Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and best route

Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and best route is one of the most frequently asked questions by the pilgrims visiting UP. The distance between Varanasi and Ayodhya by road is around 220-225 Kms depending on the route. By car, it takes around 4.5-5.5 hours to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi via NH731B which is currently the fastest and easiest option. Whereas, trains are the cheapest but time-consuming mode of transport and can take anywhere between 7-9 hours depending on the train you take. Hence, roadways seem to be the best option for a hassle-free and comfortable pilgrimage while trains are great for budget-conscious travelers.

I am Vanshika Rai from Ayodhya Varanasi Guides, and I have been facilitating the travel between these two cities for families, solo pilgrims, and groups for quite some time. In this blog, I would be discussing the Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and best route and all the other possible options with their costs, time-taken, and comfort level to help you decide which one suits you the best.

What Is the Varanasi to Ayodhya Distance and Best Route?

The Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and best route is 220-225 Kms by NH731B which takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours to reach. It is suggested to opt for the highway as it provides faster travel and is more comfortable with its facilities.

Most people think that there is a single route to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi but in reality, there are multiple ways to take advantage of the situation depending on your vehicle, weather, and stops.

As a suggestion, it is better to opt for the highway as it is well-developed with all facilities like petrol pumps, and restaurants. Depending on the vehicle and the weather, you can choose between taking the route via Jaunpur or the one that bypasses it.

Whether you are going for the Ram Mandir Darshan, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan visit, or a complete circuit, it is important to choose the correct route because the one you choose will have a great impact on your fuel as well as time.

Your GPS or Google Maps can give you slightly different results as they calculate the average distance between entry and exit points for both the cities.

Road Distance Between Varanasi And Ayodhya

As per average measurements, the distance between the two places is 220Kms to 225Kms. You can rely on these numbers if you begin your journey from Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya and the main city of Varanasi.

Average Driving Time

Your distance maybe slightly different depending on the following situations:

• Ram Navami

• Deepotsav

• Diwali holidays

• Long weekends

• Heavy rains during monsoon

It is always better to start your journey in the morning to avoid the traffic that is common to find in a number of cities including Varanasi.

Fastest Highway Route From Varanasi To Ayodhya

The best route to Ayodhya from Varanasi is as follows:

Varanasi – Jaunpur – Shahganj – Ayodhya (NH731B and other highways)

The reasons to consider this route include:

• Good road conditions

• Highways with excellent conditions

• Petrol pumps

• Restaurants located on the highway

• Multiple emergency services

• Good network coverage

Route Suggestion For Private Vehicle From Varanasi To Ayodhya

This route that I have suggested includes highways that are developed and provide comfort to the drivers. If you are looking to reach to Ayodhya via another route then you can consider taking some of the district roads as it provides a bit of a detour that helps you bypass heavy traffic.

But in most cases, I would suggest sticking to NH731B unless the traffic conditions suggest otherwise.

Key takeaway: The Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and best route is approximately 220 km via NH731B. It offers the quickest journey, dependable road conditions, and convenient travel facilities.

Which Route Should I Choose from Varanasi to Ayodhya?

If your primary concern is arriving in Ayodhya quickly, I suggest you consider the highway route (NH731B). Travelers sightseeing or seeking local cuisine may prefer a slightly longer route via nearby towns.

Every pilgrim has different standards. Some want the fastest route to reach the temple before sunrise, while others want to leisurely drive through historic cities on the way. Before setting off, you should think about your travel style, the weather, and how many people are going with you.

Fastest Route

For most people, the fastest route from Lucknow to Ayodhya is NH731B.

• Better roads
• fewer detours,
• more predictable traffic,
• allow faster average speeds and
• smoother rides
  

Compared to other routes, NH731B provides more amenities, including restaurants and fuel stations, making it a good choice if you want to minimize your travel time. If you plan on going to the morning darshan at the Ram Mandir, it will reduce your chances of encountering traffic delays.

Scenic Route

If you want to see more of Uttar Pradesh, you may consider taking a more winding route.

Though it adds around 30-45 minutes to your commute, the drive through smaller towns and villages gives you a more local feel.

Best Route During the Monsoon

During the rainy season, roads stay drier on major highways.

