Dear Friend. I am Rohit, a local guide. I have spent the last 8 years assisting devotees. Every week, a person comes to ask : "Bhaiya, Vande Bharat train se Varanasi se Ayodhya chalti hai?" (Is there a Vande Bharat express train that runs from Varanasi to Ayodhya?)
The answer is yes! And besides, it is one of the best modes of transportation between these two holy cities.
Varanasi and Ayodhya are two holy cities of India. Kashi is the abode of Lord Shiva. Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama. They are only 200 km apart. Now, the Vande Bharat train covers it under 2.5 hours.
The article outlines all the information you are supposed to know about the train service from Varanasi to Ayodhya such as the train numbers, timings, fares, booking procedure and practical advise that helps to make your journey smooth and comfortable.
So what are we waiting for? We shall get started right away.
The Two Vande Bharat Trains from Varanasi to Ayodhya
Two Vande Bharat Express trains connect Varanasi to Ayodhya. Both offer the same comfort and speed. Choose based on your departure time preference.
| Train | Route | Departure | Arrival at Ayodhya | Duration | Running Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22489 | Varanasi – Meerut | 09:10 AM | 11:34 AM | 2h 24m | Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
| 22345 | Patna – Gomti Nagar | 09:32 AM | 12:10 PM | 2h 38m | Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Source:
Train No. 22489 – Varanasi to Meerut Vande Bharat
This is the primary Vande Bharat service from Varanasi to Ayodhya. It was extended from Meerut City to Varanasi Junction via Ayodhya Dham on August 27, 2025.
Key Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Train Number | 22489 |
| Route | Varanasi Junction to Meerut City |
| Departure from Varanasi | 09:10 AM |
| Arrival at Ayodhya Dham | 11:34 AM |
| Halt at Ayodhya | 2 minutes |
| Duration (Varanasi to Ayodhya) | 2 hours 24 minutes |
| Distance | 189 km |
| Running Days | Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday |
| Classes | AC Chair Car (CC), Executive Chair Car (EC) |
| Total Journey | Varanasi to Meerut (783 km in 11h 55m) |
Source:
Full Route:
| Station | Arrival | Departure | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi Jn (BSB) | Start | 09:10 | 0 km |
| Ayodhya Dham Jn (AY) | 11:34 | 11:36 | 189 km |
| Lucknow Nr (LKO) | 13:40 | 13:50 | 324 km |
| Bareilly (BE) | 17:13 | 17:15 | 559 km |
| Moradabad (MB) | 18:50 | 18:55 | 650 km |
| Hapur (HPU) | 20:10 | 20:12 | 754 km |
| Meerut City (MTC) | 21:05 | End | 783 km |
Source:
Note: This train does not run on Tuesdays.
Train No. 22345 – Patna to Gomti Nagar Vande Bharat
This Vande Bharat service originates from Patna and passes through Varanasi before reaching Ayodhya.
Key Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Train Number | 22345 |
| Route | Patna to Gomti Nagar (Lucknow) |
| Departure from Varanasi | 09:32 AM |
| Arrival at Ayodhya Dham | 12:10 PM |
| Halt at Ayodhya | 2 minutes |
| Duration (Varanasi to Ayodhya) | 2 hours 38 minutes |
| Distance | 189 km |
| Running Days | Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday |
| Classes | AC Chair Car (CC), Executive Chair Car (EC) |
Source:
Note: This train does not run on Sundays.
Vande Bharat Timings Comparison
| Feature | Train 22489 | Train 22345 |
|---|---|---|
| Departure from Varanasi | 09:10 AM | 09:32 AM |
| Arrival at Ayodhya | 11:34 AM | 12:10 PM |
| Duration | 2h 24m | 2h 38m |
| Running Days | 6 days (except Tue) | 6 days (except Sun) |
| Halt at Ayodhya | 2 minutes | 2 minutes |
Recommendation: Train 22489 is slightly faster (2h 24m vs 2h 38m) and departs earlier. If you want to reach Ayodhya by noon, take 22489.
Vande Bharat Ticket Prices
Here are the ticket prices from Varanasi to Ayodhya.
| Class | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| AC Chair Car (CC) | ₹715 |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | ₹1,305 |
Source:
Note: Prices are subject to change. Check IRCTC for current fares.
Full Route Fares (Varanasi to Meerut):
| Class | Price |
|---|---|
| AC Chair Car | ₹1,915 |
| Executive Chair Car | ₹3,525 |
Source:
How to Book Vande Bharat Tickets
Step 1: Visit IRCTC
Go to www.irctc.co.in or the IRCTC Rail Connect app.
Step 2: Enter Journey Details
-
From: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
-
To: Ayodhya Dham Junction (AY)
-
Date: Select your travel date
Step 3: Select Train
Choose Train No. 22489 or 22345.
Step 4: Choose Class
Select AC Chair Car (CC) or Executive Chair Car (EC).
Step 5: Enter Passenger Details
Provide names, ages, and ID proof details.
Step 6: Make Payment
Pay online using UPI, debit card, credit card, or net banking.
Step 7: Download Ticket
You will receive an e-ticket via email and SMS.
