subject: Ayodhya-spiritual Heaven On Earth [print this page] One of the ancient cities in India, Ayodhya is near the Faizabad city in the state of Uttar Pradesh. This place is also known as Saket. It holds importance in terms of Hinduism since Ayodhya is the birthplace of the epic Gods Ram and Swami Narayan. This city is considered one of the landmark cities of the 6th century BC and symbolizes as the birthplace of Indian manhood that continues to allure visitors from around the world. The history of this temple city revolves around the rulers of Suryavamshis whose legendary tales initiated the great epic, Ramayana.
During the 6th century, Ayodhya was the capital of an expansive land that spread from the Kabul Valley to the Godavari Banks. This land was under the Kosala Kings that was devastated by the Magadhans. This city is now a platform for gaining knowledge and enlightenment of the glorious rule of the Gupta and the Mauryans.
Being a focal point of various religions, you will find Ayodhyas name in various religious texts. Ancient structures that still exist in Ayodhya, reveals facts and legendary tales of Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism. Wherever Ayodhya has been mentioned from the Vedas to the Holy Scriptures of the Jains, this land has been referred to as the City built by the Gods and being a prosperous city equal to paradise. Ayodhya is a must-see for religious pilgrimage and history buffs.
Shopping in this city provides a unique experience, since its not the stereotype form of shopping that everyone expects. One cannot expect malls and fashion houses in this religious place. What you will enjoy the most are the small gallis and mini bazaars that are almost always vibrant and crowded. The articles that you can find in these bazaars are unique and beautiful artifacts and souvenirs that make your shopping experience different and memorable and your spiritual level being uplifted to quite a high level. The best time to visit is during the months of October to March. Cheap means of travel are available in the city, the modes of transport being taxis, buses, auto rickshaws and uniquely, the Tongas.
Ayodhya, the name itself arouses such a wide variety of emotions in the minds of the Indians thats difficult to measure or put them to words. Ayodhya is considered sacred and holy by every Indian, irrespective of the diversity in the culture and religion of the people in India. Even though the present Ayodhya is a tiny, rural like city with ancient ramifications, it portrays a glorious history and tradition that continues to influence the millions in India and abroad.