Before leaving, you should check online for local traffic reports and weather conditions. Highways may also experience delays due to reduced visibility during storms, but other roads tend to flood.

Best Route for Families

When traveling with children or senior citizens, you should prioritize comfort over speed. The highway route has amenities like clean restrooms, good restaurants, medical facilities, and fuel stations. It also has smoother roads and is safer for families. Though it may take longer, the highway route is the most family-friendly option.

Key Takeaway

Your preferred route may vary depending on your needs, but the highway via Jaunpur is generally the best option for most commuters. It reduces traffic risks and ensures a faster and more comfortable ride.

Can I Travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya by Car?

Yes. Driving by personal vehicle is most comfortable option to choose for going from Varanasi to Ayodhya. It has liberty in terms of time, sightseeing, and direct hotel and temple access in contrast to public transport.

Personally, I have seen many people who prefer to take a car for this trip, because they can set their travel schedule according to the time of opening of the temple. Also, for family members and kids, it is quite comfortable to travel in a private vehicle.

Driving Experience Overview

The drive is smooth on the main highway.

Signboards are prominent on the roads and the traffic is not so hectic except on some city roads. The highways are well connected and maintained and hence very comfortable to drive on, at least for the first-time drivers.

Tolls

Depending on the route you choose, you might have to face tolls on the way. So, it is better to keep a FASTag laminated and updated to avoid standing in long queues. Also, keeping some cash with you might come in handy.

Fuel Stations

The fuel is not a big problem on the Varanasi to Ayodhya route. Reputed petrol pumps are well maintained on the highways. I usually suggest filling your car’s tank before leaving Varanasi, but if that doesn’t sound good, there are plenty of options on the way as well.

Food & Restroom

One of the major benefits of going by road is that you can stop at roadside dhabas for food and comfort.

On the way from Varanasi to Ayodhya, you can have:

• Tea stalls

• Vegetarian restaurants

• Family restaurants

• Toilets

• Drinking water

Moreover, if you are driving a long route, you can take rest after every 2 hours. This might be helpful, especially in summers. In fact, I always prefer to take a break every 2 hours, even if I am not tired.

Navigation

Google map works fine on the Varanasi to Ayodhya route, but it is better to download offline maps because on some stretches of road, your phone might not get a proper network connection.

So, if the phone gets disconnected due to any reason, you won’t face much difficulty in getting to your destination

Conclusion

Driving by personal vehicle is the most convenient and flexible way to go from Varanasi to Ayodhya. It has good infrastructure, and fuel stations, and comfort level is maintained throughout the journey, so I personally prefer driving over other means of transportation for this trip.

How Can I Reach Ayodhya from Varanasi by Train?

Yes, taking a train is one of the cheapest ways to cover the Varanasi to Ayodhya distance, considering the routes are available almost daily or weekly. The travel time via trains from Varanasi to Ayodhya can be anything between 3.5 to 5.5 hours, making it ideal for solo, student, and pilgrim travel.

Moreover, many people enquire regarding the Varanasi to Ayodhya train and road trip comparison. Hence when someone asks me if they should travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya by train, I explain the following factors.

Why Opt For Trains From Varanasi To Ayodhya?

Well, if you do not want to take a risk driving on the highways and want comfortable, cheap, and reliable travel means, then the trains connecting Varanasi to Ayodhya are a perfect choice.

Ayodhya has plenty of train connectivity to Varanasi, and most of them run daily or weekly. Therefore, it is better to book your preferred train and travel date beforehand, especially during the holiday or festival seasons.

Trains Available For The Route From Varanasi To Ayodhya

There are a good number of superfast and express trains plying between the two cities. However, it is better to double-check the updated timetables for the week or month of your travel, as the train services might differ according to demand and railway scheduling.

Some trains terminate at Ayodhya Dham Junction, while others arrive at Ayodhya Junction. Both of them are good places to start exploring and visiting Ram Mandir, which is the ultimate pilgrimage for millions of Hindus.

Average Time Taken By Trains From Varanasi To Ayodhya

The duration of a train ride from Varanasi to Ayodhya can be anything between 3.5 to 5.5 hours on average. However, it totally depends on the type of train and the boarding station. Usually, express trains take less time than passenger trains, and during the peak season, the trains tend to get delayed.

