How to Reach Ayodhya — Complete Travel Guide by Train, Bus & Road
Ayodhya has become one of India’s most accessible pilgrimage destinations. With improved rail, road, and air connectivity following the Ram Mandir consecration, reaching the city is now straightforward from most major cities. Here is a comprehensive guide to planning your journey.
By Train — The Most Common Route
Ayodhya is well-connected by rail to major cities across North India.
Ayodhya Junction (Station Code: AY)
This is the older, main railway station in the city. It is connected to:
- Lucknow — 3–4 hours by express train (₹150–400)
- Varanasi — 5–6 hours
- Prayagraj — 4–5 hours
- Gorakhpur — 3–4 hours
- Delhi — 8–10 hours via Lucknow
Ayodhya Dham Junction (Station Code: AYDM)
This is the newer, dedicated station for Ayodhya Dham and is closer to Ram Mandir. It has improved facilities and is directly connected to:
- Delhi (Anand Vihar / Sarai Rohilla) — 10–12 hours
- Lucknow — 2–3 hours (many daily services)
- Varanasi — 4–5 hours
- Ahmedabad — 24+ hours (for long-distance pilgrims)
Pro tip: Search for both station codes when booking trains. Sometimes one station has better availability than the other.
From Delhi to Ayodhya
By Train: The most practical option. Several daily trains run from Anand Vihar Terminal and Sarai Rohilla to Ayodhya Dham. The Swai Madhopur–Ayodhya route is also well-served. Journey time: 10–14 hours depending on the train.
By Road: Delhi to Ayodhya is approximately 750 km via NH9 and NH330. An overnight journey by private car or taxi takes 12–14 hours. UPSRTC buses also operate on this route.
From Lucknow to Ayodhya
By Train: The fastest and most comfortable option. Multiple daily trains take 2–3 hours. Many morning trains arrive by 9 AM, leaving the full day for darshan.
By Road: Approximately 130 km via NH9. UPSRTC buses run frequently from Lucknow’s Charbagh station. Private taxis cost ₹1,500–2,500 one way. The drive takes 2.5–3 hours.
From Varanasi to Ayodhya
By Train: 4–6 hours by express train. Several daily services connect Varanasi Cantonment to Ayodhya Dham and Ayodhya Junction.
By Road: Approximately 200 km via NH19 and NH330. The road route passes through Jaunpur and takes 4–5 hours by car or bus.
From Prayagraj to Ayodhya
By Train: 4–5 hours. The Ayodhya–Prayagraj route has daily express services.
By Road: Approximately 160 km via NH19 and NH330. The journey takes 3–4 hours.
By Air
Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya (IATA: AYJ) is now operational with regular flights from:
- Delhi — ~90 minutes
- Mumbai — ~2.5 hours
- Ahmedabad — ~2 hours
From the airport, Ayodhya city is approximately 20 km away. Pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at the airport exit.
Local Transport in Ayodhya
Once you arrive in Ayodhya:
- Auto-rickshaw: The most common local transport. From Ayodhya Junction to Ram Mandir costs ₹30–50. From Ayodhya Dham Station to Ram Mandir costs ₹80–120.
- E-rickshaw: Cheaper at ₹15–30 for short rides within the city.
- Cycle rickshaw: Best for very short distances near the temple area.
- Private taxi: Available for full-day sightseeing. Negotiate in advance.
- On foot: Birla Dharmashala is 400–500 m from Ram Mandir — if you are travelling light, it is a pleasant walk.
Where to Stay on Arrival
Birla Dharmashala is located on Civil Lines, approximately 2 km from Ayodhya Junction and 7 km from Ayodhya Dham Station. Auto-rickshaws are readily available at both stations.
Contact us before you arrive: +91 87963 59334. We are open 24 hours and happy to help you plan your arrival and darshan schedule.
Important Tips
- Book return trains early. Especially during festivals, availability on the Ayodhya route fills quickly.
- Keep a powerbank handy. Phone battery drains fast in long queues.
- Arrive early for darshan. Even on normal days, the Ram Mandir queue is active from 6 AM.
- Book accommodation in advance for festival dates — contact Birla Dharmashala at +91 87963 59334.
Ayodhya awaits. Safe travels and Jai Shri Ram.