Ayodhya Parikrama: Heritage Walks in Ayodhya

Ayodhya is along the tranquil banks of the sacred Saryu River lies the timeless town of Ayodhya, a place where faith, history, and spirituality intertwine seamlessly. As you step onto the Ayodhya Parikrama, you’ll embark on a journey that takes you through narrow alleys, hidden temples, and legendary Ghats—a journey known as the “Mokshdayni Parikrama.” This immersive heritage walk is not just a stroll through history; it’s a profound exploration of Ayodhya’s monumental and spiritual heritage.

Exploring Ayodhya’s Treasures

The walk unveils the tranquil Rinmochan Ghat, the legendary Ram ki Pairi, and leads you to the Nageshwarnath Temple, where the Shivalinga is revered as one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India. As you progress, you’ll reach the Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, a tribute to Goswami Tulsidas, housing the Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan—a treasure trove for those seeking deeper insights into Ayodhya and the life of Shree Ram.

A Glimpse of Spirituality

The culmination of this 2.5-hour journey is the Saryu Ghat, where you’ll join a diverse crowd to witness the grand spectacle of the Saryu Aarti. The river’s serene beauty and the spiritual fervor of the aarti create an unforgettable experience, leaving you with a profound sense of Ayodhya’s spirituality.

Ayodhya Parikramas: Walks of Faith

In Ayodhya, parikramas are an integral part of the spiritual lives of Hindus. These sacred circumambulations hold the power to cleanse sins and fulfill wishes, echoing a legend involving Lord Shiva’s consort, goddess Parvati. Here in Ayodhya, pilgrims arrive in droves to undertake these sacred journeys, categorized by their duration:

Mokshdayni Parikrama: Unveiling the Mysteries

The Mokshdayni Walk is a day trip that invites you to soak in the serenity of life by the Saryu. It begins at the Hanuman Garhi, where Hanumanji once stood guard over Ayodhya on Shree Ram’s orders. Before seeking blessings from Shree Ram, pilgrims first pay their respects to Pavan Putra Hanuman, the dutiful bhakt. From there, the journey continues through iconic sites like Kanak Bhawan, adorned with idols of Shree Ram and Sita wearing crowns of gold.

Antargrahi Parikrama: A Day’s Pilgrimage

This is the shortest parikrama, completed within a day. Pilgrims begin with a holy dip in the Saryu River, starting at the Nageshwarnath Temple and passing through Ram Ghat, Sita Kund, Mani Parvat, and Brahma Kund. It concludes at Kanak Bhawan, where blessings from Shree Ram and Goddess Sita are sought.

Panchkoshi Parikrama: A 16km

Possibly the most popular, this Ayodhya  parikrama spans 16 kilometers. It starts at Chakratirtha, leading devotees through various landmarks, including Naya Ghat, Ram Ghat, and Saryu Bagh. This spiritual journey attracts pilgrims and saints from far and wide, particularly during Devuthaani Gyaaras in Kartik.

Chaurasi Koshi Parikrama: 

For those seeking liberation from the cycle of life and death, the Chaurasi Koshi Ayodhya Parikrama beckons. Covering a daunting 84 kilometers, it begins on Ram Navami in the Chaitra month. This is the most challenging of all parikramas, a testament to the unwavering faith of those who undertake it.

Conclusion

As you partake in Ayodhya Parikrama ( circumambulations ) and delve into the rich heritage of Ayodhya, you’ll not only witness the town’s historical wonders but also experience the depth of faith that binds this place together—a testament to the enduring spirit of India’s spiritual heartland. Ayodhya, with its walks and parikramas, is indeed a journey of faith and devotion like no other.