Allahabad, officially known as Prayagraj, is a historic city in Uttar Pradesh famous for the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Delhi, the national capital, is a major hub connecting northern India to various cultural and religious destinations like Allahabad. This route is popular among pilgrims, tourists, and business travelers alike.

This guide covers all main travel options from Delhi to Allahabad, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You’ll find detailed tips on timings, ticketing, road conditions, and local transport to help you plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Delhi to Allahabad – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is one of the most popular and practical ways to reach Allahabad from Delhi, thanks to frequent services and comfortable options. Indian Railways connects the two cities with several trains daily, catering to different budgets and travel preferences.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) or Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) and arrive at Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ), the main station in Allahabad. The journey covers about 650 km.

• Duration and cost:

  Travel time ranges from 8 to 12 hours depending on the train type. Ticket prices vary from ₹400 for sleeper class to ₹1500+ for AC classes. Booking via IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Popular trains include the Prayagraj Express and Sangam Express, offering daily departures. AC coaches provide good comfort, while sleeper class is budget-friendly but can be crowded.

• Seasonal tips:

  During festivals like Kumbh Mela or Maha Shivratri, trains get booked quickly. Book tickets well in advance and avoid peak travel hours to secure seats.

• Scenic views and amenities:

  The route passes through the fertile Gangetic plains with occasional views of rural landscapes. Stations like Kanpur and Rae Bareli are good for short breaks during longer halts.

• Challenges:

  Trains can be delayed during monsoon due to track maintenance. Arrive early at the station to navigate crowds and find your platform easily.

By Bus

Buses offer a flexible and economical way to travel from Delhi to Allahabad, with options ranging from government-run services to private operators. The route is well-served but can be time-consuming due to traffic.

• Bus terminals:

  Buses depart from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Anand Vihar ISBT in Delhi, arriving at Allahabad’s main bus stands near Civil Lines and Katra.

• Travel time and fares:

  The journey takes about 12 to 14 hours covering approximately 650 km. Ticket prices range from ₹500 to ₹1200 depending on bus type (non-AC, AC, Volvo).

• Service quality:

  State-run UPSRTC buses are reliable but basic. Private Volvo buses offer more comfort and amenities like Wi-Fi and charging points.

• Route and road conditions:

  Most buses use NH19 via Kanpur, a well-maintained highway with tolls. Expect some congestion near Delhi and Allahabad city limits.

• Travel tips:

  Night buses are popular to save daytime hours, but avoid monsoon travel due to slippery roads. Booking tickets online on portals like RedBus is convenient.

• Challenges:

  Traffic jams near Delhi and Kanpur can cause delays. Carry water and snacks as stops may be limited on some private buses.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Allahabad is a rewarding option for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The highway is mostly in good condition, making it a feasible road trip.

• Route details:

  The preferred route is via NH19 (formerly NH2), passing through Meerut, Kanpur, and Rae Bareli. The total distance is about 650 km.

• Travel duration:

  Depending on traffic and stops, the drive takes around 10 to 12 hours. Starting early helps avoid Delhi and Kanpur peak hour congestion.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  NH19 is mostly a four-lane highway with toll plazas. Popular rest stops include Murthal for dhabas and Kanpur for fuel and meals.

• Car rental and tolls:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Delhi with providers like Zoomcar or Revv. Expect toll charges totaling ₹300-₹400 one way.

• Scenic and cultural stops:

  Consider short detours to historic sites like Fatehpur Sikri or Kanpur’s Allen Forest Zoo to break the journey.

• Challenges:

  Night driving is not recommended due to limited street lighting outside cities. Watch for heavy trucks and local traffic near towns.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest but least common option due to limited direct flights between Delhi and Allahabad. However, it can be convenient for business travelers or those short on time.

• Airport details:

  Flights depart from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and arrive at Prayagraj Airport (IXD), located about 10 km from the city center.

• Flight duration and fares:

  The flight takes approximately 1 hour. Ticket prices vary widely, typically ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on booking time and airline.

• Airlines and frequency:

  Airlines like Alliance Air operate on this route but flights are infrequent. Check schedules in advance as flights may not run daily.

• Airport transfers:

  From Prayagraj Airport, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola are available for city transfers. The airport is small but functional.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get better fares. Consider flight delays or cancellations during monsoon or foggy winter mornings.

• Challenges:

  Limited flight options mean you may need to rely on trains or road transport if schedules don’t align with your plans.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Allahabad, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or RedBus for buses. For flights, check airline websites or aggregators. Early booking secures better seats and prices.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at New Delhi Railway Station or ISBT Kashmiri Gate at least 45 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus bay easily.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, and a power bank. For overnight travel, bring a light blanket or shawl, especially in AC coaches or buses.

• Use prepaid taxis or app cabs on arrival:

  At Prayagraj Junction or the airport, opt for prepaid counters or Ola/Uber to avoid overcharging and ensure safe transfers to your accommodation.

• Plan local transport in Allahabad:

  Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common for short distances. For longer trips, book cabs via apps or your hotel concierge.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers for local police, hospitals, and your accommodation. Carry a physical copy of your ID and tickets for verification.

Practical Travel Tips

• Train booking strategy:

  Use the IRCTC app or website for real-time seat availability and e-tickets. Tatkal booking opens one day before departure at 10 AM for last-minute plans.

• Bus travel safety:

  Choose reputed operators with good reviews on RedBus. Avoid overcrowded buses and keep your belongings secure during stops.

• Food and water precautions:

  Carry bottled water and eat at clean, popular dhabas or restaurants. Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Allahabad, but coverage may be limited in outskirts. Have cash ready for autos and rickshaws.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep valuables in a carry bag and avoid flashing expensive gadgets. At stations, use cloakroom facilities if available for long layovers.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon can cause delays and slippery roads, while winter fog may affect flights and trains. Check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Allahabad depends on weather and crowd considerations. Avoiding peak traffic hours and festival seasons can make your journey smoother.

Summer can be hot and dusty, while monsoon brings lush greenery but also travel disruptions. Winter mornings may have fog causing delays, so plan accordingly.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Kumbh Mela or Diwali due to heavy crowds and booked accommodations.

• Start early in the morning (before 7 AM) to bypass Delhi and Kanpur traffic snarls.

• Monsoon travel requires caution on roads; prefer trains over buses during heavy rains.

• For flights, mid-morning departures are less likely to be delayed by fog compared to early mornings.

Arrival at Allahabad & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Prayagraj Junction or Prayagraj Airport, travelers find a city rich in history and spirituality. The railway station is well-connected with prepaid taxi counters and local buses.

Allahabad’s main attractions like the Sangam, Anand Bhavan, and Allahabad Fort are accessible via auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs. Popular stay areas include Civil Lines and the city center, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses.

For late arrivals, booking a cab through Ola or Uber is advisable as public transport options reduce after dark. The city is generally safe, but remain cautious with your belongings in crowded places.

Conclusion

Among all options, train travel stands out as the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Allahabad from Delhi, balancing cost, convenience, and frequency. It offers a reliable schedule and a chance to experience Indian Railways’ network firsthand.

Whether you choose the scenic road trip, a budget bus ride, or a quick flight, this guide equips you with practical tips to plan your journey confidently. With proper preparation, your trip from Delhi to Allahabad can be smooth and enjoyable.