How to Reach Ayodhya By Train Bus Car Air Complete 2026 Travel Guide

Ayodhya, known as the birthplace of Lord Ram, holds an unmatched significance in Indian spirituality and heritage. With the grand inauguration of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, the city has rapidly become one of the most visited destinations in India. The government’s focus on modernizing infrastructure, improving connectivity, and expanding hospitality services has transformed Ayodhya into a world-class pilgrimage and tourism hub.

Ayodhya attracts not only devotees but also history enthusiasts, photographers, and spiritual travelers who wish to experience its timeless beauty and faith. The good news is that reaching Ayodhya is now easier than ever, thanks to the new Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, upgraded railway lines, and improved national highways.

This comprehensive guide covers every travel route—air, train, bus, and road—so you can plan your Ayodhya trip conveniently and confidently.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Air (Flight)

Ayodhya Airport: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport

Ayodhya is now connected to the rest of India through its brand-new international airport, officially named Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham (AYJ). This airport has significantly reduced travel time for devotees visiting from distant parts of the country. It features modern facilities, multiple check-in counters, waiting lounges, and direct connectivity to major metros.

• Distance from Ram Mandir: Approximately 8 kilometers
• Travel Time to City Center: 15–20 minutes by car or cab
• Facilities Available: Prepaid taxi counters, baggage assistance, tourist helpdesk, car rental options, and public transportation links

The airport is strategically located on the Ayodhya–Lucknow highway, making transfers to hotels and temple areas quick and hassle-free.

Major Flights Operating to Ayodhya

Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Ayodhya. The following routes are among the most popular:

• Delhi to Ayodhya: Daily direct flights taking around 1 hour 15 minutes
• Mumbai to Ayodhya: Direct and connecting flights, approximately 2.5 hours
• Lucknow to Ayodhya: Short flights lasting 45 minutes
• Kolkata to Ayodhya: Connecting flights via Lucknow or Varanasi (3–4 hours total travel time)
• Bangalore and Hyderabad: One-stop connections via Delhi or Lucknow

Travelers can now plan a same-day trip or a weekend pilgrimage thanks to these improved connections. Most airlines offer daily flights with flexible timings to accommodate both early morning pilgrims and evening arrivals.

Transfers from the Airport to Ayodhya City

After landing, visitors can choose from several convenient local transport options:

• Private Cab or Taxi: Costs between ?300–?500 depending on the hotel location
• Airport Pickup via Ayodhya Trip Planners: Pre-arranged, comfortable transfers directly to your hotel or temple area
• Bike or Scooter Rentals: For solo travelers looking to explore the city at their own pace

For a smooth journey, pre-booking your cab or transfer service during peak pilgrimage months is recommended.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Train

Ayodhya has always been a major railway destination in Northern India. It offers direct rail connectivity to almost every major city in Uttar Pradesh and several metropolitan areas across India.

Key Railway Stations in Ayodhya

1. Ayodhya Dham Junction (AY):

Located near the heart of the city, this station serves as the primary railhead for visitors heading to the Ram Mandir and nearby attractions.

• Distance from Ram Janmabhoomi Temple: 2 kilometers
• Facilities: Waiting rooms, cloakroom, refreshment stalls, and taxi stands

2. Faizabad Junction (FD):

A secondary but well-connected station located around 6 kilometers from Ayodhya. Many express and superfast trains halt here.

• Ideal for travelers from long-distance routes such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai

Major Trains to Ayodhya

Booking train tickets through IRCTC at least 2–3 weeks in advance is advisable, especially during festive occasions like Ram Navami and Deepotsav, when thousands of devotees visit Ayodhya.

Local Transfers from Railway Station

From either railway station, you can reach the temple area or hotel district within 10–20 minutes by:

• Auto rickshaw: ?50–?100
• Cab or taxi: ?200–?300
• Pre-booked transfer via Ayodhya Trip Planners: for convenience and punctuality

Trains remain the most economical and widely used mode of travel for families and groups visiting Ayodhya.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Bus

Bus travel is ideal for those looking for budget-friendly and frequent transport options. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates multiple daily buses connecting Ayodhya to nearby cities, while several private operators offer deluxe and sleeper coaches for longer routes.

Major Bus Routes to Ayodhya

• Lucknow to Ayodhya: 130 km – 4 hours
• Varanasi to Ayodhya: 200 km – 5 hours
• Prayagraj to Ayodhya: 160 km – 4.5 hours
• Delhi to Ayodhya: 700 km – 11–12 hours (overnight buses)
• Gorakhpur to Ayodhya: 150 km – 4 hours

These routes are served by both government and private operators. Most long-distance buses operate overnight, offering sleeper facilities for comfortable travel.

