Nanded to Ayodhya Pilgrimage – Train, Bus and Route Guide with Stay Near Ram Mandir
Nanded, a city deeply associated with Sikh history and the sacred Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, is also home to a large population of Hindu pilgrims who regularly visit major pilgrimage centres across India. Ayodhya — the birthplace of Lord Ram — is one of the most revered destinations for devotees from Maharashtra, and pilgrims from Nanded make the journey to seek the blessings of Ram Lalla at the newly consecrated Ram Mandir. This guide covers all travel options from Nanded to Ayodhya, costs, timings, and the best places to stay near Ram Mandir once you arrive.
Distance from Nanded to Ayodhya
Nanded is located in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. The road distance between Nanded and Ayodhya is approximately 1,300 to 1,400 kilometres. By rail, the distance is slightly longer depending on the route — around 1,350 to 1,500 kilometres. The journey is typically completed in 22 to 32 hours by train.
Route 1: Nanded to Ayodhya by Train (Best Option)
Train is the most convenient and affordable option for pilgrims travelling from Nanded to Ayodhya.
Direct and Via-Trains from Nanded
Via Lucknow (Recommended):
The most common rail route from Nanded to Ayodhya passes through Secunderabad (Hyderabad), Nagpur or Itarsi, and then northward toward Lucknow or Varanasi. Some key trains from Nanded Junction (NED):
- Hazur Sahib Nanded – Amritsar Express (12715/12716): This train travels north and can connect to Ayodhya-bound services at Lucknow or Varanasi. However, passengers generally need to change trains.
- Sachkhand Express (12715): One of the most popular trains from Nanded; runs via Purna, Akola, Nagpur, Jabalpur, Allahabad (Prayagraj) and continues north. Check whether it stops at Ayodhya Cantt or Faizabad.
- Nanded–Varanasi trains: Occasional specials run during pilgrimage seasons. Check IRCTC for the latest schedule.
Typical Journey via Prayagraj (Allahabad):
- Nanded to Prayagraj: ~24–26 hours
- Prayagraj to Ayodhya: 2.5–3 hours by train (multiple Patna/Gorakhpur-bound trains stop at Ayodhya)
- Total: ~26–30 hours
Journey via Lucknow:
- Nanded to Lucknow: ~28–30 hours by express train
- Lucknow to Ayodhya: 1.5–2 hours (multiple trains; also taxi/bus for ₹500–₹700)
- Total: ~30–32 hours
Train Fares (Approximate):
| Class | Fare (Nanded to Ayodhya/nearby station) |
|---|---|
| Sleeper (SL) | ₹600–₹900 |
| 3rd AC (3A) | ₹1,600–₹2,200 |
| 2nd AC (2A) | ₹2,500–₹3,500 |
Book tickets on IRCTC at least 30–45 days in advance, especially for festival travel.
Key Railway Stations in Ayodhya Area
- Ayodhya Junction (AY): The main modernised station, now serving more trains after the 2023–2024 upgrades. Closest to the Ram Mandir area.
- Ayodhya Cantt (AYC): Older station, slightly further from city centre.
- Faizabad Junction (FD): 8–10 kilometres from Ram Mandir; more trains stop here; autos and taxis connect to Ayodhya easily.
Route 2: Nanded to Ayodhya via Nagpur (Train Change)
Nanded to Nagpur by train: ~6–8 hours (trains include Nanded–Nagpur Express) Nagpur to Ayodhya: Several trains run from Nagpur to Varanasi, Patna or Gorakhpur, passing through Prayagraj and Ayodhya.
This is a good option if you get a confirmed ticket from Nagpur to Ayodhya more easily than from Nanded directly.
