Planning a spiritual journey from Varanasi to Ayodhya? Whether you are a devout pilgrim, a curious traveller, or someone exploring the sacred Uttar Pradesh circuit, knowing the exact distance between Varanasi to Ayodhya and the best travel options can make your trip seamless and stress-free.
Both Varanasi (Kashi) and Ayodhya are among India’s most sacred cities. Varanasi is revered as the spiritual capital of India and a major centre of Lord Shiva’s worship, while Ayodhya holds the legendary distinction of being the birthplace of Lord Ram. Together, they form the core of Uttar Pradesh’s spiritual tourism map. Connecting these two divine cities is easier than ever, thanks to road, rail, and bus connectivity.
In this comprehensive guide, you will find everything you need — Varanasi to Ayodhya distance by road, by train, by bus, by car, along with travel time, route maps, fare estimates, and tips to plan the perfect trip.
Quick Summary: Varanasi to Ayodhya at a Glance
| Travel Mode | Distance | Estimated Time | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| By Road (Car/Cab) | ~200 km | 4–5 hours | ₹2,500–₹4,500 |
| By Train | ~165–200 km (rail route) | 3–5 hours | ₹120–₹900 |
| By Bus | ~200 km | 5–6 hours | ₹200–₹400 |
| By Air (nearest airport) | Via Lucknow (~145 km from Ayodhya) | 6–7 hours total | ₹3,000+ |
Distance Between Varanasi to Ayodhya by Road
The Varanasi to Ayodhya distance by road is approximately 198 to 210 kilometres, depending on the route you choose. The most common and fastest road route follows the NH27 (National Highway 27), which connects the two holy cities through the heartland of Uttar Pradesh.
Primary Road Route: NH27
Starting from Varanasi, travellers head westward on NH27 passing through major towns such as Jaunpur, Sultanpur, and then into Ayodhya. This is the most popular route taken by private cars, taxis, and intercity buses.
Key distance checkpoints on the NH27 route:
- Varanasi → Jaunpur: ~58 km
- Jaunpur → Sultanpur: ~72 km
- Sultanpur → Ayodhya: ~72 km
- Total: ~202 km
Alternative Route via Lucknow-Faizabad Road
Some travellers prefer the route via Lucknow which adds a few more kilometres but offers better road conditions and more fuel/food stops. This route is approximately 260–280 km and takes around 5.5–6.5 hours.
Varanasi to Ayodhya by Car: Travel Tips
Travelling by car or cab is one of the most convenient and flexible ways to cover the Varanasi to Ayodhya distance. You can hire a private cab from Varanasi, making stops at spiritual landmarks like Prayagraj along the way if you wish.
- One-way cab fare: ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 (for a sedan)
- Round trip fare: ₹4,500 – ₹7,500
- Best time to drive: Early morning (5 AM – 7 AM) to avoid traffic through towns
- Petrol stations: Available at Jaunpur, Sultanpur, and near Faizabad bypass
Pro Tip: If you are driving your personal vehicle, keep your fuel tank full before leaving Jaunpur as fuel stations thin out on certain stretches of NH27.
Varanasi to Ayodhya Train: Distance and Schedule
The Varanasi to Ayodhya train route is one of the most preferred modes of travel, especially for budget-conscious pilgrims and families. The rail distance between the two cities is approximately 165–200 km depending on the train route, and journey times range from 3 to 5 hours.
Varanasi to Ayodhya Railway Station: Key Information
Ayodhya is served by two railway stations:
- Ayodhya Junction (AY) – The main and most popular railway station in Ayodhya, located close to Ram Janmabhoomi and key temples.
- Ayodhya Cantt (AWH) – A secondary station with fewer train connections.
Varanasi has three major railway stations:
- Varanasi Junction (BSB) – The primary station with maximum connectivity.
- Manduadih (MUV) / Banaras Station – A major station with several intercity trains.
- Kashi Station – Newer station, fewer trains to Ayodhya.
Popular Varanasi to Ayodhya Trains
| Train Name | Train No. | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sabarmati Express | 19167 | 05:30 (BSB) | 10:10 (AY) | ~4h 40m | Express |
| Faizabad Express | 15047 | 06:15 (BSB) | 10:55 (AY) | ~4h 40m | Express |
| Lucknow Express | 14235 | 08:00 (BSB) | 12:30 (AY) | ~4h 30m | Express |
| Ganga-Gomti Express | 12227 | 14:30 (BSB) | 18:15 (AY) | ~3h 45m | Superfast |
| Intercity/Passenger | Various | Multiple | Multiple | 4–6h | Passenger |
Note: Train schedules and numbers are subject to change. Always verify on the official Indian Railways IRCTC website (irctc.co.in) before booking.
