Planning a spiritual journey from Kolkata to Ayodhya? Thousands of devotees visit this holy city monthly since Ram Mandir's opening. This complete resource explains how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata through trains, flights, buses, and car travel. Whether visiting sacred Ram Mandir in Uttar Pradesh (900 km away) or scenic Ayodhya hills near Bengal-Jharkhand border (200 km), we cover all options. Choose trains for comfort, flights for speed, or buses for budget travel based on your preferences when planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata.
Table of Contents
How to Reach Ayodhya from Kolkata? - Travel Modes
Understanding all travel modes helps you make the best choice for your journey when planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Each mode offers different advantages in terms of cost, time, and comfort. The key is matching your travel style with the right option for your Kolkata to Ayodhya journey.
The distance from Kolkata to Ayodhya city is approximately 900 kilometers, while Ayodhya Pahar is only 200 kilometers away. This distance difference greatly affects your travel time and costs when deciding how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Most people searching for how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata are heading to the holy city in Uttar Pradesh, but some want to visit the hills for their natural beauty.
| Travel Mode | Distance | Travel Time | Cost Range | Comfort Level | Best For |
| Train (Direct) | 900 km | 16-20 hours | ₹400-2,500 | High | Budget & comfort |
| Train (Connection) | 900 km | 18-24 hours | ₹500-3,000 | Medium to High | Flexible timing |
| Flight | 900 km | 2-4 hours | ₹4,000-12,000 | High | Quick travel |
| Bus | 900 km | 18-22 hours | ₹800-1,800 | Medium | Mid-range budget |
| Car | 900 km | 15-18 hours | ₹8,000-12,000 | Medium | Family groups |
Kolkata serves as the gateway to eastern India, with excellent connectivity to most parts of the country. The city has multiple railway stations, with Howrah and Sealdah being the main ones for long-distance travel. Understanding which station serves your destination helps plan your journey better.
Weather conditions affect travel comfort significantly. The best time for this journey is between October and March when temperatures are pleasant in both cities. Summer travel can be very hot, especially in the central parts of India you'll cross during your journey.
How to Reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by Train?
Train travel remains the most popular choice for travelers wondering how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Indian Railways provides excellent connectivity between these two cities, offering both direct and connecting train options for those seeking to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by rail. The journey takes you through the heart of India, passing through Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Railway travel gives you a chance to see the changing landscape when planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. You'll pass through important cities like Patna, Varanasi, and Lucknow, each with its own cultural significance. If you're interested in traveling from other cities, check out our detailed articles on how to reach Ayodhya from Delhi, how to reach Ayodhya from Hyderabad, and how to reach Ayodhya from Bangalore. The train journey also offers comfortable berths for overnight travel, making it a practical choice for families learning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata.
Direct Trains from Kolkata to Ayodhya
Several trains connect Kolkata directly to Ayodhya, making your journey simple and comfortable for those researching how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. These trains from Kolkata to Ayodhya run regularly and offer different classes of travel to suit your budget and comfort needs when planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata.
The most popular direct train is the Kolkata-Ayodhya Express, which runs three times a week. This train starts from Kolkata (Howrah) and reaches Ayodhya Cantt station in about 17-18 hours. The train offers all classes from general to AC first class, giving you plenty of options.
Another good option is the Ganga Sutlej Express, which runs daily between Kolkata and Ayodhya. This train takes about 16-17 hours and is known for its punctuality. Many regular travelers prefer this train because it maintains consistent timing throughout the year.
