Siliguri and North Bengal to Ayodhya Pilgrimage – Train, Bus and Route Guide

Siliguri is the gateway city of North Bengal and the northeastern corridor of India. Surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas, with Darjeeling to the north, Jalpaiguri to the east and Cooch Behar further away, Siliguri is home to a large and deeply devout Hindu population that regularly undertakes pilgrimage journeys across India. Ayodhya — the sacred birthplace of Lord Ram — has become one of the most sought-after pilgrimage destinations following the consecration of the Ram Mandir in January 2024. This guide is designed specifically for pilgrims from Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, Cooch Behar and surrounding North Bengal districts who want to travel to Ayodhya.

Why Ayodhya is on Every North Bengal Pilgrim’s List

The consecration of the Ram Mandir on 22 January 2024 was a moment of immense spiritual significance for Hindus across the world. For pilgrims in North Bengal who already make regular trips to Varanasi, Prayagraj, Mathura and Haridwar, adding Ayodhya to the pilgrimage circuit is a natural extension. The proximity of New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station — a major railhead in North Bengal — makes Ayodhya accessible via a direct or one-change train journey that typically takes 24 to 30 hours.

Distance from Siliguri/NJP to Ayodhya

The rail distance from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) — the main railway station for Siliguri — to Ayodhya is approximately 1,050 to 1,150 kilometres, making it one of the more reachable long-distance pilgrimage journeys from North Bengal. The road distance via NH-12 and NH-28 is similar.

Route 1: Siliguri (NJP) to Ayodhya by Train (Best Option)

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is a major junction with excellent rail connectivity to the rest of India. Several trains from NJP pass through Varanasi, Prayagraj, Lucknow and Gorakhpur — all of which are excellent interchange points for Ayodhya.

Trains with Direct or Near-Direct Connectivity

1. Avadh Assam Express (15909/15910) – Highly Recommended This is one of the most important trains for pilgrims from North Bengal to Ayodhya. The Avadh Assam Express originates from Dibrugarh (Assam) and passes through NJP (New Jalpaiguri) before heading westward through Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and ultimately to Delhi.

Key stops: NJP → Kishanganj → Katihar → Varanasi (Mughalsarai) → Prayagraj → Ayodhya Cantt (AYC) / Faizabad Junction (FD) → Lucknow → Delhi

Station for Ayodhya: The Avadh Assam Express stops at Ayodhya Cantt and/or Faizabad, making it possibly the most convenient single-train option from NJP to Ayodhya
Travel time from NJP to Ayodhya Cantt: approximately 26–30 hours
Sleeper fare: ₹500–₹700; 3AC: ₹1,400–₹1,900
Frequency: Runs several times per week; check IRCTC for current schedule

2. NJP–Jammu Tawi Express (via Lucknow)

Passes through Varanasi and Lucknow; change at Lucknow for Ayodhya
Lucknow to Ayodhya: 1.5–2 hours by train or 1.5 hours by taxi

3. NJP to Varanasi trains + connecting train to Ayodhya

Multiple trains from NJP stop at Varanasi Junction
Varanasi to Ayodhya by train: ~2.5 hours; by taxi/bus: ~3.5 hours
This is a good fallback if the Avadh Assam is fully booked

4. NJP to Prayagraj (Allahabad) + Prayagraj to Ayodhya

Several trains from NJP stop at Prayagraj Junction
Prayagraj to Ayodhya by train: ~2.5–3 hours; by bus: ~3 hours
Combined journey time: ~24–28 hours

Booking Advice

IRCTC is the official platform for train reservations. Book tickets 60–90 days in advance for festival travel (Ram Navami, Navratri, Kartik Purnima, Deepotsav). The Avadh Assam Express, in particular, fills up very quickly from NJP for westbound journeys.

Tatkal booking opens 24 hours before departure if last-minute travel is needed, though fares are higher.

Route 2: Siliguri to Ayodhya via Kolkata (Alternative)

Some pilgrims prefer to travel via Kolkata, especially if they are combining their Ayodhya trip with a Kolkata family visit.

