The Ayodhya to Varanasi distance by road is approximately 200–220 km, depending on the starting point and route. By road, the journey generally takes around 4.5 to 6 hours, while train journey times vary depending on the service.
In this guide, you will find the Ayodhya to Varanasi distance, routes, travel time, train, bus and taxi options, estimated journey duration, travel tips and places to visit after reaching Varanasi.
Quick Overview: Ayodhya to Varanasi
| Travel Option | Approx. Distance | Approx. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Car / Taxi | 200–220 km | 4.5–6 hours |
| Bus | 200–220 km | 5–7 hours |
| Train | Around 200 km | 2.5–5+ hours |
| Private Car | 200–220 km | 4.5–6 hours |
The actual travel time can vary depending on traffic, road conditions, train schedules, weather and the number of stops.
Ayodhya to Varanasi Distance
The Ayodhya to Varanasi distance is approximately 200–220 km by road.
The exact distance can vary depending on where you start in Ayodhya and which route your vehicle takes. Ayodhya Dham, Ayodhya railway station and other parts of the city may have slightly different road distances.
The official Ayodhya district website lists Varanasi at approximately 200 km from Ayodhya.
If you are visiting Ayodhya before travelling to Varanasi, you can first explore our detailed Ayodhya Travel Guide.
You can also check our guide on Places to Visit in Ayodhya before starting your journey.
Ayodhya to Varanasi Route
The road route between Ayodhya and Varanasi connects two major pilgrimage destinations in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
A commonly used route passes through areas around Sultanpur and Jaunpur before reaching Varanasi, although navigation services may suggest a different route depending on traffic and current road conditions.
Common Route
Ayodhya → Sultanpur → Jaunpur → Varanasi
The exact route can change according to road conditions, traffic and your starting point.
Before starting the journey, it is recommended to check live navigation for the latest road conditions and estimated arrival time.
Ayodhya to Varanasi by Road
Travelling by road is one of the most convenient options for people who want flexibility.
You can travel by:
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Private car
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Taxi
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Bus
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Self-drive vehicle
The journey generally takes around 4.5 to 6 hours, but it may take longer during busy periods, weekends and religious festivals.
Why Travel by Road?
Road travel is useful if you:
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Are travelling with family
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Have elderly passengers
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Have children
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Carry luggage
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Want to stop along the way
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Want flexible departure times
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Plan to visit multiple destinations
A private car or taxi can also be useful if you want to combine Ayodhya, Prayagraj and Varanasi in the same trip.
Ayodhya to Varanasi by Train
Train travel can be a convenient option if you do not want to drive.
Passengers can check train services from Ayodhya Dham / Ayodhya-area railway stations towards Varanasi-area stations.
The exact journey time depends on the train. Some services may complete the journey in around three to four hours, while others can take longer.
Train schedules and availability can change, so always check the latest information on the official railway booking platform before travelling.
Advantages of Travelling by Train
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Comfortable for long journeys
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No need to drive
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Suitable for budget travellers
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Useful for family travel
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Multiple train options may be available depending on the date
If you are travelling during a festival or holiday period, booking your train tickets in advance is recommended.
Ayodhya to Varanasi by Bus
Bus travel is another option for travellers looking for an economical journey.
The journey can take approximately 5–7 hours, depending on the bus service, route, traffic and stops.
Before booking a bus, check:
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Departure point
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Arrival point
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Bus type
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AC / non-AC
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Journey duration
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Cancellation policy
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Availability on your travel date
Bus schedules can change, so check the latest availability before travelling.
Ayodhya to Varanasi by Taxi
A private taxi is a convenient choice for families, groups and pilgrims who want a flexible journey.
With a private taxi, you can decide:
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Departure time
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Break locations
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Route
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Sightseeing stops
Before confirming a taxi, ask the operator whether the quoted price includes:
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Driver charges
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Toll charges
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Parking
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One-way or round-trip fare
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Night charges, if applicable
Taxi fares vary according to the vehicle, season, route and operator, so confirm the current fare before booking.
Which Is the Best Way to Travel from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
There is no single option that is best for every traveller.
| Your Requirement | Suitable Option |
|---|---|
| Budget travel | Train / Bus |
| Flexible journey | Car / Taxi |
| Family trip | Private Car / Taxi |
| Avoid driving | Train |
| Multiple sightseeing stops | Private Car / Taxi |
| Group pilgrimage | Taxi / Tempo Traveller |
If your main priority is flexibility, a private vehicle can be convenient. If you prefer public transportation, train travel can be a practical option depending on the schedule.
Places to Visit in Varanasi After Reaching
Once you reach Varanasi, there are several important spiritual and historical attractions to explore.
Before planning your sightseeing, read our detailed Varanasi Kashi Travel Guide.
For a list of major attractions, check Places to Visit in Varanasi.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Varanasi and attracts devotees throughout the year.
If visiting the temple is an important part of your trip, read our complete Kashi Vishwanath Temple Darshan Guide before planning your visit.
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most famous ghats on the Ganga in Varanasi.
It is especially popular in the evening because of the famous Ganga Aarti.