Direct Trains from Kolkata to Ayodhya:
| Train Name | Train No. | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Days | Classes Available |
| Kolkata-Ayodhya Express | 12554 | 11:50 PM (Howrah) | 6:30 PM +1 | 18h 40m | Mon, Wed, Fri | SL, 3A, 2A, 1A |
| Ganga Sutlej Express | 13308 | 9:15 PM (Kolkata) | 2:45 PM +1 | 17h 30m | Daily | SL, 3A, 2A |
| Howrah-Ayodhya SF | 12566 | 6:20 AM (Howrah) | 11:45 PM | 17h 25m | Tue, Thu, Sun | SL, 3A, 2A |
Trains from Kolkata to Ayodhya with Connections
If direct trains don't match your schedule, connecting trains offer more flexibility for those wondering how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Many travelers use major junction stations like Patna, Varanasi, or Lucknow to break their journey and explore these historic cities. For travelers from other regions, you can find similar connectivity options in our articles about how to reach Ayodhya from Pune and how to reach Ayodhya from Varanasi.
The most common connection point is Varanasi, which has excellent train connectivity from Kolkata. From Varanasi, you can take a local train or bus to reach Ayodhya in about 2-3 hours. This option works well if you want to visit both holy cities during your trip.
Patna serves as another important connection point. Several trains run from Kolkata to Patna, and from there you can catch connecting trains to Ayodhya. This route often offers better seat availability, especially during peak season.
Popular Connecting Train Routes:
| Connection Point | First Train | Duration | Second Train | Duration | Total Time | Cost Range |
| Via Varanasi | Howrah-Varanasi Express | 12h 30m | Varanasi-Ayodhya Passenger | 3h 20m | 18-20h | ₹500-3,200 |
| Via Patna | Howrah-Patna Express | 8h 45m | Patna-Ayodhya Express | 7h 15m | 18-22h | ₹550-3,500 |
| Via Lucknow | Howrah-Lucknow Mail | 14h 20m | Lucknow-Ayodhya Passenger | 2h 30m | 19-24h | ₹600-3,800 |
Train Booking Tips
- Book 60-90 days in advance when train reservations open for better seat availability
- Peak season booking (October-March) requires even earlier planning due to high demand
- Use IRCTC online platform for convenient booking and secure payment options
- Keep backup train options ready as popular routes fill up quickly during festivals
- Download IRCTC app to check real-time train status, delays, and cancellations
- Check running status before leaving home to avoid station waiting time
How to Reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by Flight?
Flying offers the fastest way to cover the distance for those prioritizing speed when learning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata, though it requires careful planning due to limited direct flights. The new Ayodhya Dham Airport has made air travel more convenient for people researching how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata, but most flights still require connections through major cities.
Air travel becomes especially attractive during summer months when train journeys can be uncomfortable due to heat. The time saved by flying allows you to spend more time at your destination rather than traveling when you know how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata efficiently. However, flight costs are significantly higher than train fares for those planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata on a budget.
Flight Routes and Airlines
Currently, no direct flights operate between Kolkata and Ayodhya on a regular basis. Most flights require one or two connections through major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Lucknow. The total journey time, including connections, ranges from 3-6 hours depending on layover duration.
The most common route is Kolkata to Delhi, then Delhi to Ayodhya. This route offers multiple daily flights and good connectivity. IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate regular services on this route with reasonable prices and timing options.
Another popular option is flying from Kolkata to Lucknow, then taking a taxi or bus to Ayodhya. The road distance from Lucknow to Ayodhya is only 130 kilometers, making it a convenient option. This route often offers better flight prices and shorter total travel time.
Flight Routes and Timings:
| Route | Airlines | Frequency | Flight Time | Connection Time | Total Time | Cost Range |
| Via Delhi | IndiGo, Air India, Vistara | 8-10 daily | 2h 15m + 1h 30m | 2-4 hours | 5-8 hours | ₹4,500-10,000 |
| Via Lucknow | IndiGo, Air India | 3-4 daily | 2h 10m + Road | 2h 30m road | 4-5 hours | ₹4,000-8,500 |
| Via Varanasi | IndiGo, SpiceJet | 2-3 weekly | 2h 20m + Road | 3h road | 5-6 hours | ₹5,000-9,000 |
| Via Mumbai | Multiple Airlines | 6-8 daily | 2h 30m + 2h 15m | 3-5 hours | 7-10 hours | ₹6,000-12,000 |
Airport Connections and Transfers
Planning your airport transfers is crucial for a smooth journey. Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport has good connectivity to the city center through metro, buses, and taxis. Book your transport in advance, especially if you have early morning flights.
