How to Reach Ayodhya by Air, Train, and Road

Ayodhya, one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, holds immense religious and cultural significance. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, making it a major pilgrimage site for millions of devotees worldwide. With the construction of the Ram Mandir, the city's popularity has surged, attracting tourists and pilgrims from all over India and abroad.

Whether you're traveling for spiritual reasons or to explore its rich heritage, Ayodhya is well-connected via air, road, and rail. Here’s a detailed guide on the best ways to reach Ayodhya conveniently.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Flight

Nearest Airport to Ayodhya

The nearest airport to Ayodhya is the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya (AYJ), which is located approximately 10 km from the city centre. The airport was recently upgraded to accommodate international flights and enhance connectivity for travellers.

Flight Connectivity to Ayodhya:

Currently, Ayodhya’s airport operates direct domestic flights from major Indian cities, such as:

• Delhi (Indira Gandhi International Airport)
• Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport)
• Bangalore (Kempegowda International Airport)
• Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Airport)
• Kolkata (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport)

International flight services are expected to expand in the coming years, improving global access to Ayodhya.

Alternative Airport: Lucknow International Airport

For travellers from international destinations or cities without direct flights to Ayodhya, Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow (LKO) is the best alternative. Located around 135 km from Ayodhya, Lucknow Airport offers better connectivity and a wider range of flight options. From Lucknow, you can reach Ayodhya via:

• Taxi or Private Cab: Takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via NH 27.
• Bus: UPSRTC operates regular bus services to Ayodhya.

Transport from Ayodhya Airport to the City:

Once you land at Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, you can easily find transportation to the city centre. Options include:

• Taxis and App-based Cabs (Ola, Uber, and local operators)
• Auto-rickshaws for short distances
• Private car rentals for a hassle-free journey

How to Reach Ayodhya by Road

Ayodhya by Road: Well-Connected Highways

Ayodhya is well-connected via national highways and expressways, making road travel a convenient option. The city is accessible from major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Gorakhpur through well-maintained roads.

Major Routes to Reach Ayodhya by Road:

Bus Services to Ayodhya:

• For budget travellers, government and private buses are available from various cities to Ayodhya.
• UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) operates regular buses from Lucknow, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Prayagraj.
• Private bus operators also offer AC sleepers, semi-sleepers, and deluxe buses from major cities.

Taxi and Private Car Options:

Hiring a private taxi or cab is a convenient option, especially for families or group travellers. App-based services like Ola and Uber are available in nearby cities like Lucknow but may not always be available in Ayodhya.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Train

Nearest Railway to Ayodhya

Ayodhya has two main railway stations:

• Ayodhya Junction (AY) – Located in the heart of the city, this is the primary station for pilgrims and tourists.
• Faizabad Junction (FD) – Situated around 7 km from Ayodhya, this station has better train frequency and connectivity.

Major Trains to Ayodhya:

Ayodhya is well-connected via the Indian Railways network, with regular trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore.

Local Transport from Ayodhya Railway Station:

From Ayodhya Junction or Faizabad Junction, you can reach your destination using:

• Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws
• Private taxis and rental cars

Things to See and Do in Ayodhya

Ayodhya is a city rich in spiritual heritage, history, and culture. Here are some of the must-visit places and experiences in Ayodhya:

Ram Janmabhoomi: 

Ram Janmabhoomi is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, making it the holiest site in Ayodhya. The newly constructed Ram Mandir has become a major pilgrimage destination, attracting devotees from around the world. The temple complex is known for its grand architecture, spiritual aura, and religious significance.

Hanuman Garhi:

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this fort-like temple is one of the most visited shrines in Ayodhya. Devotees believe that visiting this temple grants protection from evil and fulfils wishes. The temple is located on a hill, requiring visitors to climb 76 steps to seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman.

Kanak Bhawan:

Kanak Bhawan is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, gifted to Sita by Queen Kaikeyi after her marriage. The temple is famous for its golden idols of Rama and Sita, giving it the name “Golden Palace”. It is a peaceful place, perfect for devotees and tourists who appreciate architecture and devotion.

Saryu River and Ram Ki Paidi:

The Saryu River Ghats, especially Ram Ki Paidi, are significant for religious rituals and evening Aarti ceremonies. Devotees take a holy dip in the river, believing it washes away sins and brings spiritual purification. The mesmerizing evening Aarti along the riverbank is a must-see event for visitors.

Treta Ke Thakur Temple:

This ancient temple is believed to have been built at the site where Lord Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna (horse-sacrifice ritual) after his return from exile. The temple houses intricately carved idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and other deities, made of black sandstone. The temple is open to devotees on special occasions and is a significant part of Ayodhya’s history.

Nageshwarnath Temple:

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is said to have been built by Kush, the son of Lord Rama. It is an important pilgrimage site, especially during Mahashivratri, when thousands of devotees gather here. The temple’s serene environment and religious significance make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers.

ALSO READ: Best Places to Visit in Ayodhya

Where to stay in Ayodhya

Praveg Tent City Ayodhya, Brahma Kund Resort, offers a peaceful and comfortable stay near the sacred sites of Ayodhya. It is located close to Brahma Kund and provides well-appointed tents with modern amenities for pilgrims and tourists. This resort in Ayodhya blends traditional charm with a serene environment, making it an ideal retreat for visitors.

Apart from your stay here, with a Club Mahindra membership, you can explore 140+ Club Mahindra resorts worldwide, including scenic destinations across India and abroad. Enjoy flexible booking options, premium hospitality, and curated experiences tailored for couples and families alike. Check out member reviews to see how Club Mahindra ensures a memorable and hassle-free vacation every time. From beachfront retreats to hill stations, every stay offers unique activities and cultural experiences. With exclusive offers and personalized services, your vacations become truly special.

Ayodhya is well-connected by air, train, and road, making travel convenient for visitors. The nearest airport to Ayodhya, Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, offers direct flights from major cities. For rail travellers, the nearest railway to Ayodhya, including Ayodhya Junction, ensures easy access. Ayodhya by road is seamless, with highways linking it to Lucknow, Varanasi, and Delhi. Travelers can also reach Ayodhya via taxi and bus. Plan your journey and explore the spiritual and cultural heritage of this sacred city.

Note:

• By Air: Ideal for those coming from far-off cities and international travellers.
• By Train: A budget-friendly and comfortable option for domestic tourists.
• By Road: Best for those traveling from nearby cities.

No matter how you choose to travel, visiting Ayodhya is a spiritually enriching experience. Plan your journey in advance to ensure a hassle-free trip!