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Places to visit in Varanasi Ayodhya & Prayagraj Tour:

Explore the spiritual heart of India with our guide to must-visit places in Varanasi and Ayodhya. Immerse yourself in the ancient cultural and religious tapestry of Varanasi, where the Ganges River flows serenely and vibrant ghats beckon. Discover Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, with its rich history and sacred sites. Uncover the spiritual essence of these timeless cities and create unforgettable memories. Both Varanasi and Ayodhya offer a unique spiritual and cultural experience, with a mix of ancient temples, ghats, and historical sites.

 

A tour of Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj (also known as Allahabad) in Uttar Pradesh, India, offers a rich spiritual and cultural experience. Here's an overview of each destination and what you can expect on this tour:

1- Varanasi: Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and holds immense significance in Hinduism. It is considered the spiritual capital of India and is situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges

Highlights of Varanasi include:

Ganga Aarti: Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony performed on the ghats (steps leading to the riverbank) during sunset. Devotees gather to offer prayers and witness the rituals.

Boat Ride on the Ganges: Take a boat ride along the Ganges River and witness the various ghats, including the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat, where cremations take place.

Temples: Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and other significant temples like Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and Durga Temple.

2- Ayodhya: Ayodhya is a holy city associated with Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama and holds immense importance for devotees. Key attractions in Ayodhya include:

 

Ram Janmabhoomi: Visit the site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. The complex includes the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, which was constructed after the Babri Masjid's demolition.

Hanuman Garhi: Explore the Hanuman Garhi temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is situated atop a hill and offers a panoramic view of Ayodhya.

Kanak Bhavan: Visit the Kanak Bhavan temple, which is dedicated to Lord Rama and his consort Sita. It is believed to be the palace where Lord Rama and Sita resided after their marriage.

3- Prayagraj (Allahabad): Prayagraj is known for its spiritual and historical significance, primarily due to the confluence of three rivers—the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati—at the Triveni Sangam. Major attractions in Prayagraj include:

Triveni Sangam: Witness the sacred confluence of the rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Taking a boat ride during sunrise or sunset is a popular activity.

Kumbh Mela (if during the event): If your visit coincides with the Kumbh Mela, a grand Hindu pilgrimage and festival, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and witness various religious rituals and ceremonies.

 

Allahabad Fort: Explore the historic Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. It houses notable structures like the Ashoka Pillar and the Patalpuri Temple.

Anand Bhavan: Visit Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which has been converted into a museum showcasing the life and contributions of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

This tour provides a blend of spirituality, cultural exploration, and historical insights into these three significant cities in Uttar Pradesh. It is advisable to plan your trip well in advance and consider hiring a local guide or tour operator to make the most of your visit.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: How to travel Ayodhya from Varanasi?

Ans: Distance between Ayodhya from Varanasi is 4 hr 30 min (219 km) via NH731 and NH 330.

♦ The cheapest way to arrive at from Varanasi to Ayodhya is board a train to Ayodhya which takes about 4 to 5 hrs.

♦ The fastest and recommended way to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi is train to Ayodhya and takes 3h 42m.

A full-day tour would be enough to explore the best of Ayodhya. You can cover major attractions including Ramjanma Bhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, Nageshwarnath Temple, and more.

Q: Which train station is from Varanasi to Ayodhya Dham Ram Mandir?

Ans: Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Ayodhya Dham Junction (AY). Ayodhya Dham Junction is the new name of Ayodhya Junction.

Q: Which trains are available between Varanasi (BSB) Ayodhya Dham (AY)?

Ans: Avilable trains are ⇔ 13151 Jammu Tawi Express ⇔ 13307 Ganga Sutlej Express ⇔ 13009 Doon Express ⇔ 14213 Bahraich Intercity Express ⇔ 22345 Gomti Nagar Vande Bharat Express  ⇔ 19168 Ahmedabad Sabarmati Express ⇔ 14235 Bareilly Express ⇔ 15053 Lucknow Jn. Express ⇔ 13237 Patna - Kota Express. Tourists may check more details with us before going from varanasi to ayodhya by train.

Q: Which railway station is near to Ram Mandir Ayodhya?

Ans: Ayodhya Dham Railway station to Ram mandir Distance is only 1.2 km by via Kalyan Singh Road. Ayodhya Ram Mandir Nearest Railway Station: Ayodhya Dham Junction. It is well connected to major cities in India.

Q: What is special in Ayodhya?

Ans: Ayodhya is one of the most religious spots in India. This is the hometown of Lord Ram and hence, holds nice holy significance between the devotees of the Hindu religion. This bless city is placed in Uttar Pradesh.

 

Q: Is Kashi and Varanasi same?

