Varanasi Ayodhya Prayagraj Tour

Description

FAQs

1. What is the Varanasi-Ayodhya-Prayagraj Tour?

This is a religious and cultural tour that takes you through three important cities in Uttar Pradesh:

Varanasi: One of the holiest cities for Hindus, known for its ancient temples, ghats, and spiritual ambiance.

Ayodhya: The birthplace of Lord Rama and an important pilgrimage destination for devotees.

Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad): Known for the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers meet, and the site of the Kumbh Mela.

2. How long is the Varanasi-Ayodhya-Prayagraj tour?

The tour typically lasts 4 to 6 days, with each city offering enough for a full day of exploration. A typical itinerary might be:

Day 1-2: Arrive in Varanasi and explore.

Day 3: Travel to Ayodhya.

Day 4: Visit Prayagraj.

3. What is the best time to visit these cities?

The best time to visit is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and temple visits. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot, and the monsoon season (July to September) can bring heavy rain, especially in Prayagraj.

4. How do I travel between Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj?

Varanasi to Ayodhya: The distance is around 200 km, and it takes approximately 4-5 hours by road.

Ayodhya to Prayagraj: The distance is about 170 km, which takes around 3.5 hours by road.

You can travel by car, bus, or train between these cities. There are several daily trains and buses connecting Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj.

5. What are the highlights of Varanasi?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes place every evening.

Sarnath: A Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.

Manikarnika Ghat: A significant cremation ground.

Boat ride on the Ganges: Early morning or evening boat rides provide a unique experience of the ghats and temples.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU): A renowned university with a beautiful campus and the New Vishwanath Temple.

6. What are the highlights of Ayodhya?

Ram Janmabhoomi: The birthplace of Lord Rama, where the Ram Mandir is being built.

Hanuman Garhi: A prominent temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on a hilltop.

Kanak Bhawan: A temple associated with Lord Rama and Sita, known for its intricate architecture.

Treta Ke Thakur: A temple that marks the site where Lord Rama is believed to have performed the Ashwamedha Yagna.

Guptar Ghat: Where Lord Rama is believed to have taken his final journey to heaven.

7. What are the highlights of Prayagraj?

Triveni Sangam: The confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, considered one of the holiest places in Hinduism.

Allahabad Fort: A majestic fort built by Emperor Akbar, which now houses the Ashoka Pillar and Patalpuri Temple.

Anand Bhawan: The ancestral home of the Nehru family, now a museum.

Kumbh Mela: The largest religious gathering in the world, held every 12 years, with Ardh Kumbh every 6 years.

Alopi Devi Mandir: A unique temple dedicated to Goddess Sati, where no idol is worshipped, only a wooden platform.

8. What is the religious significance of Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj?

Varanasi: Known as the city of Lord Shiva, it is believed that those who die here attain salvation (moksha).

Ayodhya: The birthplace of Lord Rama, making it one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism.

Prayagraj: The Triveni Sangam is believed to cleanse all sins, and the Kumbh Mela is one of the most important Hindu festivals.

9. What are the accommodation options in these cities?

All three cities offer a range of accommodations:

Varanasi: From budget guesthouses and ashrams to luxury hotels and river-view resorts.

Ayodhya: Mostly budget hotels and guesthouses for pilgrims. With the development of Ram Mandir, more upscale accommodations are being built.

Prayagraj: Offers budget lodges, mid-range hotels, and a few upscale hotels, especially during the Kumbh Mela.

10. What should I pack for the tour?

Comfortable clothing: Modest clothing is recommended, especially for temple visits.

Walking shoes: You’ll be walking a lot in Varanasi and around temples.

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat: For sun protection.

Rain gear: If visiting during the monsoon season.

Personal medication: As needed.

11. What is the dress code for temple visits?

Modest clothing is required. For men, wearing full-length pants is recommended, and for women, sarees or salwar kameez are preferred. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing outfits should be avoided.

12. What kind of food can I expect during the tour?

You will find vegetarian food in most places, especially around temples. Varanasi is famous for its street food like chaat, kachori, lassi, and banarasi paan. In Prayagraj and Ayodhya, you’ll find traditional North Indian cuisine such as dal, roti, sabzi, and sweets like peda.

13. Are there any age restrictions for visiting these places?

There are no age restrictions for visiting Varanasi, Ayodhya, or Prayagraj. However, elderly travelers may need assistance due to the steps and walking involved in places like the ghats of Varanasi and temples in Ayodhya.

14. Do I need a guide for the tour?

While not mandatory, having a local guide in Varanasi and Ayodhya can enhance your experience, as they can provide historical and mythological context to the sites. Guides are also useful for navigating the crowded ghats and temples.

15. Is the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi worth attending?

Yes, the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi is a must-see event. The evening ritual, with its grand spectacle of fire, chants, and offerings to the Ganges, is deeply spiritual and attracts tourists and pilgrims alike.

16. What is the significance of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya?

The Ram Mandir is being built at the site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. This temple is of immense religious importance to Hindus, and it is expected to become a major pilgrimage destination once completed.

17. What are some key festivals to attend during this tour?

Kumbh Mela (Prayagraj): Held every 12 years, the Kumbh Mela attracts millions of devotees. The next Maha Kumbh will be in 2025.

Dev Deepawali (Varanasi): Celebrated 15 days after Diwali, when the ghats of Varanasi are lit up with thousands of lamps.

Ram Navami (Ayodhya): Celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is filled with grand processions and prayers.

18. Is it safe to travel to these cities?

Yes, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj are generally safe for tourists. However,