Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a sacred city in Uttar Pradesh that welcomes millions to visit each year. For pilgrims and travelers, staying in a dharamshala offers an affordable, spiritual experience. These guesthouses, often run by local trusts, provide simple rooms, vegetarian meals, and a peaceful vibe close to Ayodhya’s holy sites. Two well-known dharamshalas stand out: Sri Janaki Mahal Trust and Birla Guest House. Both are conveniently located and cater to devotees visiting sites like Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and Hanuman Garhi. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust does not operate any dharamshala, focusing only on temple management. This article explores these two trusted dharamshalas, offering practical details to make your Ayodhya stay comfortable and budget-friendly.
Sri Janaki Mahal Trust
Sri Janaki Mahal Trust, located in Karsewakpuram near Vasudev Ghat, is a beloved dharamshala in Ayodhya. Just 1 km from Ram Janmabhoomi, it’s ideal for pilgrims wanting to visit the temple. Established in 1990, it reflects the Birla legacy of hospitality, offering clean two- and three-bedded AC and non-AC rooms for families. The in-house bhojanalaya serves tasty vegetarian meals, and there’s parking for vehicles. The dharamshala has a temple on-site, creating a serene atmosphere for prayers. However, beware of online booking scams—many guests report fraud when booking via unofficial sites. Contact the trust directly for safe reservations. With its proximity to Hanuman Garhi and Sarayu River, Sri Janaki Mahal Trust ensures a spiritual and comfortable stay, perfect for devotees seeking peace.
Amenities and Services
Sri Janaki Mahal Trust offers clean, family-friendly rooms with AC or non-AC options. Amenities include hot water, CCTV security, and pure drinking water. The bhojanalaya provides affordable vegetarian meals, like dal-roti, for around ₹50 per person. A temple within the premises hosts evening aartis, adding to the spiritual vibe. Parking is available, but limited, so confirm beforehand. The staff is friendly, though service may be slow during peak seasons. Note: Avoid online bookings due to reported fraud; call the trust’s official number (+91-8905935399) for inquiries.
Booking Tips
To book at Sri Janaki Mahal Trust, contact them directly or visit their official site. Avoid third-party websites, as scams are common. TripAdvisor reviews mention non-refunded payments and unconfirmed bookings. Call a month ahead, especially during Ram Navami or Diwali, when rooms fill up fast. Rates start at ₹600 for non-AC and ₹1200 for AC rooms. Carry ID proof for check-in, and confirm meal and parking availability when reserving.
Birla Guest House
Birla Guest House, also known as Birla Dharamshala, is a top pick for pilgrims in Ayodhya’s New Colony, about 1 km from Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Known for its spacious, clean rooms and calm environment, it’s perfect for those visiting sacred sites like Hanuman Garhi. The dharamshala offers AC and non-AC rooms, secure parking, and an on-site vegetarian restaurant serving simple, hearty meals. Managed with a focus on pilgrim comfort, it’s rated 4.0/5 by over 2,400 guests for its affordability and hospitality. Online bookings are not available, so direct contact is essential to avoid fraud. Its large campus and serene setting make Birla Guest House a welcoming retreat for families and solo travelers alike.
Nearby Attractions
Birla Guest House is a short walk or 5-minute drive from Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, roughly 1 km away. Hanuman Garhi, 800 meters away, is another must-visit, offering stunning views after a 76-step climb. Ram Ki Paidi and Sarayu River ghats are also nearby, perfect for evening aartis or boat rides. Local markets around New Colony offer souvenirs and Awadhi snacks, making it easy to explore Ayodhya’s spiritual and cultural charm on foot or by auto-rickshaw.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to stay at Birla Guest House is October to March, when Ayodhya’s weather is cool and pleasant. Winters are ideal for temple visits and outdoor exploration. Avoid monsoons (July-September) due to humidity and crowded festivals like Ram Navami, unless booked well in advance. Call the dharamshala directly to reserve rooms, as they don’t offer online bookings. Rates start at ₹200 per Dormitory, but confirm prices when contacting. Early mornings are perfect for a peaceful temple visit, enhancing your stay’s spiritual experience.