Popular trains from Nagpur toward Ayodhya:
- Gondwana Express (12411): Nagpur to Delhi via Jabalpur; stops at Prayagraj, Varanasi
- Sewagram Express: Nagpur–Howrah via Nagpur; passes through Prayagraj
- Durg–Amritsar Express: Stops at Faizabad
Route 3: Nanded to Ayodhya by Bus
Long-distance buses from Nanded to Ayodhya are not common as a single-bus service. However, pilgrims can use a combination of buses:
Option A: Nanded → Hyderabad (Secunderabad) → Varanasi/Lucknow by overnight bus
- Nanded to Hyderabad: 6–7 hours (MSRTC or private bus)
- Hyderabad to Varanasi: 20–22 hours (several sleeper bus operators run overnight buses)
- Varanasi to Ayodhya: 4–5 hours by bus or shared taxi
This entire bus journey takes approximately 30–35 hours and is only recommended for young pilgrims or those travelling in groups with sufficient rest stops.
Option B: Organised Yatra Bus Many religious organisations in Nanded, Marathwada and Maharashtra regularly organise chartered yatra buses to Ayodhya. These are non-stop pilgrimage buses that typically run during Ram Navami, Diwali, and other major festivals. Contact local temples, Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha chapters, or pilgrimage organisers in Nanded to check for scheduled group yatras.
Route 4: Nanded to Ayodhya by Flight
While there is no direct flight from Nanded, the nearest major airports for pilgrims are:
- Aurangabad Airport (IXU): ~180 km from Nanded; flights to Delhi
- Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, HYD): ~200 km from Nanded; best connectivity
Flight Route:
- Drive/bus from Nanded to Hyderabad: ~4–5 hours
- Hyderabad to Lucknow or Ayodhya (direct flights available): 1.5–2 hours
- Lucknow to Ayodhya: 1.5 hours by train or taxi
- Ayodhya has its own airport (Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, AYJ): Check for direct connectivity from Hyderabad
Total time via flight: 8–12 hours including surface travel. Approximate cost: ₹6,000–₹15,000 per person (flight + surface transport)
This is best suited for pilgrims who want to minimise travel time and have a limited number of days available.
Reaching Sri Janaki Mahal Trust from Ayodhya Station
On arrival at Ayodhya Junction or Ayodhya Cantt, take an auto-rickshaw or e-rickshaw to Sri Janaki Mahal Trust (Vasudev Ghat). Always confirm the fare in advance:
- Auto from Ayodhya Junction: ₹60–₹100
- Auto from Faizabad: ₹150–₹200
Sri Janaki Mahal Trust is located near the Saryu riverfront, within walking distance of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, and Kanak Bhavan — the three most important shrines for first-time visitors to Ayodhya.
What to See and Do in Ayodhya
For pilgrims coming all the way from Nanded, a minimum 2-day stay in Ayodhya is recommended to do full justice to the city’s spiritual richness.
Essential Darshan Circuit
Ram Janmabhoomi Temple (Ram Mandir): The recently consecrated Ram Mandir is the centrepiece of any Ayodhya visit. Built in the Nagara architectural style using pink sandstone from Rajasthan, the temple is a marvel of craftsmanship. Entry is free; arrive early morning (before 8 AM) or late evening to avoid peak queues. The temple is open from approximately 7 AM to 11 AM and 2 PM to 7 PM with variations on special days.
Hanuman Garhi: A 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perched atop a hill with 76 steps. Hanuman is considered the guardian of Ayodhya and devotees typically visit Hanuman Garhi before Ram Mandir as a mark of respect.
Kanak Bhavan: One of the most ornate temples in Ayodhya, dedicated to Sita and Ram. The golden idol pair inside is breathtakingly beautiful. Considered especially auspicious for married couples seeking marital harmony.
Saryu Ghat: Take an early morning dip in the holy Saryu river for spiritual purification. The ghat area, especially Ram Ki Paidi, is spectacular during festivals.
Treta ke Thakur: A temple built on the site where Lord Ram is believed to have performed the Ashwamedha Yagna. The black stone idols here are considered especially powerful.
Nageshwarnath Temple: One of the oldest Shiva temples in Ayodhya, believed to have been established during the time of Kush (son of Lord Ram). Shiva devotees must visit.
Evening Saryu Aarti
The evening Saryu Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi is one of the most memorable experiences in Ayodhya. Hundreds of lamps float on the Saryu river as priests perform the aarti with large flames. Timing is usually between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM, varying by season.
