Guptar Ghat lies on the Saryu at the western, Faizabad end of the city. Tradition holds that it was here that Lord Ram walked into the river and left the world — his jal samadhi — which is why the name is linked with the idea of disappearing from sight.
The broad flights of steps were built in the 19th century by Raja Darshan Singh. Above them stand several old temples, among them the Sita-Ram temple, the Chakrahari shrine and a Narsingh temple. Compared with Naya Ghat it is spacious and quiet, and many visitors find it the most contemplative place in Ayodhya.
Top things to do at Guptar Ghat
Watch the sunrise from the steps
Early morning is the best time, when pilgrims bathe and the river is still. Evenings are also pleasant.
Take a boat on the Saryu
Boatmen offer short rides from the ghat when the water level allows. Agree the price and duration first, and wear the life jacket if one is provided.
Visit the old temples
Climb to the Sita-Ram, Chakrahari and Narsingh shrines above the steps; the riverfront has also been landscaped with paths and seating in recent years.
Stroll in Company Gardens
The colonial-era public garden near the ghat is a shady place for a walk.
How to get to Guptar Ghat
- From the Ram Mandir area: roughly 8–10 km west; allow 25–40 minutes by taxi, auto or e-rickshaw.
- From Ayodhya Cantt station: only a few kilometres away, so it combines well with an arrival or departure there.
- With a tour: some multi-day and boat-ride itineraries include the Saryu; check each listing on our tours page.
Insider tips
- Keep your return transport, or fix a pick-up time — e-rickshaws are fewer here than in the old town.
- In the monsoon the river is high and fast; boat rides may be suspended.
- There is no entry fee for the ghat.
- Allow about an hour and a half including travel from the temple area.
Tours that include Guptar Ghat
These guided trips cover Guptar Ghat or combine easily with a visit:
Private day trip from US$114 From Lucknow: Ayodhya Private Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
A private tour from Lucknow to the birthplace of Lord Ram, with a boat ride on the Saryu river and a vegetarian lunch included.
- Shri Ram Janmabhoomi
- Boat ride on the Saryu
- Vegetarian lunch
Multi-day tour from US$222 3-Day Ayodhya Spiritual Journey with Temples & Saryu Aarti
Three unhurried days in Ayodhya, taking in its ancient temples, its ghats and the evening aarti on the Saryu river.
- Ancient temples of Ayodhya
- Peaceful ghats
- Evening aarti on the Saryu
