Route Explorer

Delhi to Ayodhya

The journey from Delhi to Ayodhya, a sacred city on the banks of the Sarayu River, spans approximately 640 kilometers and can be completed in about 10 hours by road. This spiritual

Distance

640 km

Duration

10 hrs

Overview

The journey from Delhi to Ayodhya, a sacred city on the banks of the Sarayu River, spans approximately 640 kilometers and can be completed in about 10 hours by road. This spiritual pilgrimage route offers a blend of modern highways and historic landscapes. Travelers can choose between a direct flight to the newly inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, a comfortable road trip via Lucknow, or a scenic train journey. Each mode provides unique perspectives of Uttar Pradesh's heartland, with opportunities to explore cultural landmarks along the way. The route is well-serviced with rest stops, ensuring a smooth and memorable journey for devotees and tourists alike.

Route Map

Interactive Route Map

Enable location to see route from your current position

Transport Options

🚗

By Car

The most flexible option, allowing you to set your own pace and stop at interesting places en route. The route via Lucknow on the Yamuna Expressway and Purvanchal Expressway is smooth and well-marked.

Distance

640 km

Duration

10 hours

Highlights

•Yamuna Expressway: 6-lane controlled-access road with high speed limits
•Lucknow: Stop for a traditional Tunday Kebab lunch
•Purvanchal Expressway: India's longest greenfield expressway (340 km)
•Sarayu River: Scenic entry into Ayodhya with ghats and temples

Toll Charges

Toll taxes for the entire route are approximately ₹1,200 for a car.

•Yamuna Expressway: ~₹500
•Lucknow-Agra Expressway: ~₹400
•Purvanchal Expressway: ~₹300

Fuel Cost

Estimated fuel cost for a standard sedan (approx. 15 km/l) with current diesel prices.

•Total distance: 640 km
•Fuel required: ~43 liters
•Diesel cost: ~₹400 (per liter) — total ~₹1,720

🚆

By Train

Several trains run from Delhi to Ayodhya Cantt (AYC) or Ayodhya Junction, with travel times varying from 8 to 10 hours. It's a comfortable and scenic option, with sleeper and AC classes available.

Distance

640 km

Duration

8-10 hours

Highlights

•Scenic views of rural Uttar Pradesh
•On-board catering and pantry services
•Direct connectivity without transfers
•Budget-friendly sleeper class options

Train Fares

Indicative fares for popular trains from Delhi to Ayodhya.

•Sleeper Class (SL): ~₹400
•AC 3-Tier (3A): ~₹1,050
•AC 2-Tier (2A): ~₹1,500

Train Options

Popular trains with approximate departure times from Delhi.

•Ayodhya Express (14206): Departs Old Delhi at 22:30, reaches Ayodhya at 07:30
•Shram Shakti Express (12452): Departs New Delhi at 16:55, reaches Ayodhya at 02:10
•Special pilgrim trains during festive seasons

🚌

By Bus

Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators run regular bus services between Delhi and Ayodhya. This is an economical choice, with both ordinary and luxury coaches available.

Distance

640 km

Duration

12-14 hours

Highlights

•Low-cost travel option
•Night bus services available
•Comfortable Volvo coaches on select routes
•Direct connectivity to Ayodhya bus stand

Bus Fares

Approximate ticket prices for different bus types.

•Ordinary UPSRTC bus: ~₹600
•AC Volvo private coach: ~₹1,200
•Sleeper coach: ~₹1,500

Booking Options

How to book bus tickets.

•Online via UPSRTC website or apps like RedBus
•Counter booking at ISBT Kashmere Gate
•Private operators offer online booking with flexible cancellation

Stopovers En Route

Lucknow

490 km from Delhi

The capital of Uttar Pradesh, known for its Nawabi culture, delicious cuisine, and historic monuments like Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza.

Fuel stations and EV charging pointsRestaurants serving Awadhi cuisineHotels for overnight stays

Kanpur

400 km from Delhi

An industrial city on the Ganges, offering a brief respite with its colonial-era architecture and local markets. It's a common pit stop for refreshments.

Highway dhabas and fast-food jointsPublic restroomsATMs and medical facilities

Travel Tips

•Start your journey early morning to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Ayodhya by evening.
•Carry a valid ID proof for flight, train, or hotel check-ins.
•Pre-book your accommodation in Ayodhya during festival seasons like Diwali and Ram Navami.
•Keep cash for tolls and small purchases, though digital payments are widely accepted.
•Carry water and light snacks; roadside eateries may not always be hygienic.
•Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, especially during monsoon.

Budget Estimate

road

Yamuna Expressway: ~₹500

Lucknow-Agra Expressway: ~₹400

train

Sleeper Class (SL): ~₹400

AC 3-Tier (3A): ~₹1,050

Several trains run from Delhi to Ayodhya Cantt (AYC) or Ayodhya Junction, with travel times varying from 8 to 10 hours. It's a comfortable and scenic option, with sleeper and AC classes available.

bus

Ordinary UPSRTC bus: ~₹600

AC Volvo private coach: ~₹1,200

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to reach Ayodhya from Delhi?

The fastest way is by flight, with a direct flight from Delhi to Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya taking about 1 hour 15 minutes. Road travel takes about 10 hours, and train takes 8-10 hours.

Are there direct flights from Delhi to Ayodhya?

Yes, Air India and IndiGo operate direct flights from Delhi to Ayodhya's new airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Which is better: driving or taking a train to Ayodhya?

Driving offers flexibility and the comfort of your own vehicle, with a well-developed expressway route. Trains are more economical and allow you to relax without driving fatigue, but you may need to arrange transport from the station to your hotel.

What is the approximate cost of a road trip from Delhi to Ayodhya?

For a car, the total cost including tolls and fuel is approximately ₹3,000-₹3,500, depending on fuel efficiency and current fuel prices.

What are the must-visit places in Ayodhya?

Key attractions include the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, Dashrath Mahal, and the ghats along the Sarayu River. Also, the new Ram Mandir is a major pilgrimage site.