In the Ramayana, Ayodhya is traditionally described as the capital of Rama’s kingdom.
Ayodhya is the royal city of Kosala and the home of King Dasharatha, Rama’s father. The epic begins its central succession drama there: Rama is chosen to inherit the throne, but a promise made by Dasharatha leads to Rama’s exile. Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana then spend fourteen years away from the city before Rama returns after defeating Ravana.
Rama’s return to Ayodhya is celebrated in the tradition of Diwali, especially through the story of the city being illuminated to welcome him home. The episode is one reason Ayodhya holds lasting religious importance for many Hindus.
Ayodhya should not be confused with Mithila, associated with Sita and her father Janaka; Lanka, Ravana’s island stronghold; or Kishkindha, the realm of the vanaras. Each city has a separate role in the Ramayana’s geography.