Booking Tips:
-
Book 2–4 weeks in advance for confirmed seats
-
Vande Bharat trains fill up quickly, especially on weekends
-
Tatkal booking opens one day before departure
-
Check for senior citizen discounts if applicable
Vande Bharat vs Other Trains – Comparison
| Feature | Vande Bharat | Other Express Trains |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2h 24m – 2h 38m | 3h 10m – 5h 25m |
| Speed | 79 km/hr | 45–62 km/hr |
| Comfort | High (AC, reclining seats) | Medium to High |
| Fare (CC) | ₹715 | ₹150–₹520 |
| Running Days | 6 days/week | Daily |
| Food | Included in fare | Available for purchase |
Source:
Why Choose Vande Bharat:
-
Fastest train on the route
-
Comfortable AC Chair Car seats
-
Meals included in the fare
-
Modern amenities and clean coaches
Why Choose Other Trains:
-
Cheaper fares
-
More daily options
-
Sleeper class available for overnight travel
Vande Bharat Facilities and Amenities
Vande Bharat Express offers modern facilities for a comfortable journey.
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating | Reclining AC Chair Car seats |
| Meals | Included in the fare |
| Wi-Fi | Available on board |
| Charging Points | At every seat |
| Reading Lights | Individual lights |
| CCTV | For security |
| Bio-Toilets | Eco-friendly |
| Automatic Doors | Modern coaches |
| GPS Display | Live train tracking |
Ayodhya Dham Junction – Your Arrival Point
Ayodhya Dham Junction is the main railway station in Ayodhya. It is well-connected to the city's major attractions.
Distance from Station:
| Destination | Distance |
|---|---|
| Ram Mandir | ~7 km |
| Hanuman Garhi | ~7 km |
| Saryu Ghat (Ram Ki Paidi) | ~8 km |
| Kanak Bhawan | ~7 km |
Local Transport from Station:
-
Autos: ₹100–₹150 to Ram Mandir area
-
E-rickshaws: ₹30–₹50 per person (shared)
-
Taxis: ₹200–₹300
How to Reach Varanasi Junction
By Air:
-
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) — about 26 km from the city
By Train:
-
Varanasi Junction (Cantt) — the main railhead
-
Kashi Station and Banaras Station — for some trains
By Road:
-
Well-connected by national highways to Lucknow, Prayagraj, and other cities
How to Reach Ayodhya from the Station
Once you arrive at Ayodhya Dham Junction, here is how to reach the main attractions.
By Auto:
-
Fare: ₹100–₹150
-
Time: 15–20 minutes
By E-Rickshaw:
-
Shared: ₹30–₹50 per person
-
Private: ₹100–₹150
-
Time: 20–25 minutes
By Taxi:
-
Fare: ₹200–₹300
-
Time: 15–20 minutes
Important: Book your return journey in advance if you plan to return the same day.
Best Time to Travel
| Season | Verdict |
|---|---|
| October to March | Best time. Pleasant weather for darshan |
| April to June | Very hot. Avoid if possible |
| July to September | Monsoon. Humid, occasional flooding |
| Ram Navami | Very crowded but deeply devotional |
| Diwali/Deepotsav | Spectacular but crowded |
Recommendation: October to March. Travel on a weekday if possible.
What to Carry
Essentials:
-
Government photo ID (mandatory for train travel)
-
E-ticket printout or digital copy
-
Water bottle
-
Light snacks
-
Phone charger
-
Personal medicines
-
Modest clothing for temple visits
What Not to Carry:
-
Large bags
-
Expensive jewellery
-
Electronics inside temples
Budget Breakdown for Your Trip
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Vande Bharat ticket (CC) | ₹715 | ₹715 |
| Vande Bharat ticket (EC) | ₹1,305 | ₹1,305 |
| Hotel in Ayodhya (1 night) | ₹1,000–₹2,000 | ₹2,500–₹5,000 |
| Food | ₹300–₹500 | ₹600–₹1,000 |
| Local transport | ₹200–₹400 | ₹400–₹600 |
| Total (per person) | ₹2,215–₹3,615 | ₹4,020–₹7,905 |
Conclusion
The Vande Bharat Express has made the journey from Varanasi to Ayodhya faster, easier, and more comfortable than ever before. In just 2 hours and 24 minutes, you can travel from the city of Lord Shiva to the birthplace of Lord Rama.
Whether you take Train 22489 or Train 22345, you will arrive in Ayodhya refreshed and ready for darshan. The train is clean, the seats are comfortable, and the meals are included.
If you can, book your ticket in advance. Choose the morning train. And when you step off at Ayodhya Dham Junction, know that you have arrived at one of the holiest places on Earth.
This is Varanasi to Ayodhya by Vande Bharat. This is the journey of a lifetime.
Jai Shri Ram. Har Har Mahadev.
Plan Your Varanasi to Ayodhya Trip
For bookings, queries, and custom packages:
Call Us: +91 7078723132 | +91 9557104160
WhatsApp Us: +91 7078723132 | +919557104160
Hours: 8 AM to 9 PM daily
Our Services:
-
Varanasi Ayodhya Tour Packages
-
Private AC Cab for the Full Circuit
-
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Darshan Assistance
-
Hotel Reservations in Varanasi / Ayodhya
-
Local Guides in Both Cities
-
Customized Itineraries for Families, Couples, and Groups
