Kolkata, the cultural capital of Eastern India, is a bustling metropolis in West Bengal, while Ayodhya, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a revered pilgrimage city known for its religious significance and historic temples. This route is popular among pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and weekend travelers eager to explore Ayodhya's spiritual heritage.

In this guide, we cover all practical options to travel from Kolkata to Ayodhya, including trains, buses, self-drive, and flights. You'll find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on local transport to help you plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Kolkata to Ayodhya – Main Options

Train

Train travel is one of the most popular and economical ways to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Indian Railways connects these cities with multiple trains, offering a comfortable and scenic journey through several states.

• Key stations:

  Depart from Kolkata Railway Station (Howrah or Sealdah) and arrive at Ayodhya Cantt or Faizabad Junction, which is about 12 km from Ayodhya city center.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 14 to 18 hours depending on the train, with ticket prices ranging from ₹400 for sleeper class to ₹1500 for AC classes.

• Train options and frequency:

  Trains like the Amritsar Express and Faizabad Express run regularly. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is recommended due to high demand, especially during festivals.

• Comfort and services:

  Most trains offer clean coaches and pantry services, but carrying your own water and snacks is advisable for longer journeys.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak festival times like Ram Navami when trains can be overcrowded; book early or choose less busy timings.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Faizabad Junction, frequent buses and auto-rickshaws connect to Ayodhya city. Prepaid taxis are available at Ayodhya Cantt station for hassle-free transfers.

Bus

Bus travel is a viable option for budget travelers, though it is less comfortable and takes longer than trains. State transport and private operators run buses between Kolkata and Ayodhya.

• Departure points:

  Buses leave from Kolkata’s Esplanade or Babughat bus terminals, heading towards Faizabad or nearby towns.

• Duration and fare:

  The journey can take 18 to 22 hours, with fares ranging from ₹700 to ₹1200 depending on the bus type (non-AC, AC sleeper).

• Bus types and frequency:

  Both government-run (NBSTC) and private Volvo buses operate, but overnight buses are limited; booking in advance via online portals is recommended.

• Road routes:

  Buses typically take NH19 and NH27, passing through Varanasi and Gorakhpur, with several rest stops for meals and refreshments.

• Comfort tips:

  Choose AC sleeper buses for overnight travel to ensure better rest; carry light snacks and water as stops can be brief.

• Challenges:

  Road traffic near major cities can cause delays, especially during festivals or weekends.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Ayodhya offers flexibility and the chance to explore along the way. The route covers approximately 900 km via National Highways.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH19 and NH27, passing through Dhanbad, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur, with well-maintained highways and toll plazas.

• Travel time and distance:

  Expect around 16 to 18 hours of driving, so plan for overnight stops or multiple drivers to avoid fatigue.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  Highways are generally in good condition with numerous dhabas and fuel stations; popular rest stops include Varanasi and Gorakhpur for meals and breaks.

• Navigation tips:

  Use GPS apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.

• Permits and tolls:

  Carry valid driving license and vehicle documents; be prepared for multiple tolls totaling around ₹500 to ₹700.

• Seasonal advice:

  Avoid driving during monsoon due to slippery roads and reduced visibility in some stretches.

Flight

While there is no direct flight from Kolkata to Ayodhya, flying is an option by connecting through Lucknow or Varanasi airports followed by road travel.

• Airports:

  Fly from Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport to Lucknow or Varanasi airports, both approximately 130 km from Ayodhya.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Flights take around 1.5 to 2 hours, with fares ranging from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• Connecting transport:

  From Lucknow or Varanasi, hire taxis or take buses to Ayodhya; taxi rides take about 3 to 4 hours and cost ₹1500 to ₹2500.

• Convenience:

  Flights save time but add to overall travel time and cost due to road transfer; best for travelers prioritizing comfort.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights and taxis in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Ayodhya, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites/apps for flights. Early booking secures better seats and lower prices.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah or Sealdah station at least 45 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform easily.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and light blankets for overnight travel. Keep your ID and tickets handy for verification.

• On arrival at Faizabad or Ayodhya Cantt:

  Use prepaid taxi counters or book Ola/Uber cabs for safe and fixed-price transfers to your accommodation.

• Plan local sightseeing and stay:

  Choose hotels near Ram Katha Park or near the Hanuman Garhi temple for easy access to major attractions.

• Return journey:

  Book return tickets in advance and consider alternate routes or timings to avoid peak travel days.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid traveling alone at night in non-AC coaches. Use lockable bags and stay alert at stations.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if you have dietary restrictions. Avoid street food at unknown stops to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC’s Tatkal scheme for last-minute train bookings but expect higher prices. For buses, use MSRTC or private portals like RedBus.

• Local commute in Ayodhya:

  Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common; negotiate fares in advance or use app-based cabs where available.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light and keep valuables in a carry bag. At stations, use cloakroom facilities if you plan to explore before check-in.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to possible delays and slippery roads, especially if driving.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Ayodhya is during the cooler months from October to March, avoiding the intense summer heat and monsoon rains. Festivals like Diwali and Ram Navami attract large crowds, so plan accordingly.

Traveling early morning or late evening can help avoid city traffic in Kolkata and Ayodhya, making your journey smoother.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Kolkata (8-10 AM and 5-8 PM) to reach stations or airports on time.

• Steer clear of festival weekends when trains and roads are crowded, especially during Ram Navami in Ayodhya.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause delays and slippery roads; plan extra travel time or choose trains over driving.

• Early morning departures are recommended for road travel to avoid heat and traffic congestion.

Arrival at Ayodhya & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Ayodhya Cantt or Faizabad Junction, travelers find a peaceful town with spiritual vibes and welcoming locals. The stations are modest but functional, with basic amenities and taxi stands.

For local travel, auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are readily available. Many hotels and guesthouses are located near major temples like Ram Janmabhoomi and Hanuman Garhi, making it easy to explore on foot or by short rides.

Prepaid taxi counters at stations offer fixed fares to popular areas, reducing the risk of overcharging. If arriving late, booking cabs via Ola or Uber apps is safer and more convenient.

Conclusion

Traveling from Kolkata to Ayodhya is best done by train for a balance of comfort, cost, and convenience. Indian Railways offers multiple options with reasonable fares and reliable schedules, making it ideal for most travelers.

For those prioritizing speed, flights to Lucknow or Varanasi combined with road transfer work well, though at a higher cost. Driving offers flexibility but requires careful planning. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best mode and enjoy a smooth journey to the spiritual city of Ayodhya.