According to the local administation, the Ram temple in Ayodhya, which was consecrated on January 22 last year, saw a significant turnout of over two lakh devotees who had set up camps on New Year's Eve. On Wednesday morning, approximately three lakh more people arrived to pay homage to the deity of Ram Lalla 

The devotees' eagerness was palpable as they lined up to catch a glimpse of the idol, which was unveiled at sunrise on the first day of the year

Ram Temple Trust General Secretary Champat Rai said that the increase in the visitor count was owing to the worldwide celebration of New Year 2025 according to the Gregorian calendar. The winter season, combined with the holiday break, also contributed to the high number of visitors

The Ayodhya administration took several steps to manage the large crowds, dividing the city into multiple sectors and zones for better regulation

A heavy police presence was deployed, and traffic restrictions were imposed, with round-the-clock vehicle inspections carried out by local officials

 The surge in devotees had started a day earlier, with more than two lakh pilgrims completing 'darshan' by Tuesday evening. Hotels, dharamshalas, and homestays were fully booked as both local and outstation visitors poured into the town

The Namo Ghat in Varanasi

A massive crowd of devotees began flocking to the sacred Baba Shri Kashi Vishwanath temple as early as 3 am on Wednesday

Devotees also took part in the first Ganga Aarti of the year