Ram Mandir Darshan
Darshan Timings
- 5:30 AM Mangala Aarti — early devotees only
- 6:00 AM General darshan opens
- 12:00 PM Afternoon break begins
- 2:00 PM Afternoon darshan opens
- 7:00 PM Sandhya Aarti (most beautiful)
- 9:00 PM Darshan closes for the day
* Timings may vary on festival days. Verify before visiting.
Important Rules
- • Valid government photo ID is mandatory
- • No mobile phones inside the main sanctum
- • No leather items (belts, bags, wallets)
- • No non-vegetarian food or tobacco
- • Modest traditional dress required
- • Queues can be 2–4 hours on busy days
- • VIP/special darshan passes available
For the most serene darshan experience, arrive at the temple by 6:00 AM on a Tuesday or Wednesday (the weekday with lowest footfall). The early morning light at Ram Mandir is extraordinarily beautiful — and the queues are significantly shorter before 8:00 AM.
How to Reach Ayodhya
By Train
Ayodhya has two stations: Ayodhya Junction (AY) and the new Ayodhya Dham (AYDM). Both are connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow, Patna, and other major cities. Trains from Delhi take 6–8 hours; from Lucknow, about 2 hours. Book via IRCTC.
By Air
Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya (code: AYJ) is now operational with regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad. The airport is approximately 8 km from Ram Mandir.
By Road
Ayodhya is well-connected by NH-27 and NH-330. Distance from Lucknow: 135 km (~2.5 hours). From Varanasi: 210 km (~4 hours). From Prayagraj: 165 km (~3 hours). UPSRTC buses and private cabs are readily available.
Sacred Sites Beyond Ram Mandir
Hanuman Garhi
Fortress-temple of Sankat Mochan Hanuman — visit first before Ram Mandir.
Kanak Bhawan
Golden-crowned Sita-Ram idols in the palace gifted by Kaikeyi.
Saryu Ghats
Evening aarti on the sacred river — a profound spiritual experience.
Nageshwarnath Mandir
Ancient Shiva temple established by Kush, son of Lord Ram.
Treta Ke Thakur
Site of Lord Ram's Ashwamedha Yagna — ancient idols.
Dashrath Mahal
Temple on the site of King Dasharatha's palace.
We recommend at least 2–3 nights in Ayodhya to visit the major sacred sites without rushing. Read our detailed article: 7 Sacred Sites to Visit in Ayodhya →
Best Time to Visit
October – March
Pleasant weather (15–25°C), clear skies. Best for darshan, ghats, and exploring the city.
Ram Navami (Chaitra)
Millions gather for Lord Ram's birthday. Deeply moving but plan 4–6 weeks in advance.
April – June
Temperatures reach 42–45°C. Early morning and late evening visits are necessary.
July – September
Lush green city, fewer crowds, lower tariffs. Some ghats may be submerged.
Where to Stay in Ayodhya
Birla Dharmashala — Our Recommendation
Managed by the trusted Birla Trust, Birla Dharmashala sits within walking distance of Ram Mandir — offering clean, safe, and affordable accommodation in three categories: AC rooms, Deluxe rooms, and Dormitory beds. No commercial noise, no hidden charges — simply honest seva for the pilgrim.
Ayodhya also has a range of other dharamshalas managed by various trusts, as well as hotels. However, for proximity to Ram Mandir, institutional trust, and pricing that prioritises the pilgrim, a Trust-managed dharmashala is always our recommendation over a commercial hotel.
Essential Pilgrim Tips
Carry your government ID at all times — required at Ram Mandir security.
Dress modestly. Traditional attire (saree, kurta) is most appropriate.
Book accommodation at least 2 weeks ahead for festival season.
Visit Hanuman Garhi before Ram Mandir — this is the traditional sequence.
Attend the Saryu Ghat evening aarti — one of Ayodhya's most moving experiences.
Carry only essential valuables. Secure storage is available at dharamshalas.
All food in Ayodhya is vegetarian — respect this as part of the sacred experience.
Keep a powerbank charged — queues are long and phone batteries drain.