Ayodhya is gearing up for the much-anticipated consecration ceremony of the Ram temple on January 22.
As the excitement builds, the accessibility to this sacred city has been enhanced with various transportation options.
In this article, we will explore the routes available for devotees to reach Ayodhya, making their journey to witness this historic event more convenient and memorable.
Air Routes: SpiceJet’s Special Flight and Maharishi Valmiki International Airport
For those traveling by air, SpiceJet is set to operate a special flight from Delhi to Ayodhya on January 21, ensuring swift and direct access to the city. Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, inaugurated by PM Modi in December 2023, will also play a crucial role in handling an estimated 100 chartered flights for the ceremony. With a capacity to handle 10 lakh passengers annually in its first phase, the airport is a significant addition to Ayodhya’s connectivity.
Bus Services: Direct Routes from Haridwar and Rishikesh
Responding to the call for improved accessibility, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has initiated a direct bus service from Haridwar and Rishikesh to Ayodhya. This service, starting from Haridwar, will offer devotees a comfortable and scenic journey, enhancing the overall travel experience. The bus service operates with departures from Rishikesh at 7 pm and from Haridwar to Ayodhya at 8:30 pm, with a passenger fare of Rs 970.
Indigo and Air India Express: Expanding Air Connectivity
Indigo has introduced tri-weekly flight services between Ahmedabad and Ayodhya, starting a convenient air link. Additionally, Air India Express plans to connect Ayodhya with major cities such as Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata from January 16-17, further facilitating air travel options for devotees.
SpiceJet’s Future Plans: Connecting Ayodhya from Various Cities
SpiceJet, in addition to the special flight on January 21, has announced plans to operate regular flight services to Ayodhya from other cities. The first regular flight is scheduled to operate from Delhi to Ayodhya on January 21, providing more options for devotees traveling to witness the grand ceremony.
Ayodhya Flights: Price Surge Ahead of Ram Temple Opening
As the temple opening approaches, travel costs have taken off as reported by Mint, posing a challenge for those planning to attend the historic event in Ayodhya.
- Delhi-Ayodhya Route: Air India Express Airlines offers non-stop flights at Rs 11,829, significantly higher than the regular Rs 6,843.
- Mumbai-Ayodhya Flight: Indigo Airlines charges over Rs 20,000 for a non-stop flight, compared to the usual range of Rs 5,000-5,500.
- Bengaluru to Ayodhya: Rs 20,000 on January 19, Rs 23,555 on January 20, with layovers extending the journey to at least 6 hours.
- Chennai and Kolkata Routes: Indigo offers tickets ranging from Rs 19,000 to Rs 23,000 with layovers, while Kolkata-Ayodhya flights cost around Rs 21,393 on January 20.
- Kochi, Indore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Visakhapatnam Flights: Prices for flights from these cities are well above Rs 17,000, reaching up to Rs 25,000 on January 20.
Railway Route
Ayodhya, with its well-connected railway station, Ayodhya Junction, provides convenient access to various Indian cities. Travel comfortably and affordably with direct trains from Lucknow, Delhi, Allahabad, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur. Here is the list of trains as reported by ABP Live:
Delhi to Ayodhya:
- Vande Bharat Express (Anand Vihar Terminal – Ayodhya Cantt): Fastest, under 7 hours
- Kaifiyat Express: Overnight, with comfortable sleeper berths
- Farraka Express (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday): Connects Delhi Junction to Ayodhya Junction
Lucknow to Ayodhya:
- Short 3-4 hour journey with frequent trains, ideal for day trips
Varanasi to Ayodhya:
- Jammu Tawi Express: Connects in 3.5 hours
- Ganga Sutlej Express: Links the cities in 4.5 hours
- Doon Express: Junction to Junction in 3 hours 21 minutes
- Ahmedabad Sabarmati Express (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday): Reaches Ayodhya in 3.5 hours
Other Cities:
- Direct trains to Allahabad, Kanpur, Patna, and Gorakhpur. Check IRCTC for specific timings and availability.
The diverse transport options available ensure that devotees from various parts of the country can easily reach Ayodhya to participate in the historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram temple.
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