Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026 Date, Timings & Complete Festival Details
Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026 Official Dates & Highlights
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Details
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Information
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Festival Name
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Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026
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Deepotsav Date
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Sunday, 8 November 2026
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Festival
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Diwali (Deepavali)
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Hindu Month
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Kartik Amavasya
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Location
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Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Main Venue
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Ram Ki Paidi & Sarayu River Ghats
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Organized By
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Government of Uttar Pradesh
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Main Attraction
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Lighting of Millions of Earthen Diyas
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Expected Visitors
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Lakhs of Pilgrims and Tourists
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Ram Mandir Celebration
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Special Decorations, Aarti & Devotional Events
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Deep Daan Ceremony
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Around Sunset (Official time to be announced)
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Sarayu Aarti
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Evening (Official schedule to be announced)
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Drone & Laser Show
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After the main Deepotsav ceremony (subject to official schedule)
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Best Time to Visit
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Arrive 1–2 days before Deepotsav for easier darshan and accommodation
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Nearest Airport
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Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham
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Nearest Railway Station
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Ayodhya Dham Junction
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Diwali 2026 Panchang (Indicative)
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Column 1
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Column 2
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Panchang Details
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Information
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Diwali Date
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Sunday, 8 November 2026
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Tithi
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Kartik Amavasya
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Sunrise
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Approximately 6:20 AM (Ayodhya)
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Sunset
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Approximately 5:20 PM (Ayodhya)
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Lakshmi Puja Muhurat
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Expected during Pradosh Kaal; exact muhurat depends on local Panchang and will be confirmed closer to the date.
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What is Ayodhya Deepotsav?
Why is Ayodhya Deepotsav so famous?
- It basically celebrates the return of Lord Shri Ram , Mata Sita, and Lord Lakshman to Ayodhya after 14 long years of exile.
- This whole thing is inspired by the Ramayana, where the people of the city, greeted Lord Ram by lighting thousands of diyas, like a sea of light.
- It happens every year on Diwali, (Kartik Amavasya) in the sacred city of Ayodhya, not just anywhere nearby.
- People light millions of earthen lamps (diyas) at Ram Ki Paidi, and the view is honestly breathtaking, like the river steps are glowing.
- You’ll also see Sarayu Aarti, Ram Leela performances, devotional processions, cultural programs, drone shows, laser projections, and fireworks, all together in one continuous flow.
- The event is organized by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, with artists, devotees and various cultural groups taking part from India, as well as from abroad.
- It draws lakhs of pilgrims, photographers, international tourists, and spiritual seekers, so it ends up being one of the biggest and most cherished Diwali festivals around the globe.
- And underneath all that celebration, it stands for dharma (righteousness), devotion, peace, unity, and the victory of good over evil, keeping Lord Shri Ram’s spiritual heritage alive for the coming generations.
Why Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026 will feel extra special
Highlights of Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026
- Big celebrations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, with everything looking really radiant, lights everywhere and floral setups in a sort of beautiful blend. It was more than just decoration, it felt ceremonial and calm at the same time
- At Ram Ki Paidi and the key ghats, millions of earthen diyas were lit pretty much together, so the whole place turned into a stunning Festival of Lights ,like you can’t even properly describe it.
- There was also a Special Deep Daan Ceremony and the spiritually refreshing Sarayu Aarti, which the priests performed right by the sacred riverbank. Honestly it made the mood extra thoughtful.
- Traditional Ram Leela performances showing the life and triumph of Lord Shri Ram, were presented by well-known artists and cultural teams. It was dramatic in a good way, not rushed, just steady.
- Alongside that you could see classical dance, devotional music, folk numbers, and other cultural programs, all reflecting the varied traditions of India. Different expressions, same devotion, if you know what I mean
- And then, the modern part too, drone light shows , laser projection mapping, kind of bringing Ramayana scenes to life, using tech that made people stop and stare for a while.
- Throughout Ayodhya, decorated temples, illuminated lanes, big floral displays, and themed gateways helped boost that festive energy. Even the streets seemed to participate, not just the venues.
- Artists, dignitaries , spiritual leaders and cultural delegations from across India, plus several other countries, were also involved. So it felt both local and wide, at the same time
- There was extensive national and international media coverage too, calling Ayodhya Deepotsav one of the world’s grandest and most iconic Diwali moments. That kind of attention really adds to the scale.
- Visitor facilities were improved, infrastructure strengthened , and crowd management arrangements were better set up ,so pilgrims and tourists could have a safer, more memorable experience. The overall flow felt more organized than before, in practice.
Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026, Complete Schedule (Tentative)
Expected Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026 Schedule
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Time
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Expected Event
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Highlights
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Early Morning
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Temple Darshan Begins
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Darshan at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan & other temples
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Morning
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Religious Rituals & Vedic Ceremonies
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Special pujas, bhajans, yajnas and devotional prayers
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Afternoon
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Cultural Programmes
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Classical dance, folk performances, devotional music and Ramayana-based presentations
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Late Afternoon
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Ram Barat & Spiritual Processions
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Grand procession depicting the return of Lord Shri Ram to Ayodhya
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Around Sunset
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Lighting of Millions of Diyas
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Simultaneous illumination of millions of earthen lamps at Ram Ki Paidi and the Sarayu Ghats
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Evening
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Sarayu Aarti
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Spectacular river aarti with Vedic chants, lamps and devotional music
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Night
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Laser Projection Show
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Heritage buildings illuminated with Ramayana-themed laser storytelling
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Night
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Drone Light Show
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Hundreds of drones create synchronized aerial formations depicting scenes from the Ramayana
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Night
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Fireworks Display
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Grand fireworks celebrating the Festival of Lights
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Late Night
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Musical & Cultural Performances
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Bhajan Sandhya, devotional concerts, folk music and cultural showcases
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Note: The above schedule is based on previous editions of Ayodhya Deepotsav. The final event timings and programme will be announced by the Uttar Pradesh Government closer to Deepotsav 2026.
Key Highlights of Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026
Ram Ki Paidi decorated with millions of Diyas
- Perhaps the most well-known sight of Ayodhya Deepotsav is millions of earthen diyas lit in unison on Ram Ki Paidi and the ghats of the Sarayu River. Once the sun starts to set, the entire riverfront is filled with thousands of lights and so creates one of the finest Festival of Lights spectacles that any photographer or pilgrim could hope for on their travel agenda.
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir
- Deepotsav has found its spiritual heart at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir In this period of the festival they put firs from flowers decorations, decorative lightings and devotional displays in this temple. Lakhs of devotees visit all day to have darshan of Shri Ram and see the grandeur of the temple.
Sarayu River Aarti
- The sacred evening ritual, Sarayu Aarti, along the magnificent riverbank is the most divine part of the celebration. Vedic prayers waved with large ceremonial lamps and devotional chants, conch shells and bells amplifying a setting sun — You have to discover this divine environment reflecting all over the candle-lit dark waters.
Grand Ram Leela Performances
- The biggest Ever Ram Leela display is portrayed in Deepotsav showing the Life, Exile, Victory and return of Lord Shri ram. These dramas showcase the Ramayana through performing arts with plays, music, costumes and dance by professional artists and cultural groups.
Spectacular Drone Light Show
- A new facet of the celebrations involves a synchronized drone light show with hundreds of illuminated drones forming mini aerial displays in colourful formations depicting Lord Shri Ram, Hanuman, the Ram Setu as well as bows and arrows, diyas and other images from the Ramayana.
Laser Projection Mapping
- In Ayodhya, historic buildings and heritage structures become modern-day canvases for giant storytelling in their advanced form of laser projection mapping. Animated scenes recreate some of the most important events from the Ramayana; and colorful light show at Azad Park makes a cultural feast out of these areas in the city.
Grand Fireworks Display
- The skies over Ayodhya burst into a riot of colors during a spectacular fireworks display after the main Deepotsav ceremony. The sky ablaze with a spectacular fireworks show is the perfect way to wrap up Diwali festivities in the holy city, especially when paired with the glow of millions of diyas.
Cultural Performances from Across India
- Replays of previous classical dance performances such as Kathak and Bharatanatyam.
- Folk dances of Indian states with traditional touches.
- Devotional Bhajan Sandhya & also Spiritual Music Concerts
- Instrumental Classical Indian Music
- Ramayana recitations and storytelling sessions.
- Cultural programmes on the life and teachings of lord shri ram.
Ram Ki Paidi
- Ram Ki Paidi is basically the central ground, where millions of little lamps are lit together. you’ll also see the grand Deep Daan ceremony and the evening festivities right around there. Try to reach early, if you want a steady line of sight.
Sarayu River Ghats
- The Sarayu River Ghats give really breathtaking sights, because the diyas drift and glow on the water, making reflections that look almost unreal. In the evening, the Sarayu Aarti makes the mood even more sacred, like a full atmosphere shift.
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir
- Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir gets decorated in a grand way during Deepotsav. Devotees come for darshan and to soak in the festival vibe, the kind where everything feels synchronized.
