A life‑size 91‑foot replica of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir recently opened beside RK Beach in Visakhapatnam. Built by the Garuda Group, the temple mirrors the original architecture and houses an idol of Bala Rama. It has quietly gained large daily crowds for worship and tourism since its debut in May. Entry fees were set at ₹50 per person to fund maintenance and cleanliness. 

However, the decision to charge devotees has drawn sharp criticism. Local worshippers argue that people visit purely for spiritual reasons and should not be treated like tourists. They believe charging entry risks commercializing faith and excluding poorer families. One critic claimed the fee lacks transparency, calling for public disclosure on how funds are used.

Organizers defend the fee, stating that the money supports regular rituals, lighting, staffing, and security for the ongoing three‑month event. They also highlight the cost of managing large crowds in a public space. Some officials suggest a charity model with optional donations rather than mandatory charges could be a better solution.

As the replica draws both praise for spreading devotion and debate over fees, locals hope for a balanced approach one that preserves the sacred nature of the site while covering essential costs without burdening worshippers.