Introduction:
India is a land where spirituality flows through every river, echoes in every temple bell, and lives in the stories passed down through generations. No one can deny the fact that Ayodhya and Varanasi are the cities that shine with unparalleled devotion among countless sacred destinations of India. Both cities embody ancient traditions of India, offering pilgrims a deep dive into history, mythology, architecture and faith. Going on this Ayodhya Varanasi tour is an immersion in timeless stories, rituals, and emotions that continue to shape the identity of India. This blog by Traveloi will take you through these sacred cities of India in detail. Here you will explore their significance, landmarks, rituals and the essence of spirituality they exude. Get ready to rock and roll through this guide:
The Eternal Pull of Ayodhya
Dating back over 9,000 years, Ayodhya is revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama (the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu). Nestled on the banks of the Saryu River in Uttar Pradesh, it is rooted in faith and mythology. This city is mentioned in the ancient Hindu epic ‘The Ramayana.’ For millions of Hindus across the world, Ayodhya represented the ideals of righteousness, devotion, and dharma that Lord Rama stood for. Known as ‘Saketa’ in the ancient texts, this city was the Kosala Kingdom which was ruled by Lord Rama’s father, King Dasharatha. Along with Hinduism, Ayodhya holds a significant place in Jainism. It is believed to be the birthplace of five Tirthankaras, including Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara of the Jains.
Walking through the city feels like stepping into a living epic. The chants of “Jai Shree Ram” reverberate through the streets while pilgrims line up to visit the grand temples. The air itself feels charged with devotion, making every visitor feel like part of a larger spiritual journey.
Must-Visit Places in Ayodhya
Ayodhya is dotted with numerous ancient temples and ghats, each with its own specific story. Here is the list of places that make the city worth visiting, culturally rich and religious:
- Ram Janmabhoomi Temple: At the heart of Ayodhya’s spiritual journey is the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir. The Ram Mandir was recently constructed on the site long believed to be Lord Rama’s birthplace. It is a magnificent blend of devotion, faith, and architectural grandeur. Built in the Nagra style of temple architecture, the Ram Mandir is adorned with intricate carvings and towering spirals and symbolises divine energy. Pilgrims throng to the temple to witness the idol of Ram Lala, the child form of Lord Rama. The darshan itself is considered an act of deep spiritual fulfillment. The temple’s complex also narrates the saga of Lord Rama, with carvings depicting key moments from the Ramayana.
- Hanuman Garhi: Located atop a hill, Hanuman Garhi is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the devoted servant of Lord Rama. This temple requires devotees to climb 76 steps to reach the shrine. Legends say that Hanuman lived here to protect Ayodhya and is considered the guardian or protector of the city. It is believed that people should take permission from Lord Hanuman or seek blessings here first and then visit the Ram Mandir. You can also enjoy the breathtaking view of the city from the top of the temple.
- Kanak Bhawan: This beautiful temple is one of the must-visit temples in Ayodhya and Varanasi is known for its stunning idols of Lord Rama and Sita in gold ornaments. According to legends, it is Queen Kaikeyi, the stepmother of Lord Rama gave this Bhawan to goddess Sita as a marriage gift. This Kanak Bhawan is known for its mesmerizing architecture and is considered a symbol of divine love. The temple has been renovated and rebuilt multiple times throughout history by King Vikramaditya, Kush (Rama’s Son), King Rishabh Dev, Chandragupta-II, Samudragupta, and Maharani Vrishbhanu Kunwari.
- Treta Ke Thakur: It is the temple that marks the spot where Lord Rama is believed to have performed the Ashwamedha Yagna after killing Ravana. Also known as the ‘Kaleram-ka-Mandir,’ this temple is located on the banks of the Sarayu River at Naya Ghat. Treta Ke Thakur houses the idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman, all carved from black stone.