Ans: Varanasi, or Benaras, (also well-known as Kashi) is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Varanasi`s reputation in Hindu mythology is nearly unknown.

Q: How much time required to see Ayodhya?

Ans: A recommended itinerary could be 2 days in Ayodhya, 2-3 days in Varanasi, and 2 days in Allahabad, give you a total of 6-7 days for the tour.

Q: What is famous in Varanasi for eating?

Ans: The famous Varanasi food is something most travelers fall in love with. Be it Kachori sabzi, baati chokha, rabri Jalebi or tamatar chat, almost all famous foods in Varanasi are rare and tasty.

Q: What is special in Varanasi?

Ans: Varanasi is connected with support of spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga and Hindi language and grateful authors such as the most popular novelist Prem Chand and Tulsi Das, the popular saint-poet who wrote Ram Charit Manas.

Q: Is it worth visiting Ayodhya now?

Ans: Many sanctuaries honoring Lord Ram are placed in the town, and so many Hindus believe that going to Ayodhya and praying at these shrines can be helpful. Muslims, who observe the Babri Masjid mosque as a main spiritual spots, importance the town as fine.

Q: What is famous sweet in Varanasi?

Ans: Mainly Varanasi sweets have a milk and ghee base like the Magdal, Sankat Mochan ke Laddoo, Parval Mithai, Kheer Mohan and Launglatika among others. The most famous Ras Malai , Rabari , Kheer Mohan , Gulab Jamun , Raso Gulla (many variants) , Cham-Cham , lal Peda , Raj Bhog , Kheer Kadam , Malai Gillauri , Kaju Barfi etc.

Q: What is the famous drink in Varanasi?

Ans: Today, bhang lassi is still addicted in India, mainly in the divine town of Varanasi. It is a famous beverage between the locals and is most devoured in festivals, weddings, and other religious ceremonies, such as Mahashivaratri.

Q: Where is Ayodhya located?

Ans: Ayodhya, one of the cultural and historical destinations, is located in eastern part of Uttar Pradesh.

Q: What is the importance of Ayodhya?

Ans: Ayodhya is one of the seven holy cities of the Hindus, known in religious scriptures as Saptpuri. It is the place where Lord Ram, seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was born.

Q: Where is Ram Janmabhoomi?

Ans: Ram Janmabhoomi is in Ayodhya.

Q: What is the controversy about Ram Janmabhoomi Temple?

Ans: Islamic invaders had built a mosque (Babri Masjid) by demolishing Ram Janmasthan Temple about 500 years ago. Hindus fought several battles at several fronts. In 2019, Supreme Court of India ruled in favour of Ram Temple, keeping in view archaeological and historical evidences.

Q: Why to visit Ayodhya?

Ans: One of the pilgrimages, Ayodhya is visited to offer prayers to and have ‘darshan’ of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita and Lord Hanuman in highly revered temples. Holy dip in Saryu is also taken by many pilgrims.

Q: What is the best time to visit Prayagraj?

Ans: The best time to visit Prayagraj is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.

Q: What are the must-visit attractions in Prayagraj?

Ans: Some must-visit attractions in Prayagraj include the Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort, Anand Bhavan, Khusro Bagh, and the All Saints Cathedral.

Q: How can I reach Prayagraj?

Ans: Prayagraj is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Bamrauli Airport, and the city has its own railway station, Prayagraj Junction, which is connected to major cities in India. Buses and taxis are also available for road travel.

Q: What are the local dishes to try in Prayagraj?

Ans: Some local dishes to try in Prayagraj include Kachori-Sabzi, Chaat, Lassi, and various sweets like Petha and Imarti.

Q: Is Prayagraj safe for solo female travelers?

Ans: Prayagraj is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night, dressing modestly, and keeping your belongings secure.

Q: What should I wear when visiting religious sites in Prayagraj?

Ans: When visiting religious sites in Prayagraj, it is recommended to dress modestly. Women should wear long skirts or pants and cover their shoulders, while men should avoid wearing shorts.

Q: Are there any festivals or events I should plan my visit around?

Ans: One of the most significant events in Prayagraj is the Kumbh Mela, which takes place every 12 years. The Ardh Kumbh Mela occurs every 6 years. Other festivals include Magh Mela, Diwali, and Holi.

Q: What is the local language spoken in Prayagraj?

Ans: The local language spoken in Prayagraj is Hindi. However, English is also understood and spoken by many people, especially in tourist areas.

Q: What are the accommodation options in Prayagraj?

Ans: Prayagraj offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Prayagraj, India?
Ans: Yes, most foreign nationals need a visa to visit India. It is recommended to check the latest visa requirements and apply for a visa before your trip.