Home › Routes › Lucknow to Ayodhya

Lucknow to Ayodhya

The pilgrimage from Lucknow to Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a journey of approximately 135 kilometers, typically completed in about 3 hours by road. Lucknow, the capita

Plan My Trip Taxi Fares

135 kmDistance

3 hrsDuration

Tentative Fare Estimate

· tap a card to jump to its route plan

Car / Taxi

Swift Dzire₹5,855

Ertiga₹7,430

Innova₹7,745

Innova Crysta₹9,570

Tempo Traveller (12)₹13,100

Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST

View route plan

Bus

Non-AC Seater₹150

AC Seater₹240

Non-AC Sleeper₹220

AC Sleeper₹310

Volvo / Multi-Axle₹430

View route plan

Train

Sleeper₹110

Economy₹170

Third AC₹220

Second AC₹300

First AC₹410

View route plan

Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.

Overview

The pilgrimage from Lucknow to Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a journey of approximately 135 kilometers, typically completed in about 3 hours by road. Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, serves as the primary gateway, with Ayodhya being one of the state's most sacred cities. The route is well-connected via the Lucknow–Ayodhya Highway (NH-27) and the Purvanchal Expressway, offering smooth travel. This guide provides detailed options for traveling by car, train, and bus, including route descriptions, highlights, and practical tips. Whether you are a devotee or a history enthusiast, the journey promises a blend of spiritual fervor and cultural richness, culminating in the divine darshan at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

Route Map

Open in Google Maps

By Car: Lucknow to Ayodhya

135 km · ~2h 42m · About 3h of driving, plus stops.

Start from Lucknow
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
135 km · 2h 42m drive from previous stop
Arrive in Ayodhya
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.

By Bus: Lucknow to Ayodhya

135 km · ~3h · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.

Board at Lucknow
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Lucknow. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
Lucknow → Ayodhya
Non-AC or AC Seater · ~135 km
~3h|Tentative fare ₹150–₹430
Search buses Lucknow to Ayodhya
Arrive in Ayodhya
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Hotels in Ayodhya

Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.

By Train: Lucknow to Ayodhya

Nearest railway stations: Lucknow for Lucknow, Ayodhya for Ayodhya.

Direct trains

Jallianwalabagh Express#18104 · Express

02:50 AMLucknow

2h 25m19 stops

05:15 AMAyodhya

2A3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Kaifiat Express#12226 · Superfast

03:20 AMLucknow Jn

2h 28m24 stops

05:48 AMAyodhya

1A2A3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Indore-Rajendranagar Express#19321 · Express

05:35 AMLucknow

2h 36m19 stops

08:11 AMAyodhya

2A3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Garib Nawaz Express Slip#15716 · Express

05:35 AMLucknow

2h 38m19 stops

08:13 AMAyodhya

3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Garib Nawaz Express#15716-Slip · Express

05:35 AMLucknow

2h 38m19 stops

08:13 AMAyodhya

3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.

Stops & Places Along the Route

Good places to break the journey from Lucknow to Ayodhya.

Barabanki60 km from Lucknow from Lucknow
A historical town on the NH-27, known for its Sufi shrines and traditional cuisine. It serves as a convenient mid-point for a short break.
Fuel stations and restroomsLocal eateries serving Awadhi snacksATMs and small shops
Faizabad125 km from Lucknow (near Ayodhya) from Lucknow
The twin city of Ayodhya, rich in Nawabi-era architecture and the historic Gulab Bari. Many travelers stop here to explore before entering Ayodhya.
Hotels and guesthousesRestaurants and food stallsAuto-rickshaw and e-rickshaw services to Ayodhya

Hotels in Ayodhya

Treebo hotels in Ayodhya. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.

Treebo Ramayan Suites Ayodhya

Ayodhya

Things to Do in Ayodhya

Stroll through Naya Ghat and the old bazaar for local snacks

Walk along the less crowded Naya Ghat to observe daily life, then wander into the bustling lanes near Hanuman Garhi for traditional sweets like peda and jalebi. This is…

1.5 to 2 hours

Seek blessings at Ram Mandir and Ram Janmabhoomi complex

Visit the newly constructed grand temple at the birthplace of Lord Ram, exploring the sanctum and the surrounding complex with its intricate carvings and serene…

2 to 3 hours

Explore the Kanak Bhawan Temple

Visit this beautiful temple dedicated to Ram and Sita, known for its golden idols and ornate architecture, said to be a gift from Queen Kaikeyi. The peaceful courtyard…

45 minutes to 1 hour

Take a peaceful boat ride on the Saryu River

Glide along the calm waters of the Saryu at sunrise or late afternoon to see the ghats, temples, and the Ram Mandir from a different angle. Many boatmen offer a…