Varanasi to Ayodhya Train Fare (Approximate)
| Class | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|
| General (2nd Class) | ₹60 – ₹120 |
| Sleeper Class (SL) | ₹150 – ₹250 |
| 3rd AC (3A) | ₹400 – ₹700 |
| 2nd AC (2A) | ₹600 – ₹900 |
For pilgrims and senior citizens, Indian Railways offers fare concessions. It is advisable to book tickets well in advance, especially during festive seasons like Ram Navami, Diwali (Deepotsav), and Kartik Purnima when Ayodhya sees massive footfall.
Distance Between Varanasi to Ayodhya by Bus
Travelling from Varanasi to Ayodhya by bus is the most economical option available. Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates regular bus services between the two cities throughout the day.
Bus Route & Timing
- Distance by bus route: ~200 km
- Estimated travel time: 5–6 hours
- Bus frequency: Every 1–2 hours from Varanasi roadways bus stand
- Bus types available: Ordinary, Express, Volvo AC
Bus Fare (Varanasi to Ayodhya)
| Bus Type | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|
| Ordinary (UPSRTC) | ₹180 – ₹230 |
| Express (UPSRTC) | ₹250 – ₹300 |
| Volvo / AC Private | ₹400 – ₹700 |
Buses depart primarily from Varanasi Civil Lines Bus Stand and Cantt Bus Stand. For a direct bus to Ayodhya, it is best to confirm with the bus stand authority on availability of direct services or services via Faizabad (Ayodhya’s twin city).
Varanasi to Ayodhya Route Map
The most direct road route from Varanasi to Ayodhya follows this path:
Varanasi → Jaunpur → Sultanpur → Faizabad → Ayodhya
This is the NH27 corridor and covers approximately 202 km. The route passes through the fertile Gangetic plains of eastern Uttar Pradesh and offers scenic views of rural India.
Step-by-Step Route Guide
- Start at Varanasi – Exit the city via Sarnath Road or Ring Road to join NH27 heading west.
- Reach Jaunpur (~58 km) – A historical city on the banks of Gomti River. You can take a short break here.
- Continue to Sultanpur (~130 km from Varanasi) – A midway town with good facilities for food and fuel.
- Enter Faizabad / Ayodhya District (~195 km) – After Sultanpur, follow signs towards Faizabad and then Ayodhya.
- Arrive at Ayodhya (~202 km) – Follow directions to Ram Janmabhoomi or Ayodhya Junction as needed.
For Google Maps users: Search “Varanasi to Ayodhya” and select the NH27 route for the fastest road journey. Real-time traffic updates will help you avoid congestion near Jaunpur town.
Distance Between Varanasi to Prayagraj
Many travellers planning the Uttar Pradesh spiritual circuit also want to know the distance between Varanasi to Prayagraj, since both Prayagraj and Ayodhya are key destinations on this pilgrimage route.
- Varanasi to Prayagraj by road: ~125 km via NH19 (Purvanchal Expressway or NH2)
- Estimated travel time: 2 – 2.5 hours by car
- By train: ~130 km, approximately 2–3 hours (multiple trains available daily)
Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) is the Sangam city — the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers — making it a top stop for spiritual travellers on the Varanasi–Prayagraj–Ayodhya circuit.
Varanasi → Prayagraj → Ayodhya: Full Spiritual Circuit
| Leg | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varanasi to Prayagraj | ~125 km | ~2–2.5 hours |
| Prayagraj to Ayodhya | ~160 km | ~3–3.5 hours |
| Total (Full Circuit) | ~285 km | ~5.5–6 hours |
This triangular spiritual route is highly popular during the Kumbh Mela, Magh Mela, Ram Navami, and Maha Shivaratri festivals. Many tour operators offer packaged spiritual tours covering all three cities in 3–5 days.
Best Time to Travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya
Choosing the right time to travel ensures a comfortable and enriching experience.
October to March is the ideal window for visiting both cities. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor sightseeing and temple visits. Ayodhya’s Ram Lala temple (Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir), inaugurated in January 2024, draws millions of devotees year-round, but especially during winter months.
Avoid: May to July (peak summer) — temperatures can soar above 45°C. Monsoon months (July–September) can cause road delays and flooding on low-lying highways.
