Varanasi to Ayodhya Distance: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Exploring the Varanasi to Ayodhya Distance: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Ayodhya and Varanasi are two of the most important spiritual destinations in India. Varanasi is always referred to as the spiritual capital of India and well known for Ganga Aarti, Temples and its ghats. On the other side Ayodhya holds immense significance as the birthplace of Lord Ram. Understanding the Varanasi to Ayodhya distance and planning your journey accordingly is essential. Whether you are travelling for spiritual reasons, cultural exploration or leisure understanding.

Varanasi to Ayodhya Distance
Ayodhya Nagri Model (Source-Wikimedia)

In this guide we will cover everything from the history and significance of both cities, how to travel between them, accommodation options, things to do, and travel tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Varanasi and Ayodhya are connected by a distance of approximately 235 kilometers by road and are two of India’s most sacred cities. You can travel between these two cities by train, bus or car with travel times ranging from 3 to 5 hours. Varanasi is a spiritual hub and famous for its ghats and the Ganga Aarti while Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram and home to the iconic Ram Mandir. For accommodations Varanasi offers options like BrijRama Palace and Zostel while Ayodhya features Krishna Palace and budget-friendly guesthouses. Top activities include boat rides at Varanasi’s Assi Ghat and visiting Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya. You can also book affordable tour packages for a seamless trip.

Plan your journey now and explore the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of these incredible cities!

History and Significance of Varanasi

Varanasi: The Eternal City

  • Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world with its history dating back to 3000 BCE.
  • It is believed to Varanasi have been founded by Lord Shiva that making it one holiest cities of Hinduism’s.
  • The city is famous for its ghats, such as Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat where rituals, prayers and the Ganga Aarti take place.
  • Other attractions of Varanasi include Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University and Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
DASHASHWAMEDH GHAT VARANASI
DASHASHWAMEDH GHAT VARANASI (Source-Wikimedia)

Places to Visit in Varanasi in 1 Day

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A must-visit temple for spiritual seekers.
  • Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Experience this divine evening ritual.
  • Ramnagar Fort: Explore this historical fort on the banks of the Ganga.
  • Assi Ghat: Perfect for a quiet morning boat ride.

History and Significance of Ayodhya

Ayodhya: The Birthplace of Lord Ram

  • Ayodhya is deeply intertwined with the Ramayana as it is the birthplace of Lord Ram.
  • The city is renowned for the Ayodhya Ram Mandir which some parts are still under construction and is a grand spiritual landmark.
  • Ayodhya is dotted with historical temples such as Kanak Bhawan Temple, Hanuman Garhi and Ram Janmabhoomi.
  • The city also celebrates Diwali in a grand style as Deepotsav where millions of diyas light up the city.
Ram Mandir Ayodhya
Ram Mandir Ayodhya

Places to Visit in Ayodhya in 1 Day

  • Ram Janmabhoomi: The birthplace of Lord Ram.
  • Hanuman Garhi: A significant temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
  • Kanak Bhawan Temple: A temple known for its architectural beauty.
  • Saryu River Ghats: Perfect for an evening stroll or a spiritual bath.

Varanasi to Ayodhya Distance: An Overview

Distance Between Varanasi and Ayodhya

  • By Road: The distance between Varanasi to Ayodhya by road is approximately 235 km and it takes around 4-5 hours by car or bus.
  • By Train: The Varanasi to Ayodhya distance by train is about 140 km and train travel takes 3-4 hours.
  • By Air: The nearest airport to Ayodhya is Maharshi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhyadham with good connectivity to other cities.

Book your Flight to Ayodhyadham & Varanasi here.

How to Reach Ayodhya from Varanasi

1. By Train

  • Several trains run daily between Varanasi and Ayodhya.
  • Popular options include:
    • Varanasi-Ayodhya Intercity Express
    • Sarnath Express
  • Train Ticket Price: Starts at INR 120 for second-class and goes up to INR 800 for AC coaches.
Sarayu River night view Ayodhya
Sarayu River night view Ayodhya

2. By Bus

  • You can take a government or private bus from Varanasi to Ayodhya with travel times ranging from 5-6 hours.
  • Ticket prices of bus range between INR 300-500 depending on the type of bus.