Therefore, it is better to keep an extra hour or two as a buffer to reach your destination on time.

Tips For Booking Trains From Varanasi To Ayodhya

Most importantly, it is better to book your train tickets well in advance, especially during the holiday season, Ram Navami, Deepotsav, Diwali, and long weekends.

I suggest you check the IRCTC website for the best available trains.

Practical advice: If you want a budget-friendly and comfortable journey, travelling by train is one of the best options for covering the Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and best route. Always verify the latest train schedule on the official IRCTC website before travelling.

Is Bus Travel a Good Option Between Varanasi and Ayodhya?

Yes, taking buses is one of the cost-effective ways of reaching from Varanasi to Ayodhya. The government and private bus services operate on a regular basis and buses are usually cheaper than hiring a car; however, the distance is a bit lengthy as compared to the car journey.

Buses are a good option for those who do not want to drive or have not reserved train tickets. The state-owned and private bus services have greatly developed in recent years. Therefore, both state-owned and private buses operate regularly on a daily basis and offer affordable tickets. Also, you can choose the most comfortable buses in accordance with your budget.

State-owned Bus Services

The state-owned buses provide cheap fare and operate on regular basis from bus terminals in both cities.

Even though they make a lot of stops along the way, state-owned buses are a great option for budget travelers going to Ayodhya from Varanasi.

Private Bus Services

Private Bus services, in their turn, offer more comfort, air-conditioned cabins, and online booking. Some buses run overnight while others do during the day.

Cost of Ticket

It is difficult to say how much exactly bus tickets from Varanasi to Ayodhya cost since it depends on numerous factors: a type of bus, season, and organization which sells tickets.

It is necessary to pay more money for air-conditioned buses, but they are worth it, especially when the temperature is really high.

Time Required for Bus Travel

The buses usually take around 5 – 6 hours to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi. The time might vary depending on the number of stops and weather conditions.

How Long Does It Take to Reach Ayodhya from Varanasi?

The travel time depends on the mode of transportation; it is normally 4.5–5.5 hours by road and 3.5 hours by the fastest trains.

Many factors influence the decision about which transport to choose: distance is not the only criterion to consider, especially when talking about visiting temples. If you plan to visit Ram Mandir to see the morning or evening aarti, this can have a considerable effect on the choice of transport.

By Car

This option usually takes 4.5–5.5 hours, depending on the traffic and the amount of breaks.

By Taxi

The travel time is almost the same as by car, since there are no significant differences in speed.

However, you do not have to drive; you can simply enjoy the scenery without having to worry about directions or parking.

By Train

The fastest trains take about 3.5–5 hours. The distance is covered quickly, which makes them the preferred option among railway travellers.

By Bus

The bus ride takes 5–6 hours on average, depending on the number of stops and the road conditions.

In short: If saving time is your priority, trains are usually the fastest. For flexibility and convenience, I recommend travelling by car.

What Are the Major Places to Visit on the Way?

The drive from Varanasito Ayodhya offers up some interesting options if you have time to spare. Here are some helpful tips about places to stop along the way.

Instead of driving straight to Ayodhya, I always like to take a detour through some local sights and grab a bite to eat. Besides, it gives you ample time to relax before you start your temple-bound journey in Ayodhya.

Jaunpur

This city is the most popular halt for many people as it has a lot of historical monuments, bazaars, and mosques.

In case you feel like it, you can spend an hour exploring this city as it will be worth your time.

Shahi Bridge

One of the most famous landmarks of Jaunpur is the 17th-century Mughal-era bridge that is a favourite among photographers.

Local Food Stops

Restaurants along the highway serve good North Indian cuisine, tea, local snacks, and fresh veggies. I suggest you stick to restaurants you see on the main road as they are usually clean and not smoky.

Photography Tips

The countryside is dotted with small farmhouses, which makes for a good photo opportunity. Most farms are at their most accessible during the winter and post-monsoon seasons, as the landscapes are at their greenest and most vibrant.

Always remember to stop only on the designated stops while photographing the farms.

Pro Tip: Taking a short detour to sightsee will add much-needed variety to your long drive. Just keep in mind how much time you have if you have a strict temple itinerary to follow.

When Is the Best Time to Travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya?

