Ayodhya is the holy city of Lord Shri Ra which welcomes lakhs of devotees every month to the newly constructed Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. After the grand Pran Pratishtha ceremony which was held in January 2024 the temple has become one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India mainly for hindu community. With such large crowds every day senior citizens and differently-abled devotees often need special arrangements for a comfortable darshan.
This article explains everything about Senior Citizen Darshan, Sugam Darshan facilities, and the truth behind VIP Entry details at Ayodhya Ram Mandir.
Ayodhya Deepotsav 2025,Dates,Events & Tips
No Paid VIP Darshan or Special Ticket
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust which manages the temple has officially clarified that there is no VIP or paid darshan system. All devotees regardless of status must follow the same line and security process.
In February 2024 the Trust released a statement saying:
“No special or VIP darshan arrangements are in place. All devotees are equal before Lord Ram.”
This means you cannot purchase or request a “VIP ticket” or “fast-track entry pass.” Any individual or website claiming to provide VIP access in exchange for money is unauthorized.
What Exists: Sugam Darshan for Senior Citizens
While there is no paid VIP system exist in the temple which does provide Sugam Darshan this one is a priority or simplified darshan facility for:
- Senior citizens (usually above 65 years)
- Differently-abled persons
- Pregnant women
This arrangement helps to the devotees who may find it difficult to stand in long queues for the darshan. The Sugam Darshan Queue is shorter, smoother and supported by volunteers who assist the elderly from entry to exit.
Darshan Timings and Crowd Flow
| Session | Timing |
|---|---|
| Morning Darshan | 6:30 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Afternoon Break | 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 2:00 PM – 9:30 PM |
- The temple remains open every day with special timings which including weekends and public holidays.
- Early morning darshan is occured before 8 AM is recommended for senior citizens to avoid heavy rush and heat.
- On special occasions such as Ram Navami, Diwali and Deepotsav expect longer waiting times even in the Sugam Darshan queue.
Facilities for Senior Citizens and Differently-Abled
To make darshan easy and comfortable the temple management and local administration have set up several facilities.
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Service | Free wheelchairs are available at entry gates for the visitors. A volunteer may assist if required. |
| Electric Carts / E-Rickshaws | Battery operated carts are available which help senior citizens and disabled persons to reach the temple from parking areas. |
| Resting Areas | These areas are shaded waiting zones and benches are available near the queue lines. |
| Medical Help | First-aid centers and ambulances are stationed and available near Ram Path and Ram Janmabhoomi Path. |
| Separate Queue | Dedicated line for elderly, differently-abled and pregnant women to give a smoother movement. |
All these services are free of charge there is no cost can be import on visitors. Devotees may voluntarily tip helpers or sevaks but the temple management does not demand any official fee.
Entry Routes and Access Points
The main entry for devotees is from Ram Path and all visitors must pass through security screening which checks all over the person. Senior citizens using wheelchairs or carts are guided through the Sugam Darshan Entry Lane so they get a secure one, which is clearly marked by boards and volunteers.
Nearest Points of Access:
- Ram Path Entry Gate where it is a main approach road
- Ram Janmabhoomi Path (for pedestrians and small vehicles)
- Ayodhya Dham Railway Station – This rail station is approx. 2 km from the temple
- Ayodhya Bus Stand – This bus stand is approx. 1.5 km away
- Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham – about 8 km from the temple
For ease of movement, e-rickshaws and golf carts are available at nominal fares across Ram Path and Hanumangarhi.
Step-by-Step Guide for Senior Citizens
Step 1: Arrive early (before 7:00 AM) to avoid crowding.
Step 2: At the entry gate, inform volunteers that you need Sugam Darshan.
Step 3: Collect a wheelchair or cart if needed.
Step 4: Follow the separate line marked for senior or disabled devotees.
Step 5: Offer darshan peacefully and follow the exit signs to reach the resting area or parking point.
Temple volunteers, local police, and NCC cadets are always available to help. Women devotees or elderly couples can also ask for female staff assistance.
What to Carry and What to Avoid
Carry:
- A valid ID (Aadhaar or voter card)
- Small water bottle
- Comfortable footwear (to be left outside the temple)
- Cap or umbrella during summer
Avoid:
- Large bags or backpacks
- Mobile phones inside the main sanctum (restricted)
- Food items or flowers from outside vendors (buy Prasad from official counters only)
Crowd Control and Safety
Every day, an estimated 1.5 to 2 lakh devotees visit the temple. On peak days or weekends, this number can rise to 3 lakh or more. To manage such crowds:
- More than 4,000 security personnel are deployed daily.
- CCTV cameras and AI-based crowd monitoring systems ensure safety.
- Volunteers trained by the temple trust assist elderly pilgrims at every gate.
These measures help maintain order while ensuring that senior citizens have a peaceful darshan experience.
Clarification on VIP Entry Rumors
Many social media posts or local agents may claim to offer “VIP Entry” or “Paid Special Darshan Passes.” The temple trust warns devotees not to fall for such offers.
“There is no paid VIP system. Any such pass being sold outside the temple is fake,”
says the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
The Trust may invite dignitaries or state guests for official visits, but that process is internal and not open to the public.
Helpful Contacts
- Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Office: Near Ram Path, Ayodhya
- Ayodhya Tourist Help Desk: +91-522-223-9296
- UP Tourism Ayodhya Office: 05278-223-210
- Official Website: www.srjbtkshetra.org
For verified updates, only rely on official notices or the temple’s website.