why This Temple Is Supreme

Witnessing Ram Lalla in the grand sanctum is the primary purpose of visiting Ayodhya. The temple’s magnificent architecture and deeply devotional atmosphere make this darshan unforgettable.

Important Notes for Pilgrims

• Entry is free

• Carry a valid ID proof

• Expect security checks due to high footfall

Timings:

• Approx. 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM (General Darshan)

3. Dashrath Mahal (Bada Asthan)

Located close to Ram Mandir, Dashrath Mahal is believed to be the royal residence of King Dashrath, father of Lord Rama.

Spiritual Atmosphere

The temple resonates with continuous bhajans and kirtans, creating a joyous devotional environment.

Why Pilgrims Visit

• To experience the royal heritage of the Treta Yuga

• To witness idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna

Timings:

• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

4. Kanak Bhawan

Known as the “Golden Palace”, Kanak Bhawan is one of the most visually stunning temples in Ayodhya.

Sacred Legend

It is believed that this palace was gifted to Devi Sita by Queen Kaikeyi after her marriage to Lord Rama.

Why Pilgrims Visit

• Beautiful crowned idols of Rama and Sita adorned with gold ornaments

• A serene and loving devotional atmosphere

Timings:

• 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

• 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

5. Nageshwarnath Temple

Situated near Ram Ki Paidi, Nageshwarnath Temple is a prominent Shiva temple believed to have been established by Kush, the son of Lord Rama.

Why This Temple Completes the Circuit

It beautifully connects Rama bhakti with Shiva worship, symbolizing spiritual unity.

Why Pilgrims Visit

• One of the oldest temples in Ayodhya

• Especially vibrant during Mahashivratri

Timings:

• 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  (Aarti approx. 5:30 AM & 7:30 PM)

🧭 Suggested Visiting Circuit (Easy & Traditional Route)

To respect tradition and avoid unnecessary backtracking, follow this route:

Hanuman Garhi → Ram Janmabhoomi → Dashrath Mahal → Kanak Bhawan → Nageshwarnath Temple

⏱️ Plan around 4–6 hours to complete this circuit comfortably, including security checks and prayer time.

📋 Quick Reference Guide for Pilgrims

Note: Timings may vary on festivals.

Complete the Sacred Triangle: Prayagraj – Varanasi – Ayodhya

Magh Mela 2026 is the perfect opportunity to complete the Sacred Triangle of North India:

• Prayagraj: Sangam Snan

• Varanasi: Kashi Vishwanath & Ganga Aarti

• Ayodhya: Ram Janmabhoomi & ancient temples

At maghmela.com, we specialize in on-ground Magh Mela 2026 Tour Packages, offering:

• Luxury AC transport between cities

• Premium accommodation

• English-speaking guides

• Assisted temple darshan

So you can focus fully on devotion, not logistics.

🙏 Final Thought

Ayodhya is not just a destination — it is a living Ramayana. Walking its sacred lanes is a journey through faith, devotion, and timeless dharma.

May your pilgrimage to Ayodhya fill your heart with peace and Ram Bhakti.

🕉️✨
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