How to Reach Ayodhya: Fly to the Maharishi Valmiki Int'l Airport

Ayodhya, a city in Uttar Pradesh, India, is not just a mere geographical location; it’s a symbol of deep-rooted emotions, especially for the Hindu community. This ancient city, with its rich history, culture, and religious significance, has been a focal point of devotion and spirituality for centuries. Recently, Ayodhya has gained renewed attention with the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, a site of immense spiritual importance.

As we celebrate this momentous occasion, it’s a perfect time to delve into the various aspects of visiting Ayodhya and the newly inaugurated Ram Mandir. Whether you’re embarking on a spiritual journey or exploring the historical depths of India, Ayodhya offers a unique blend of cultural richness and religious fervour.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Flights

Maharishi Valmiki International Airport: This recently inaugurated airport by Indian PM Narendra Modi is the closest air link to Ayodhya. It stands out with its modern facilities, thematic decor inspired by Lord Rama’s life, and religious significance. From here, taxis and local cabs are readily available to take you directly to Ram Mandir.

List of Direct Flights to Ayodhya from Major Cities of India:

As per the latest reports, several airlines have introduced direct flights to Ayodhya from major cities in India. Here are some of the key routes and details:

SpiceJet Flights to Ayodhya:

SpiceJet has announced direct flights to Ayodhya from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai starting February 1, 2024. These routes will be serviced by Boeing 737 aircraft. Additionally, SpiceJet has planned a special flight from Delhi to Ayodhya for the Pran Pratishta ceremony at the Ram Mandir, with a return flight available on the same day.

IndiGo’s Mumbai to Ayodhya Direct Flight:

IndiGo has inaugurated its maiden direct flight connecting Mumbai and Ayodhya. The flight departs from Mumbai at 12:30 pm, reaching Ayodhya at 2:45 pm. The return journey commences at 3:15 pm from Ayodhya, landing back in Mumbai at 5:40 pm. IndiGo has also been operating flights between Ayodhya and Delhi since December 13, enhancing the connectivity between these cities.

Air India Express Flights:

Air India Express has announced flights between Delhi and Ayodhya, with operations starting on December 30. Additionally, the airline is set to introduce direct flights connecting Ayodhya with Bengaluru and Kolkata from January 17. The Bengaluru-bound flight departs from Ayodhya at 8:05 am, arriving at 10:35 am, with the return journey at 3:40 pm. The Kolkata flight departs from Ayodhya at 11:05 am, arriving at 12:50 pm, and returns at 1:25 pm, arriving back in Ayodhya at 3:10 pm.

These new flight connections to Ayodhya from major Indian cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata are part of the airlines’ strategic expansion plans and cater to the increasing number of tourists and pilgrims visiting the city, especially in light of the recent inauguration of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya.

How to Reach Ayodhya by Train

Ayodhya Junction Railway Station: This well-connected railway hub links Ayodhya to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Kolkata. Frequent trains make it accessible from various parts of the country. Upon arrival, you can opt for a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Ram Mandi

Ayodhya Junction Railway Station is well-connected by train from major Indian cities. Some notable train services include:

From Delhi: VANDE BHARAT EXP (Departs 06:10, arrives 14:30), AYODHYA EXPRESS (Departs 18:20, arrives 07:15).
From Surat: Surat – Muzaffarpur Express, Ahmedabad – Varanasi City Sabarmati Express, and others with various departure times and durations.
Special Aastha trains are also in operation following the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple, connecting Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, Telangana, Jammu and Kashmir, and other regions to Ayodhya.

How to Reach Ayodhya By Road:

Bus and Private Vehicles: With a robust network of roads, buses from neighboring cities frequently ply to Ayodhya. Both state-run and private buses are options for travelers. Alternatively, hiring a private car or taxi from cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, or Prayagraj offers a more personalized travel experience.

Reaching from Lucknow:

Distance: Approximately 137-150 km.
Travel Time by Road: Around 2 hours and 1 minute to 3 hours and 26 minutes, depending on the route.
Route Options:
1. Via NH27: Shortest and most commonly used route.
2. Via Purvanchal Expressway: Longer route with scenic views.

The distance between Ayodhya and Lucknow is approximately 135 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 44 minutes to travel this distance. The route typically used is via National Highway 27 (NH-43). Travelers can start on the Lohia Path in Lucknow, follow it to NH 30, continue on NH 27, and then take the exit for Adarsh Puram, Faizabad. Finally, follow Saketpuri Ayodhya Road and Ranopali Road to reach Ayodhya.

Reaching from Delhi:

Distance: About 688 km.
Travel Time by Road: Approximately 7-8 hours.

The distance between Delhi and Ayodhya is about 688 km. The route from Delhi/Noida to Ayodhya travelers should then follow the Yamuna Expressway and the Agra – Lucknow Expressway, before taking Lohia Path and NH 27 to Ayodhya.

Reaching from Mathura:

Distance and Route: Currently, I don’t have the exact distance or route details from Mathura to Ayodhya. However, travelers typically use national highways and state roads, with travel times depending on the specific route taken.

Reaching from Varanasi:

Distance: Approximately 221 km via road.
Travel Time: Around 5 hours and 1 minute by taxi or car. The train journey from Varanasi to Ayodhya takes about 3-4 hours.
Bus and Taxi Services: Available for the journey with varying travel times and costs.

Reaching from Agra:

Distance: Around 478-490 km by road.
Travel Time: About 7 hours and 6 minutes.
Bus Services: Buses are available for this route, offering a comfortable and economical way to travel.