Read our detailed guide to Ganga Aarti in Varanasi for more information.
3. Ganga Aarti
The evening Ganga Aarti is one of the most popular experiences for visitors to Varanasi.
If you are visiting for the first time, plan your arrival around the ghat area early enough to account for crowds and local traffic.
4. Sarnath
Sarnath is an important Buddhist and historical destination located near Varanasi.
It can be added to a Varanasi itinerary if you have enough time.
How Many Days Are Needed for Ayodhya and Varanasi?
If you want to visit both cities comfortably, 4–5 days can provide a reasonable starting point for planning.
A sample itinerary could be:
Day 1 — Ayodhya
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Ram Mandir
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Hanuman Garhi
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Kanak Bhawan
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Sarayu River / Ghats
For a detailed plan, see our Ayodhya 2 Days Itinerary.
Day 2 — Ayodhya
Continue exploring Ayodhya's important religious and cultural attractions.
If Ram Mandir Darshan is your main purpose, also read our Ayodhya Ram Mandir Darshan Guide.
Day 3 — Travel to Varanasi
Start from Ayodhya in the morning and travel to Varanasi.
After checking into your hotel, you can explore the nearby ghats or attend the evening Ganga Aarti.
Day 4 — Varanasi
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Kashi Vishwanath Temple
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Dashashwamedh Ghat
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Ganga Aarti
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Local temples
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Old Varanasi streets
For detailed planning, see our Varanasi 2 Days Travel Itinerary.
Day 5 — Sarnath / Additional Sightseeing
Use the final day for Sarnath and other attractions depending on your departure schedule.
Can Ayodhya, Prayagraj and Varanasi Be Covered Together?
Yes.
Travellers with additional time can combine:
Ayodhya → Prayagraj → Varanasi
This route is particularly useful for people planning a spiritual journey across major pilgrimage destinations in Uttar Pradesh.
Before adding Prayagraj, read our Prayagraj Travel Guide.
You can also visit Triveni Sangam Prayagraj.
For an extended pilgrimage, Chitrakoot can also be included. Read our Chitrakoot Travel Guide before planning that part of the journey.
Best Time to Travel from Ayodhya to Varanasi
Ayodhya and Varanasi can be visited throughout the year.
However, travel demand can increase during major festivals, religious events and holidays.
During busy periods:
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Book hotels early
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Reserve train tickets in advance
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Start road journeys early
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Keep extra travel time
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Check traffic restrictions
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Confirm temple timings
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Keep some flexibility in your itinerary
If you are travelling specifically for a festival, check the latest official information before finalising your travel plan.
Travel Tips for Ayodhya to Varanasi
Keep these practical points in mind:
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Check the latest route before leaving Ayodhya.
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Start early if travelling by road.
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Keep extra time for traffic.
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Check train and bus schedules before departure.
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Carry drinking water for the road journey.
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Keep essential medicines if required.
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Confirm taxi fares before booking.
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Book hotels early during festivals.
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Check temple timings before visiting.
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Avoid keeping your itinerary too tight on the arrival day.
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Keep digital and physical copies of important booking details.
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Use live navigation for current traffic conditions.
Ayodhya to Varanasi Travel: Car vs Train vs Bus
| Factor | Car / Taxi | Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | High | Low | Medium |
| Comfort | High | High | Medium |
| Budget | Medium–High | Low–Medium | Low–Medium |
| Family Travel | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Multiple Stops | Excellent | Limited | Limited |
| Driving Required | Yes | No | No |
For a family pilgrimage with multiple sightseeing stops, a private vehicle can offer greater flexibility.
For budget-conscious travellers, train or bus services may be more suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ayodhya from Varanasi?
The road distance between Ayodhya and Varanasi is approximately 200–220 km, depending on the route and starting point.
How long does Ayodhya to Varanasi take by road?
The journey generally takes around 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic, route and stops.
Is there a train from Ayodhya to Varanasi?
Yes. Train services operate between Ayodhya and Varanasi, but the journey time varies according to the train and schedule.
Can I travel from Ayodhya to Varanasi by taxi?
Yes. A private taxi is a convenient option for families, groups and pilgrims who want flexibility.
Is Ayodhya to Varanasi road travel safe?
Road conditions and traffic can vary. Travellers should check the latest route and traffic information before departure and follow normal road-safety precautions.
Can Ayodhya and Varanasi be covered in one trip?
Yes. Both cities can be combined into the same pilgrimage itinerary. Travellers with more time can also add Prayagraj and Chitrakoot.
Which is better for Ayodhya to Varanasi, train or taxi?
It depends on your requirements. A taxi provides greater flexibility, while a train can be convenient if you prefer public transport and want to avoid driving.
Plan Your Ayodhya to Varanasi Journey
The Ayodhya to Varanasi journey connects two of Uttar Pradesh's most important spiritual destinations.
With a road distance of approximately 200–220 km, travellers can choose between car, taxi, bus and train depending on their budget, comfort and itinerary.
If you are planning a larger pilgrimage, consider combining Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Varanasi and Chitrakoot in one carefully planned journey.
Explore our travel guides before your trip and plan your route, accommodation and sightseeing in advance.
