Ayodhya, the most sacred city in India, is a city steeped in mythology, history, and spirituality. Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a holy place for Hindus and a city imbued with an aura of divinity, culture, and heritage. Apart from its religious importance, Ayodhya has been a hub of political, social, and cultural development for centuries, influencing the ethos of Indian civilization.
This blog traverses the interesting history of Ayodhya, its connection to Lord Rama, important temples, historical locations, local foods, and how it is an absolute place for tourists and people interested in history to visit.
Ayodhya in History: Ancient to Present Times
Ancient Period: The Land of Lord Rama
Ayodhya appears for the first time in the Ramayana, which is one of Hinduism’s grandest epics. The city was the capital of the Ikshvaku dynasty established by King Ikshvaku, the ancestor of Lord Rama, and Ayodhya was said to be a thriving, great city.
Lord Rama and the Ramayana Link
Lord Rama, Lord Vishnu’s seventh incarnation, was born to King Dasharatha and Queen Kaushalya in Ayodhya.
His life and experience, as told in the Ramayana, have established Ayodhya as a center of spirituality and pilgrimage for millions of followers.
The city is of great significance to Hindus as the holy soil on which Dharma (righteousness) defeated Adharma (evil).
Medieval Period: Ayodhya’s Cultural and Religious Evolution
In the medieval period, Ayodhya remained a hub of spiritual education and Vaishnavism. Ayodhya witnessed the building of numerous temples and mathas (monastic institutions) for Lord Vishnu.
But in the Mughal period, Ayodhya witnessed several changes with new styles of architecture emerging. It was still a major pilgrimage center irrespective of the changing political scenario.
The Ram Mandir Controversy and Construction
The history of the Ram Janmabhoomi complex has been a cause of fierce debate and dispute for centuries. Historically and in terms of religious faith, it is said that there was a great temple of Lord Rama at his birthplace in Ayodhya but was destroyed by Mughal emperor Babur in the 16th century. Instead, Babri Masjid was built there.
The Ram Janmabhoomi Movement & Karsevaks
The campaign to take over the site increased strength in the 19th and 20th centuries.
An idol of Lord Rama was installed within the Babri Masjid in 1949, which created legal controversies.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and BJP were strong protagonists of building a temple on the site.
On December 6, 1992, a huge mob of karsevaks (Hindu volunteers) brought down the Babri Masjid, which caused riots across the country and litigations.
The Supreme Court Judgment & Ram Mandir Building
Following decades of court conflicts, the Supreme Court of India gave its judgment on November 9, 2019, awarding land for the building of Ram Mandir while allotting land elsewhere for a mosque.
The Ram Mandir construction started in 2020, with its grand opening on January 22, 2024.
The temple is an architectural wonder constructed in Nagara style, representing Hindu religion and perseverance.
Ram Mandir: Construction, Design & Architecture
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir is a marvel of architecture, constructed using traditional methods of Hindu temple building without any iron or steel. It is among the largest and most spectacular temples for Lord Rama.
Construction Timeline
Foundation Stone Laying: August 5, 2020, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Construction Completion: The first phase was finished by January 2024, with subsequent development in the works.
Temple Design & Structure
Architectural Style: The temple is based on the Nagara style, which is a classical North Indian temple architecture.
Total Height: The temple is 161 feet (49 meters) high.
Number of Floors: The temple is a three-story building with intricately carved pillars and domes.
Pillars & Domes: The temple contains 392 intricately carved pillars and five mandapas (halls).
Total Area: The temple complex is 2.7 acres in area, while the whole temple premises are 70 acres.
Material Utilized: Constructed with Rajasthan’s pink sandstone, the structure is ensured to be long-lasting and aesthetic.
Idol of Lord Rama: Inside the sanctum, there lies a 5-foot idol of child Lord Rama (Ram Lalla).
Most Important Aspects of the Temple
Elaborate Carvings: The walls show the Ramayana scenes of Lord Rama’s life.
Colossal Courtyard: A large courtyard has been provided within the temple where the devotees can assemble and perform rituals.
Yagyashala & Meditation Halls: Special halls for religious rituals and meditation.
Surrounding Gardens & Water Bodies: Well-planned landscaped areas add to the spiritual essence.
Digital & Security Systems: State-of-the-art security and digital queue management for a hassle-free pilgrimage.
Top Places to Visit in Ayodhya for Tourists
- Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple – The Divine Abode
The most sacred place in Ayodhya, this temple is the birthplace of Lord Rama. The newly constructed Ram Mandir is a marvel of architecture, showing fine carvings and divine magnificence.
- Hanuman Garhi – The Fortress Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees seeking his blessings prior to visiting Ram Janmabhoomi. It has panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location.
- Kanak Bhawan – Lord Rama & Sita’s Palace
This holy shrine is said to be the palace presented to Mata Sita by Kaikeyi upon her marriage to Lord Rama. It contains beautifully decorated idols of Rama and Sita.
- Treta Ke Thakur Temple – Ruins of Lord Rama’s Kingdom
This historic temple is said to be the location where Lord Rama conducted the Ashwamedha Yajna upon his return to Ayodhya.
- Nageshwarnath Temple – The Shiva Connection
According to legend, this temple was founded by Kush, the son of Lord Rama, and is among Ayodhya’s most sacred Shiva temples.
Why Visit Ayodhya?
Ayodhya is not just a religious city; it is a spiritual and historical treasure trove. Whether you’re a devotee of Lord Rama, a history enthusiast, or a traveler seeking peace and heritage, Ayodhya offers a journey like no other.
Plan your visit to this divine city and experience the timeless legacy of Lord Rama in the heart of India!