Hanuman Garhi
- Hanuman Garhi is a revered place, known for its peaceful surroundings. During Deepotsav it also lights up with decorations, and many people visit here before going toward Ram Mandir.
Kanak Bhawan
- Kanak Bhawan is famous for its architecture, and its deep connection with Lord Ram and Sita. It’s lit up with many lights and devotional activities, so it feels like a soft temple celebration rather than just a quick stop.
Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026 Visitor Guide
Arrive Early
Book Your Accommodation in Advance
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Carry Essential Items
- Government issued ID
- Mobile phone and a power bank
- Water bottle
- Comfortable footwear
- Light jacket or a shawl
- Small backpack
- Cash and digital payment options
Follow Festival Guidelines
- Use designated parking and entry routes
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Follow instructions from authorities
- Keep the area clean
- Travel with companions during peak hours
Ram Mandir Darshan During Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026
Major Temples to Visit During Deepotsav
- Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir – the spiritual center of Ayodhya and the main highlight during Deepotsav.
- Hanuman Garhi – one of the most respected temples in Ayodhya, dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
- Kanak Bhawan – known for its beautifully dressed idols of Lord Ram and Mata Sita .
- Dashrath Mahal – believed to be the royal residence of King Dashrath and Lord Shri Ram.
- Nageshwarnath Temple – an ancient Lord Shiva shrine, with deep religious meaning and history behind it.
- Sarayu Ghat Temples – a set of sacred shrines along the holy Sarayu river, which is good for evening prayers and quiet spiritual thinking.
Book Ram Mandir Sugam Darshan During Deepotsav
How to reach Ayodhya for Deepotsav 2026
By Air
- The closest airport is Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham, and it usually has regular flights from multiple major Indian cities. From there, you can hire a taxi, or just use a private cab to go into the town and then to the main temples, it’s fairly straightforward though sometimes traffic in peak hours can slow things down.
By Train
- Ayodhya Dham Junction is one of the main railway hubs for the city. It has good links to many important places across India, such as:
- Delhi
- Lucknow
- Varanasi
- Prayagraj
- Mumbai
- Ahmedabad
By Road
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Starting City
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Approximate Distance
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Estimated Travel Time
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Lucknow
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135 km
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2.5–3 Hours
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Prayagraj
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170 km
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4 Hours
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Varanasi
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220 km
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4.5–5 Hours
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Gorakhpur
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140 km
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3 Hours
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Kanpur
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220 km
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4.5 Hours
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Delhi NCR
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700 km
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10–12 Hours
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Best Time to Reach Ayodhya for Deepotsav 2026
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Arrival Time
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Recommendation
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2 Days Before
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best – Ideal for sightseeing and comfortable darshan
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1 Day Before
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⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent – Good hotel availability and easier travel
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Festival Morning
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⭐⭐⭐ Good – Expect heavy crowds and traffic restrictions
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Festival Evening
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⭐ Not Recommended – Major road closures and limited accessibility
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Where to Stay During Ayodhya Deepotsav
- Budget Hotels
- Premium Hotels
- Luxury Hotels
- Dharamshalas
- Guest Houses
- Homestays
Photography Tips for Ayodhya Deepotsav
- Sunset over the Sarayu River
- Blue Hour before the diyas are illuminated
- The grand Millions of Diyas Lighting Ceremony
- Drone and laser light shows
- Reflections of diyas on the Sarayu River
- Panoramic views of Ram Ki Paidi
- Illuminated Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir and nearby temples
Safety Tips for Deepotsav Visitors
- Follow the official security and crowd control guidelines.
- Keep your valuables and important documents close , and secure at all times.
- Drink water regularly, don’t wait until you feel tired.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, the ground can be busy.
- Use the designated parking areas and entry points, not the shortcut ones.
- If you’re traveling, try going with family or companions whenever possible.
- Respect temple traditions and local customs , even small ones.
- Keep emergency contact numbers on hand, ready fast if needed.
Ayodhya Deepotsav Tour Package 2026
- Comfortable hotel lodging
- A private AC cab for sightseeing and local travel
- Ram Mandir Darshan support
- Guided Ayodhya sightseeing, step by step
- Driver allowance and related expenses
- Toll taxes and parking charges
- Pickup and drop from railway station or airport
Nearby Attractions to Explore
- Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir
- Hanuman Garhi
- Kanak Bhawan
- Dashrath Mahal
- Nageshwarnath Temple
- Ram Ki Paidi
- Guptar Ghat
- Bharat Kund
- Tulsi Smarak Bhawan
Expected crowd for Ayodhya Deepotsav 2026
Why you should go to Ayodhya during Deepotsav
Conclusion
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