At Ayodhya Dham Airport, pre-paid taxi services are available to reach the city center and Ram Mandir. These taxis charge fixed rates and provide reliable service. The airport is well-connected to major hotels and pilgrimage sites in Ayodhya.
If you're flying via Lucknow, the airport has excellent taxi and bus services to Ayodhya. Many travelers prefer this route because Lucknow airport is larger and offers more amenities. The road journey from Lucknow to Ayodhya takes about 2-2.5 hours on good highways.
How to Reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by Bus?
While less popular than trains and flights, bus travel offers a middle ground between cost and comfort for those exploring how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Several private and government bus operators run services between Kolkata and Ayodhya, though the journey requires connections and takes longer than trains for those planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by road.
Bus Journey Options
Direct buses from Kolkata to Ayodhya are limited, so most travelers need to take connecting buses through major cities. The most common route involves changing buses at Patna or Varanasi, extending the total journey time to 20-24 hours.
Government-run buses offer basic comfort at affordable prices, while private operators provide AC buses with better seats and entertainment systems. Sleeper buses are available for overnight journeys, making the trip more comfortable for long-distance travel.
Bus Travel Options:
| Route Type | Operator | Duration | Departure Time | Bus Type | Cost Range | Comfort Level |
| Direct (Limited) | Private Operators | 20-22 hours | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM | AC Sleeper | ₹1,200-1,800 | Good |
| Via Patna | WBSTC + BSRTC | 22-24 hours | Multiple times | AC/Non-AC | ₹800-1,400 | Average |
| Via Varanasi | Private + UPSRTC | 20-23 hours | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM | Sleeper/Seater | ₹900-1,600 | Good |
| Luxury Coaches | Premium Operators | 18-20 hours | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Multi-axle AC | ₹1,500-2,200 | Excellent |
How to Reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by Car?
Road travel gives you the flexibility to stop at interesting places along the route when choosing how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by car. The highway journey takes you through several states, offering glimpses of rural India and various cultural regions. However, the long distance makes it tiring for many travelers wondering how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata comfortably.
Road Trip by Car
Driving from Kolkata to Ayodhya offers complete flexibility but requires careful planning. The 900-kilometer journey takes 15-18 hours of actual driving, so plan for at least two days with an overnight stop. Popular stopping points include Patna or Varanasi.
| Travel Type | Distance | Driving Time | Total Cost | Fuel Cost | Toll Charges | Best Route |
| Own Car | 900 km | 15-18 hours | ₹8,000-12,000 | ₹6,000-8,000 | ₹800-1,200 | NH19 via Durgapur |
| Rental Car | 900 km | 15-18 hours | ₹10,000-15,000 | Included | ₹800-1,200 | NH19 via Patna |
| Taxi (One Way) | 900 km | 15-18 hours | ₹12,000-18,000 | Included | Included | NH19 direct route |
| Taxi (Round Trip) | 1,800 km | 30-36 hours | ₹20,000-28,000 | Included | Included | NH19 both ways |
Recommended Stops for Car Journey:
- Day 1: Kolkata to Durgapur (200 km, 4-5 hours)
- Day 2: Durgapur to Patna (350 km, 6-7 hours)
- Day 3: Patna to Ayodhya (350 km, 6-7 hours)
Safety should be your top priority during long road trips. Avoid driving at night, especially in rural areas. Keep emergency contact numbers handy and ensure your vehicle is properly serviced before starting the journey. Travel insurance that covers road trips is also recommended.
How to Reach Ayodhya Pahar from Kolkata?