The best time for tours is between October and March, as the weather is pleasant for road travel as well as temple visits. It is possible to travel during the summer, however, a trip during this time requires more planning due to hot weather.

The best time for tours is between October and March, as the weather is pleasant for road travel as well as temple visits

Choosing the wrong season can have an adverse effect on both the road trip, as well as the pilgrimage. The temperature, traffic, and waiting time at the temple are all governed by the weather.

Winter (October – March)

Winter is a great time to visit as the weather is pleasant enough for road travel and sightseeing. However, it is also the peak season, which means that it is advisable to make accommodation bookings in advance.

Summer (April – June)

It is possible to explore Ayodhya during summer, however, it is advisable to start early in the morning and take a break during the hottest part of the day. Carrying adequate water during the trips is advisable, while sightseeing can be avoided during midday hours.

Monsoon (July – September)

The monsoon season adds to the beauty of the natural landscape, while also causing occasional traffic delays. It is advisable to keep an eye on the weather forecast before embarking on any adventure.

Festival Season

Ram Navami, Deepotsav, and several other Hindu festivals see Ayodhya crowded with people. It is advisable to keep in mind that traffic congestion, as well as hotel bookings, would be difficult to secure during this time. Additionally, it is also possible that waiting time at the temples could be a bit longer than usual.

What Travel Tips Should First-Time Visitors Know?

Having driven this route countless times, I know a few crucial insights that can help you beat the traffic and avoid the usual travel hassles.

Leave Early In The Morning

Leaving early in the morning helps one avoid the traffic congestion in Varanasi. I suggest leaving at around 6 or 7 in the morning.

Also, you must leave early as the darshan timings for the temples such as Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, and the Ram Mandir are often in the afternoon.

Carry Cash Along With Upi Payments

Most of the UPI payments work smoothly; however, some roadside dhabas, local shops, and parking slots only accept cash.

I suggest you carry some extra cash with you in case you have to make payments at such places.

Fill Your Tank At The Gas Stations

Even though there are plenty of gas stations at the highways, it is always a good idea to fill your tank as much as possible before heading towards Ayodhya.

This will save you the hassle of looking for fuel stations in the middle of your journey.

Check The Timings Of The Temples

I suggest you check the darshan timings of the Ram Mandir and the Hanuman Garhi in advance. The timings tend to change for special occasions and festivals.

This way, you can also manage your time well and avoid standing in long queues if you are visiting during peak season.

Plan Your Parking In Advance

With the rise in popularity of Ayodhya as a pilgrimage spot, parking near the Ram Mandir has become a challenge, especially on weekends and holidays. I suggest you plan your parking in advance and leave your vehicle at the parking lots suggested by the traffic police.

Book Your Accommodation In Advance

If you are considering overnight stays in Ayodhya, I suggest you book your hotel in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during the peak season. The hotels tend to fill up quickly during festivals such as Ram Navami and Deepotsav and long weekends.

Practical advice: The road trip from Varanasi to Ayodhya can be stressful. Leaving early in the morning can help you avoid the traffic congestion. It is also a good idea to check the timings of the Ram Mandir darshan in advance. These simple yet effective tricks can make your journey seamless and memorable.

Conclusion

The Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and best route covers a distance of about 220-225 km. Most people take around 4.5 to 5.5 hours to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi by road via the NH731B route. If you are looking for the best way to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi, then I suggest taking a private vehicle, as it gives you the freedom to explore lesser-known places like Jaunpur and also helps you reach Ayodhya on your own terms. In case of budget, trains are the most appropriate mode of transportation, while buses are best for people who are on a tight budget.

​I suggest that you should plan your trip from October to March, as the roads are in good condition, and the weather is pleasant. It is also a good idea to keep track of the traffic on the routes and book hotel accommodation in advance if you are traveling during the holiday season.

As an expert guide at Ayodhya Varanasi Guides, I always assist the people in finding the best route, transportation, and places for temple visits in terms of their needs and requirements. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning pilgrim, I will help you in having a hassle-free experience.

Book now

Contact Ayodhya Varanasi Guides today for Ayodhya Varanasi tour packages your booking.

Website: www.ayodhyavaranasiguide.com​

Phone: 9557904307

We are always ready to make your Ayodhya journey comfortable, spiritual, and memorable.

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