The Magnificent Ram Temple of Ayodhya: Experience Its Grandeur In 2024

The Ayodhya Ram Mandir holds an exceptional place in the cultural and religious tapestry of India. The city, situated on the banks of the Sarayu River, is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. For centuries, Ayodhya has been a pilgrimage destination for millions of devotees from around the world. 

Now, with the new temple of Ayodhya on the sacred Ram Janmabhoomi, devotees and tourists can come to visit a grand and glorious place that exudes a divine atmosphere. 

Let’s explore the history, architecture, and significance of the Ayodhya Ram Temple.

The History of Ayodhya

Ayodhya, one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, has a rich history dating back to the ancient Indian epic, Ramayana. The city was the capital of the kingdom of Kosala, ruled by the Suryavanshi dynasty, to which Lord Rama belonged. Ayodhya is believed to have been home to several temples over the years, including the original Ram Temple, which was built to mark the birthplace of Lord Ram.

The Architecture of the Ayodhya Ram Temple

The grand temple at Ram Janmabhoomi has captured the interest of millions, as it is set to be a symbol of cultural and religious significance and one of the important places to visit in Ayodhya.

This Temple of Ayodhya will follow the distinctive Nagara style of temple architecture, adding to the anticipation. The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra's release of the proposed model has heightened the excitement for this significant project. 

• Understanding the Nagara Style Architectural Elements

The Indian landscape features a diverse array of architectural styles that have evolved under regional rulers. The Nagara style, predominantly found in northern India, further branches into various schools like Odisha, Khajuraho, Solanki, etc. These regional variations contribute to the rich tapestry of temple architecture across the country.

Delving into the Nagara style of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir’s architecture requires an understanding of its fundamental elements, each carrying spiritual significance. These elements include the Garbhagriha, Mandapa, Shikhara, and Vahana. While common to Hindu temple architecture, each plays a unique role in shaping the sacred space.

In the Nagara style, temples are often constructed on an elevated platform called jagati, and Mandapas are situated in front of the Garbhagriha. These Mandapas are adorned with Shikharas, with the tallest one positioned above the Garbhagriha. The absence of elaborate boundary walls or gateways distinguishes Nagara-style temples from their South Indian counterparts.
 

• Material Selection and Specifications for Ayodhya Ram Mandir 

The stones from the Banshi mountains in Rajasthan are reported to be used for the construction of the Ayodhya Ram temple. The Ayodhya Ram temple's impressive specifications include a towering height of 161 feet and three storeys. Moreover, the temple's design meticulously adheres to Vastushastra and Shilpishastra, ancient Indian architectural and sculptural treatises that provide guidelines for sacred structures. 

• Comparisons with Other Nagara-Style Temples

When comparing the Ram Temple of Ayodhya with other temples built in the Nagara style, like the Kandariya Mahadeo temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, it becomes apparent that there is a consistent similarity in architectural features. The proposed design for the Ayodhya Ram temple showcases a similar latina-style Shikhara, reflecting the enduring principles of Nagara architecture. 

• Symbolism in Design

In contrast to South Indian temples that generally feature a stepped pyramid rising linearly (Vimana), Nagara-style temples have Shikharas not only over the main shrine but also over the Mandapas. In the Ayodhya Ram temple's proposed design, the Shikharas over the Mandapas exhibit a square base and a rectilinear outline, known as the phamsana-style Shikhara. This unique design adds an artistic dimension to the architectural composition. 

• Structural Composition: Pillars and Mandapas 

The temple is envisioned to have five Mandapas between the Garbhagriha and the entrance, including kudu mandapa, nritya mandapa, and rang mandapa in that order, with kirtan mandapa and prarthana mandapa on either side. A staggering 360 pillars support the entire structure, each contributing to the temple's structural integrity and visual grandeur, making it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Ayodhya.

• The Grandeur of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir

Ayodhya Ram Temple, an expansive marvel over 70.5 acres, is designed to exude divine grandeur. With meticulous planning, the temple features 44 gates, 18 of which boast intricately crafted doors, and 14 are adorned with gold, symbolising its sacred significance.

The temple is accessible through three distinct paths – Ram Janmabhoomi path, Bhakti path, and Ram path – each offering devotees a spiritual journey towards the sanctum.

The design seamlessly blends the grandiosity of the temple with practical considerations, embodying both the sanctity of the sacred site and the comfort of the devotees.

The Ayodhya Ram Mandir ensures convenience for devotees by allowing entry through a single gate, simplifying the pilgrimage experience.

Gateways and Road Design

Following the traditional principles of old temples in Sanatan Dharma, two 35-foot high gateways stand 600 meters before the birthplace perimeter. A 75-foot wide road, flanked by footpaths, leads pilgrims towards the temple.

Canopies and Security Measures

The path is adorned with nine canopies, adding to the visual appeal. Bag scanners with 16 counters ensure security, blending tradition with modern safety measures.

How to Reach Ayodhya Ram Temple

You can visit the Ram Temple of Ayodhya in the following ways. 

• By Air: 

The nearest airport to Ayodhya is the Faizabad Airport (IATA: IXD), also known as Ayodhya Airport. Alternatively, you can fly into the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (IATA: LKO) in Lucknow, which is approximately 130 kilometres away from Ayodhya. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation options to reach Ayodhya. 

• By Train: 

Ayodhya has a railway station known as Ayodhya Junction (AY), and it is well-connected to major cities across India. You can check the train schedules and book tickets to Ayodhya from your location. Once you arrive at the Ayodhya Junction, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or other local transportation to reach the Ram Mandir. 

• By Road: 

Ayodhya is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by bus, car, or other private vehicle. The city has a good network of roads, and you can use national highways to reach Ayodhya. You can also hire a taxi or use interstate bus services.

Once in the cities, you can use local transportation options like auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, or taxis to reach the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.

The Future of the Ram Temple of Ayodhya

The Ram Temple of Ayodhya is an architectural marvel that holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the people of India. Its construction marks a new chapter in the history of Ayodhya, symbolising faith. 

As the temple stands tall in the sacred city, it serves as a reminder of India's rich cultural heritage and the importance of preserving and celebrating our shared history. With the Ram Temple set to become a major pilgrimage destination, Ayodhya is poised for a bright future, paving the way for economic development, cultural resurgence, and religious harmony.

The construction of the Ram Temple is expected to revitalise the city of Ayodhya, transforming it into a major cultural and religious hub, drawing millions of pilgrims annually, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

The temple complex, along with the associated facilities, will provide numerous opportunities for economic growth and development in the region. The influx of pilgrims and tourists will boost local businesses, create employment opportunities, and improve infrastructure in the area.

Moreover, the Ram Temple of Ayodhya is likely to inspire the preservation and restoration of other cultural and historical sites in and around the city. This will help conserve India's rich heritage and promote cultural tourism, further benefiting the local economy.