Train vs Flight to Ayodhya & Varanasi: Which is Better?
The decision on whether to take a train or a flight to Ayodhya or Varanasi is based on the priorities of a traveller: speed, comfort, cost, luggage comfort, mobility requirements, and the precise location upon arrival at the city. These two modes of travel have been enhanced in the last few years as there are new flights and airports have been added, which makes air travel faster. The Indian Railways are still including better trains and have comfortable options. This article is a comparison between trains and flights for practical considerations and provides clear guidance so that you can choose the correct mode of transport to travel to Ayodhya or Varanasi.
What has changed in recent times
The Uttar Pradesh air connectivity has been on the rise with the new or increased airports in the state. The new airport of Ayodhya was built a few years ago and currently serves scheduled domestic flights, which reduces the time required to visit the city and the Ram Mandir. Varanasi is also sufficiently equipped with an airport near the city and numerous long-distance trains that serve it.
In general, access to air travel is becoming appealing to time-constrained passengers, whereas trains can be a dependable alternative that is economically viable to those who would like to take their time.
Arrival Experience : Airports and Train Stations
Ayodhya : air travelers can now arrive at the Maharshi Valmiki / Ayodhya airport and it is a short ride to the main temple premises. Airport-to-temple travel usually takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and specific route; hence flights are convenient to people who do not desire a lot of road transportation once they land. In the case of trains, Ayodhya is also connected to the train stations like Ayodhya Junction and Ayodhya Cantt, hence the distance between Ayodhya stations varies, and some hotels and temples are just a few minutes by auto or cab.
Varanasi : the flights arrive at Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS). The Airport to ghats route to the central part of the city such as Dashashwamedh or Assi, takes 30-60 minutes depending on the ghat you want to reach and the traffic. BSB and Cantt station are situated near the old city and in most cases, bring you closer to the ghats compared to the airport. The taxi ride to Dasashwamedh Ghat will take about 10 minutes from Varanasi Junction, so trains are also desirable to individuals who desire to be on the riverfront at any moment.
Time and overall door-to-door travel
In making comparisons of travel time, one should consider door-to-door: time to airport/station, time to check in/boarding, time of flight/train, travel to the point of arrival and end destination.
Flights : long-distance flights are generally quicker. Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bengaluru also have direct flights to Varanasi and Ayodhya. The minimum overall travel time for many travellers is by air since the far legs of a journey are reduced by air travel. Do not forget to allow check-in time (Check-in time 60-90 minutes in case of domestic flights to be on the safe side), security, potential delay, and transportation of the pilgrims between the airport and the pilgrim location. In the case of Ayodhya the time in the airport-to-temple is minimal making the total travel time much less.
Trains : trains are also fast to many travellers particularly those travelling within the same state or those travelling overnight; they simply count the time taken at the door to door. Faster trains of better quality (Shatabdi, Vande Bharat, etc.) can be used and are comfortable in the daytime. Sleeper trains give you the chance to travel at night and wake up early in the morning completely fresh, and it is a good option when a pilgrim wants to spend all the days at the intended location. In case your last stop is in Varanasi’s old city, it can be shorter to arrive at Varanasi by train.
On board comfort and convenience
Flights : domestic flights are comfortable when taken over a short distance, and business or premium economy seats allow one to sleep during the flight. Airlines usually offer pre-boarding and wheelchair services to elderly or mobility-challenged travellers when they book their tickets in advance. The flight cabins imply a smaller amount of space to travel and baggage service in the airports, and the security check-ins in small airports are generally fast.
Trains : Indian trains are clearly better in terms of legroom and movement. Sleeper classes are allowed to stretch and relax, and AC coaches have excellent climatic conditions. The trains enable you to move freely, go to the pantry car and even keep your luggage safely around the berth. The sleeping berth of a train or a broad chair may be more comfortable to the senior traveller who experiences difficulty in getting into tight airplane seats. It is now possible to find many cleaner premium trains, with onboard catering and better toilets.
Price: tickets, transfers and miscellaneous fees
Flights : the cost of a ticket is highly dependent on the time of the year, bookings, and the airline. Average flight costs more than a normal train ticket and can be reduced by promotions and low-cost airlines.
