Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is the primary gateway to the divine city of Ayodhya. Since the distance between the two cities is only about 130 km, thousands of devotees travel this route every single day. If you are looking for a detailed How to reach Ayodhya from Lucknow Travel Guide, this post covers everything from trains and buses to private luxury taxis.
1. By Train (The Fastest Local Option)
Traveling from Lucknow to Ayodhya by train is incredibly convenient. There are dozens of trains that pass through Lucknow Charbagh (LKO) or Lucknow Junction (LJN) towards Ayodhya (AY) or Ayodhya Cantt (AYC).
- Vande Bharat Express (22348): The fastest and most premium way to reach Ayodhya from Lucknow in just about 2 hours.
- Lucknow-Ayodhya Intercity (14202): A dedicated daily train for commuters and pilgrims.
- Ayodhya Express (14206): Another reliable daily service for a comfortable journey.
- The 60-Day Booking Rule (Still Applies): Even though the distance is short, premium trains like Vande Bharat (22348) get full very quickly. We always recommend booking via the IRCTC Official Website exactly 60 days in advance to secure your seat.
2. By Road: Private Taxis and Buses (Highly Recommended)
Since the distance is only 130 km, the road journey via the Lucknow-Ayodhya Highway (NH27) is smooth and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
- UPSRTC Government Buses: Regular AC and Non-AC buses ply from Lucknow’s Kaisarbagh and Alambagh bus stands every 30 minutes. No prior booking is needed for general buses, but for AC Janrath buses, you can book online.
- Private Taxis: If you are traveling with family, hiring a private taxi is a great option. It offers “door-to-door” service from Lucknow airport or your hotel directly to the Ram Mandir.
3. By Flight (For Transiting Passengers)
Many travelers land at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) and then proceed to Ayodhya.
- Connecting Path: After landing at Lucknow, you can either take a pre-paid taxi or head to the Charbagh railway station for a train. The airport-to-Ayodhya taxi drive is one of the most preferred routes for international and premium travelers.
4. Planning Your Visit to the Holy City
Since Lucknow is so close, many people try to do a “Same Day Return” trip. However, to truly experience the spiritual essence of the evening Saryu Aarti and the morning Darshan, we recommend staying at least one night in Ayodhya.
Whether you choose a premium hotel or a peaceful Dharamshala, make sure to confirm your booking well in advance. Ayodhya is seeing a massive rush, and “on-the-spot” rooms are often hard to find.
5. Managing Your Return Journey (Ayodhya to Lucknow)
For your return trip, the same rules apply. If you plan to take a specific train like the Vande Bharat or Intercity, follow the 60-day rule. If you are traveling by bus, you can simply reach the Ayodhya bus stand, as services to Lucknow are very frequent.
6. Explore Ayodhya with Our Expert Resources
To make your journey from the city of Nawabs to the city of Lord Ram truly memorable, explore these guides:
- Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Ayodhya: World-Class Comfort for Global Travelers
- What to Visit: Ayodhya Temple Guide: Explore the Holy City of Lord Ram & Beyond
- What to Eat: Top Food and Prasadam Centers in Ayodhya
Essential Tips for Your Journey
Before you finalize your trip from Lucknow to Ayodhya, keep these “Krantikari” tips in mind to ensure a smooth experience:
- Carry Valid ID: Always carry a government-issued ID (Aadhar Card) as it is mandatory for security checks and entry into the temple complex.
- Dress Code: While there is no strict dress code, wearing traditional Indian attire is recommended to respect the sanctity of the temple.
- Locker Facilities: Mobile phones and leather items (belts, wallets) are not allowed inside the main temple. Use the free lockers provided by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
- Avoid Peak Days: If possible, try to visit on weekdays. Festivals like Ram Navami and Purnima see a massive rush, making it difficult to get a peaceful Darshan.
Disclaimer: Always check the latest train schedules (e.g., Vande Bharat 22348) and highway traffic conditions before you begin your journey.