10 hidden sacred sites of Ayodhya: Besides the Ram Temple, these places will also surprise you
10 Hidden Sacred Sites of Ayodhya: Ayodhya is no longer limited to just visiting Ramlala. Along with the grandeur of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, this ancient city holds within it centuries of history, faith, and a confluence of diverse religions. Situated on the sacred banks of the Saryu River, this city is considered supremely holy by Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs alike. If you think Ayodhya is just a city of one temple, this article will surprise you.
A Stroll Along the Enchanting Ghats of the Saryu River
The true beauty of Ayodhya lies in the ghats of the Saryu River. There are a total of 84 ghats, of which 14 are particularly famous. As evening falls, the sight of the aarti (ritual of worship with lamps) at Guptar Ghat, Lakshman Ghat, Papmochan Ghat, and Kaikeyi Ghat is truly breathtaking. After bathing, people sit here and chant praises to Mother Saryu. Especially during Kartik Purnima, the sight of the festival of lights at these ghats is unforgettable.
Hanuman Garhi – A Vibrant Center of Devotion to Rama
No devotee visiting Ayodhya leaves without visiting Hanuman Garhi. This fort-like temple, built on a high hill in the heart of the city, symbolizes the immense power of Hanuman. It is said that Hanuman resides here to protect Ramlala. One has to climb 76 steps to reach the temple, and upon reaching the top, a sense of peace descends upon the mind.
Kanak Bhawan – The Golden Palace of Sita and Rama
The name Kanak Bhawan immediately conjures up images of a golden palace. This temple was gifted by Kaikeyi to Mother Sita. Even today, extremely beautiful idols of Shri Rama and Mother Janaki are enshrined here. The sight during the adornment ceremony in the temple is so captivating that it feels as if Rama and Sita will come alive at any moment.
Dant Dhawan Kund and the Sacred Memory of Rama’s Toothbrush
Near Hanuman Garhi is the place where Lord Rama used to brush his teeth daily. Even today, there is an ancient pond here whose water never dries up. Devotees brush their teeth here to purify themselves. This place is a unique confluence of devotion and faith.
Remembering Bharat Milap and Nandigram
About 20 kilometers from Ayodhya is Nandigram, where Bharat ruled for 14 years, keeping Rama’s sandals as a symbol of his authority. Bharat Kund and Bharat Temple still narrate the story of that brotherly love. Reaching the Ram-Bharat Milap site brings tears to everyone’s eyes.
Ancient Birthplace of Jainism
Did you know that Ayodhya is the birthplace of five Tirthankaras? The first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhadeva, along with Ajitnath, Abhinandanath, Sumatinath, and Anantnath Swami, were all born here. Magnificent statues of these Tirthankaras are still enshrined in the Kesari Singh Jain Temple and other Jain temples here.
Remnants of Buddhist History on Mani Parvat
On Mani Parvat, traces of ancient Buddhist stupas can still be found. The Chinese traveler Xuanzang wrote in the 7th century that there were 20 Buddhist temples and 3000 monks here. It is said that Vishakha, a prominent disciple of Gautama Buddha, built a Buddhist monastery here.
Gurudwara Brahmakund – A Major Center of Sikh Faith
The largest Gurudwara of the Sikh faith in Ayodhya is Brahmakund Sahib. Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, and Guru Gobind Singh Ji all visited this place. Significantly, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Nihang army fought against the Mughals to protect Ram Janmabhoomi. Their weapons are still preserved in the Gurudwara.
Memories Etched in the Ruins of King Dasharatha’s Palace
The ruins of King Dasharatha’s palace still exist in Ayodhya. The massive walls and ancient architecture evoke memories of the Ramayana era. Nearby is Sita Rasoi, where Mother Sita used to cook.
Guptar Ghat – Where Rama Took Jal Samadhi
Guptar Ghat on the banks of the Sarayu River is the sacred place where Lord Rama ended his earthly life and took Jal Samadhi (immersion in water). Rama’s footprints are still kept here, and devotees take a holy dip to earn merit.
The best time to visit Ayodhya is from October to March. Visiting this place feels like time has stood still. The trip is complete only after visiting these places in addition to seeing the Ram Temple. Whenever you go, be sure to allocate two or three days, as it’s impossible to see this holy city in just one day.