Traveling from Ayodhya to Varanasi is one of the most spiritual journeys in India. Both cities are holy and attract millions of pilgrims every year. With the Ram Mandir now open in Ayodhya and the new Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi, the number of visitors has grown even more in 2025.
Choosing the right way to travel can save you time and make your visit more peaceful. This guide will help you decide if a car, train, or bus is best for your Ayodhya to Varanasi trip. We have included the latest information on routes, temple timings, government updates, and travel tips.
How far is Ayodhya from Varanasi by road and which route is best?
- Distance and time: Ayodhya and Varanasi are about 200–230 km apart. It usually takes 4.5–6 hours by road, depending on traffic and the route you choose.
- Best route: The most common route is Ayodhya → NH 31 → Jaunpur bypass → Varanasi ring road. This road is wider and avoids busy town centers.
- Road conditions: Most parts of the highway are good, but you may find diversions due to ongoing road work. Entering Varanasi city can be slow, especially in the evening.
- Cost: A one-way trip in a small car can cost ₹1,600–₹2,200 in fuel plus tolls.
- Best for: Families, groups, or anyone who wants flexible stops for meals or temple visits along the way.
Tip: If you book a cab through us, we provide experienced drivers who know the temple entry points and parking areas in both cities.
Which train should you take from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
- Fastest option: The Vande Bharat Express takes around 2 hours 35 minutes and is the quickest way to travel between the two cities.
- Other trains: Many express trains run daily from Ayodhya Dham (AY) and Ayodhya Cantt (AYC) to Varanasi Junction (BSB). Morning and overnight trains are popular as they match temple darshan timings.
- Classes to choose: Chair Car or Executive Chair Car for daytime trains and AC 2-Tier or 3-Tier for overnight journeys.
- Why choose the train:
- Avoids road traffic.
- Faster and more comfortable for elderly travelers.
- Easy to book online.
Tip: We check train timings 24 hours before your trip to avoid any last-minute changes.
Are buses a good option for Ayodhya to Varanasi?
- State buses: UPSRTC runs several buses daily. These buses take 5.5–8 hours. Ticket prices start at ₹300–₹400 for non-AC buses.
- Private buses: Some private operators run AC sleeper and seater buses, but seats fill up fast during festivals.
- Pros:
- Cheapest travel option.
- Drops you close to the city center.
- Cons:
- Less comfortable than cars or trains.
- Journey time is longer and less predictable.
Tip: If you are traveling during crowded times like Shravan or Ram Navami, try to avoid late-night buses.
Is it better to drive yourself or hire a cab?
- Cost: For groups of 3–4 people, hiring a cab can be as affordable as taking the train and then local transport.
- Flexibility: You can stop at dhabas, roadside temples, or scenic spots.
- Safety:
- Daytime driving is safer if you are not used to highway travel.
- During the monsoon, plan extra time as the roads can be slower.
- Parking in Varanasi: The temple area has narrow lanes. Hire a driver or choose a hotel with parking facilities.
Tip: We arrange cars with trusted local drivers so you can focus on your darshan without worrying about traffic or parking.
What are the updated temple timings for 2025?
Ayodhya – Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir
- Darshan: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (extended hours on festival days up to 9:30 PM).
- Aarti bookings: Only book through the official temple trust website.
Varanasi – Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir
- Mangla Aarti: 3:00–4:00 AM
- Bhog Aarti: 11:15 AM–12:20 PM
- Saptarishi Aarti: 7:00–8:15 PM
- Shayan Aarti: 10:30–11:00 PM
Tip: Reach the temple at least 45 minutes before your aarti time. We help pilgrims book these slots in advance.
What’s new for Ayodhya and Varanasi visitors in 2025?
- Ayodhya Airport: Now connected to several major Indian cities. This makes it easy to reach Ayodhya and then travel to Varanasi.
- Vande Bharat trains: New train services across Uttar Pradesh make rail travel quicker.
- Better security: Temple entry systems have improved with token queues and separate lines for senior citizens.
Where should you stay near the temples?
- Ayodhya: Hotels near Ram Mandir, Ramghat, and Naya Ghat are most convenient.
- Varanasi: Stay near Godowlia, Dashashwamedh, or Chowk if you want to be close to Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. Sigra or Cantonment areas are good if you prefer modern hotels with parking.
Tip: We only book verified hotels so you have a clean and comfortable stay close to the temples.
Which travel option is best for you?
- Fastest: Train (Vande Bharat or a quick express train).
- Most flexible: Car (good for families and temple-hopping).
- Most affordable: Bus (best for solo travelers or budget groups).
Pro Tip: Many of our first-time pilgrims prefer the train to save time and then use our guided tours for local temple visits.
Why choose Ayodhya Varanasi Tourism?
- We have 15+ years of experience in planning pilgrim tours.
- We provide the latest updates on temple timings and transport changes.
- We book clean hotels, experienced drivers, and local guides.
- We help you attend the most important aartis without rush.
FAQs
1. What is the distance between Ayodhya and Varanasi?
The distance is around 200–230 km, and it takes 4.5–6 hours by road.
2. Which is the fastest way to travel from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
The Vande Bharat Express train is the fastest, taking about 2 hours 35 minutes.
3. Are there direct buses from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
Yes, UPSRTC and private operators run direct buses daily.
4. What are the temple timings in Ayodhya?
Darshan is from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with extended timings during festivals.
5. When is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The winter months (October–March) are most comfortable, but you can visit year-round.
6. How early should I reach the temple for aarti?
It is best to reach at least 45 minutes before the scheduled time.
7. Can I get VIP darshan in Ayodhya or Varanasi?
No, only authorized bookings through official websites are valid. Avoid agents.
8. Is it safe to drive at night between Ayodhya and Varanasi?
It is better to travel during the day, especially if you are unfamiliar with the highway.
9. Are hotels near the temples expensive?
Hotels near the temple corridors are in high demand during festivals. Book early for better rates.
10. Do you provide complete Ayodhya and Varanasi tour packages?
Yes, we arrange transport, hotels, guides, and aarti bookings as a full package.
Book your tour packages with us for a seamless experience and make memories for lifetime.
