Ayodhya is a spiritual magnet, but its charm doesn’t end at the city limits. The places to visit near Ayodhya offer a rich mix of mythology, history, nature, and culture—perfect for extending your pilgrimage or planning a multi-day heritage tour. Whether you’re tracing the Ramayana trail or seeking quiet riverside retreats, these nearby destinations add depth and diversity to your Ayodhya itinerary.
🛕 1. Faizabad (7 km)
Once the capital of Awadh, Faizabad is Ayodhya’s twin city and a treasure trove of Nawabi heritage.
- Gulab Bari: A Mughal-style garden tomb of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula surrounded by rose gardens.
- Mausoleum of Bahu Begum: A stunning example of Awadhi architecture.
- Ghanta Ghar: The iconic clock tower and bustling market area.
Faizabad offers a blend of Islamic architecture and colonial-era charm just minutes from Ayodhya.
🏞️ 2. Prayagraj (160 km)
A sacred confluence of three rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati—Prayagraj is a major pilgrimage hub.
- Triveni Sangam: The holy bathing site for Kumbh Mela and daily rituals.
- Anand Bhavan: The ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family.
- Kumbh Mela Grounds: Visit during the mela for a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual spectacle.
Prayagraj is ideal for those seeking spiritual cleansing and historical depth.
🛕 3. Varanasi (200 km)
One of the world’s oldest living cities, Varanasi is a spiritual and cultural powerhouse.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A Jyotirlinga shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the evening Ganga Aarti.
- Sarnath: A Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Varanasi pairs beautifully with Ayodhya for a soul-stirring twin-city tour.
🏞️ 4. Chitrakoot (135 km)
A key Ramayana site, Chitrakoot is where Lord Rama spent part of his exile.
- Ramghat: A serene riverbank ideal for meditation and rituals.
- Gupt Godavari Caves: Mythical caves linked to Lord Rama and Lakshman.
- Kamadgiri Hill: A sacred hill believed to be the heart of Chitrakoot.
Chitrakoot is perfect for nature lovers and mythology enthusiasts.
🛕 5. Lucknow (135 km)
The capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is known for its Nawabi elegance and cultural richness.
- Bara Imambara: A grand Mughal-era monument with a labyrinth.
- Rumi Darwaza: An iconic gateway symbolizing Awadhi architecture.
- Hazratganj Market: Great for shopping chikankari fabrics and local cuisine.
Lucknow adds a regal touch to your Ayodhya trip with its blend of history and hospitality.
🏞️ 6. Shringverpur (45 km)
A lesser-known gem, Shringverpur is believed to be the place where Lord Rama crossed the Ganga during his exile.
- Shringverpur Ghat: A peaceful riverside site with mythological significance.
- Ancient Ruins: Archaeological remains of a fortified city and temples.
It’s a quiet, reflective stop for Ramayana pilgrims.
🛕 7. Sitamarhi (100 km)
Not to be confused with Sitamarhi in Bihar, this Sitamarhi in Uttar Pradesh is believed to be the spot where Sita entered the earth.
- Sita Samahit Sthal: A temple complex and meditation site.
- Festivals: Special rituals during Ram Navami and Kartik Purnima.
Sitamarhi is a poignant stop for devotees of Sita and Ramayana followers.
🏞️ 8. Deva Sharif (120 km)
Located near Barabanki, Deva Sharif is a Sufi pilgrimage site that adds spiritual diversity to your tour.
- Shrine of Haji Waris Ali Shah: A peaceful dargah known for interfaith harmony.
- Annual Urs Festival: Draws devotees from across religions.
It’s a soulful detour for those seeking unity and peace.
🧭 Suggested Itinerary: Ayodhya + Nearby Destinations
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
| 1 | Ayodhya | Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi, Sarayu Aarti |
| 2 | Faizabad | Gulab Bari, Bahu Begum Tomb |
| 3 | Prayagraj | Triveni Sangam, Anand Bhavan |
| 4 | Varanasi | Kashi Vishwanath, Ganga Aarti, Sarnath |
| 5 | Chitrakoot | Ramghat, Gupt Godavari, Kamadgiri |
| 6 | Lucknow | Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, Hazratganj |
Customize based on your interests—spiritual, historical, or cultural.
🧳 Travel Tips
- Transport: Ayodhya is well-connected by road and rail. Use taxis or buses for nearby destinations.
- Best Season: October to March for pleasant weather and festival experiences.
- Stay Options: Budget hotels, dharamshalas, and mid-range stays available in all cities.
- Local Guides: Enhance your experience with storytelling and historical context.
📸 Places to Visit near Ayodhya at a Glance
| Place | Distance from Ayodhya | Type | Highlights |
| Faizabad | 7 km | Heritage | Nawabi tombs, gardens |
| Prayagraj | 160 km | Pilgrimage | Triveni Sangam, Kumbh Mela |
| Varanasi | 200 km | Spiritual | Shiva temples, Ganga Aarti, Sarnath |
| Chitrakoot | 135 km | Mythological | Ramghat, caves, sacred hills |
| Lucknow | 135 km | Cultural | Imambaras, shopping, cuisine |
| Shringverpur | 45 km | Mythological | Ganga crossing site |
| Sitamarhi | 100 km | Devotional | Sita Samahit Sthal |
| Deva Sharif | 120 km | Sufi | Interfaith shrine, annual Urs |
Ayodhya is the spiritual starting point—but the journey doesn’t end there. The places to visit near Ayodhya offer a rich tapestry of devotion, history, and culture that deepen your connection to India’s sacred geography. Whether you’re tracing the Ramayana or exploring Nawabi elegance, these nearby gems make your Ayodhya trip truly unforgettable.
