What is Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya known for?
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya marks the place revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama. The temple was consecrated in January 2024 with the installation of Ram Lalla — Rama in the form of a child — in the sanctum. It is built in the Nagara style of north Indian temple architecture in pink sandstone, on a raised platform, with carved pillars and a series of mandapas leading to the garbha griha.
Why is Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya significant?
The Ramayana describes Ayodhya as the capital of the Ikshvaku kings and the city of Rama's birth, and for devotees the Janmasthan is the centre of the city's sanctity. The form worshipped here is Ram Lalla, the child Rama, which gives the darshan a particular tenderness in the Vaishnava tradition. Tradition holds that a visit to Ayodhya begins with Hanuman, the city's guardian, at Hanuman Garhi.
Which rituals and festivals are held at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya?
Worship follows the Vaishnava pattern, with the deity woken, bathed, dressed and offered bhog at set hours, and aartis through the day. Offerings are of flowers, tulsi and sweets.
Ram Navami, in Chaitra, is the great festival of the city. Deepotsav at Deepawali, when the ghats of the Saryu are lined with lamps, and Vivah Panchami are also celebrated on a large scale.
How do you reach Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya?
The temple is in central Ayodhya, about 3 kilometres from Ayodhya Dham railway station, which has direct trains from many cities. Maharishi Valmiki International Airport is about 15 kilometres away, and Lucknow is about 135 kilometres by road.
Mobile phones, bags and electronic items are not permitted inside the complex and must be deposited at the facilities provided, so it is simplest to carry very little. Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan and the Saryu ghats are all close by.