Dashrath Mahal, also called Bada Asthan or Badi Jagah, stands in Ramkot on the site that tradition identifies with the palace of King Dashrath, the father of Lord Ram — the home in which Ram and his brothers are said to have grown up.
Today it is a working temple and monastic seat. A tall, brightly painted gateway leads into a courtyard with a shrine of Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Bharat and Shatrughna, and there is nearly always devotional singing in progress.
Top things to do at Dashrath Mahal
Walk through the painted gateway
The entrance, decorated with fish motifs, floral panels and scalloped arches, is one of the most photographed doorways in Ayodhya.
Join the bhajans
Resident sadhus and visiting groups keep up kirtan through much of the day. Visitors are welcome to sit and listen.
Come for a festival
Ram Navami, Vivah Panchami, Diwali and the Sawan swing festival are celebrated here with particular colour.
How to get to Dashrath Mahal
- On foot: Dashrath Mahal is a short walk from both Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhawan in the lanes of Ramkot.
- By e-rickshaw: get down at Hanuman Garhi or on Ram Path and walk; the lanes are narrow.
Insider tips
- Like many temples in Ayodhya it usually closes for a midday break; mornings and evenings are best.
- There is no entry fee.
- Watch for monkeys in the courtyard and keep bags closed.
Tours that include Dashrath Mahal
These guided trips cover Dashrath Mahal or combine easily with a visit:
Private day trip from US$40 Lucknow: Private Ayodhya & Ram Mandir Temple Tour
A private guided day in Ayodhya from Lucknow by car. You visit the Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi, Dashrath Mahal and other ancient sites before driving back in the evening.
- Ram Mandir darshan
- Hanuman Garhi
- Dashrath Mahal and other old shrines
Day trip from US$87 Varanasi: Ayodhya Day Trip Tour
A full-day car trip from Varanasi to Ayodhya, the pilgrimage city revered as the birthplace of Lord Ram, hero of the Ramayana.
- Round trip by car from Varanasi
- Birthplace of Lord Ram
- Heritage of the Ramayana