Trains : train fare is generally lower over the same distance particularly in sleeper and non-AC classes. Premium trains are more expensive, but in many cases cheaper than last-minute flights. Trains can be more economical when there are a number of people required to travel or when a family is on a budget.
Needs of accessibility and mobility
Flights : Indian airports and major airlines are now offering wheelchair services, priority seating and medical services on demand. Having the airport at Ayodhya near the temple area will minimize the number of walks and will also remove the hassle for seniors to engage in long road transfers after a flight. Nevertheless, the walk to a distant train station with numerous stairs may at times be more challenging for a person with walking difficulty, but large stations are currently equipped with lifts and ramps.
Trains : getting on and off trains at a platform may be challenging during rush times and on platforms that are old with the presence of steps. However, trains have more spaciousness and movement when they are on board. When mobility is an issue, the traveller ought to select lower-berth tickets, ask to receive wheelchair assistance at the stations, and use those with decent platform facilities.
Safety and health (particularly when it comes to pilgrims).
Flights : air travel saves time on the road and, as such, exposes people to rough roads or lengthy car journeys. In case of old-aged travellers with heart or breath problems, a short flight and a short taxi ride from Ayodhya airport would be less stressful than a few hours of road travel. Medical help desks are also provided in most airports.
Trains : trains lower the luggage carrying which can be done rather often and make the pace more consistent and less stressful. A train ride with a reserved lower seat and service is usually a good experience for those with mobility problems. But changing trains at old stations that are crowded in large numbers may turn out to be tiresome.
Which is better for Ayodhya?
When you have little time to spend, and you do not want to travel much on the road, then it is usually a great idea to fly to the Ayodhya airport. The airport is located within the temple premise making transfer fast, and this can be a major benefit to pilgrims who wish to make brief and comfortable visits. A train to the stations of Ayodhya is also acceptable in case you want to have a more relaxing overnight trip and a slower speed. Flying normally beats off the final transfers which are shorter and required by the elderly traveller.
Which is better for Varanasi?
Arrival point is important in Varanasi, which is a city. When you desire to be in the ghats early and also not spend as long as you want at the airport, you can take a train to Varanasi Junction or Cantt that would bring you closer to the old city and save on the end travel time. When you are in a far city and want to save time, you can fly to the Varanasi airport as it takes less time. To avoid spending much time on foot and opting to take a taxi to reach the location, reserve a taxi at the airport beforehand or book a hotel close to the airport to reduce the transfer.
Festive and seasonal factors
Both trains and flights are loaded during the peak festivals like Diwali, Dev Deepawali, or even mela seasons. Varanasi and Ayodhya experience influxes of tourists on large-scale religious occasions therefore make reservations in advance. In the times of great melas or Kumbh events, trains can be very crowded, local railways and authorities usually organize special trains. Flights can make it very costly but save road time. Make a reservation and select seats or classes that are comfortable to you.
Summary : The mode depends on your priorities
The best choice is not the same for all. Travelling by air is quicker and more convenient to Ayodhya where the airport is directly close to the principal pilgrimage area. Trains are always comfortable, cheaper and tend to put you in a better position to arrive at Varanasi and the ghats. Consider mobility, overall door-to-door time, cost, and the proximity to the temple or ghat that you desire upon arrival. Flights are preferable in case of time constraints or if road transfers are very long. Trains are preferable to have a mild overnight ride or to be right in the midst of the old city.
FAQs on Best Way to Travel to Ayodhya & Varanasi
Yes, especially if you have limited time. The airport is close to the temple area, so you save hours on travel.
If you’re staying near the ghats, trains can be more convenient since stations are closer to the old city.
Usually around 20–30 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Trains are generally cheaper, but flight deals can be affordable if booked early.
Yes. Sleeper and AC coaches let you rest and arrive fresh in the morning.
Yes, both Ayodhya and Varanasi airports offer wheelchair and senior assistance when requested in advance.
As early as possible—ideally weeks or months in advance.
Usually yes. Trains allow more flexibility with baggage compared to flights.
Flights are fastest from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
Flights are better for saving time and reducing road travel, but trains can be more spacious and comfortable for longer journeys.