Step 1: NJP to Kolkata (Howrah)

Multiple trains: Darjeeling Mail, Padatik Express, Shatabdi, Teesta Torsa Express
Travel time: 9–12 hours
Fare: ₹200–₹600 (sleeper/3AC)

Step 2: Kolkata (Howrah) to Ayodhya

Howrah–Gorakhpur Express (13009), Howrah–Varanasi Express
Travel time from Howrah to Ayodhya: ~18–22 hours
Howrah–Gorakhpur Express stops at Ayodhya Cantt directly

Total journey time via Kolkata: 30–36 hours (with overnight layover in Kolkata recommended)

This route is longer in total time but gives flexibility to break the journey in Kolkata.

Route 3: Siliguri to Ayodhya by Bus

Long-distance bus travel from Siliguri to Ayodhya is challenging due to the distance (~1,200 km by road) but possible for groups or organised yatra tours.

Option A: Private Bus to Varanasi or Lucknow Several private operators in Siliguri run overnight sleeper buses to Varanasi (approximately 24–28 hours) and to Patna (~18–20 hours). From Varanasi or Patna, shared taxis and buses to Ayodhya are easily available.

Siliguri to Varanasi bus fare: ₹800–₹1,400 (sleeper)
Varanasi to Ayodhya by taxi/shared jeep: ₹250–₹600

Option B: Organised Yatra Bus Religious organisations and temples in North Bengal regularly organise yatra buses to Ayodhya, especially around major Hindu festivals. These are typically comfortable and include meals. Contact the Ramakrishna Mission, local temples, or pilgrimage tour operators in Siliguri for upcoming yatra schedules.

Route 4: Siliguri to Ayodhya by Flight

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) near Siliguri has direct flights to Delhi and Kolkata.

Flight Route:

Bagdogra to Delhi (or Kolkata to Delhi): 2–2.5 hours; fare ₹3,000–₹7,000
Delhi to Ayodhya: Train (~8–10 hours) or onward flight
Ayodhya Airport (AYJ): Direct flights from Delhi run on IndiGo, Air India and other airlines; ~1 hour flight

Alternatively: Bagdogra to Lucknow (via Delhi or Kolkata; connecting flights); Lucknow to Ayodhya by train or taxi (1.5 hours)

Total time via flight: 8–14 hours Total cost: ₹5,000–₹15,000 per person depending on booking lead time and season

This option is ideal for pilgrims with limited time or those who prefer to avoid long overnight trains.

From Ayodhya Station to Sri Janaki Mahal Trust

Ayodhya Junction (AY): The primary modernised railway station. Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are available right outside. Fare to Sri Janaki Mahal Trust (Vasudev Ghat): ₹60–₹100.

Ayodhya Cantt (AYC): Slightly older station. Auto fare to Ram Mandir area: ₹80–₹120.

Faizabad Junction (FD): 8–10 km from Ram Mandir. Shared autos and private autos available; fare to Ayodhya city centre: ₹100–₹180.

Sri Janaki Mahal Trust is located at Vasudev Ghat near the Saryu riverfront, approximately 500 metres to 1 km from Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The walk from the trust to Hanuman Garhi takes about 12–15 minutes on foot.

What to See in Ayodhya: Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Essential Darshan

Morning:

Check in to Sri Janaki Mahal Trust
Saryu Ghat snan (holy dip): Begin your Ayodhya visit with a dip in the sacred Saryu river

Mid-Morning:

Hanuman Garhi: Lord Hanuman’s temple, considered the guardian of Ayodhya; 76 steps to the main shrine
Ram Janmabhoomi Temple (Ram Mandir): The magnificent newly built temple; arrive before 10 AM to avoid peak crowds

Afternoon:

Kanak Bhavan: Exquisitely decorated temple dedicated to Sita-Ram; known for stunning gold idols
Treta ke Thakur Temple: Site of the Ashwamedha Yajna performed by Lord Ram

Evening:

Saryu Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi: One of the most spiritually elevating experiences in Ayodhya

Day 2: Deeper Exploration

Morning:

Nageshwarnath Temple (ancient Shiva temple)
Valmiki Ashram
Ram Ki Paidi early morning photography and meditation

Afternoon/Evening:

Boat ride on Saryu river
Local prasad shopping (pedas, churan, Ayodhya khilona)
Departure

Best Time for North Bengal Pilgrims to Visit Ayodhya

North Bengal has hot, humid summers and a long monsoon. The best times to plan an Ayodhya trip from Siliguri are:

October to November: Perfect post-monsoon weather; Deepotsav (Diwali) in Ayodhya is a spectacular experience; book accommodation at least 2 months in advance for Deepotsav period.

