Ayodhya administration announced on Friday, January 10, 2026, that delivery and sale of non‑vegetarian food and alcohol will be banned within a 15‑kilometre radius of the Ram Temple. The decision was taken after repeated complaints that online food apps and some hotels were still serving meat and liquor in the holy city despite earlier restrictions
Ayodhya Declares 15‑Km Vegetarian Zone
The new order covers the entire area known as Panchkosi Parikrama. This is the sacred circle around the temple where devotees walk during religious rituals. Officials said that the ban is meant to preserve the spiritual atmosphere of the temple town.
Assistant Food Commissioner Manik Chandra Singh explained that tourists and visitors were still able to get meat dishes through delivery apps like Swiggy and Zomato. Some hotels and homestays were also offering non‑vegetarian meals and alcoholic drinks. The administration decided to act strictly to stop this practice.
Ayodhya has always been seen as a holy city. After the inauguration of the Ram Temple in January 2024, the number of visitors increased sharply. Many pilgrims complained that the sale of meat and liquor near the temple was against the sanctity of the place.
Earlier, in May 2025, the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation had passed a resolution to stop the sale of liquor and meat along the 14‑km Ram Path, which connects Ayodhya and Faizabad. But enforcement was weak. Delivery apps and some restaurants continued to serve restricted items. The new order is meant to close those gaps.
The ban will affect restaurants, hotels, and homestays that depended on non‑vegetarian food sales. Delivery platforms have been told not to accept orders for meat dishes within the restricted zone. Liquor shops have also been warned.
Authorities said that strict monitoring will be done. If any business is found violating the rules, action will be taken. This could include fines or cancellation of licenses.
Many local residents welcomed the move. They believe Ayodhya should remain a vegetarian city to protect its religious identity. Devotees visiting the temple also expressed support, saying the ban will make the atmosphere more peaceful.
However, some business owners are worried. They fear that their income will drop because many tourists prefer non‑vegetarian food. Restaurants that served both vegetarian and non‑vegetarian dishes will now have to change their menus.
Tourists who are used to eating meat may find fewer options. But officials argue that visitors should respect the traditions of the holy city.
Comparison with Other Holy Cities
Ayodhya is not the first city to impose such rules.
- In Rishikesh, sale of meat and alcohol is banned to maintain its image as a yoga and spiritual hub.
- In Palitana, Gujarat, the entire city is vegetarian because it is a major Jain pilgrimage site.
Ayodhya’s new ban follows the same path, aiming to protect its sacred aura.
Also you know that:- Himachal College Tragedy: Student Dies After Ragging Assault,1 Professor Named in FIR