If you are planning a spiritual journey and wondering how to reach Ayodhya from Delhi, you have multiple premium and budget-friendly options. The distance between India’s capital and the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama is approximately 680 km. This guide provides a detailed analysis of travel by air, rail, and road to ensure your pilgrimage is smooth and comfortable.
1. By Flight (The Fastest Way)
Traveling by air is the most efficient option for those who want to save time. Several airlines, including IndiGo and Air India Express, operate direct flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (AYJ) in Ayodhya. The flight duration is roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly to Lucknow (LKO) and take a 2.5-hour taxi ride to Ayodhya. We recommend booking your tickets at least 3-4 weeks in advance to secure the best fares.
2. By Train (Most Popular Connectivity)
The railway network between Delhi and Ayodhya is exceptionally well-developed, offering various classes of travel.
- Vande Bharat Express: For a premium experience, the Delhi-Ayodhya Vande Bharat is the fastest train, offering world-class amenities and catering.
- Other Express Trains: Dedicated trains like the Ayodhya Express and Kaifiyat Express run daily from Old Delhi or New Delhi stations.
- Stop! Are You Booking the Wrong Ayodhya Railway Station? Clear the Confusion Now!
- 60-Day Booking Rule: To avoid the last-minute rush, devotees must utilize the 60-day advance booking window on the IRCTC Official Website. Due to the high influx of pilgrims, tickets often sell out within minutes of opening.
3. By Road (Scenic Drive via Expressway)
A road trip from Delhi to Ayodhya has become incredibly smooth thanks to the world-class expressways. The most common route is via the Yamuna Expressway and Agra-Lucknow Expressway, which connects to the NH27 leading straight to Ayodhya. The drive typically takes about 9 to 11 hours. Multiple luxury AC Volvo buses also operate daily from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Anand Vihar, providing a comfortable overnight journey for travelers.
4. Your Return Journey (Ayodhya to Delhi)
Planning your return journey is as important as the onward trip. You can opt for the evening Vande Bharat Express or an overnight sleeper train to reach Delhi by morning. If you are flying, direct flights are available in the afternoon and evening. It is highly advisable to book your Return Journey tickets simultaneously with your onward journey using the same 60-day IRCTC window or flight portals to ensure a stress-free return to the capital.
Plan Your Spiritual Visit (Essential Links)
To make your stay in Ayodhya more organized, please refer to our curated guides for accommodation and local experiences:
- Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Ayodhya: World-Class Comfort for Global Travelers
- What to Eat: Top Food and Prasadam Centers in Ayodhya
- What to Visit: Ayodhya Temple Guide: Explore the Holy City of Lord Ram & Beyond
Travel Tips for Devotees:
- Always carry a valid government ID for temple entry and hotel check-ins.
- The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
- Download the local map or use GPS as the city can get crowded during festivals.
Disclaimer: Train timings and flight schedules are subject to change. Please verify all details on official government portals before finalizing your travel plans.
Tags: Delhi to Ayodhya, Delhi to Ayodhya Train, Vande Bharat Express, Delhi to Ayodhya Flight, Ayodhya Return Journey, Book Ayodhya Kashi, 60 Day Booking Rule