How to Reach Ayodhya from Kolkata Travel Guide

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Planning a spiritual journey from the ‘City of Joy’ to the ‘Holy Abode of Lord Ram’ is now easier than ever. If you are looking for a complete How to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata Travel Guide, you have come to the right place. Kolkata, being a major gateway in Eastern India, offers excellent rail, air, and road connectivity to Ayodhya.

1. By Train (The Most Reliable Mode)

For the people of West Bengal, the train remains the most convenient and budget-friendly way to travel to Ayodhya. Several express trains connect Howrah (HWH) and Sealdah (SDAH) to Ayodhya. Here are the top train options with their numbers:

  • Doon Express (13009): A very popular daily train that connects Howrah (HWH) directly to Ayodhya Cantt (AYC). It is perfect for those who prefer a daily service and regular timings.
  • Kolkata-Jammu Tawi Express (13151): This train departs from Kolkata (KOAA) station daily at 11:45 AM, providing steady connectivity for pilgrims from all parts of the city.
  • Stop! Are You Booking the Wrong Ayodhya Railway Station? Clear the Confusion Now!

The 60-Day Booking Rule (The Master Rule): This is the most important tip for your journey. Due to the massive rush for the Ram Mandir, you MUST book your tickets through the IRCTC Official Website exactly 60 days in advance. Whether it is Himgiri (12331) or Doon Express (13009), seats often disappear within minutes of the booking window opening.

2. By Flight (Save Your Time)

If you want to reach Ayodhya quickly, flying from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata to Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (AYJ) in Ayodhya is the best option.

  • Flight Connectivity: Direct flights are now operational, and connecting flights via Delhi or Lucknow are also available daily.
  • Onward Journey: Upon landing in Ayodhya, you can easily find local e-rickshaws, prepaid taxis, or buses to reach the main Ram Janmabhoomi complex.

3. By Road (A Scenic Long Drive)

The distance between Kolkata and Ayodhya is approximately 900 km. If you enjoy long road trips with your family, you can take the NH19 route.

  • Route Details: Kolkata > Asansol > Dhanbad > Varanasi > Ayodhya.
  • Important Suggestion: Since it is a long journey of about 18–20 hours, we recommend taking a night halt at Varanasi. You can visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and then proceed to Ayodhya the next morning for a complete spiritual experience.

4. Planning Your Spiritual Stay in Ayodhya

Ayodhya is witnessing a historic influx of devotees from all over the world. Simply booking your travel is not enough; you must ensure that your accommodation is confirmed well in advance. Whether you are looking for a humble Dharamshala near the temple or a premium hotel, advance booking is the key to a peaceful and stress-free visit.

5. Best Time for the Pilgrimage

While the devotion for Lord Ram is eternal, the weather in Ayodhya is most pleasant from October to March. During the summer months (April to June), temperatures can rise significantly, so plan accordingly if you are traveling with elderly family members or small children.

6. Managing Your Return Journey (Ayodhya to Kolkata)

Don’t forget to apply the 60-day rule to your return journey as well. Secure your tickets from Ayodhya back to Howrah or Kolkata at the same time you book your onward journey. Having a confirmed return ticket ensures that you return home with a peaceful mind and no travel-related stress.

7. Explore More with Our Dedicated Guides

To make your visit to the holy city truly comfortable and well-organized, we have prepared these specialized resources for you. Don’t forget to check them out:

Disclaimer: Please verify the latest train timings (12331, 13009) and flight schedules on the official IRCTC and airline portals before finalizing your travel dates.

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