Namaste. I am Rohit, a guide. I have been helping pilgrims for the past 8 years. While my home is in Braj, I have guided many guests between Varanasi and Ayodhya — two of the holiest cities in India.
Every week, someone asks me the same question: "Bhaiya, Banaras se Ayodhya kitne kilometre hai?" How far is Ayodhya from Banaras?
The answer is simple — about 200 to 220 kilometers. But the full answer is more detailed. Because the distance depends on your route, your mode of travel, and whether you are measuring by road or by rail. And for pilgrims, the journey itself matters as much as the destination.
This guide covers everything you need to know about travelling from Banaras to Ayodhya — the distance, the routes, the travel options, the time, and the practical tips that make your journey smooth and meaningful.
Let us begin.
The Short Answer – 200 to 220 km
The road distance from Varanasi (Banaras) to Ayodhya is approximately 195 to 220 kilometers, depending on the route you take.
| Route Type | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Road (via NH 19/NH 330) | ~200 km | 4–5 hours |
| Road (via Prayagraj) | ~240 km | 5–5.5 hours |
| Road (via Lucknow) | ~320 km | 6–7 hours |
| Rail | ~200 km | 3.5–5 hours |
The Recommended Route: Varanasi → Jaunpur → Shahganj → Akbarpur → Gosainganj → Ayodhya. This is the shortest and fastest route.
Distance by Road – Route and Time
The road journey from Banaras to Ayodhya is comfortable and well-connected.
The Main Route (NH 19 + NH 330):
| Segment | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varanasi to Jaunpur | 65 km | 1.5 hours |
| Jaunpur to Shahganj | 45 km | 1 hour |
| Shahganj to Akbarpur | 40 km | 50 minutes |
| Akbarpur to Gosainganj | 30 km | 40 minutes |
| Gosainganj to Ayodhya | 20 km | 25 minutes |
| Total | ~200 km | 4–5 hours |
Road Conditions:
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NH 19 is a four-lane highway with smooth roads
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NH 330 is a two-lane road but well-maintained
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The route passes through Jaunpur, Shahganj, Akbarpur and Gosainganj
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There are plenty of dhabas and restaurants along the way
Best Time to Drive:
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Leave Varanasi by 6:00 AM to reach Ayodhya by noon
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Avoid driving after dark on the two-lane sections
Distance by Train – Rail Route and Time
The rail journey from Varanasi to Ayodhya is convenient and affordable.
Rail Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers.
Train Options:
| Train Name | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi–Ayodhya Express | Morning | Afternoon | 4–5 hours |
| Janhit Express | Various | Various | 4.5 hours |
| Passenger Trains | Multiple | Multiple | 5–6 hours |
Rail Route:
Varanasi → Jaunpur → Shahganj → Akbarpur → Ayodhya
Types of Trains:
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Express Trains: Faster, fewer stops, 4–5 hours
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Passenger Trains: Slower, more stops, 5–6 hours
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Special Trains: Added during festival seasons
Important Note: Varanasi has multiple railway stations — Varanasi Junction (Cantt), Kashi, and Banaras. Check your train's departure station before booking.
Booking Tips:
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Book 2–4 weeks in advance for confirmed seats
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Festival seasons (Ram Navami, Diwali) fill up months ahead
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Check IRCTC for current schedules
The Recommended Route – Via Jaunpur and Akbarpur
This is the shortest and fastest route from Banaras to Ayodhya.
Why It Works:
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It is the most direct route
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NH 19 and NH 330 are well-maintained
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Plenty of food and rest stops
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You pass through historic towns like Jaunpur
Key Towns Along the Way:
| Town | Distance from Varanasi | What to See |
|---|---|---|
| Jaunpur | 65 km | Atala Masjid, Shahi Bridge |
| Shahganj | 110 km | Historic town |
| Akbarpur | 150 km | Ambedkar Nagar district |
| Gosainganj | 180 km | Last major stop before Ayodhya |
Local Tip: Stop at Jaunpur for a quick break. The Atala Masjid is worth a 15-minute visit.
Alternative Routes – Via Prayagraj and Lucknow
If you want to combine your trip with other pilgrimage sites, these routes are longer but rewarding.
Via Prayagraj (Allahabad):
| Segment | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varanasi to Prayagraj | 120 km | 2.5 hours |
| Prayagraj to Ayodhya | 120 km | 2.5 hours |
| Total | ~240 km | 5–5.5 hours |
Why Take This Route: You can visit the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj — the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati.
Via Lucknow:
| Segment | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varanasi to Lucknow | 320 km | 6–7 hours |
| Lucknow to Ayodhya | 135 km | 2.5 hours |
| Total | ~455 km | 8–9 hours |
Why Take This Route: You can visit Lucknow's heritage sites — Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, and Rumi Darwaza.
