Ayodhya’s spiritual essence, sacred sites and vibrant ghats offer a deeply immersive and divine experience
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, offered Hemant Shukla a divine experience with its serene Saryu River, vibrant ghats, and the grandeur of Ram Mandir amidst spiritual awakening.
As soon as the semester break began, I packed my bags, filled with excitement and patience, for a 23-hour train journey from the Temple City of India, Bhubaneswar, to the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, Ayodhya. Since there is no direct train to Ayodhya, I boarded the Puri-Gwalior Express from Bhubaneswar to Prayagraj (Sangam City), arrived at midnight, and then took another train early in the morning, reaching Ayodhya around 9 a.m.
As I entered the Ayodhya Dham Station amidst a trail of morning mist, I could feel an aura of spirituality. The station itself resembled a temple, beautifully adorned with carved paintings, banners, and lights, with a temple-like structure on top. Modern facilities ensured effective crowd management, blending tradition with convenience.
After stepping out, I made my way to the nearby Neeraj Tea Stall, a beloved spot among locals. A hot cup of tea for `10 and a plate of pakoras for `20, accompanied by a free-of-cost cheerful chat with the locals. They advised me to beware of the mischievous monkeys, notorious for snatching food items. Accommodation options ranged from economical dormitories and Dharamshalas for under `500 to mid-range hotels for `2,000 and even luxurious stays.
After freshening up, I hopped onto a city electric bus to Naya Ghat. A short walk led me to the serene banks of the Saryu River. The sacred river welcomed many devotees. Despite the winter chill and fog, I mustered the courage and plunged into the sacred waters, feeling an inexplicable connection with the divine.
Next, I visited the Nageshwar Nath Temple, established by Kush, Lord Ram’s son, to honour Lord Shiva with sacred Saryu water. Ram ki Paidi is a series of ghats on the bank of the River Saryu. The riverfront presents an outstanding landscape, especially on floodlit nights. Every year on Diwali, Ayodhya’s Deepotsav is celebrated on these ghats with lakhs of diyas and laser shows. The vibrant energy surrounding the ghats during the festivities is truly blissful. From there, I walked to the road and took a `10 e-rickshaw to Choti Devkali Mandir, where Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Sita Mata’s family deity. Near the main road, I treated myself to some delicious dahi jalebi at Maurya Misthan Bhandar for `50—a delightful experience for both my taste buds and spirit.
Before visiting the grand Ram Mandir, I headed towards the Hanuman Garhi Temple. This temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, had a long queue of devotees, but the wait was worth it. With 1 kg of prasad—besan ladoos made in desi ghee—for `480, I was ready for my next destination.
After that, I visited the Ram Mandir, which is within walking distance. I was amazed by the sight of the temple. Although it is still under construction, the energy and emotions I felt there are beyond words. It was a deeply spiritual experience. The temple has proper arrangements and facilities for pilgrims, including a dedicated facilitation centre to assist visitors. One can also pre-book a slot for the Ram Mandir Aarti Darshan online. By 4 p.m., I had completed all these activities and had lunch at Chandra Restaurant, which cost `500. Afterwards, I took some rest, preparing for another surreal experience yet to come.
Ayodhya’s Heartbeat
As the clock struck 7 p.m., Ayodhya dazzled in vibrant lights. The symbolic streetlights, soulful bhajans blending with city sounds, and the lively yet peaceful atmosphere felt surreal. Walking through the illuminated streets, I reached Kanak Bhawan, believed to have been gifted by Kaikeyi to Sita after her marriage to Lord Ram. The temple’s architecture, reminiscent of Rajasthani palaces, left me in awe. The idols of Lord Ram and Sita exuded divine charm. As I sat in the temple’s courtyard, time seemed to stand still. Attending the Shayan Aarti at 9 p.m. was a transcendent experience, with devotees singing bhajans in reverence.
After the aarti, I had dinner at Kanak Rasoi for `150 before heading back to my stay. The next morning, I caught my train back to Bhubaneswar, but a part of my soul remains in Ayodhya, especially in the divine embrace of Kanak Bhawan. This journey to the sacred land was not just a travel experience but a spiritual awakening that will forever resonate in my heart.