- Saryu River and Ram ki Paidi: The Saryu River is considered the most religious and holy river in Hinduism. Pilgrims take the holy dip in the Saryu River, believing that it purifies the soul. The evening Aarti on the ghats with lamps flowing in the water is the spectacle of energy. While the Ram ki Paidi, a series of well-maintained ghats along the river, is spiritually significant. It is where people gather for prayers to Maa Saryu, perform rituals, and evening Aarti.
Festivals In Ayodhya:
Ayodhya truely comes alive during Diwali and Ram Navami. On Diwali, millions of diyas illuminate the city following the laser show, symbolising Lord Rama’s return from exile. The entire city transforms into a glowing canvas of devotion, breaking the world record for simultaneous lighting. Ram Navami, Lord Rama’s birthday also draws countless devotees who gather for processions, chanting, and offering prayers. These festivals make the city a collective spiritual experience where faith finds its brightest expression.
Varanasi: A City Older Than Time
If Ayodhya is the city of devotion, Varanasi is the city of liberation. It is regarded as the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world with a history of over 10,000 years. Located in Uttar Pradesh, it rests on the banks of the sacred Ganga River. The city is a major pilgrimage site and the centre for spiritualism, philosophy, yoga, home to ancient temples, historic monuments, and learning for centuries. Also known as Banaras and Kashi, this city is believed to be the spiritual journey in India to attain moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death. According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Shiva himself founded this city, making this an ultimate destination for spiritual seekers. Life and death coexist seamlessly here. On one side, pilgrims take dips in the holy river to wash away sins, while on the other, funeral pyres burn at the cremation ghats. It attracts thousands of pilgrims every year to seek blessings and lost in the beauty of the city.
Varanasi is not just a significant place in Hinduism but also has an important role in Buddhism and Jainism. Just at the outskirts of the city, Sarnath, is the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It also sees various rises and falls of empires from the Mauryas to the Mughals but its spiritual aura remains the same.
Must-Visit Places in Varanasi:
The soul of Varanasi lies in its ghats, ancient temples, and laid-back history; each has its own rituals and significance. Here are some of the key historical and mythological places:
- The Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a spiritual epicenter of Varanasi and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva. For devotees, visiting this temple is believed to grant liberation. The temple’s golden spire glimmers under the sun while the chants of “Har Har Mahadev” fill the air. Recently renovated as part of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project, the temple complex now seamlessly connects to Ganga Ghats, making it more accessible to millions of pilgrims.
- Assi Ghat: This ghat is popular among young travellers and pilgrims; it is where the Ganga meets the Assi River. It is ideal for morning yoga and meditation sessions for peaceful reflection. You can enjoy boat rides here that offer a unique perspective of the surroundings. According to legends, it is the ghat that was formed at the place where the sword of Goddess Durga fell after she defeated the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. The early morning Aarti at Assi Ghat is spiritually significant and attracts many pilgrims.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: This ghat is the most vibrant ghat, famous for the evening Ganga Aarti. Priests perform synchronised rituals with lamps, incense, and conch shells as thousands of devotees watch in awe. It is believed to have been created by Lord Brahma to welcome Lord Shiva and that Lord Brahma performed ten Ashwamedha Yagyas (horse sacrifices) here. It is the place that holds immense significance and attracts thousands of devotees for ritual bathing and prayers.
- Manikarnika Ghat: Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation ghat in Varanasi that symbolises the city’s association with liberation. Despite the somber rituals, it radiated a sense of acceptance of life and death. The ghat is named after the Manikarnika Kund (well) located there. It is believed that Lord Vishnu created this kund while performing the penance for Lord Shiva. The name of the ghat is also linked to the Goddess Parvati, whose earring (Manikarnika) fell into the Kund.
- Sarnath: Just a short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. It is the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. The site is dotted with ancient stupas, monasteries, and the iconic Dhamek Stupa, which stands as a testimony to centuries of devotion. The Ashokan Pillar, with its lion capital, later became India’s national emblem. The serene atmosphere, archaeological museum, and lush gardens make Sarnath a must-visit for those seeking peace, history, and spiritual reflection.
