Prayagraj to Ayodhya: Distance and Overview
The distance from Prayagraj (Allahabad) to Ayodhya is approximately 160 kilometres by road. The journey takes around 3 to 3.5 hours by road, and slightly longer by bus. This short pilgrimage route connects two of Hinduism’s most sacred cities — the Triveni Sangam at Prayagraj and the Ram Janmabhoomi at Ayodhya.
| Mode | Distance | Time | Fare |
| By Road (NH30) | ~160 km | 3–3.5 hrs | INR 1,200–1,800 cab |
| By Train | ~155 km | 2.5–3.5 hrs | INR 120–500 |
| By Bus (UPSRTC) | ~165 km | 3.5–4 hrs | INR 100–150 |
By Road: NH30 — The Fastest Route
National Highway 30 connects Prayagraj to Ayodhya via Pratapgarh. The road passes through the Purvanchal plains of Uttar Pradesh — flat, open, and fast in the central sections. Pratapgarh (~80km from Prayagraj) is the natural midpoint and a reasonable tea stop.
- Prayagraj → Pratapgarh (~80km, 1.5 hrs via NH30)
- Pratapgarh → Ayodhya (~80km, 1.5 hrs)
- Total: ~160km | 3 to 3.5 hours
By Train: Convenient and Affordable
Several trains operate between Prayagraj Junction (or Prayagraj Sangam/Rambagh stations) and Ayodhya Junction or Ayodhya Cantt. Key trains: Prayagraj-Gorakhpur Intercity and various express services on the Prayagraj-Lucknow route that stop at Ayodhya.
- Journey time by express: 2.5–3 hours
- Sleeper fare: INR 120–170 | AC 3-tier: INR 400–550
What to Do in Prayagraj Before Departure
- Triveni Sangam — boat ride to the confluence of three rivers, most sacred in Hinduism
- Anand Bhawan — Nehru family ancestral home, now a museum
- Allahabad Fort — Akbar’s 16th-century fort (exterior viewable)
- Hanuman Temple on the Yamuna — the reclining Hanuman, submerged during monsoon
⚠️ During the Maha Kumbh Mela (2025 was a major Kumbha year), both Prayagraj and Ayodhya experience extreme overcrowding. Transport, accommodation, and darshan slots require advance planning months ahead.
Ayodhya: Highlights on Arrival
- Ram Mandir (Ram Janmabhoomi) — book darshan slot online
- Hanuman Garhi — steep steps to the fort-temple, panoramic Ayodhya views
- Saryu River Aarti — evening ritual on the ghats, profoundly atmospheric
- Kanak Bhawan — must-visit for its gold-adorned shrine of Ram and Sita