How Long Does the Journey Take?
| Mode | Distance | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Cab | ~200 km | 4–5 hours | Families, groups, comfort |
| Train | ~200 km | 3.5–5 hours | Budget travellers, solo pilgrims |
| Bus | ~200 km | 5–6 hours | Very budget travellers |
| Shared Taxi | ~200 km | 4–5 hours | Small groups |
Important Note: Travel time can be longer during festivals, weekends, and monsoon. Add 1–2 hours during peak season.
Best Way to Travel from Banaras to Ayodhya
For Families and Groups: Private Cab
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Comfortable, AC, door-to-door
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Stops when you want
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Cost: ₹3,000–₹4,500 for the full cab
For Solo Travellers and Budget Pilgrims: Train
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Affordable
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Comfortable for the 4–5 hour journey
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Cost: ₹100–₹800 depending on class
For the Truly Budget-Conscious: Bus
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Cheapest option
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Slower but functional
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Cost: ₹150–₹300
My Recommendation: For most pilgrims, the train is the best balance of cost and comfort. For families with elders or children, a private cab is worth the extra cost.
Private Cab vs Train vs Bus – Comparison
| Factor | Private Cab | Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | ₹3,000–₹4,500 | ₹100–₹800 | ₹150–₹300 |
| Time | 4–5 hours | 3.5–5 hours | 5–6 hours |
| Comfort | High | Medium–High | Low–Medium |
| Flexibility | High | Low | Low |
| Door-to-Door | Yes | No | No |
| Best For | Families, elders | Solo, budget | Very budget |
How to Reach Banaras
By Air:
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Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) — connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities
By Train:
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Varanasi Junction (Cantt) — major railhead
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Kashi Station — for some trains
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Banaras Station — for some trains
By Road:
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Well-connected by national highways to Lucknow, Prayagraj, and other cities
How to Reach Ayodhya
By Air:
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Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (AYJ) — connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities
By Train:
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Ayodhya Dham Junction — major railhead
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Faizabad Junction — alternative station
By Road:
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Well-connected by national highways to Lucknow, Varanasi, and Prayagraj
Where to Stay in Ayodhya
| Area | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Near Ram Mandir | Walking distance to temple | ₹1,500–₹5,000 |
| Near Railway Station | Easy train access | ₹800–₹2,000 |
| Near Saryu River | Scenic, peaceful | ₹1,000–₹3,000 |
| Faizabad Road | Budget options | ₹500–₹1,500 |
Important: Book your stay in advance, especially during festival seasons.
Best Time to Visit Ayodhya
| Season | Verdict |
|---|---|
| October to March | Best time, pleasant weather |
| April to June | Very hot, avoid if possible |
| July to September | Monsoon, humid |
| Ram Navami | Very crowded but deeply devotional |
| Diwali/Deepotsav | Spectacular but crowded |
Recommendation: October to March. The weather is pleasant, and temple visits are comfortable.
What to Carry
Essentials:
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Water bottle
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Light snacks
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Cash for offerings and transport
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ID proof
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Comfortable footwear
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Cap or hat for sun protection
What Not to Carry:
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Large bags
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Expensive jewellery
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Electronics inside temples
Budget Breakdown for Your Trip
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Travel (Varanasi to Ayodhya) | ₹150–₹800 (train) | ₹3,000–₹4,500 (cab) |
| Hotel (2 nights) | ₹1,600–₹3,000 | ₹4,000–₹8,000 |
| Food (3 days) | ₹800–₹1,200 | ₹1,500–₹3,000 |
| Local transport | ₹200–₹400 | ₹400–₹800 |
| Total (per person) | ₹2,750–₹5,400 | ₹8,900–₹16,300 |
Planning Your Banaras to Ayodhya Trip
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning: Depart Varanasi by train or cab. Afternoon: Arrive Ayodhya. Evening: Saryu Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi. |
| Day 2 | Morning: Ram Mandir darshan. Afternoon: Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhawan. Evening: Explore local markets. |
| Day 3 | Morning: Mani Parvat and Sugriv Kila. Afternoon: Departure to Varanasi or onward. |
Book Early:
Ayodhya is a popular pilgrimage destination. Book your stay and transport at least 2–3 months in advance.
Conclusion
The distance from Banaras to Ayodhya is about 200 kilometers. By train, it is a comfortable 4-hour journey. By cab, it is a smooth 4–5 hour drive. And by bus, it is an affordable but slower option.
But the distance is not the point. The point is the destination. Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama. It is the city of the Ram Mandir. It is where the Saryu flows and the faithful gather.
If you can, make the journey. Take the train or the cab. And when you reach Ayodhya and stand at Ram Ki Paidi for the Saryu Aarti, you will understand why this small stretch of road carries so much devotion.
This is Banaras to Ayodhya. This is the journey of a lifetime.
Jai Shri Ram.
Plan Your Banaras to Ayodhya Trip
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