Best Time to Visit Ayodhya from Nanded
| Season | Weather | Crowd Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| October–November | Pleasant | High (Deepotsav) | Book 2–3 months early |
| November–February | Cold | Moderate–High | Ideal weather; carry woolens |
| Ram Navami (March–April) | Warm | Very High | Sacred but crowded; book early |
| May–June | Hot (40°C+) | Low–Moderate | Avoid midday; carry water |
| July–September | Monsoon | Low–Moderate | Spiritual atmosphere; less crowded |
Where to Stay in Ayodhya: Sri Janaki Mahal Trust
Sri Janaki Mahal Trust, popularly known as Shri Janki Mahal, is the most trusted accommodation for pilgrims near Ram Mandir. Here is why pilgrims from Nanded and across Maharashtra consistently choose it:
Comfort and Cleanliness
The rooms at Sri Janaki Mahal Trust are well-maintained, clean and comfortable. Both AC and non-AC rooms are available. Families with children, elderly pilgrims and solo travellers all find suitable options here. Bathrooms have geysers for hot water supply.
Sattvic Vegetarian Meals
The trust provides freshly cooked vegetarian meals in the traditional North Indian style — dal, sabzi, chapati, rice and seasonal dishes. For pilgrims from Maharashtra who may find unfamiliar food difficult, this pure vegetarian kitchen is a welcome comfort. No onion, no garlic options are available for Jain pilgrims or those observing strict dietary rules.
Location Advantage
The trust’s location near Vasudev Ghat means pilgrims can walk to:
- Saryu Ghat for morning snan: 2–5 minutes
- Ram Mandir: 500 metres to 1 kilometre
- Hanuman Garhi: 10–15 minutes walk
- Kanak Bhavan: 10–15 minutes walk
This saves significant time and auto-rickshaw costs compared to hotels further away.
Trust and Safety
Sri Janaki Mahal is operated by a reputable religious trust. There are no middlemen or agents. The staff is helpful and familiar with the needs of out-of-state pilgrims, including those from Maharashtra who speak Marathi or Hindi.
How to Book
Contact Sri Janaki Mahal Trust directly via their official WhatsApp number. Provide your travel dates, number of guests, preferred room type and any special requirements. Avoid booking through any third-party websites or agents claiming to represent the trust.
Advance booking is strongly recommended — at least 2 weeks before your visit, and 2–3 months in advance for festival travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a direct train from Nanded to Ayodhya? As of 2026, there is no single direct train from Nanded to Ayodhya. Pilgrims typically change trains at Prayagraj (Allahabad), Lucknow, or Varanasi.
Q: How many days should I plan for the Ayodhya trip from Nanded? A 5-day trip is ideal: 1.5 days travel each way + 2 full days in Ayodhya. If time is limited, 3 days (one day travel + one full day darshan + one day return) is the minimum.
Q: Is Ayodhya safe for women pilgrims from Maharashtra? Yes, Ayodhya is considered safe for women pilgrims. Sri Janaki Mahal Trust has specific rooms for women and families, and the trust’s staff ensures a respectful and safe environment.
Q: Can I speak Marathi in Ayodhya? Hindi is the primary language in Ayodhya. Locals and shopkeepers near Ram Mandir are accustomed to pilgrims from all over India and will generally understand you, but basic Hindi phrases will be very helpful.
Q: What is the budget for a 3-day Ayodhya trip from Nanded? A rough budget estimate:
- Train (Sleeper, both ways): ₹1,200–₹1,800
- Accommodation (Sri Janaki Mahal, 2 nights): ₹800–₹1,500
- Meals: ₹400–₹600 (if included with stay, even less)
- Local transport and miscellaneous: ₹300–₹500
- Total: ₹2,700–₹4,400 per person (budget trip)
The pilgrimage from Nanded to Ayodhya is a profound journey that connects you to the timeless story of Lord Ram. Whether you travel by the comfortable Sachkhand Express through northern India or take a flight to Lucknow and drive down, the destination is the same — Ram Janmabhoomi, where the divine presence of Lord Ram blesses all who come with faith. Plan your trip well, book Sri Janaki Mahal Trust for a comfortable and spiritually enriching stay, and experience the divine energy of Ayodhya.
Jai Shri Ram!