How to Reach Ayodhya: Complete Travel Guide by Flight, Train, and Road
Ayodhya, the sacred birthplace of Lord Ram, has become one of the most popular travel spots in India after the opening of the Ram Mandir. Pilgrims and travelers from all over the country are planning visits to this holy city to experience its divine charm and rich history. If you’re wondering how to reach Ayodhya, the good news is that connections have improved a lot in recent years. From a new international airport to frequent trains and well-kept highways, there are several ways to get here. In this guide, you’ll find the easiest routes, travel tips, and options to plan your trip to Ayodhya smoothly.
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Table of Contents
How to reach Ayodhya — By Air
The quickest and easiest way to get to Ayodhya is by air. The city now has the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (Ayodhya Dham Airport), which opened recently and is about 8 to 10 km from the Ram Mandir. Regular flights come from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Kolkata. This makes it simple for travelers from all parts of the country to visit.
If you can’t find a direct flight, the closest alternative airports are in Lucknow (130 km away) and Varanasi (200 km away). You can reach Ayodhya from both cities by taxi, bus, or train in about 3 to 5 hours. Local cabs and shuttle services are available from the Ayodhya airport to the temple area, providing a smooth and comfortable transfer.
How to reach Ayodhya — By Train
Ayodhya is very well connected to major cities in India through its railway network. Ayodhya Dham Junction (AY) and Ayodhya Cantt (AYC) are the two main railway stations serving the city. Regular trains operate from Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Prayagraj, making it easy for devotees and travelers to reach Ayodhya.
- From Delhi: Trains like Saryu Express and Faizabad Express run daily.
- From Lucknow: Frequent trains take around 2 to 3 hours.
- From Varanasi or Gorakhpur: Direct trains are available with a travel time of 4–5 hours.
Once you reach Ayodhya Dham Junction or Ayodhya Cantt, you can easily get auto-rickshaws, taxis, or e-rickshaws to reach the Ram Mandir area or your hotel.
How to reach Ayodhya — By Road
Ayodhya is well-connected by a broad network of national and state highways, making road travel convenient and scenic. You can easily reach Ayodhya from nearby major cities by car, taxi, or bus.
- From Lucknow: About 135 km away; it takes around 3 to 4 hours via NH27.
- From Varanasi: Approximately 200 km; it takes roughly 4 to 5 hours by road.
- From Prayagraj (Allahabad): About 160 km; it takes 3.5 to 4 hours.
- From Gorakhpur: Approximately 130 km; it takes nearly 3 hours.
Both UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) and private operators run regular buses, including AC, non-AC, and sleeper coaches, to and from Ayodhya.
If you’re driving, the highways are well-maintained, and there are several food joints and rest stops along the way.
Local transport inside Ayodhya
Getting around Ayodhya is easy and affordable. The city is small, so most major temples and attractions are close together. For short distances, auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws are available all day.
If you want a more comfortable option, you can book cabs or app-based taxis like Ola for local sightseeing. Many tourists also choose to hire private cars or guided tour vehicles for a full-day trip. This can include stops at places like Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, and Saryu Ghat.
Walking is another great way to explore the narrow streets, local shops, and food stalls. This lets you experience Ayodhya’s spiritual charm.
Best time to visit Ayodhya
The best time to visit Ayodhya is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. During these months, the temperature remains moderate, making it comfortable to explore temples, ghats, and local attractions.
If you want to experience Ayodhya’s spiritual and festive atmosphere, plan your visit during:
- Ram Navami (March to April): This festival celebrates the birth of Lord Rama with grand processions and rituals.
- Diwali (October to November): Ayodhya becomes magical with thousands of lamps lighting up the ghats, creating a truly divine sight known as Deepotsav.
Avoid visiting during peak summer (April to June) as temperatures can exceed 40°C. The monsoon season (July to September) may also bring heavy rains that can disrupt travel plans.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ayodhya
1. Plan your trip early: If you’re visiting during festivals like Deepotsav or Ram Navami, book your accommodation and travel tickets well in advance — hotels fill up fast.
2. Dress modestly: Ayodhya is a holy city, so it’s respectful to wear simple and traditional clothes, especially when visiting temples.
3. Carry cash: Though digital payments are growing, small shops, rickshaws, and local food stalls often prefer cash.
4. Footwear rules: You’ll need to remove your shoes before entering temples, so wear easy-to-remove footwear.
5. Stay hydrated: Keep a water bottle with you, especially if you’re walking around the ghats and temple areas.
6. Local etiquette: Avoid loud behavior near temples and maintain silence during rituals or prayers.
7. Explore beyond temples: Don’t miss places like Guptar Ghat, Saryu Riverfront, and the Ayodhya Interpretation Centre for a deeper experience of the city.
Conclusion
Ayodhya is not just a city. It is a spiritual experience that connects you to faith, culture, and history. Whether you visit for pilgrimage, curiosity, or peace of mind, Ayodhya welcomes everyone with warmth and devotion. Getting to Ayodhya is easy. You can travel by air, train, or road.
Take time to explore its temples, walk along the Saryu River, and soak in the divine atmosphere. No matter when you visit, Ayodhya leaves you with a sense of calm and spiritual fulfilment that lingers long after you return home.
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Frequently asked Questions about How to Reach Ayodhya
1. Are there any direct buses from Delhi to Ayodhya?
Yes, several private and UPSRTC buses operate directly from Delhi to Ayodhya, including AC Volvo and sleeper coaches.
2. Can I hire a taxi for a full-day tour in Ayodhya?
Absolutely. Local taxis or app-based cabs can be hired for a full-day sightseeing tour covering all major temples and ghats.
3. Is photography allowed inside the Ram Mandir complex?
Photography rules may vary. Generally, cameras are allowed in open areas, but inside the sanctum, it’s restricted. Always follow temple guidelines.
4. What is the nearest railway station if trains to Ayodhya are full?
You can use Faizabad Junction (FD), which is only 7 km away from Ayodhya, and take a short cab or auto-rickshaw ride to reach the city.
5. Are there vegetarian food options near Ayodhya temples?
Yes, most restaurants, dhabas, and local eateries near temples offer purely vegetarian food, including traditional North Indian dishes.
6. Do I need any special permissions to visit certain parts of Ayodhya?
Most areas are open to the public. However, check for temporary restrictions during festivals or special events, especially near Ram Mandir during large gatherings.
7. How many days are enough to explore Ayodhya?
A 1–2 day trip is sufficient for visiting main temples, ghats, and local markets. A longer stay can be planned if you want a more relaxed pilgrimage experience.
8. Are there ATMs and digital payment options available in Ayodhya?
Yes, ATMs and digital payment facilities are widely available in the city, though carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors.