Safety Tips for Pilgrims in Ayodhya

Ayodhya is a safe city; crowds are the main risk

Ayodhya is heavily policed, well lit along its main routes and used to visitors. Most problems pilgrims face are the ordinary ones of any crowded place: getting separated, losing belongings, heat, and the occasional cheat. A little preparation prevents nearly all of them.

In crowds

• Decide a meeting point at every stop before you enter, something fixed and visible such as a named gate or counter.
• Put a card with a name and mobile number in the pocket of each child and elder. Teach children to go to a police officer if lost.
• Keep to the barricaded line. Do not push, and do not stop suddenly to pick up something dropped; step aside first.
• If the crowd becomes too dense, move to the side and wait. Darshan will still be there in an hour.
• Avoid the very biggest days with infants, frail elders or anyone unwell.

If someone is lost

Stay near where you last saw them. Go to the nearest police assistance booth or khoya-paya centre, which have public address systems, and give a description. If you cannot find one, call 112.

At the Saryu

Bathe only at built ghats, within the chains. Do not go beyond knee depth if you cannot swim, never bathe alone or after dark, and take special care from July to September. On boats, wear a life jacket and refuse an overloaded boat. See Saryu Ghat.

Health

• Summer: water, ORS, a cap, and rest from late morning to late afternoon. Heatstroke is a real danger in May and June.
• Winter: warm layers and socks; stone floors are very cold at dawn.
• Carry your regular medicines and a doctor's prescription in your hand luggage.
• Eat freshly cooked hot food and drink sealed or filtered water.
• For help, dial 108, or see hospitals and clinics.

Belongings

Carry little. Use the official lockers at the Ram Mandir. Keep cash in two places. Watch your footwear and prasad around monkeys at Hanuman Garhi; do not tease or feed them.

Money and fraud

• Darshan is free everywhere. No one can sell entry.
• Agree fares for e-rickshaws, taxis and boats before you start.
• Buy prasad and souvenirs from shops that display prices.
• Do not scan unknown QR codes or pay advances to personal accounts for rooms; see Where to stay.
• Donate only at official temple counters, never to someone who approaches you.

Women travellers

Ayodhya is generally comfortable for women, including those travelling alone. Use registered transport at night, share your live location with family, and call 1090 or 112 without hesitation if someone troubles you.

Respect

Dress modestly, remove footwear where asked, do not photograph where it is forbidden, and keep the ghats clean. Courtesy is the best safety measure of all.

All numbers are on the helpline page. To travel with a local escort, request a guided tour.