Many travelers confuse Ayodhya city with Ayodhya Pahar, which are completely different destinations when researching how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Ayodhya Pahar, also known as Ayodhya hills, is a scenic hill station located on the border of West Bengal and Jharkhand. This destination is much closer to Kolkata and offers beautiful natural scenery for those seeking how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata for nature experiences.
The confusion often arises because both places share the same name when people search for how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. However, if you're looking for the holy city with Ram Mandir, you need to go to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh. If you want to enjoy hill station weather and natural beauty, Ayodhya Pahar is your destination. For detailed information about the hill station, check our Best Time to Visit Ayodhya Hills Purulia article.
Ayodhya Hills Travel Information
Ayodhya Hills from Kolkata is a popular weekend getaway for Bengali families. Located about 200 kilometers from Kolkata, this hill station offers cool weather, beautiful forests, and peaceful surroundings. The hills are part of the Dalma range and provide excellent opportunities for trekking and nature photography.
The best time to visit Ayodhya hills is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. During monsoon season, the hills become even more beautiful with lush green forests, but road conditions can be challenging.
How to reach Ayodhya hills from Kolkata involves multiple transportation options. You can take a direct bus, drive by car, or take a train to nearby stations and then continue by road. The journey takes about 4-6 hours depending on your chosen mode of transport.
Best Route to Ayodhya Pahar
The most popular route for how to go Ayodhya Pahar from Kolkata is via Purulia and Jhalda. This route offers good road conditions and scenic views throughout the journey. Many travelers prefer driving this route because it allows stops at interesting places along the way.
How to reach Ayodhya pahar from Kolkata by train involves taking a train to Purulia or Asansol, then continuing by road. Several trains connect Kolkata to these stations daily. From Purulia, local buses and shared taxis are available to reach Ayodhya hills.
Route Options for Ayodhya Pahar:
- By Road: Kolkata → Durgapur → Purulia → Jhalda → Ayodhya Hills (200 km, 4-5 hours)
- By Train + Road: Kolkata → Purulia by train (3-4 hours) + Road to hills (2 hours)
Cost Comparison for All Travel Modes
Understanding the cost differences between various travel modes helps you budget your trip effectively when planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. The cheapest way for how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata is by train in general class, while the most expensive is by flight. However, comfort levels vary significantly with price for those researching how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata economically.
Budget travelers should choose trains in sleeper class, which offer good value for money. Mid-range travelers can opt for AC train classes or bus travel, while those preferring speed and comfort should choose flights. Car travel works best for groups of 4-5 people as costs can be shared.
| Transport Mode | Lowest Cost | Highest Cost | Best Value | Comfort Rating |
| Train | ₹400 (General) | ₹2,500 (AC1) | AC 3-Tier | 4/5 |
| Flight | ₹4,000 | ₹12,000 | Economy | 5/5 |
| Bus | ₹800 | ₹1,800 | AC Sleeper | 3/5 |
| Car (Own) | ₹8,000 | ₹12,000 | Self-drive | 3/5 |
Best Time to Travel from Kolkata to Ayodhya
The best time to plan your journey when considering how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata is during winter months (October to March). During this period, weather conditions are pleasant in both cities, making travel comfortable for those planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. Train and bus journeys are more enjoyable when outside temperatures are moderate.
| Season | Months | Weather | Temperature | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| Winter | Oct-Mar | Pleasant, Cool | 10-25°C | Perfect weather, clear skies | Peak season crowds, higher prices | All travelers |
| Summer | Apr-Jun | Very Hot | 35-45°C | Less crowded, better availability | Extreme heat, uncomfortable travel | Budget travelers only |
| Monsoon | Jul-Sep | Rainy | 25-35°C | Green landscapes, lower prices | Train delays, slippery roads | Nature lovers |
| Festival Season | Nov, Mar-Apr | Variable | 15-30°C | Cultural celebrations, vibrant atmosphere | Extremely crowded, highest prices | Cultural enthusiasts |
Avoid traveling during peak summer (April-June) as temperatures can reach 45°C in central India. Monsoon season (July-September) brings heavy rains that can cause delays in train and bus services. However, this season offers lower prices and fewer crowds at tourist destinations.
