Ayodhya-Prayagraj-Varanasi
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Day 1: Lucknow – Ayodhya
Upon arrival at Lucknow’s newly developed airport, embark on a 3-hour drive to Ayodhya, one of the world’s oldest cities, situated along the banks of the Sarayu River and the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram. Ayodhya is an integral part of the Ramayana Tour, which can extend to destinations like Nashik, Rameshwaram, and Sri Lanka.
Begin your journey by visiting Hanuman Garhi, a 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for his contribution to building the bridge from Rameshwaram to Sri Lanka. Next, visit Dashrath Mahal, the residence of King Dashrath, father of Lord Ram, and Kanak Bhawan, gifted to Sita by Queen Kaikeyi.
Conclude your day with a visit to the sacred Ramjanmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Ram. Witness the massive temple construction underway, following the foundation stone laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 5, 2020. The temple is expected to open in 2024.
Day 2: Ayodhya – Prayagraj
Depart for Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), an ancient city situated at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Sarasvati rivers, known as Triveni Sangam. In the afternoon, visit Anand Bhavan, the former residence of the Nehru family, now a museum. Then, stop by the Hanuman Temple, where the deity is depicted in a reclining position. End your day with a peaceful boat ride at Triveni Sangam.
Day 3: Prayagraj – Varanasi
After breakfast, drive to Varanasi (2.5 hours), one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and a center of learning and culture. Known as the city of Shiva, Varanasi is famous for its labyrinthine streets, over a hundred ghats, and the sacred Ganges River. Also called Kashi or Benares, Varanasi is India’s oldest living city and a hub for Sanskrit scholarship.
Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, featuring a marble relief map of India, followed by the Durga Temple and the Tulsi Manas Temple, which showcases scenes and verses from the Ramcharitmanas. The New Viswanath Temple is a key highlight, though non-Hindus are not permitted inside. Explore Banaras Hindu University and its museum to learn more about the city’s cultural significance.
Day 4: Varanasi
Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges, where you’ll witness the vibrant life of the ghats, including bathing rituals and cremation ceremonies—an unforgettable cultural experience. In the afternoon, visit the historic Sarnath complex, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
In the evening, participate in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the ghats, or choose to witness it from a boat on the river.
Day 5: Varanasi – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, carrying with you the spiritual essence of this sacred journey.