Ayodhya is the sacred birthplace of Lord Shri Ram, and visiting this holy city during festivals feels truly divine. In 2026, Ayodhya will witness thousands (and even lakhs) of devotees during major celebrations like Ram Navami, Diwali (Deepotsav), and other important Hindu festivals.
This blog post will help you understand the Ayodhya Festival Calendar 2026, including:
✅ major festival seasons
✅ what devotees can expect
✅ best time for darshan during festivals
✅ travel + crowd tips for a smooth visit
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Darshan Guide 2026 – Timings, Entry Rules & Best Time to Visit
Why Visit Ayodhya During Festivals?
Festivals in Ayodhya are not ordinary celebrations—they are spiritual experiences.
During festival days, you can witness:
🪔 special decorations in temples
🎶 bhajans and kirtans
🌊 grand aartis at Saryu Ghat
🙏 special darshan arrangements
✨ a divine atmosphere across the city
📌 But remember: festivals also bring heavy crowds, so planning is very important.
Top Festivals in Ayodhya 2026 (Devotees’ Guide)
1) Ram Navami – The Biggest Festival in Ayodhya
Ram Navami is the most important festival in Ayodhya because it celebrates the birth of Lord Shri Ram.
What happens in Ayodhya during Ram Navami?
✅ grand darshan arrangements
✅ special pujas and aartis
✅ huge crowd of devotees
✅ devotional programs across the city
📌 Tip for devotees:
- Visit early morning for darshan
- Book hotel in advance
- Expect long queues
2) Diwali / Deepotsav – Ayodhya’s Most Beautiful Celebration
Ayodhya’s Diwali is world-famous because of Deepotsav, where the city is decorated with lakhs of diyas.
Why Diwali in Ayodhya is special?
🪔 massive diya lighting
✨ beautiful temple and city illumination
🎆 cultural programs and celebrations
🌊 divine vibe at Saryu Ghat
📌 Tip:
Diwali season is extremely crowded—plan everything early.
3) Hanuman Jayanti
Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with great devotion, especially at Hanuman Garhi.
Devotees can expect:
✅ special prayers and bhajans
✅ large crowd at Hanuman temples
✅ powerful spiritual atmosphere
📌 Best time to visit Hanuman Garhi: Morning hours.
4) Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is an important festival in Ayodhya, especially for devotees who visit Saryu River.
Key highlights:
🌊 holy bath in Saryu
🙏 prayers and rituals
🪔 devotional gatherings
5) Maha Shivratri
Ayodhya also has important Shiva temples like Nageshwarnath Temple, where Maha Shivratri is celebrated with devotion.
What devotees do:
✅ Shiva abhishekam
✅ fasting and prayers
✅ night-time temple visits
6) Kartik Purnima
Kartik Purnima is a very holy time for river ghats and temple visits.
Highlights:
🌊 Saryu ghat rituals
🪔 evening diya offerings
🙏 peaceful spiritual energy
7) Navratri (Chaitra & Sharad Navratri)
Navratri is celebrated across Ayodhya with devotion, temple visits, and spiritual discipline.
What to expect:
✅ fasting devotees
✅ special pujas
✅ increased crowd in temples
Special Darshan Updates During Festivals
During major festivals like Ram Navami and Diwali:
✅ security becomes stricter
✅ crowd management is tighter
✅ entry routes may change
✅ time-slot entry or tokens may be introduced
✅ darshan time may be extended
📌 Important: Always follow official instructions and volunteer guidance.
Best Time for Darshan During Festival Days
If you’re visiting Ayodhya during peak festival season:
⭐ Best Time of Day
✅ 5:30 AM – 8:00 AM (best)
✅ Late evening after 8:00 PM (sometimes less crowd)
Avoid
⚠️ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (peak crowd + heat)
⚠️ Evening 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM (rush time)
Travel & Hotel Tips for Festival Season
Festival time needs early planning.
✅ Hotel Booking Tips
- Book hotel 2–4 weeks early (or more)
- Prefer staying near Ram Mandir / Ayodhya Dham area
- Check lift/elevator for elders
✅ Travel Tips
- Arrive a day before the festival
- Keep extra time for traffic and security checks
- Carry light luggage only
Crowd Safety Tips for Devotees
During festivals, follow these safety tips:
✅ Keep water bottle and ORS
✅ Hold children’s hands in crowds
✅ Carry ID proof
✅ Keep emergency contact saved
✅ Avoid carrying valuables
✅ Stay calm and devotional
📌 Senior citizens should avoid peak crowd timings.
Best Months to Visit Ayodhya in 2026 (Festival + Comfort)
If you want a mix of comfort and festivals, choose:
⭐ October to March
This season includes:
- pleasant weather
- Diwali/Deepotsav season
- more spiritual programs
If you want the biggest festival:
⭐ Visit during Ram Navami season (crowded but divine)
FAQs – Ayodhya Festival Calendar 2026
Q1. Which is the biggest festival in Ayodhya?
Ram Navami is the biggest festival in Ayodhya.
Q2. When is Ayodhya most beautiful?
During Diwali Deepotsav, Ayodhya looks divine with diyas and lights.
Q3. Is darshan available during festivals?
Yes, darshan is available but crowds are heavy and rules may change.
Q4. Should I book hotels early for festival visits?
Yes, festival season gets packed quickly. Book in advance.
Q5. What is the best time to visit Ayodhya in 2026?
October to March is best for weather and peaceful travel.
Final Words
Ayodhya festivals are filled with devotion, energy, and blessings. Whether you visit during Ram Navami, Diwali Deepotsav, or any holy occasion, the city will give you a spiritual experience that stays in your heart forever.
🙏 Jai Shri Ram!