30 to 45 minutes

Climb Hanuman Garhi for evening darshan

Ascend the 76 steps to this ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Hanuman, believed to be the guardian of Ayodhya. The narrow passage and lively atmosphere during aarti…

1 to 1.5 hours

Attend the Saryu Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi

Watch the spectacular evening fire ritual on the banks of the Saryu River, where priests offer lamps, flowers, and chants as the sun sets. The ghats light up with…

1 hour (arrive 30 minutes early for a good spot)

See all places in Ayodhya →

Suggested Ayodhya Itinerary

Day 1Arrival & Spiritual Immersion

Visit Ram Mandir and Ram Janmabhoomi complex (allow 2-3 hours for darshan and exploring the temple premises)
Take a peaceful walk around the temple courtyard and see the newly developed Ram Katha Kunj and museum area
Attend the evening Saryu Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi ghat (arrive by 6:00 PM to get a good spot)

Day 2Hanuman Garhi & Old City Heritage

Morning darshan at Hanuman Garhi temple (climb the 76 steps; best visited before 10 AM to avoid crowds)
Explore the nearby Nageshwarnath Temple and the Kanak Bhawan temple, known for its beautiful idols of Ram and Sita
Walk through the local markets near Chowk and Naya Ghat for traditional handicrafts, sweets, and prasad items

Day 3Ghats, Museums & Departure

Morning walk along the Saryu river at Guptar Ghat and Rajghat, where devotees take holy dips
Visit the Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan (Research Institute) to see archaeological artifacts and old manuscripts
Explore the ancient mounds of Mani Parbat and Sugriv Parbat (with a short climb for city views)

Travel Tips

Start early to avoid traffic and have more time for darshan.

Carry valid ID proof for temple entry and hotel check-in.

Use the Purvanchal Expressway for the fastest road journey.

Book train tickets in advance during festival seasons.

Keep cash for small purchases, though UPI is widely accepted.

Dress modestly and remove footwear before entering the temple.

Budget Estimate

road

Purvanchal Expressway toll for a car: ~₹200

NH-27 toll (Lucknow to Ayodhya): ~₹150

Driving from Lucknow to Ayodhya is the fastest and most flexible option, with well-maintained highways ensuring a smooth journey. The route via the Purvanchal Expressway reduces travel time significantly, making it ideal for those who prefer self-drive or private cabs.

train

Unreserved (General): ~₹50

Sleeper Class (SL): ~₹145

Trains from Lucknow to Ayodhya offer a comfortable and economical option, with several daily services. The Ayodhya Cantt (AYC) and Ayodhya Junction (AY) are the main railway stations, well-connected to major cities.

bus

Ordinary (Non-AC): ~₹100

AC Bus: ~₹250

Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates regular AC and non-AC buses from Lucknow to Ayodhya. Private operators also run luxury coaches, providing a balance of comfort and cost.

Extend Your Trip

Add a nearby place to your Ayodhya trip and see the full Lucknow → Ayodhya → next stop route.

Ayodhya → Basti

About 70 km by road

Plan Lucknow → Ayodhya → Basti Route Basti guide

Ayodhya → Sultanpur

About 80 km by road

Plan Lucknow → Ayodhya → Sultanpur Route Sultanpur guide

Ayodhya → Barabanki

About 135 km by road

Plan Lucknow → Ayodhya → Barabanki Route Barabanki guide

Ayodhya → Siddharthnagar

About 135 km by road

Plan Lucknow → Ayodhya → Siddharthnagar Route Siddharthnagar guide

Plan My Trip: Lucknow to Ayodhya

Pick how you want to travel and we'll send a complete plan with transport, hotel and sightseeing — on WhatsApp and a call back.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to travel from Lucknow to Ayodhya?

The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid major festivals like Diwali and Ram Navami if you prefer less crowding, though the experience is unique.

2. Is the Purvanchal Expressway open for public use?

Yes, the Purvanchal Expressway is fully operational and connects Lucknow to Ayodhya, significantly reducing travel time. It is a controlled-access highway with tolls.

3. Are there direct trains from Lucknow to Ayodhya?

Yes, several direct trains operate daily between Lucknow (LKO/LJN) and Ayodhya (AYC/AY), including express and passenger trains. Travel time ranges from 3 to 4 hours.

4. How far is the Ayodhya bus stand from Ram Janmabhoomi temple?

The main bus stand is about 1.5 km from the temple. You can take an auto-rickshaw or walk for approximately 20 minutes.

5. Can I hire a cab for a one-way trip from Lucknow to Ayodhya?

Yes, one-way cab services are available. Prices typically range from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 depending on the cab type and demand. It's advisable to book in advance.