Introduction
Banaras is one of the oldest cities in India,located on the bank of river Ganga. It is also known as Kashi or Varanasi. Atmosphere of Varanasi is very spiritual. People from various parts of the country come here to take a dip in the Ganga river to get rid of their sins. The city is known for its narrow lanes, beautiful ghats.
Ayodhya is a city in Uttar Pradesh ,located on the bank of river Saryau. It is famous as the birthplace of Lord Rama. The city is mentioned in the Ramayana,The newly built Ram Mandir is a must visit, drawing pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. The city is filled with beautiful temples, riverbanks, and peaceful vibes.
Banaras to Ayodhya Distance
| Mode of Transport | Distance | Duration |
| By Road | 200 Km | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| By Train | 200 to 215 Km | 2 to 3 hours |
| By Air | Direct flights not available(nearest via Luck | – |
Modes of Transport From Banaras to Ayodhya
By Road (Car/Taxi)
You can drive your own car or hire a taxi to travel as it provides comfort and flexibility..Roads are mostly good and the route is quite scenic.It takes 4 to 5 hours, to travel from Banaras to Ayodhya distance is 200 km.
There are many cab/ Taxi services such as Savaari, Goibibo,etc available on this route. These can be booked through their apps or website.
Best Road Route
Route 1: Via NH31 & NH128
This is the most preferred highway to travel from Banaras to Ayodhya .It is recommended for fastest travel.Total distance is 200 km and time required to travel is 4 to 5 hours. It is a smooth road ,with many food stops and fuel stations.The route is as follows:
Varanasi > Jaunpur > Shahganj > Rudauli > Ayodhya
Route 2: Via Azamgarh
This is the scenic route from Banaras to Ayodhya. This one is a bit longer but takes you through quiet, green countryside.Road has some narrow stretches. The journey is 215 km and takes 5 to 6 hours. The route is as follows:
Varanasi > Azamgarh > Rajesultanpur > Jalalpur > Ayodhya
Route 3 : Via Kadipur
This is a less commonly used route from Banaras to Ayodhya. Road quality is mixed, some parts are good, others average.Total distance is 215 km and time required to travel is 5 to 6 hours. The route is as follows:
Varanasi > Azamgarh > Rajesultanpur > Jalalpur > Ayodhya
By Bus
Government (UPSRTC) and Private buses run from Banaras to Ayodhya. Different types of buses like AC, Non-Ac, Sleeper, ordinary are available. The journey takes 4 to 6 hours.Buses are the best option for affordable journeys. Multiple buses run on this route daily ,including morning and evening options.
By Train
Trains are the budget friendly and comfortable options. There are multiple trains daily between Varanasi Junction and Ayodhya Junction / Ayodhya Cantt. Book your ticket from the IRCTC website or visit the ticket counter.Popular trains on this route are:
| Train Names | Frequency | Duration |
| Saryu Express | Daily | 4 hours 50 mins |
| Varanasi–Bahraich Intercity | Daily | 4 hours 50 mins |
| LKO Intercity Express | Daily | 4 hours 50 mins |
| BUI–Ayodhya Express (via VNS) | Daily | 5 hours 5 mins |
| Kashi Express | Daily | 5 hours 45 mins |
By Flight
There are no direct flights available between Banaras to Ayodhya.But still if you want to take a flight, Fly from Varanasi Airport to Lucknow Airport (1 hour)Then drive/take taxi to Ayodhya (about 4 hours by road)
Best time to travel
The best time to travel from Ayodhya to Delhi is during the winter season(October to March) as the weather is very pleasant and Especially great if you want to attend Ram Navami or Deepotsav in Ayodhya or enjoy the ghats of Banaras in peace
Try to avoid traveling in the afternoon during summer because long drives can be tiring and uncomfortable.During monsoon(July to September) Heavy rain can cause delays, slippery roads, and traffic.
If you’re traveling during festivals like Diwali, Ram Navami, or Dev Deepawali, start even earlier (maybe by 5:30–6:00 AM) to beat the crowd and traffic.
Travel Tips
- Make sure your car or taxi is in good condition (fuel, tires, brakes, etc.).
- Start early in the morning (6–9 AM) to avoid traffic and heat.
- Stop at dhabas near Jaunpur or Shahganj for fresh, local food.
- Stick to the main highways for safety and better road conditions.
- Drive slowly through villages and towns — roads can get narrow suddenly.
- There may be local police checkpoints near Shahganj or Rudauli as these are areas near sensitive locations.
- If you have time, this historical fort is an interesting stop to explore the region’s past. It’s located near the Varanasi-Jaunpur road.
FAQs
What is the distance between Varanasi and Ayodhya?
The distance between Banaras and Ayodhya is around 200 kilometers.
How long does it take to travel from Varanasi to Ayodhya by car?
It usually takes 5 to 6 hours,depending on the route you choose.
Which is the most recommended route for driving?
Via NH 19: Varanasi > Jaunpur > Shahganj > Rudauli > Ayodhya
Are there any tolls on the route?
Yes, there are toll booths on the highways, especially on NH 19.
Are there any food stops along the route?
Yes, you’ll find small local dhabas and eateries in towns like Jaunpur, Shahganj, and Rudauli.
Can I travel by train from Varanasi to Ayodhya?
Yes, there are direct trains available from Varanasi Junction to Ayodhya Junction.
Are there any accommodations in Ayodhya?
Yes, Ayodhya has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hotels to guest houses and higher-end hotels.
What are the parking facilities in Ayodhya?
Ayodhya has various parking areas near major temples and pilgrimage sites, including Ram Janmabhoomi and Hanuman Garhi.
Conclusion
The trip from Varanasi to Ayodhya is a wonderful way to explore India’s spiritual and cultural side. Whether you go by car, train, or bus, it’s an opportunity to visit important religious sites and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of both cities.
Both places are full of history and spirituality. Varanasi has the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Ayodhya is known for the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. These sites make the journey meaningful and special.
The best time to travel is during the winter months when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. But be aware that during festivals, the roads might be busy, so plan ahead.
Overall, the journey isn’t just about getting from one city to another it’s about experiencing the culture and spirituality of the places you pass through. With a little planning, your trip from Varanasi to Ayodhya will be easy and enjoyable.