Reaching from Jaipur:

Distance: The road distance between Jaipur and Ayodhya is approximately 635-708 km.
Travel Time by Bus: Around 14 hours and 15 minutes. The bus journey from Jaipur to Delhi takes about 5 hours and 16 minutes, followed by another bus from Delhi to Ayodhya taking around 11 hours and 20 minutes.
Driving Directions: The route from Jaipur to Ayodhya typically involves national highways and state roads, with the journey passing through several towns and toll booths.

Additional Travel Tips:

For a comfortable journey, opt for 3rd AC or 2nd AC berths when traveling by train and consider selecting air-conditioned buses for road travel.
Familiarize yourself with the local customs of Ayodhya and adhere to a modest dress code when visiting religious sites.
Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to foster connections and show appreciation for the local culture.
Prioritize your safety by staying informed about travel advisories or safety guidelines related to Ayodhya.

Navigating in Ayodhya: Local Transport Dynamics

Once in Ayodhya, the city’s layout makes it easy to move around. The local modes of transportation include:

Auto-rickshaws and Cycle-rickshaws: Ideal for short distances, these are easily available and provide a real taste of the local hustle and bustle.
Taxis and Shared Cabs: For more comfort or to explore the city at your own pace, hiring a taxi or opting for shared cabs is recommended.

List of Hotels in Ayodhya: From Budget to Luxury

From budget-friendly hotels to luxurious properties, there are options for every traveler. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak pilgrimage times.

Here’s a list of some of the best hotels in Ayodhya for 2024, offering a range of options from luxurious stays to comfortable and budget-friendly accommodations:

Park Inn by Radisson Ayodhya:

This hotel is known for its modern hospitality near the Ram Mandir, combining contemporary comfort with traditional experiences. It’s located near the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport and Ayodhya Cantt Railway Station, making it convenient for travelers. Facilities include luxurious dining options, well-appointed accommodations, and attentive services.

The Ramayana Hotel, Ayodhya:

A four-star hotel located close to the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport. It offers 56 air-conditioned rooms with unique décor, a garden, free parking, a terrace, and a purely vegetarian restaurant called Naivedyam.

Cygnett Collection KK Hotel:

Situated about 6 km from the grand Ram Mandir, this hotel combines upscale aesthetics with privacy and individuality. It features well-designed rooms and suites, two distinctive restaurants, a rooftop café, and a range of amenities including a swimming pool and bar.

Royal Heritage Hotel & Resort, Ayodhya:

Located on the NH-28, this hotel offers a mix of deluxe, executive, and standard rooms, along with suites and king rooms. It’s known for its regal décor and fine arts, offering a swimming pool, spa, and the Triveni Restaurant.

Clarks Inn Express Ayodhya:

A popular 4-star hotel located in Faizabad, close to Ayodhya. It’s known for its modern minimal décor and offers amenities like an in-house restaurant, smoking rooms, and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Panchsheel:

Located near the cities of Faizabad and Ayodhya, this hotel offers contemporary and elegant interiors, clean rooms, a restaurant, room service, a gym/spa, internet access, and a swimming pool.

Hanumant Palace:

Offers smart, modern, and clean rooms with modern amenities like internet access, kitchenette, and room service. Guests also get a complimentary continental breakfast.

Hotel Avantika:

Situated close to Faizabad Bus Station, this hotel offers services like internet access, 24-hour front desk, medical aid, laundry, dry cleaning, and 24-hour room service.

Shri Ram Hotel:

Centrally located in Ayodhya, this hotel features complimentary wired Internet access, 24-hour parking, and a multi-cuisine restaurant. It’s a convenient option for exploring the city.

Nilay Ayodhya | A Boutique Stay:

Offers accommodation with air conditioning and access to a garden with a terrace. It provides an Asian breakfast each morning.

These hotels provide a range of facilities and are located at convenient distances from major attractions in Ayodhya, making them excellent choices for travelers.

Beyond Ram Mandir: Cultural and Historical Landmarks

Ayodhya is more than just the Ram Mandir. The city is dotted with numerous historical and cultural sites:

Hanuman Garhi: A significant temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic views of the city.
Kanak Bhavan: Revered as the palace of Lord Rama and Sita, adorned with intricate architecture.
Treta Ke Thakur: A temple marking the spot where Lord Rama performed an Ashwamedha Yajna.
Local Markets and Lanes: The vibrant local markets and the narrow lanes of Ayodhya offer a glimpse into the daily life and culture of this ancient city.

Immersive Experience in Ayodhya

Visiting the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya transcends the ordinary; it’s an immersive experience that combines spiritual enrichment with cultural exploration. Whether you’re walking through the sacred halls of the Ram Mandir, experiencing the lively local markets, or absorbing the historical grandeur of the city’s landmarks, Ayodhya promises a journey that touches the soul.

Embracing the Spiritual Essence

The journey to Ayodhya and the Ram Mandir is not just about witnessing a religious site; it’s about embracing the spiritual essence that pervades this ancient city. Every step in Ayodhya brings you closer to understanding the deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage that has shaped this city over millennia.

In summary, a visit to Ayodhya and the Ram Mandir is more than a pilgrimage; it’s a journey into the heart of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. It’s an opportunity to witness the confluence of faith, history, and tradition, leaving visitors with a profound sense of peace and enlightenment.

Further Reading:

Ayodhya Guide: How to Reach Ayodhya by Road, Train And Air

How to Reach Ayodhya by Flights