November to February: Cool, dry weather; ideal for walking the ghats and doing long darshan queues; carry warm clothes for December and January mornings.

Ram Navami (March–April): The most auspicious time to visit; Ram Mandir and all major temples host elaborate celebrations; expect large crowds.

Summer (May–June): Ayodhya gets very hot (40°C+); manageable if you plan early morning darshan and rest in the afternoon.

Monsoon (July–September): Train delays in North Bengal are common during peak monsoon; factor in extra time and have flexible return dates.

Where to Stay in Ayodhya: Sri Janaki Mahal Trust

For pilgrims from North Bengal making a long journey, choosing the right accommodation is crucial. Sri Janaki Mahal Trust (Shri Janki Mahal) is the most trusted dharmshala option near Ram Mandir.

Key Advantages for North Bengal Pilgrims

Central Location: Vasudev Ghat location means you are within walking distance of all major temples. After a 28-hour train journey, the last thing you want is to spend more time in autos navigating the city.

Clean, Comfortable Rooms: Well-maintained rooms with attached bathrooms and geyser hot water. Options include AC rooms (ideal for summer), non-AC rooms, family rooms and dormitories.

Sattvic Meals: Freshly cooked vegetarian meals served daily. Pilgrims from Bengal who are accustomed to fish-based diets will find the sattvic menu different, but the food is wholesome, fresh and very reasonably priced. Pure vegetarian / no onion-garlic options available.

Trusted Institution: Operated by a reputable religious trust with decades of experience hosting pilgrims. No middlemen, no scams, direct booking.

Affordable Pricing: Sri Janaki Mahal Trust prioritises accessibility — rooms are priced well below commercial hotels while maintaining good standards.

How to Book

Contact Sri Janaki Mahal Trust through their official WhatsApp number. Provide your travel dates, number of persons, preferred room type and special requirements (ground floor for senior citizens, wheelchair access, etc.). Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance for normal visits and 2–3 months in advance for major festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which train from NJP goes to Ayodhya directly? The Avadh Assam Express (15909) is the most convenient — it passes through NJP and stops at Ayodhya Cantt or Faizabad Junction. Check current stops on IRCTC as schedules may update.

Q: How long is the journey from Siliguri/NJP to Ayodhya? By train via the Avadh Assam Express: approximately 26–30 hours. Via Kolkata and Howrah: 30–36 hours.

Q: Can I go from Siliguri to Ayodhya and back in a week? Yes. A 6–7 day trip allows 1.5 days travel each way and 3–4 full days in Ayodhya — enough for complete darshan and a day trip to Chitrakoot or Prayagraj if desired.

Q: Is there a direct bus from Siliguri to Ayodhya? No regular direct bus service. The best options are train (NJP to Ayodhya Cantt) or private sleeper bus to Varanasi + taxi to Ayodhya.

Q: Can I combine Ayodhya with Varanasi on the same trip? Absolutely. Varanasi (Kashi) and Ayodhya are approximately 200 km apart. Many pilgrims combine both — Varanasi for Kashi Vishwanath darshan and Ganga Aarti, and Ayodhya for Ram Mandir. The combination makes for an unforgettable pilgrimage.

Q: How far is Janaki Mahal Trust from Ram Mandir? Approximately 500 metres to 1 km walking distance — close enough to walk easily.

The journey from Siliguri or North Bengal to Ayodhya is a memorable pilgrimage that connects the Himalayan foothills to the plains of Lord Ram’s birthplace. The Avadh Assam Express makes this journey more accessible than ever before. With proper planning — confirmed train tickets, advance booking at Sri Janaki Mahal Trust, and a clear temple itinerary — pilgrims from Siliguri, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling can experience the divine blessings of Ayodhya in a comfortable and affordable way.

Jai Shri Ram!