Here is how to reach Ayodhya by Train?

Close your eyes and picture the anticipation as you board a train bound for Ayodhya, where every whistle and click of the tracks becomes a prelude to the spiritual symphony that awaits. This isn't just a travel guide; it's an invitation to step into the pages of a story where the journey itself becomes as significant as the destination. So, buckle up, fellow traveler, as we embark on a rail odyssey to Ayodhya, where the journey is as sacred as the city itself.

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1. Planning Your Journey

Before embarking on your spiritual sojourn to Ayodhya, meticulous planning is essential. Begin by deciding the best time to visit, taking into consideration the weather and any local festivals or events. Ayodhya is well-connected by rail, and choosing the right train ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey. The major railway station serving Ayodhya is Ayodhya Junction, which is conveniently connected to various cities across India.

2. Selecting the Right Train:

India's extensive railway network provides a plethora of options for reaching Ayodhya. Some of the prominent cities with direct train connections to Ayodhya Junction include Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Depending on your location, you can choose from a range of trains, including express trains, superfast trains, and passenger trains. Booking tickets in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or significant religious festivals.

3. Trains to Ayodhya

Several trains, including Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat Express, connect the temple city to various parts of the nation. The national transporter has also introduced special trains from various locations, such as Punjab, Tripura and other states.

Journey From Delhi to Ayodhya: For those starting their journey from Delhi, there are several trains that connect the capital city to Ayodhya. The Lucknow Mail, Faizabad Express, and Neelachal Express are popular choices. These trains offer comfortable sleeper and AC class compartments, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way. The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on the train chosen and the specific route.

Varanasi to Ayodhya: Varanasi, another spiritual hub of India, is well-connected to Ayodhya by train. Trains such as the Saryu Yamuna Express and Saket Express provide a convenient and scenic journey. The rail route passes through picturesque landscapes, offering passengers a visual treat. The journey from Varanasi to Ayodhya takes around 6-8 hours, allowing travelers to soak in the cultural richness of both cities.

Lucknow to Ayodhya: Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, serves as a major transit point for those heading to Ayodhya. Trains like Lucknow Express and Lucknow Mail offer regular services connecting these two cities. The journey is relatively short, taking approximately 3-4 hours, making it a convenient option for those with limited time.

Kolkata to Ayodhya: Travelers coming from the eastern part of the country, particularly Kolkata, can opt for trains like Ganga Sagar Express and Kolkata Express. While the journey is longer, spanning around 15-18 hours, it offers a unique opportunity to witness the diverse landscapes and cultural shifts as you traverse through different regions of India.

Mumbai to Ayodhya: For those coming from the western part of India, Mumbai offers several train options, including the Godan Express and Kushinagar Express. The journey from Mumbai to Ayodhya takes approximately 24-28 hours, making it a long but fulfilling adventure for those seeking a comprehensive Indian rail experience.

Trains from Karnataka and Goa to Ayodhya

Popular Train Routes:

• Chennai to Ayodhya: This is a well-connected route with several direct trains, including the Raptisagar Express, RMM Ayodhya Express, and MAS LTT Express. The journey takes around 28-32 hours, covering a distance of approximately 1500 km.

• Bangalore to Ayodhya: While there are no direct trains from Bangalore to Ayodhya, you can opt for trains to Lucknow or Faizabad and then take a connecting train to Ayodhya. The total travel time can range from 24 to 36 hours.

• Kerala to Ayodhya: Similar to Bangalore, there are no direct trains from Kerala to Ayodhya. However, you can take trains to Chennai or Vijayawada and then board connecting trains to Ayodhya. The travel time can be around 30-40 hours.

Train Options:

• Express Trains: These are the most common and affordable option, offering a mix of seating and sleeper berths. Popular express trains on these routes include Raptisagar Express, Garib Rath Express, and MAS LTT Express.

• Shatabdi Express: These superfast trains offer comfortable air-conditioned seating and superior amenities at a slightly higher cost. The MGR Chennai Central - Mysuru Shatabdi Express is a good option on the Chennai-Ayodhya route.

• Rajdhani Express: These premium trains offer the highest level of comfort with air-conditioned cabins, fine dining, and personalized service. However, they are also the most expensive option.