3. By Car

  • Traveling by car offers flexibility. The route via NH 19 is well-maintained and takes around 4-5 hours.
  • You can book car rentals from platforms like Agoda or hire a cab using Ola Outstation or Savaari, with prices starting at INR 3,500.

4. By Tour Package

  • Consider booking a Kashi Ayodhya Tour Package, which includes transportation, guided sightseeing, and accommodations.
  • Packages start from INR 8,000 per person for a 1-day tour.

Where to Stay in Varanasi and Ayodhya

Varanasi Accommodation Options

VARANASI WEATHER

Luxury Hotels

  1. BrijRama Palace: INR 14,000/night (Riverside luxury with stunning views).
  2. Taj Ganges: INR 9,000/night (5-star hotel with modern amenities).
Varanasi Ganga Aarti
Varanasi Ganga Aarti

Budget Hotels

  1. Zostel Varanasi: INR 800/night (Perfect for backpackers).
  2. Hotel Alka: INR 2,000/night (Budget-friendly with basic amenities).

Homestays

  1. Kashi Stay Homestay: INR 1,500/night (Experience local hospitality).

Book your hotel in Varanasi today and get best deals.

Ayodhya Accommodation Options

AYODHYA WEATHER

Luxury Hotels

  1. Krishna Palace Ayodhya: INR 6,000/night (Luxury stay with premium amenities).
  2. Rama Residency: INR 5,000/night (Elegant rooms near Ram Mandir).

Budget Hotels

  1. Hotel Ramayana: INR 1,500/night (Affordable and centrally located).
  2. Ayodhya Darshan Lodge: INR 800/night (Budget-friendly stay for pilgrims).

Homestays

  1. Ram Bhawan Guesthouse: INR 1,200/night (Homely and affordable).

Book your Hotel in Ayodhya here and get better discount.

Things to Do in Varanasi and Ayodhya

Thing to Do In Varanasi

  1. Boat Ride at Sunrise: Witness the ghats come alive as the sun rises.
  2. Visit Sarnath: Explore Buddhist stupas and learn about the life of Buddha.
  3. Shop for Banarasi Sarees: Take home exquisite silk sarees.

Thing to Do In Ayodhya

  1. Attend Aarti at Saryu River: A spiritual and serene experience.
  2. Explore Ram Katha Park: Ideal for family outings and photo opportunities.
  3. Ayodhya Sightseeing Itinerary: Visit Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhawan in one day.

Travel Essentials for the Trip

  1. Packing Accessories: Comfortable walking shoes, reusable water bottles, and sunscreen. Buy Packing accessories from here.
  2. Tour Packages: Book Ayodhya Ram Mandir Tour Packages from here.
  3. Car Rentals: Opt for self-drive or chauffeur-driven cars from Zoomcar or Ola Rentals.

Personal Experience

I was awestruck by the spiritual energy of both cities during my trip from Varanasi to Ayodhya. Watching the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi and walking through the newly developed Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was surreal. My advice? Start early in the morning for a smooth journey and make sure to try the local cuisine, especially Banarasi paan and Ayodhya’s sweets.

Conclusion

The journey between Varanasi and Ayodhya is a spiritual odyssey not just a travel experience. These cities offer a perfect blend of heritage, spirituality and culture from exploring ancient temples to immersing yourself in rituals. Plan your trip wisely with this guide and don’t miss the chance to witness two of India’s most revered destinations.

FAQ

What is the distance between Varanasi to Ayodhya by road?

The road distance is approximately 235 km, taking 4-5 hours by car or bus.

How far is Ayodhya from Varanasi by train?

The train distance is around 140 km, with a travel time of 3-4 hours.

Are there buses from Varanasi to Ayodhya?

Yes, government and private buses operate between the two cities, with ticket prices ranging from INR 300-500.

Can I book a tour package for Ayodhya and Varanasi?

Yes, various operators offer Kashi Ayodhya Tour Packages starting from INR 8,000.

What are the must-visit places in Ayodhya?

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, and the Saryu River Ghats for a complete experience.