Bus Types Available

• UPSRTC AC / Non-AC Volvo Services: Reliable and safe for solo and family travelers
• Private Sleeper Coaches: More spacious and equipped with onboard amenities
• Mini Buses and Tempo Travellers: Ideal for small groups or customized tours

Travelers can book bus tickets online through government portals or directly via Ayodhya Trip Planners, which also offers group packages with guided sightseeing.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Car or Road Trip

A road journey to Ayodhya can be both scenic and spiritually enriching. The highways leading to the city have undergone significant upgrades, providing smooth travel for private vehicles and taxis.

From Delhi to Ayodhya

• Distance: Approximately 700 km
• Travel Time: 10–12 hours by car
• Suggested Route: Delhi → Agra → Lucknow → Ayodhya via the Yamuna Expressway and Purvanchal Expressway

This is one of the most comfortable routes, with well-maintained expressways, ample food stops, and rest areas. You can also plan short halts at Agra to visit the Taj Mahal or in Lucknow to experience Awadhi cuisine before heading to Ayodhya.

From Lucknow to Ayodhya

• Distance: 130 km
• Travel Time: 3–4 hours
• Best Route: NH27 (Lucknow → Barabanki → Ayodhya)

This short route is ideal for weekend travelers and devotees planning same-day temple visits.

From Varanasi and Prayagraj

• Varanasi to Ayodhya: 220 km, approximately 5 hours
• Prayagraj to Ayodhya: 160 km, approximately 4 hours

Taxis, private cabs, or car rentals are available for these routes. The roads are in good condition, making it easy for families and senior citizens to travel comfortably.

Self-Drive and Rental Options

Ayodhya Trip Planners provides car and bike rentals for visitors who prefer self-driven experiences. GPS-enabled vehicles, 24/7 support, and flexible return policies make road travel stress-free.

How to Reach Ayodhya from Major Indian Cities

Ayodhya is well connected by air, rail, and road, making travel convenient from every corner of India. With the newly developed Maharishi Valmiki International Airport and upgraded highways, reaching the holy city is now faster and smoother than ever.

This table helps you quickly determine the most efficient route based on your city of departure.

Essential Travel Tips Before Visiting Ayodhya

1. Plan Ahead: Book your tickets and accommodation at least 2–3 weeks in advance, particularly around major festivals.
2. Carry Valid ID Proofs: Required for hotel check-ins and temple entries.
3. Dress Appropriately: Modest clothing is expected at all temple and spiritual sites.
4. Stay Hydrated: Summers in Ayodhya can be hot, especially during daytime temple visits.
5. Respect Local Customs: Maintain silence in prayer areas and avoid photography where prohibited.
6. Keep Offline Maps: Mobile connectivity may be weak near crowded temple zones.
7. Use Local Transport Wisely: E-rickshaws, cabs, or rented bikes offer flexibility within the city.

Accommodation Options in Ayodhya

The city offers a diverse range of accommodations catering to all types of travelers:

• Budget Hotels and Dharamshalas: Affordable and located close to Ram Janmabhoomi for easy access.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Ideal for families, offering amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and guided tours.
• Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Provide premium experiences, often including temple-view rooms and concierge services.
• Homestays: For those seeking a more personal and cultural stay experience.

You can explore Ayodhya Trip Planners’ hotel and package deals for the best prices and reliable bookings.

Nearby Spiritual Destinations Worth Visiting

After exploring Ayodhya, you can extend your journey to nearby pilgrimage sites:

• Prayagraj: Famous for the Triveni Sangam and Kumbh Mela.
• Varanasi: Known for Kashi Vishwanath Temple and evening Ganga Aarti.
• Naimisharanya: One of the most ancient spiritual centers mentioned in the Puranas.
• Chitrakoot: Associated with the exile period of Lord Ram and rich mythological importance.

Ayodhya Trip Planners offers multi-destination spiritual tour packages covering these sacred locations, ensuring a smooth and enriching journey.

Conclusion

Reaching Ayodhya in 2025 is easier and more comfortable than ever before. With an international airport, modern expressways, and extensive railway links, travelers can choose the mode of transport that best fits their preferences and budget. Whether you are traveling from Delhi, Mumbai, or nearby cities like Lucknow or Varanasi, the city welcomes you with devotion, improved infrastructure, and spiritual serenity.

For a convenient, well-organized pilgrimage — from hotel bookings and cab services to darshan arrangements — trust Ayodhya Trip Planners.

Our goal is to ensure every devotee experiences Ayodhya’s divinity with comfort, safety, and peace of mind.