Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is a historic city in Uttar Pradesh, located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Delhi, the national capital, is a major hub in northern India. This route is popular for pilgrims, tourists, and business travelers alike.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Prayagraj. You will find detailed information on trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Delhi to Prayagraj – Main Options

Train

Train travel is the most popular and convenient way to reach Prayagraj from Delhi. It offers a balance of comfort, affordability, and frequency, suitable for most travelers.

• Delhi has two main railway stations serving Prayagraj trains: New Delhi (NDLS) and Old Delhi (DLI). Prayagraj’s main station is Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ), well connected to major cities.

• The journey covers approximately 650 km and takes around 8 to 12 hours depending on the train type, with fares ranging from ₹400 for sleeper class to ₹1500+ for AC classes.

• Popular trains include the Prayagraj Express, Sangam Express, and the Shram Shakti Express, which run daily with good punctuality and onboard catering options.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended, especially during festivals like Kumbh Mela when demand surges and trains fill quickly.

• Night trains are preferred to save daytime hours, but day trains offer scenic views and more frequent stops for local travelers.

• Seasonal fog in winter can cause minor delays, so plan accordingly and check live train status before departure.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly and flexible option to travel from Delhi to Prayagraj. They are suitable for travelers who prefer road travel and want multiple departure times.

• Delhi’s major bus terminals like Anand Vihar ISBT and Kashmiri Gate ISBT operate buses to Prayagraj, with services by UPSRTC and private operators.

• The road distance is about 650 km, and the journey takes roughly 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Bus fares range from ₹600 to ₹1200 depending on the type of bus: non-AC, AC sleeper, or Volvo coaches, with Volvo being the most comfortable for overnight travel.

• Buses run frequently in the evening and night, which helps avoid Delhi’s daytime traffic and allows you to reach Prayagraj early morning.

• Major highways used include NH19 (old NH2), part of the Golden Quadrilateral, with toll plazas and rest stops offering basic food and restroom facilities.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to delays; it is advisable to check weather and road conditions before booking.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Prayagraj is a good option if you prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The route is well connected by national highways.

• The distance by road is approximately 650 km via NH19, taking about 11 to 13 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Driving yourself or hiring a cab allows you to stop at places like Mathura, Agra, or Kanpur, enriching your travel experience.

• Toll charges apply at multiple plazas along NH19; carry sufficient cash or use FASTag for smooth passage.

• Fuel stations and dhabas are available along the route, but it is best to plan refueling and meal breaks in advance to avoid long waits.

• Traffic congestion is common near Delhi and Kanpur, especially during peak hours and festivals, so start early in the morning to avoid delays.

• Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, and carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals can be weak in some rural stretches.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Prayagraj from Delhi, suitable for travelers who prioritize time and comfort over cost.

• Prayagraj has an airport (IXD) with direct flights from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India.

• Flight duration is about 1 hour 15 minutes, with fares typically ranging from ₹2500 to ₹5000 depending on booking time and season.

• Flights are less frequent compared to trains and buses, so booking in advance is essential to secure seats, especially during festivals.

• From Prayagraj airport, you can take prepaid taxis, app-based cabs like Ola or Uber, or local autos to reach city centers or hotels.

• Airport facilities are basic but adequate, with limited food options and parking; plan your arrival accordingly.

• Weather conditions like fog in winter can cause flight delays or cancellations, so keep alternate travel plans ready.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Prayagraj, helping you prepare and execute your journey smoothly.

• Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Trains are best for balance, flights for speed, buses for budget, and car for flexibility.

• Book your tickets early through IRCTC for trains, official bus portals or counters for buses, airline websites or apps for flights, and reliable cab services for cars.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, a power bank, and a printed or digital copy of your ticket or booking confirmation.

• Arrive at the departure point (railway station, bus terminal, or airport) at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and complete security checks.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to reach your final destination in Prayagraj safely and at fair prices, avoiding unmetered taxis.

• Keep emergency contacts handy, including local police, hospital, and your accommodation, and stay updated on travel advisories or weather conditions.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of purified water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Book train tickets through the official IRCTC website or app to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats, especially during peak seasons.

• Use mobile apps like Ola or Uber for local transport in Prayagraj to get reliable fares and avoid bargaining with local auto-rickshaws.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying valuables openly, as crowded trains and buses can attract pickpockets.

• Try local food at trusted dhabas or station eateries but avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach, especially during hot weather.

• During monsoon or winter, check weather updates and train or flight status to avoid last-minute cancellations or delays.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Prayagraj depends on weather and festivals. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains, while winters are cold but generally clear.

Festival seasons like Kumbh Mela or Diwali see a surge in travelers, causing crowded trains and higher fares. Planning outside these periods ensures a smoother journey.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival times like Kumbh Mela or Holi when trains and buses are overcrowded and prices spike.

• Monsoon months (July to September) can cause road delays due to waterlogging and slippery conditions, so extra travel time is advised.

• Winter mornings (December to February) often have dense fog in northern India, which can delay trains and flights, so plan departures later in the day if possible.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and reduce travel time, especially when driving or taking buses.

Arrival at Prayagraj & What to Expect

Prayagraj Junction railway station is centrally located with easy access to the city. The station has prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaw stands for onward travel. App-based cabs like Ola and Uber also operate here.

Popular areas to stay include Civil Lines, Katra, and near the Allahabad University area, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses. Local buses and shared autos are available but can be crowded and less reliable.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Prayagraj is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a good balance of comfort and cost, while flights save time but are pricier. Buses and self-drive provide flexibility but require more planning.

Booking tickets early, checking weather and traffic updates, and using trusted local transport on arrival will help you have a safe and comfortable journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and enjoy the rich culture and history of Prayagraj.