Darshan at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is free and open to all. The temple stands at Ram Janmabhoomi, near the Sarayu. Here is how the visit works, what to leave behind, and how to fit the rest of Ayodhya into one day.
How darshan works
- Entry: free, through the main gate with security checks. Queues move steadily outside festival days.
- Aarti: attending an aarti needs a free pass, issued in limited numbers through the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Book early for the morning and evening aartis.
- Timings: darshan runs in a morning and an afternoon-evening session with a break for bhog. The Trust changes timings with the season and festivals, so check its official site or notices on the day.
What not to carry
Mobile phones, cameras, bags, belts, electronic items and footwear are not allowed inside the temple complex. Free lockers and shoe stands are at the entry; carry only a small amount of cash and your ID.
When to go
- Quietest: early mornings on weekdays.
- Busiest: Ram Navami, Diwali (Deepotsav), the January anniversary of the consecration, long weekends and Sundays.
- Season: October to March is the most comfortable; April to June is very hot.
A one-day plan in Ayodhya
- Morning: Hanuman Garhi first, as tradition goes, then Ram Mandir darshan.
- Midday: Kanak Bhawan and Dashrath Mahal.
- Afternoon: the Valmiki Ramayana Bhavan, or Nandigram outside the town.
- Evening: a bath or boat on the Sarayu and the aarti at Ram ki Paidi.
How to reach Ayodhya
By air to Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham; by train to Ayodhya Dham Junction; or by road from Lucknow, about 135 km. See the Ayodhya page for more.
Going beyond Ayodhya
Ayodhya is the first stop of two tours: the 7-day Cultural Quadrangle of Awadh (Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Gaya) and the 11-day Ramayana Yatra to Janakpur in Nepal. Read our Awadh circuit guide and the Ramayana Yatra places.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entry fee for Ram Mandir darshan?
No. Darshan at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is free. Aarti attendance needs a free pass, issued in limited numbers.
Are mobile phones allowed in Ram Mandir?
No. Phones, cameras, bags and electronic items must be left at the free lockers near the entry.
What is the best time to visit Ram Mandir?
Early weekday mornings from October to March. Avoid Ram Navami, Diwali, the January anniversary and long weekends if you want short queues.
How much time is needed for Ayodhya?
One full day covers Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, Dashrath Mahal and the Sarayu aarti. Two days is more relaxed.
राम मंदिर अयोध्या में दर्शन कैसे करें?
राम मंदिर में दर्शन निःशुल्क हैं। मोबाइल, कैमरा और बैग प्रवेश द्वार के लॉकर में जमा करने होते हैं। आरती के लिए निःशुल्क पास सीमित संख्या में मिलते हैं, इसलिए पहले से बुक करें।