Varanasi is not only about temples, ghats, and rituals. It is also the cultural capital of India. The city has nurtured music, literature and philosophy for centuries. It is home to the Banaras Gharana of Classical Music with Sitar, Tabla, and vocal recitals echoing through the streets. The Late Pandit Ravi Shankar, a Sitar maestro, hailed from this tradition. While the famous Banasri silk sarees, adorned with intricate Jari work, are woven here making them a prized possession across India. Your taste buds are also on a trip here as they get a chance to savour Kachori, Chaats and Banasri Paan.
Why Combine Ayodhya and Varanasi Pilgrimage Tour?
Travelling from Ayodhya to Varanasi is like moving through two different yet connected dimensions of faith and spirituality. While Ayodhya embodies devotion through the life of Lord Rama, Varanasi reflects liberation through Lord Shiva. Ayodhya inspires devotion, discipline and morality while Varansi teaches acceptance, detachment, and the cyclical nature of life and death. Together, these two cities represent the two fundamental aspects of Hindu spirituality: dharma and moksha. A traveller who experiences both cities walks through the essence of Hindu philosophy. That’s why we, Traveloi, designed the Ayodhya and Varanasi pilgrimage tour packages to give the experience of both cities’ religious fabric and timeless devotion into one trip.
Best Time To Visit Ayodhya and Varanasi For Pilgrimage
Here is the month-by-month breakdown of the weather and temperature of the region that makes it suitable or not for planning your spiritual tour to Ayodhya and Varanasi. Check below:
- October to March: These winter months are the peak time to get lost in the beauty of both cities. During this time, the temperature ranges from 8 to 27 degrees Celsius, pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing. This is an ideal time to witness the vibrant rituals, festivals, and ceremonies.
- April to June: This is the shoulder season to plan your Ayodhya Varanasi Pilgrimage Tour. The temperature ranges between 30-40 degrees Celsius during this time with moderate to hot weather. Early mornings and late evenings are suitable times for temple darshans and sightseeing during this summer season.
- July To September: As the monsoon knocks on the door of both cities, it is recommended to avoid travelling to Ayaodhya and Varansi during the monsoon season (July- September). The heavy rainfall may cause high humidity and hinder travel with temperatures ranging from 25-35 degrees Celsius.
How To Reach:
Both cities are well-connected by air, rail and road. Check the nearest airport or railway station to the two cities:
Ayodhya:
- Nearest Airport: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham (10 km away)
- Nearest Railway Station: Ayodhya Dham Junction
- Nearest Bus Stand: Faizabad Bus Stand
Varanasi:
- Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (26 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction
- Nearest Bus Stand: Varanasi Bus Stand
Book Your Ayodhya Varansi Spiritual Tour Now!
Travelling through Ayodhya and Varanasi is about experiencing the rhythm of faith that binds these cities. Together they complete the circle of faith offering every traveller a glimpse into the eternal essence of Hindu philosophy. To walk through Ayodhya is to relive the ideals of Lord Rama, to stand at the Ghats of Varanasi is to surrender to the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva. You see devotion in the eyes of an elderly woman offering flowers at the Saryu River. You hear spirituality in the chants of priests by the Ganga. You feel liberation in the flames rising from the Manikarnika Ghat. For modern travellers, especially those seeking meaning beyond materialistic pursuits, these cities provide a timeless lesson; “life is sacred, death is not an end and faith can illuminate even the darkest paths.” A spiritual tour to Ayodhya and Varanasi is not just travel; it is a transformation. Ig you are looking for an unforgettable spiritual experience in Ayodhya and Varanasi, connect with us today to book your Ayodhya Varanasi tour. We are happy to customise your itinerary and take away your worry of how to plan a spiritual trip to Ayodhya and Varanasi. Ring us to know more!
