Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, is one of the most sacred cities in India. It holds immense religious and historical significance. Making it a must-visit destinationin Uttar Pradesh For pilgrims and travelers alike. Located about 200 km from Varanasi, another important spiritual city, Ayodhya is well-connected by road, rail, and air.
If you are planning a journey from Varanasi to Ayodhya, this detailed guide will help you explore the best travel options, route maps, travel time, ticket prices, and useful tips for a smooth and comfortable trip.
Distance Between Varanasi and Ayodhya
The distance from Varanasi to Ayodhya is approximately 200 km, and the travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation.
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| Mode of Transport | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| By Train | 200 km | 3.5 – 6 hours |
| By Road (Car/Bus) | 200 km | 4 – 5 hours |
| By Flight (via Lucknow) | 200 km (direct flights unavailable) | 5 – 6 hours (including layovers) |
Best Ways to Reach Ayodhya from Varanasi
1. By Train – The Most Convenient and Affordable Option
Ayodhya is well-connected to Varanasi Junction (BSB) via direct trains. Traveling by train is one of the most comfortable and economical ways to reach Ayodhya. The journey takes between 3.5 to 6 hours, depending on the train type.
Read Also: How to Book Train Tickets in India
Popular Trains from Varanasi to Ayodhya
| Train Name & Number | Departure (Varanasi Jn.) | Arrival (Ayodhya Jn.) | Duration | Days of Operation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi–Ayodhya Passenger (54292) | 04:40 AM | 10:00 AM | 5h 20m | Daily |
| Kashi Vishwanath Express (15127) | 11:35 PM | 03:10 AM | 3h 35m | Daily |
| Saryu Express (14233) | 06:00 AM | 09:35 AM | 3h 35m | Daily |
| Vande Bharat Express (22416) | 03:00 PM | 06:20 PM | 3h 20m | Mon-Sat |
Train Ticket Prices
| Class | Ticket Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sleeper (SL) | ₹150 – ₹300 |
| AC 3-Tier (3A) | ₹450 – ₹750 |
| AC 2-Tier (2A) | ₹700 – ₹1,000 |
| Executive Chair Car (Vande Bharat) | ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 |
Best Train Option: Vande Bharat Express (22416) is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya.
Booking Tips: Book train tickets in advance through the IRCTC website, railway station counters, or online travel platforms like MakeMyTrip and Paytm.
2. By Road – A Scenic and Flexible Journey
Traveling by road from Varanasi to Ayodhya is a great option for those who prefer flexibility and a scenic drive. The road journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Best Road Route from Varanasi to Ayodhya
Route 1 (Fastest & Best Road Condition – NH 31 & NH 27)
- Varanasi → Jaunpur → Sultanpur → Ayodhya (200 km, ~4 hours)
- This route is the most commonly used and offers a smooth drive.
Route 2 (Alternative via NH 731)
- Varanasi → Mirzapur → Pratapgarh → Ayodhya (225 km, ~5 hours)
- Slightly longer but offers less crowded roads.
Traveling by Car
If you prefer a private journey, hiring a taxi or self-driving is a great option.
| Taxi Type | Approx. Fare (One-Way) |
|---|---|
| Sedan (Dzire, Etios) | ₹3,500 – ₹4,500 |
| SUV (Innova, Xylo) | ₹5,500 – ₹7,000 |
| Luxury Car (Crysta, Fortuner) | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 |
Best Taxi Services: Ola Outstation, Uber Intercity, Local Taxi Operators
Traveling by Bus – A Budget-Friendly Option
Several government and private buses operate between Varanasi and Ayodhya, making it a cheap and convenient option.
Bus Types Available:
- AC Sleeper Buses – ₹800 – ₹1,200
- Non-AC Seater Buses – ₹400 – ₹600
- State Government Buses (UPSRTC) – ₹250 – ₹500
Popular Bus Operators: UPSRTC, Shatabdi Travels, Rajdhani Express
Where to Board the Bus?
- Varanasi Bus Stand (Cantt Bus Station, Lahartara Bus Stand)
- Ayodhya Bus Stand (Near Railway Station)
Booking Options: RedBus, MakeMyTrip, UPSRTC Online Booking
3. By Air – The Fastest (But Indirect) Option
Currently, there are no direct flights between Varanasi and Ayodhya. However, you can take a flight to Lucknow and then travel by road to Ayodhya.
Flight + Road Travel Option
Step 1: Flight from Varanasi to Lucknow
- Duration: 1 hour
- Airlines Available: IndiGo, Air India
- Ticket Price: ₹2,500 – ₹5,000
Step 2: Taxi/Bus from Lucknow to Ayodhya
- Distance: 135 km
- Travel Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Taxi Fare: ₹2,000 – ₹3,500
- Bus Fare: ₹300 – ₹600
Total Time: 5 – 6 hours (Including layovers)
Why Choose This Option? Only if you prefer flights over trains and road journeys.
Best Time to Travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya
Winter (October – March) – Best Season
- Pleasant weather for sightseeing
- Ideal for temple visits and outdoor activities
Summer (April – June) – Hot & Dry
- Avoid traveling during peak afternoon hours
- Carry light clothes and stay hydrated
Monsoon (July – September) – Moderate Rainfall
- Lush green surroundings but occasional travel disruptions due to rain
Places to Visit in Ayodhya After Arrival
Once you reach Ayodhya, don’t miss out on these top attractions:
Ram Janmabhoomi Temple – The birthplace of Lord Ram
Hanuman Garhi – A famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman
Kanak Bhawan – A temple gifted to Sita by her mother
Saryu River Ghat – Ideal for evening aarti and spiritual bathing
Treta Ke Thakur Temple – A temple associated with Lord Ram’s rule
Conclusion – Which Travel Option is Best?
| Travel Mode | Best For | Cost (Approx.) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Budget travelers, Comfort | ₹150 – ₹2000 | 3.5 – 6 hours |
| Car/Taxi | Flexible & comfortable journey | ₹3,500 – ₹7,000 | 4 – 5 hours |
| Bus | Cheapest option | ₹250 – ₹1,200 | 4 – 6 hours |
| Flight + Taxi | Fastest but indirect | ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 | 5 – 6 hours |
Best Option for Most Travelers: Train (Vande Bharat or Express Trains)
Best for Comfort & Flexibility: Taxi or Self-Drive
Plan your trip wisely and experience the divine beauty of Ayodhya!
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