Ayodhya is undergoing the most ambitious transformation in its modern history. Following the consecration of the Ram Mandir in January 2024, the central and state governments have invested thousands of crores in upgrading the city’s infrastructure to welcome millions of pilgrims each year.
New Airport
Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya opened in November 2023 — the first international airport in the Faizabad division. Located approximately 6 km from the city centre, it handles flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and other major cities, with more routes being added. The terminal building is designed with temple-inspired architecture, featuring lotus motifs and warm stone colours.
Ram Path — The New Pilgrim Highway
A wide, tree-lined boulevard called Ram Path (formerly Faizabad Road) was developed to connect the railway station to the Ram Mandir area. The 13-km stretch has been widened, beautified with murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana, and lined with shops and dharamshalas.
Sarayu Riverfront Development
The Sarayu riverfront has been transformed into a world-class ghats complex. New ghats with stone steps, lighting, and seating have been built for pilgrims to bathe in the sacred river. A solar-powered boat service allows pilgrims to take a river cruise and view the city from the water.
Deepotsav — Guinness Record Event
Every year on Diwali, Ayodhya hosts Deepotsav — the lighting of lakhs of diyas along the Sarayu ghats. In recent years, the event has broken Guinness World Records, with over 22 lakh (2.2 million) diyas lit in a single ceremony, turning the riverfront into a river of light.
Upcoming Projects
- Ram Van Gaman Path — a pilgrimage route tracing the path Ram took during his 14-year exile
- International Ramayana Museum
- Expansion of the Ram Mandir complex with outer prakarams (courtyards)
- Metro connectivity from Lucknow to Ayodhya
Jai Shri Ram! Jai Ayodhya!