Festival seasons see increased travel demand and higher prices across all travel modes for those learning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata. If you're planning to visit during Diwali, Ram Navami, or other major festivals, book your tickets well in advance. Many trains and flights get fully booked during these periods. For travelers from other cities, you can find similar seasonal advice in our articles about how to reach Ayodhya from Chennai and other major cities.
Conclusion
Planning how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata requires understanding your options and choosing the right mode based on your needs. Train travel offers the best balance of cost and comfort, with direct trains available three times a week for those seeking how to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata reliably. For faster travel, flights through Delhi or Lucknow connections work well, though at higher costs.
If you're planning to visit Ayodhya Pahar instead of the holy city, remember that it's much closer to Kolkata and requires different travel planning. The hill station offers beautiful natural scenery and is perfect for weekend getaways from Kolkata.
Frenzy Holidays ensures a smooth and enriching travel experience from start to finish. You can visit us at Haware Centurion, S07/34, Nerul East, Sector 19A, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400706. For bookings or more information, call +91 7400453140, email [email protected], or visit www.frenzyholidays.com. Let Frenzy Holidays turn your Kandy getaway into a truly unforgettable journey.
How to Reach Ayodhya from Kolkata? - FAQs
Is there a direct train from Kolkata to Ayodhya?
Yes, there are direct trains from Kolkata to Ayodhya. The Kolkata-Ayodhya Express and Ganga Sutlej Express run directly between these cities, taking 16-18 hours for the journey through Howrah station.
How long does it take to reach Ayodhya from Kolkata by train?
Direct trains from Kolkata to Ayodhya take 16-20 hours, while connecting trains may take 18-24 hours depending on connection wait times. The trains from Kolkata to Ayodhya run regularly with good punctuality.
Are there direct flights from Kolkata to Ayodhya?
No, there are no regular direct flights from Kolkata to Ayodhya. You need connecting flights through Delhi, Lucknow, or Varanasi, with total journey time of 3-6 hours including layovers.
What is the difference between Ayodhya and Ayodhya Pahar?
Ayodhya is the holy city in Uttar Pradesh with Ram Mandir, located 900 km from Kolkata. Ayodhya Pahar refers to Ayodhya hills near Bengal-Jharkhand border, only 200 km from Kolkata.
How to reach Ayodhya Pahar from Kolkata by train?
Take a train from Kolkata to Purulia or Asansol (3-4 hours), then continue by road to Ayodhya hills (2-3 hours). Several daily trains connect Kolkata to these junction stations for onward journey.
Which is the cheapest way to travel from Kolkata to Ayodhya?
Train travel in sleeper class is the cheapest option, costing around ₹400-600. General class costs even less but offers minimal comfort for the long journey from Kolkata to Ayodhya.
What is the distance between Kolkata and Ayodhya?
The distance from Kolkata to Ayodhya city is approximately 900 kilometers by train and road routes. The journey crosses through Bihar and Uttar Pradesh states on the way.
How to reach Ayodhya hills from Kolkata by train?
Take any train from Kolkata to Purulia (like Purulia Express), then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ayodhya hills. The total journey takes 6-7 hours with good train connections.
What is the best time to visit Ayodhya from Kolkata?
October to March is the best time for travel from Kolkata to Ayodhya, offering pleasant weather and comfortable travel conditions. Avoid summer months due to extreme heat in central India.
How much does it cost to travel from Kolkata to Ayodhya?
Costs range from ₹400 (train general class) to ₹12,000 (flight). AC train tickets cost ₹800-2,500, buses cost ₹800-1,800, and flights typically cost ₹4,000-8,000 depending on booking timing and connections.
