After the inauguration of Ram Mandir on 24 January 2024, the route from Lucknow to Ayodhya has become a very popular route. After the construction of the grand Ram temple, millions of devotees and tourists are planning to visit this holy city. Whether you are looking for the cheapest or the fastest or the most comfortable travel option, then this article will guide you in making your entire journey smooth.
In this Lucknow to Ayodhya travel guide, we will cover the following points:
- Train options
- Bus services
- Taxi & cab fares
- Budget-friendly tips
- Best time to visit
- Local travel in Ayodhya
Distance from Lucknow to Ayodhya
The travel distance from Lucknow to Ayodhya is approximately 140 km. The time between the two depends on your choice of transport, which ranges between 2.5 hours to 4 hours.
| By Train | 2.5 to 3.5 hours |
| By Bus | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| By Taxi/Car | 2.5 to 3 hours |
Lucknow to Ayodhya by Train
After the inauguration of Ram Mandir, Indian Railways has increased the number of trains on the route connecting Lucknow (LKO) and Ayodhya Dham Junction (AYJ) due to increase in tourists. Also, travelling by train is the most preferred option for pilgrims and travellers.
Popular Trains from Lucknow to Ayodhya
- Lucknow – Ayodhya MEMU Express
Travel Time: ~3 hours
Fare: ₹60 – ₹100 (Unreserved/Second Sitting) - Saryu Express
Travel Time: ~3 hours
Fare: ₹180 – ₹500 (Sleeper/AC) - Intercity Express
Travel Time: ~2.5 hours
Fare: ₹200 – ₹600 - Vande Bharat Express (2025 Update)
Travel Time: ~2 hours
Fare: ₹800 – ₹1200
Best option if you want speed + comfort
Pro Tips for Train Travelers
- To travel during peak seasons like Ram Navami and Diwali, book train tickets at least 1 month in advance
- If you are travelling with family or a woman, AC Chair Car or sleeper is very comfortable
- While travelling, keep in mind that now the main station is Ayodhya Dham Junction, which was earlier Faizabad Junction
Lucknow to Ayodhya by Bus
For those who prefer flexibility and frequent departures, or who have impromptu travel plans, bus service is the best option. Government and private buses run every hour from Lucknow to Ayodhya. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators operate daily bus services from Lucknow to Ayodhya.
Types of Buses Available in 2025
- UPSRTC Ordinary Bus
Fare: ₹150 – ₹200
Travel Time: ~4 hours - .UPSRTC Volvo/AC Buses
Fare: ₹400 – ₹600
Travel Time: ~3.5 hours - Private Buses (Sleeper/AC)
Fare: ₹500 – ₹800
Travel Time: ~3.5 hours
Where to Book Bus Tickets?
- UPSRTC Official Website
- RedBus, AbhiBus, MakeMyTrip
- Local travel agents in Lucknow
Lucknow to Ayodhya by Taxi or Cab
If you are planning to travel in a group or with family and you prefer privacy and comfort, then cab or taxi is the smart choice for you.
Taxi Options in 2025
- Ola Outstation / Uber Intercity
- Local Taxi Operators
- Car Rental Services
Approximate Taxi Fare
- Hatchback: ₹2500 – ₹3000 (One-way)
- Sedan: ₹3000 – ₹4000 (One-way)
- SUV: ₹4000 – ₹5000 (One-way)
Budget Travel Options from Lucknow to Ayodhya
If you’re a budget traveler and want to travel cheaply, here are some affordable options.
- MEMU Express Train – ₹60 to ₹100
- UPSRTC Ordinary Bus – ₹150 to ₹200
- Shared Taxi / Jeep – ₹300 to ₹500 per seat
If you’re traveling solo, trains are the best option. Shared cabs are very affordable for groups of 3 to 4 people.
Best Time to Travel from Lucknow to Ayodhya
You can visit Ayodhya at any time of the year but the best time to visit is this:
- October to March → Pleasant weather, ideal for temple visits.
- Ram Navami Festival (April 2025) → Biggest crowd, grand celebrations.
- Diwali (October–November) → Beautiful decorations and religious significance.
Local Travel in Ayodhya
Once you reach Ayodhya, you can move around by:
- Auto Rickshaw – ₹20–₹50 per ride
- E-Rickshaw – Budget-friendly & eco-friendly
- Cycle Rickshaw – Traditional and cheap
- Local Cabs – For family travel
Key Places to Visit in Ayodhya
- Ram Mandir – The main attraction in 2025
- Hanuman Garhi – Historic temple
- Kanak Bhawan – Dedicated to Sita
Lucknow to Ayodhya Travel Comparison Table
| Mode of Travel | Time Taken | Cost (per person) | Best For |
| Train | 2.5–3.5 hrs | ₹60 – ₹1200 | Budget + Comfort |
| Bus | 3.5–4 hrs | ₹150 – ₹800 | Flexible Travel |
| Taxi/Cab | 2.5–3 hrs | ₹2500 – ₹5000 | Family / Group |
| Shared Taxi | 3 hrs | ₹300 – ₹500 | Solo Budget |
Travel Tips for 2025-26
- Always carry your ID proof with you when traveling; this will help you with train and bus bookings.
- Most vendors in Ayodhya accept digital payments, so you can make UPI payments.
- Carry some cash for small shops and autos.
- If you plan a trip during a festival, book tickets at least 1 month in advance.
- Wear good and comfortable footwear upon arrival in Ayodhya, as you will have to walk a lot.
Conclusion
Traveling from Lucknow to Ayodhya in 2025-26 has become even more convenient thanks to train connectivity. You can also travel by easy bus and book a cab as per your needs using several cab booking apps. Whether you’re a budget traveler, a family pilgrim, or a first-time tourist, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs.
Plan wisely, book your tickets early, and enjoy the spiritual and cultural vibe of Ayodhya. The Land of Lord Rama
You can read: Budget Travel Guide: 5 Best Places to Visit in Lucknow One Day Trip