Vande Bharat Express

The journey to Ayodhya aboard the Vande Bharat Express, identified by the train numbers 22426/22425 and connecting Anand Vihar Terminal to Ayodhya Cantonment, marks the 36th addition to India's fleet of Vande Bharat Express trains. This service, under the management of Indian Railways, seamlessly links Anand Vihar Terminal, Kanpur Central, Lucknow Charbagh, and Ayodhya Cantt. Junction. Operating six days a week, the train is composed of 7 AC Chair Car and 1 Executive Chair Car coaches, covering a distance of 628 km (390 mi) within a travel time of 8 hours and 20 minutes, boasting an average speed of 75 km/h. The fare for traveling in an AC Chair Car is Rs 1570 per passenger, while opting for an Executive Chair Car requires a fare of Rs 2915.

Amrit Bharat Express

The journey to Ayodhya aboard the Amrit Bharat Express spans a distance of 637 km, taking approximately 10 hours to complete. Along its route, the train makes halts at Aligarh, Tundla, Etawah, Kanpur Central, and Lucknow, strategically ensuring accessibility and connectivity for passengers. This train exclusively features Sleeper Class compartments, and the fare is set at Rs 410. Key stations along the route include Kamtul, Janakpur Road, Sitamarhi, Bairgania, Raxaul, Narkatiyaganj, Bagha, Kaptanganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur, Ayodhya Dham, Lucknow, Kanpur Central, Etawah, Tundla, Aligarh Junction, ultimately culminating at Anand Vihar Terminal.

200 special Aastha trains

More than 200 specialized Aastha trains are anticipated to be operated by Indian Railways, connecting devotees to Ayodhya. These dedicated trains, strategically designed with minimal stops, will establish direct links between Ayodhya Dham station and various cities and towns across India. The service is scheduled to span 100 days starting from January 22, catering specifically to the needs of devoted pilgrims.

These trains are slated to connect Ayodhya with 66 distinct locations nationwide, with each train comprising 22 coaches to accommodate devotees on their way to visit the Ram temple. The proposed Special Aastha trains are expected to traverse through stations in major cities, including New Delhi, Old Delhi, Nizamuddin, and Anand Vihar. Expanding beyond the national capital, these trains are also set to serve stations in cities such as Agartala, Tinsukia, Barmer, Katra, Jammu, Nashik, Dehradun, Bhadrak, Khurda Road, Kottayam, Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Kazipet.

3 Special Trains from Tripura to Ayodhya

Three special trains have been designated by Indian Railways to facilitate the journey of individuals from Tripura to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, allowing them to offer prayers at the Ram temple. This decision comes in response to a request made by Chief Minister Manik Saha to Railways Minister Ashwani Vaishnaw, seeking the provision of special train services connecting Agartala to Ayodhya.

"The Railways has allocated three special trains for devotees from Tripura to visit Ayodhya and pay homage to Lord Ram. Departing from the state on January 31, February 21, and 27, these trains are specifically arranged for the convenience of Ram Bhakts," shared Rana Ghosh, the general secretary of BJP Tripura Yuva Morcha, with PTI.

Special Trains from Punjab to Ayodhya

Indian Railways is likely to introduce also four special trains from Punjab, facilitating convenient travel for those intending to visit Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh in February. The first pair comprises two special trains departing from Pathankot, with the inaugural journey scheduled for February 9 at 7:05 am. The train is set to reach Ayodhya Cantt on February 10 at 02:55 am, and the return journey is planned for February 11 at 12:40 am, arriving in Pathankot at 7 pm.

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The second special train, originating from Nangal Dam on February 12 at 7 am, will reach Ayodhya Cantt on February 13 at 2:55 am, with the return journey commencing on February 14 at 12:40 am, arriving at Nangal Dam at 4:45 pm. The third train will depart from Chandigarh on February 19 at 10:20 am, arriving at Ayodhya Cantt on February 20 at 2:55 am, and the return journey is scheduled for February 21 at 12:40 am, reaching Chandigarh at 4:05 pm. The fourth and final special train will embark from Pathankot on February 23 at 7:05 am, reaching Ayodhya Cantt on February 24 at 2:55 am, with the return journey set for February 25 at 12:40 am, arriving in Pathankot at 7 pm.

Now that you know how, What are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your train tickets, and get ready to unlock the spiritual treasures that await you in the sacred city of Ayodhya.