Top Things to Do in Ayodhya for Senior Travelers
Ayodhya, located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the holiest cities for Hindus. As per Hindu mythology, Ayodhya was the capital of the Ikshvaku dynasty and the birthplace of Lord Rama. This ancient city attracts a large number of senior pilgrims and travellers every year who come to visit the various temples and relive the stories from the Ramayana epic.
Ayodhya isn’t just about its religious importance. It’s a city full of experiences perfect for senior visitors. Let’s explore some top activities for elderly travelers in Ayodhya:
Visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
One of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Ayodhya is the Ram Janmabhoomi temple. It is believed to be built on the birthplace of Lord Rama. The temple is constantly visited by elderly devotees who come to pay their respects and seek blessings.
The temple premise is easily accessible for seniors with amenities like wheelchairs, golf carts and ramps. There are shaded resting areas where elderly visitors can take breaks. Temple volunteers are always ready to assist seniors in navigating their way around. The special ‘darshan’ queues for elderly, disabled and sick pilgrims ensure they don’t have to wait long or get jostled by crowds.
Elderly travellers can take part in the evening aarti when the temple is beautifully lit up and the atmosphere is divine. The illuminated views of the temple at night are a must-see.
Boat Ride on River Saryu
A relaxing way to experience Ayodhya is by taking a boat ride on the River Saryu. The river holds religious significance as it is said to have been crossed by Lord Rama on his way to exile.
Many companies offer comfortable, covered boats for senior travellers to prevent hassles from weather or crowds. The rides provide scenic views of the ghats, temples and local life by the river bank. Boats have awnings, seats and space for wheelchairs as well to ensure a pleasant experience for elderly tourists.
The boat staff is trained to assist seniors in safely getting on and off the vessels. The rides are ideal for elderly people looking for a laidback experience in Ayodhya.
Also Read: Best Travel Destinations in India for Seniors
Try Local Delicacies
Ayodhya offers a variety of lip-smacking vegetarian dishes that elderly foodies will enjoy. Seniors should try local delicacies like kadhi-chawal, aloo ki tikki, baati chokha, jalebi, rabri and thandai.
There are several eateries and street food joints that allow easy access for older diners. They have ramps, comfortable seating and attentive staff to make the experience convenient. Food tours are also available that let travellers sample authentic flavours of the city in a planned manner.
Shop for Religious Keepsakes
Around the main temple complex, there are many interesting shops selling religious artifacts, spiritual books, prayer mats and more. Elderly devotees will enjoy browsing through these stores and picking up souvenirs for loved one’s back home.
Shopkeepers are used to assisting seniors and will happily let them take their time deciding without any rush. They also provide chairs for the elderly to rest their feet if needed. Items bought can be delivered directly to one’s hotel or ashram.
Attend the Evening Aarti
One of the highlights of visiting Ayodhya is attending the Ganga aarti held on the banks of River Saryu. The evening prayer ceremony features chanting, music, oil lamps and burning camphor.
The aarti offers a visually stunning experience that elderly travellers will remember. Special seating enclosures are made for seniors near the aarti stage. Guards are deployed to prevent jostling by crowds and ensure convenience and safety.
Visit Nageshwarnath Temple
Another prominent temple in Ayodhya is the Nageshwarnath temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The ancient stone temple has beautiful carvings and strikes a contrast from the more modern Ram temple.
The temple staff is always ready to help senior citizens navigate their way around the premises. They provide wheelchairs if required and allow quick darshan. The surrounding gardens are ideal for elderly tourists to take leisurely strolls after paying respects. There are benches at regular intervals for resting.
Take a Day Trip to Nearby Destinations
Elderly visitors can also take day trips from Ayodhya to nearby historically significant places like Faizabad, Prayagraj and Lucknow. Local tour operators offer comfortable and customisable tour packages for seniors.
Cars and buses provide easy access, ample leg space and reclining seats. Destinations like Prayagraj offer the chance to visit places like Allahabad Fort and Triveni Sangam. Lucknow provides an opportunity to explore monuments and savour exotic cuisine.
Try Exploring Around the City
For elderly travellers who prefer a relaxed sightseeing experience, Ayodhya offers the option to roam around the city at leisure.
Seniors can explore places like the historic Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, the Jain Temple, Birla Mandir, Hanuman Garhi and more by hiring auto-rickshaws for easy transportation. Moving through the city slowly allows visitors to immerse in the holy atmosphere. Drivers can make multiple stops as per passenger convenience.
Make Friends at Old Age Homes
A unique way to spend time in Ayodhya for elderly tourists is by visiting old age homes in the city and interacting with the residents there.
Examples like Maharishi Valmiki Ashram offer a chance to exchange stories and make heartwarming connections. The experience can be deeply enriching for senior citizens. Old age homes also provide the opportunity to indulge in activities like yoga, meditation and gardening together.
Enjoy Spiritual Discourses
To nourish their souls, elderly people can attend discourses by learned saints and gurus during their Ayodhya visit.
Discourses cover topics like the Ramayana, Bhagwad Gita, Puranas, Upanishads etc. People can ask questions and gain wisdom. Many ashrams and maths will also allow seniors to stay there for a more immersive spiritual experience.
Must Read: Top 14 Senior-Friendly Travel Groups for Memorable Travel Experiences
Volunteer with Charitable Organizations
Elderly travellers can also spend time volunteering with local charitable organisations engaged in various social causes. Examples include helping out at cow shelters, free meal kitchens, clinics, schools and more.
This provides a chance to meet inspiring people and feel uplifted through seva or selfless service. The experience can be especially rewarding for retired seniors looking for meaningful ways to utilize their time and give back.
No matter how you decide to spend your time, there are a lot of things to do in Ayodhya, offering a relaxing spiritual getaway for seniors. The sacred essence, accessibility and activities make it ideal for elderly travellers.
Emoha Elder Care Services
To fully enjoy your golden years and make the most of your trips to places like Ayodhya, it is recommended to have a supportive elderly care ecosystem.
Emoha Elder Care provides three assisted living solutions for seniors – Engage, Empower and Enhance. Each caters to different needs of elderly citizens to help them live life to the fullest.
With trained Eldercare Experts, nurses, doctors and more, Emoha supports seniors in their daily living, safety, health, engagement, nutrition and overall wellbeing. Advanced tech-enabled Care Homes provide security and comfort.
By choosing Emoha, elderly people can happily explore places like Ayodhya without worrying about challenges. Emoha’s vision aligned ecosystem offers 360-degree elderly care.
To learn more about how Emoha can transform your life or your parent’s golden years, get in touch today.
