How to Reach Ayodhya
Complete travel guide: Direct flights to AYJ, high-speed Vande Bharat timetables, road expressways, parking zones, and local e-rickshaws.
Ayodhya, the sacred birthplace of Bhagwan Shri Ram, is now seamlessly accessible via multi-modal transportation following the inauguration of the state-of-the-art Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (AYJ), the redeveloped heritage Ayodhya Dham Junction, and upgraded expressways. This guide covers every route, timetable, fare estimate, and last-mile transfer option.
By Air (Airport AYJ)
Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (AYJ) is 15 km from Ram Mandir. Direct non-stop flights connect Delhi (1h 20m), Mumbai (2h 15m), Bengaluru (2h 40m), Ahmedabad (2h), and Kolkata (2h). Pre-paid taxi counters are available at arrivals (₹400–550).
By Rail (Ayodhya Dham AY)
Ayodhya Dham Junction (AY) is 1.5 km from Ram Mandir. Connected by Vande Bharat Express, Amrit Bharat Express, and overnight Superfast trains from Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Patna.
By Bus (UPSRTC)
UPSRTC operates regular AC Janrath, Scania, and Volvo buses from Lucknow (3 hrs, ₹350), Varanasi (4.5 hrs, ₹420), Gorakhpur (3 hrs, ₹280), and Delhi (11 hrs, ₹1,200). Bus terminus is on Ram Path (1 km from temple).
By Road (Expressways)
Connected via 4-lane NH-27 and Purvanchal Expressway. Distances: Lucknow (135 km), Gorakhpur (140 km), Varanasi (200 km), Prayagraj (170 km), Delhi (630 km via Yamuna & Agra–Lucknow Expressway).
Travel Times from Major Indian Cities
| City / Origin | Direct Flight (AYJ) | Train / Vande Bharat | Road / Expressway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1h 20m (AYJ direct) | 8h 20m (Vande Bharat 22426) | 630 km · 9–11 hrs via Agra–Lucknow Exp |
| Mumbai | 2h 15m (AYJ direct) | 24–28 hrs (via Lucknow / Ayodhya Cantt) | 1,500 km · 26+ hrs (Flight recommended) |
| Lucknow | — (Road faster) | 2–2.5 hrs (MEMU / Express trains) | 135 km · 2.5 hrs via 4-lane NH-27 |
| Varanasi | — (Road/Rail) | 3.5–4.5 hrs (Kashi / Ayodhya Exp) | 200 km · 4 hrs via NH-233 / NH-330 |
| Gorakhpur | — | 2–2.5 hrs (Vande Bharat 22549) | 140 km · 2.5–3 hrs via NH-27 |
| Patna | — | 6h 15m (Vande Bharat 22345) | 400 km · 7.5 hrs via NH-31 / NH-27 |
| Prayagraj | — | 3.5–4.5 hrs (Saryu Express) | 170 km · 3.5 hrs via NH-330 |
| Bengaluru | 2h 40m (AYJ direct) | 34+ hrs (via Lucknow) | 2,000 km (Flight recommended) |
Local Ayodhya Fares & Last-Mile Transport
Shared E-Rickshaw
📍 Ayodhya Dham Station ↔ Ram Path / Hanuman Garhi
Eco-friendly, runs every 2 mins right outside station exits.
Reserved Auto / E-Rickshaw
📍 Anywhere within 4 km city radius
Best for families with luggage and elderly pilgrims.
Airport Pre-Paid Taxi
📍 Maharishi Valmiki Airport (AYJ) ↔ Ram Path / Hotels
Official police pre-paid counter inside airport arrivals.
Free Senior Golf Carts
📍 Pilgrim Facilitation Centre ↔ Sugam Darshan Gate
Dedicated for pilgrims aged 65+ and divyangjan.
City-Specific Route Guides
Frequently Asked Questions — Reaching Ayodhya
Last updated: 14 September 2026.