Things to Do in Faizabad

Situated on the banks of the Ghaghara River in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Faizabad (part of Ayodhya district) is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. Once the capital of the Nawabs of Awadh, this historic city showcases a unique blend of Mughal and Hindu influences through its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Faizabad’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the sacred city of Ayodhya, located just 7 km away. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, spiritual seeker, or cultural explorer, Faizabad offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s rich past.

Top Attractions in Faizabad

Maqbara Shuja-ud-Daula (Gulab Bari)

This magnificent mausoleum houses the remains of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, his parents, and other family members. The complex features:

Intricate pillars and wall carvings showcasing Awadhi architecture
A serene rose garden (Gulab Bari) surrounding the main structure
An Imambara and mosque within the same compound
Ornate gateways and fountains

Visitor Information:

Location: Civil Lines area
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, daily
Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign tourists
Photography: Allowed (no additional fee)

Bahu Begum ka Maqbara

This stunning white marble mausoleum was built for Unmatuzzohra Bano (Bahu Begum), the wife of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula. Considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in Awadh, this 42-meter high structure features:

Intricate marble lattice work
A large central dome surrounded by smaller domes
Persian-inspired garden layout
Unique architectural elements blending Mughal and Rajput styles

Visitor Information:

Location: 2.5 km from Gulab Bari
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset, daily
Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign tourists
Time Required: 45-60 minutes

Fort Calcutta (Nawab’s Fort)

Built by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, this fort served as the royal residence until his death. The structure showcases:

Traditional Awadhi military architecture
Royal chambers and audience halls
Defensive fortifications
Historical significance as the seat of the Nawabi administration

Visitor Information:

Location: Near Faizabad Railway Station
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹10
Guide Services: Available at entrance (₹200-300)

Religious Sites

Chakra Harji Vishnu Temple

This ancient temple is famous for containing the imprints of Lord Rama’s feet. Hindu devotees consider it highly sacred.

Raja Mandir

An important Hindu temple reflecting the religious diversity of Faizabad.

Guptar Ghat

Located on the banks of the Saryu River, this site is believed to be where Lord Rama took “Jal Samadhi” (water burial). The area features:

Ancient stone steps leading to the river
Several small temples
A peaceful environment for meditation
Archaeological museum within the premises

Museums and Cultural Centers

Faizabad Museum

Located near Guptar Ghat, this museum houses a collection of:

Archaeological artifacts from the region
Sculptures and inscriptions
Historical weapons and coins
Exhibits related to the Nawabi era
Relics from ancient Ayodhya

Visitor Information:

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indian nationals, ₹100 for foreign tourists
Photography: Permitted without flash

Exploring Ayodhya from Faizabad

As Faizabad’s sister city, Ayodhya is just 7 km away and offers numerous significant attractions:

Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Complex: The birthplace of Lord Rama
Hanuman Garhi: A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman
Kanak Bhawan: A temple said to be gifted to Sita and Rama
Nageshwarnath Temple: Dating back to the era of Ramayana
Saryu River Ghats: For spiritual ceremonies and boat rides

Auto-rickshaws and taxis regularly ply between Faizabad and Ayodhya (₹100-150 one way), making day trips convenient.

Practical Information for Travelers

Best Time to Visit

October to March: Pleasant temperatures ideal for sightseeing
Avoid June to September: Hot and humid with occasional heavy rainfall
Festival Season: Ram Navami (March/April) and Diwali offer special cultural experiences but expect crowds

Accommodation Options

Faizabad offers a range of accommodation options catering to different budgets:

Luxury: Hotel Krishna Palace, Hotel Dolphin
Mid-range: Hotel Panchsheel, Hotel Saryu
Budget: Hotel Shan-e-Awadh, Tourist Rest House

Most hotels are concentrated around the railway station and Civil Lines areas.

Local Cuisine

Don’t miss trying these local specialties:

Awadhi Biryani: Fragrant rice dish with meat and spices
Kebabs: Particularly Galouti and Seekh varieties
Korma: Rich curry dishes
Sheermal: Saffron-flavored flatbread
Thandai: Cooling spiced milk beverage

Popular eateries include Royal Restaurant, Zaika Restaurant, and the street food stalls near Chowk area.

Transportation

Within the city: Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and e-rickshaws
To Ayodhya: Shared autos (₹20) or private autos (₹100-150)
To other cities: Buses from Faizabad Bus Station or trains from Faizabad Junction

Shopping

Chowk Market: Traditional handicrafts and textiles
Rekabganj: Local sweets and food items
Rikabganj: Religious items and souvenirs

Getting to Faizabad

By Air

The nearest airport is Ayodhya Airport (15 km), with limited domestic connectivity. Lucknow Airport (130 km) offers better connections to major Indian cities.

By Train

Faizabad Junction is well-connected to major cities including Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur. Key trains include:

Saket Express (Delhi to Faizabad)
Ganga Gomti Express (Lucknow to Faizabad)
Sabarmati Express (Ahmedabad to Faizabad)

By Road

Well-maintained highways connect Faizabad to:

Lucknow: 130 km (3 hours)
Varanasi: 200 km (4.5 hours)
Gorakhpur: 140 km (3.5 hours)

Regular buses operate from these cities to Faizabad.

Plan Your Visit

Explore the historical treasures of Faizabad and nearby Ayodhya with our customized tour packages. Whether you’re interested in historical monuments, spiritual sites, or cultural experiences, we offer comprehensive itineraries tailored to your preferences. Uttar Pradesh Tour Packages Contact us for personalized travel planning and to experience the rich heritage of Faizabad and the surrounding region.