Ram Navami in Ayodhya: Birthday of Shri Ram

What it celebrates

Ram Navami marks the birth of Shri Ram to Queen Kaushalya and King Dasharatha in Ayodhya, on the ninth day (navami) of the bright half of the month of Chaitra, at midday. The Bala Kanda tells the story. It is the final day of Chaitra Navratri, nine days during which many devotees fast and read the Ramcharitmanas from beginning to end.

How Ayodhya celebrates

For the city where he was born this is the greatest day of the year. Pilgrims arrive for days beforehand, bathe in the Saryu before dawn and queue for darshan. In every temple the same thing happens at noon: the doors are closed for a few minutes and then thrown open to the sound of conches and bells to announce the birth, the child Ram is rocked in a cradle, and the verse beginning "Bhaye pragat kripala" from the Ramcharitmanas is sung. Panjiri and other prasad are distributed. Kanak Bhawan, Dashrath Mahal and Hanuman Garhi are decorated, and processions pass through the streets.

Surya Tilak

At Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, an arrangement of mirrors and lenses designed by Indian scientists directs a beam of sunlight on to the forehead of Ram Lalla at noon on Ram Navami, a "Surya Tilak" from the Sun to a prince of the Solar dynasty. It was first performed in 2024 and is shown on screens in the city and broadcast live.

The meaning

The Ramayana places the birth at noon, when the sun stands highest and casts the least shadow. Devotees read this as a sign of the life to come: lived in full light, with nothing hidden. The day is a good one to take up a single teaching of Ram and resolve to practise it for a year.

Planning your visit

• This is the most crowded day in Ayodhya; several hundred thousand people come. Book rooms and trains well ahead, and expect to walk long distances because vehicles are stopped far out.
• Darshan timings at the main temple are usually extended; follow the trust's announcements.
• April sun is strong. Carry water, cover your head and avoid the worst queues with elders and infants.
• If the crowd on the day itself is too much, come a day or two earlier during Navratri, when the atmosphere is already festive.
• You can watch the noon ceremony live on television if you cannot travel.

See Best time to visit Ayodhya and Safety tips for pilgrims.