The sprawling campus of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is undergoing a significant green transformation as authorities prepare to welcome a larger number of devotees in the coming months. With the main civil construction work largely complete, the focus has now shifted to creating expansive green spaces and perfecting the landscape across the massive compound.
Creating a Serene Space for Devotees
Presently, the darshan of Ram Lalla is managed through a queue system, which allows devotees only a few minutes in front of the sacred idol. Recognizing the need for a more contemplative experience, the temple trust is developing a vast park. This initiative aims to provide devotees with a beautiful and peaceful area where they can spend additional time within the temple premises after receiving blessings.
A volunteer associated with the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust highlighted that this park, adorned with trees and plants, will significantly enhance the compound's beauty. It will offer a dedicated option for visitors who wish to linger and reflect in a tranquil environment.
Ambitious Landscaping and Infrastructure Upgrades
The scale of this greening project is substantial. Landscaping work is currently ongoing over a 20-acre area, which is part of the temple's total 70-acre campus. To ensure the greenery thrives in Ayodhya's climate, the agencies and consultants involved have specifically chosen to plant only native trees and plants. This selection is strategic, as these species are best suited to survive the extreme weather conditions—both the intense summer heat and the winter chill—typical of the Awadh region.
This ecological development is being executed with support from corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds, with the GMR Group overseeing the work. Simultaneously, major upgrades are underway at the pilgrim facility centre to manage the anticipated increase in visitors. The centre is being equipped to handle an additional rush and will have the capacity to securely store the personal belongings of up to 25,000 visitors at a time.
Preparing for Enhanced Pilgrim Experience
In line with these developments, the temple trust is also planning to expand access for devotees in the near future. Plans are in motion to allow darshan within the sub-temples and to sacred spots like Kuber Tila and Angad Tila in the coming months. To facilitate smooth movement of pilgrims towards the parkota (outer wall) and these new areas, the queue management system is being altered. These changes are targeted to be implemented ahead of the important festival of Ram Navami.
The combined efforts in landscaping, infrastructure, and crowd management signify a comprehensive approach to opening the Ram Temple compound fully. The creation of a 20-acre green lung within the complex is not just an aesthetic addition but a functional one, designed to accommodate the spiritual needs of the millions expected to visit, allowing them a more fulfilling and unhurried pilgrimage experience.