Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra known for its educational institutions and vibrant culture, lies in western India. Ayodhya, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a revered pilgrimage city famous for its religious significance and historical heritage. Traveling from Pune to Ayodhya is popular among devotees, tourists, and weekend travelers eager to explore this spiritual destination.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Ayodhya from Pune, including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive options. You will find detailed travel times, costs, route tips, and advice to help you plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Pune to Ayodhya – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a preferred mode for many due to its affordability and extensive connectivity. Although there is no direct train from Pune to Ayodhya, you can reach nearby stations with convenient connections.

• Key stations:

  Pune Junction (PUNE) is the starting point. Ayodhya is served by Ayodhya Cantt (AYC) and Faizabad Junction (FD), about 12 km apart. Most trains stop at Faizabad, which is well connected to Ayodhya by road.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey typically takes 24 to 30 hours depending on the train and route. Ticket prices range from INR 500 for sleeper class to INR 2,000+ for AC classes. Booking via IRCTC in advance is recommended.

• Popular trains:

  Trains like Pune–Varanasi Express or Pune–Lucknow Express connect Pune to major northern hubs. From Lucknow or Faizabad, local trains or buses can be taken to Ayodhya.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains run daily or several times a week. AC coaches offer comfort for overnight travel, but sleeper class is economical. Carry water and snacks, as pantry services may be limited on some trains.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons like Ram Navami when trains get crowded. Booking early and choosing daytime trains can help avoid delays and discomfort.

By Bus

Bus travel from Pune to Ayodhya is less common due to the long distance but possible with multiple transfers. It is suitable for budget travelers who prefer road travel.

• Route and operators:

  Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operate buses connecting Pune to Lucknow or Faizabad via Mumbai and Indore.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey can take 36 to 40 hours with fares ranging from INR 800 to 1,500 depending on the bus type (sleeper, semi-sleeper, or Volvo AC).

• Transfers:

  Direct buses are rare; travelers usually change buses at Mumbai or Indore. Plan layovers carefully to avoid long waits.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo buses offer better comfort but are limited. Non-AC buses are more frequent but less comfortable for long journeys.

• Travel advice:

  Carry your own food and water, as stops may be brief. Night travel on highways can be tiring; consider breaking the journey in major cities.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Ayodhya offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The distance is approximately 1,600 km via NH 52 and NH 27, taking around 30 to 32 hours of driving time.

• Route details:

  The common route is Pune–Aurangabad–Bhopal–Sagar–Satna–Faizabad–Ayodhya, mostly on national highways NH 52 and NH 27. These highways are generally well-maintained with toll plazas.

• Road conditions and stops:

  Roads are mostly smooth with good signage. Frequent rest stops and dhabas are available for meals and refreshments. Avoid night driving in rural areas due to limited lighting.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Plan for at least two days of driving with overnight breaks. Toll charges can total INR 1,000 to 1,500. Keep cash and FASTag ready for smooth toll payments.

• Vehicle and safety:

  Ensure your vehicle is serviced before the trip. Carry a spare tire, first aid kit, and emergency contacts. Use GPS navigation apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia for real-time traffic updates.

• Scenic and cultural stops:

  Consider stopping at Aurangabad to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves or Bhopal for its lakes and heritage sites, adding cultural value to your road trip.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Pune to Ayodhya, though there is no direct airport in Ayodhya. The nearest airports are Lucknow and Varanasi.

• Airports:

  Pune Airport (PNQ) connects to Lucknow Airport (LKO) and Varanasi Airport (VNS) with one or two stops, usually via Delhi or Mumbai.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Total flight time including layovers is around 5 to 8 hours. Ticket prices range from INR 3,000 to 7,000 depending on booking time and airline.

• From airport to Ayodhya:

  Lucknow is about 135 km from Ayodhya, and Varanasi is around 200 km away. You can hire prepaid taxis, use Ola/Uber, or take state buses to reach Ayodhya.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance for better fares. Check for early morning or late evening flights to avoid peak traffic hours at airports.

• Travel advice:

  Carry light luggage for easier transfers. Confirm taxi fares beforehand and prefer prepaid or app-based cabs for safety and convenience.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Ayodhya, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, flight, or bus, secure your tickets in advance via IRCTC, airline websites, or MSRTC portals to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Pune railway station or airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. This helps with smooth check-in and avoids rush, especially during festivals.

• Pack essentials wisely:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and a small first aid kit. For train journeys, bring bedding or blankets during winter months for comfort.

• Plan local transport in Ayodhya:

  Use prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber from Faizabad station or airports. Auto-rickshaws are available but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Book accommodation in advance:

  Choose hotels near the Ram Janmabhoomi or main market areas for easy access to attractions. Popular options fill up quickly during peak pilgrimage seasons.

• Stay connected:

  Keep your phone charged and have offline maps downloaded. Network coverage may be patchy in rural stretches en route.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking:

  Use the official IRCTC app or website for train bookings. Tatkal tickets open at 10 AM daily and can be useful for last-minute travel.

• Food and water safety:

  Prefer bottled water and freshly cooked meals. Avoid street food during long journeys to prevent stomach issues.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Lucknow and Faizabad, offering reliable rides. Prepaid taxis at stations are safer than hailing random cabs.

• Luggage handling:

  Label your bags clearly and keep valuables in a carry-on. Trains and buses can get crowded, so stay vigilant.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months (July–September) due to possible roadblocks and train delays in central India.

• Safety precautions:

  Avoid isolated areas at night, especially when driving or waiting for buses. Keep emergency numbers handy, including local police and railway helplines.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Ayodhya depends on weather and crowd considerations. Winters are pleasant, while monsoon can cause disruptions.

Planning your departure time carefully can help avoid traffic and ensure a comfortable journey.

• Avoid peak festival weekends like Ram Navami when Ayodhya is crowded and transport is booked out.

• Winter months (October to March) offer cool and comfortable weather for travel and sightseeing.

• Start early in the morning to avoid city traffic in Pune and Lucknow, especially on weekdays.

• Monsoon season can cause slippery roads and train delays; if traveling then, allow extra time and check weather updates.

Arrival at Ayodhya & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Ayodhya, travelers experience a serene spiritual atmosphere with many temples and ghats along the Sarayu River. The city is well connected by road from Faizabad and nearby railway stations.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and app-based taxis. Popular stay areas include near Ram Janmabhoomi and the main market, offering easy access to major attractions.

Prepaid taxis are available at Faizabad station and airports, providing safe and fixed-fare rides to Ayodhya. For late arrivals, booking cabs via Ola or Uber is recommended to avoid haggling and ensure safety.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying to Lucknow followed by a taxi or bus to Ayodhya is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Pune. It saves time and offers comfort, especially for those with limited travel days.

However, train travel remains a budget-friendly choice for those who enjoy long journeys and scenic routes. With proper planning and advance bookings, you can confidently reach Ayodhya from Pune and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.