Key Festivals to Plan Around:
- Ram Navami (March–April): Ayodhya celebrates the birth of Lord Ram with grand fairs
- Diwali / Deepotsav (October–November): Ayodhya illuminates with millions of diyas (oil lamps)
- Dev Deepawali (November): Varanasi’s ghats light up spectacularly
- Maha Kumbh / Ardh Kumbh (Prayagraj, January–March every 6/12 years)
Top Places to Visit in Ayodhya
After completing your journey from Varanasi, here are the must-visit attractions in Ayodhya:
- Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir (Ram Lala Temple) – The newly constructed grand temple at Lord Ram’s birthplace
- Hanuman Garhi – A 76-step fort-style temple dedicated to Hanuman Ji
- Kanak Bhawan – Beautiful temple dedicated to Sita and Ram
- Saryu Ghat – Sacred riverfront for holy dips and evening aarti
- Nageshwarnath Temple – Ancient Shiva temple believed to be established by Kush, son of Lord Ram
- Tulsi Smarak Bhawan – Memorial to saint-poet Tulsidas, author of Ramcharitmanas
Useful Travel Tips for Varanasi to Ayodhya Journey
- Book train tickets early: Trains on the Varanasi–Ayodhya route fill up quickly, especially around festivals. Book at least 15–30 days in advance on irctc.co.in.
- Check road conditions: During monsoon season, check road conditions on NH27 before driving.
- Carry cash: Some smaller dhabas and parking areas near temples in Ayodhya may not accept digital payments.
- Accommodation: Ayodhya has expanded its accommodation significantly post the Ram Mandir inauguration. Book hotels near Saryu Ghat or Ram Janmabhoomi in advance during peak season.
- Dress code: Both Varanasi and Ayodhya are religious cities. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.
- Luggage: If travelling by bus or train, keep luggage compact and secure. Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are available from Ayodhya railway station to major temples.
Conclusion
The distance between Varanasi to Ayodhya is approximately 200 km by road and around 165–200 km by rail, making it an easily doable day trip or a part of a longer spiritual itinerary. Whether you choose the Varanasi to Ayodhya train for comfort and affordability, a private car for flexibility, or a UPSRTC bus for economy, the journey connects two of India’s most spiritually significant cities.
Adding Prayagraj to your route creates the ultimate Uttar Pradesh tirth yatra — Varanasi, the city of Shiva; Prayagraj, the city of the Sangam; and Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram. Plan your journey wisely, respect the spiritual significance of these cities, and you will carry back memories of a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the exact distance between Varanasi to Ayodhya?
A: The road distance between Varanasi to Ayodhya is approximately 198–210 km via NH27. The rail distance is around 165–200 km depending on the train route taken.
Q2. How long does it take to travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya by train?
A: The Varanasi to Ayodhya train journey takes approximately 3.5 to 5 hours depending on the train type (express vs. passenger). Superfast express trains like the Ganga-Gomti Express take around 3 hours 45 minutes.
Q3. Which is the nearest railway station to Ayodhya?
A: Ayodhya Junction (AY) is the main and nearest railway station to the Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex and other major Ayodhya attractions. The station is well-connected to Varanasi, Lucknow, and Delhi.
Q4. How to go from Varanasi to Ayodhya by car?
A: From Varanasi, take NH27 heading west through Jaunpur and Sultanpur to reach Ayodhya. The journey covers approximately 200 km and takes 4–5 hours depending on traffic. You can also hire a cab or taxi from Varanasi starting at around ₹2,500.
Q5. What is the distance between Varanasi to Prayagraj?
A: The distance between Varanasi to Prayagraj is approximately 125 km by road via NH19, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours by car. By train, the distance is around 130 km with travel time of 2–3 hours.
Q6. Is there a direct bus from Varanasi to Ayodhya?
A: Yes, UPSRTC operates direct and semi-direct bus services from Varanasi to Ayodhya. Buses depart from Varanasi Civil Lines and Cantt bus stands. Ordinary buses cost around ₹180–₹230 and express buses cost ₹250–₹300.
Q7. What is the best time to visit Ayodhya from Varanasi?
A: The best time to visit Ayodhya is October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. Festival seasons like Ram Navami and Deepotsav (Diwali) are especially magical but require advance booking for accommodation and trains.
Q8. Can I visit both Prayagraj and Ayodhya in a single trip from Varanasi?
A: Yes, absolutely. You can plan a Varanasi → Prayagraj → Ayodhya circuit over 3–4 days. Varanasi to Prayagraj is ~125 km and Prayagraj to Ayodhya is ~160 km, making it a well-connected spiritual triangle in Uttar Pradesh.
Q9. What is the distance between Varanasi to Ayodhya railway station?
A: The distance between Varanasi Junction (BSB) to Ayodhya Junction (AY) by rail is approximately 165–200 km depending on the train route. By road, Varanasi city centre to Ayodhya railway station is approximately 200–205 km.
Q10. Are there any important stops between Varanasi and Ayodhya?
A: Yes, the major towns en route are Jaunpur (~58 km from Varanasi) and Sultanpur (~130 km from Varanasi). Both have good amenities for food, fuel, and rest. Jaunpur itself is historically significant with several mosques and medieval monuments worth a brief visit.
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