Both Mathura and Ayodhya are two of the most spiritually revered cities in India. While Mathura is known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Ayodhya holds divine significance as the birthplace of Lord Rama. Many devotees and pilgrims dream of visiting both places in a single journey. If you’re planning to travel from Mathura to Ayodhya, it’s important to understand the travel distance, available modes of transport, and the time it takes to reach. The Mathura to Ayodhya distance is approximately 556 km via the Agra–Lucknow Expressway and takes around 7 hours and 54 minutes by road. In this blog, we’ll explore the best ways to travel, tips for your journey, and everything else you need to know for a smooth and soulful trip.

Mathura To Ayodhya Distance by Road – The Fastest Option

If you prefer the flexibility of halts and scenic routes, road travel is your best bet.

• The Mathura to Ayodhya distance by road is around 556 km, and it takes nearly 7.5 to 8 hours by car or taxi.
• The most preferred route is:
  • Mathura → Agra → Etawah → Kanpur → Lucknow → Ayodhya (via Agra–Lucknow Expressway).
• Roads are in good condition with multiple food and fuel stops on the way.
• You can hire a private cab, use self-drive rental cars, or take a state-run or luxury bus.

Travel Tips:

• Start early in the morning to avoid city traffic.
• Opt for a comfortable vehicle if traveling with family or elders.
• Toll charges apply, especially on expressways.
• Keep snacks, water, and power banks handy.

Road trips offer spiritual flexibility—you can visit temples along the route like the Kanpur ISKCON Temple or Hanuman Setu in Lucknow.

Train Journey – A Budget-Friendly Travel Option

Trains offer a comfortable and affordable journey for pilgrims on a budget.

• There is no direct superfast train from Mathura to Ayodhya, but you can travel via Lucknow or Faizabad Junction.
• Routes:
  • Option 1: Mathura → Lucknow → Ayodhya (change train at Lucknow).
  • Option 2: Mathura → Faizabad Junction (closest to Ayodhya, around 6–7 km).
• Total travel time ranges from 10 to 13 hours, depending on layover time.

Advantages:

• Economical and safe.
• Overnight trains save time and accommodation costs.
• Ideal for large groups or solo travelers.

Tips:

• Book your tickets in advance, especially around festivals like Diwali or Ram Navami.
• Choose 2A or 3A coaches for better comfort.
• Carry food and blankets for night journeys.

Buses from Mathura to Ayodhya – For Group Pilgrims

Traveling with a group? Consider state or private bus services for cost-effective transport.

• There are no direct government buses, but several operators provide buses from Mathura to Ayodhya with changeovers in Lucknow or Kanpur.
• You may board:
  • Mathura → Lucknow → Ayodhya (via UPSRTC or private AC sleeper buses).
• Total travel time can be 12 to 14 hours, depending on stops and route.

Pros:

• Group booking discounts.
• Sleeper buses provide night travel comfort.
• Economical compared to flights or private taxis.

Cons:

• Longer travel time.
• Changeovers may cause delays.
• May not suit elderly travelers.

Mathura To Ayodhya Distance by Flight – The Quickest (But Indirect) Route

Flying is the fastest but least direct way.

• There is no airport in Mathura or Ayodhya currently.
• The nearest airports:
  • Mathura: Agra Airport (AGR), 60 km away.
  • Ayodhya: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport (AYJ), about 8 km from city centre (operational as of 2025).
• Route:
  • Agra → Lucknow (by flight) → Ayodhya (by road, ~135 km)
• Travel time: ~1.5-hour flight + 3-hour road trip = ~5 hours total.

Best For:

• Time-sensitive travelers.
• NRI pilgrims or those coming from metros.
• VIP visits or pilgrimage tours with fixed schedules.

Tips:

• Book connecting cabs in advance from Lucknow to Ayodhya.
• Travel light to ease the airport transfer process.

Self-Drive from Mathura to Ayodhya – For Adventurous Souls

If you love the freedom of the open road, self-driving is a thrilling option.

• Google Maps or GPS will guide you through the Agra–Lucknow Expressway.
• Travel time: ~8 hours with short breaks.
• Take halts at Kanpur or Lucknow to rest or explore spiritual landmarks.

Why Choose Self-Drive:

• Full control over your schedule.
• Explore nearby attractions like Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary or the Krishna Janmasthan before heading to Ayodhya.
• Travel at your own pace with flexibility.

Safety Tips:

• Check vehicle condition before the trip.
• Carry valid driving documents.
• Avoid night travel on isolated stretches.

Luxury Tour Packages – Comfort Meets Convenience

If you want a no-stress, high-comfort journey from Mathura to Ayodhya, book a package.

• Mathura Vrindavan Tourism offers customizable Ayodhya pilgrimage packages that include:
  • AC transport (car/bus)
  • Hotel stays
  • Temple visits
  • Local guides
• Travel time and mode depend on the package you choose.

Ideal For:

• Senior citizens.
• Devotional groups.
• Families traveling with kids.

Package Perks:

• Assistance at every stop.
• No stress of bookings or transfers.
• Tailored routes covering spiritual spots between Mathura and Ayodhya.

Planning Tips for a Smooth Mathura to Ayodhya Trip

Proper planning ensures your spiritual journey remains hassle-free.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Book all tickets in advance, especially during holidays.
• Check temple opening hours and any COVID or seasonal restrictions.
• Wear comfortable, modest clothing.
• Carry essentials like medicines, prayer items, water, and light snacks.
• Keep emergency contacts handy.

Also, factor in rest stops if you’re traveling with elders or children. Don’t rush—spiritual journeys are meant to be experienced, not just completed.

Best Time to Travel from Mathura to Ayodhya

Your experience depends a lot on when you travel.

Ideal Months:

• October to March – Pleasant weather for road trips and temple exploration.
• Festive Seasons:
  • Ram Navami (March/April) – Celebrated grandly in Ayodhya.
  • Diwali – The festival of lights has special importance in both cities.
  • Krishna Janmashtami – Celebrated with grandeur in Mathura before heading to Ayodhya.

Avoid:

• May to July – Scorching heat can make travel uncomfortable.
• Monsoon season (July–September) – May cause delays or slippery road conditions.

Plan according to the season and local celebrations to enrich your pilgrimage.

Places to Explore Between Mathura and Ayodhya

Enrich your journey by exploring spiritual and cultural places en route.

• Agra: Visit the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, or Itmad-ud-Daulah.
• Kanpur: Stop at the ISKCON Temple or JK Temple.
• Lucknow: Explore Hanuman Setu, Imambara, or taste Nawabi cuisine.
• Faizabad: Visit Guptar Ghat or Dashrath Mahal before reaching Ayodhya.

These stopovers not only add to the experience but offer restful breaks.

Conclusion

The journey from Mathura to Ayodhya is more than a geographical shift—it’s a soulful transition from one divine presence to another. With a distance of around 556 km and travel time of nearly 7 hours 54 minutes, you have several options depending on time, comfort, and budget. Whether you choose a road trip, train ride, or a luxury package, this route ties together two of the most important threads in the spiritual fabric of India. At Mathura Vrindavan Tourism, we make sure your journey from Mathura to Ayodhya is as peaceful and divine as the destinations themselves.

Contact Mathura Vrindavan Tourism Today:
📞Call Us: +91 7300620809
📲WhatsApp Us: +91 7300620809
🌐Visit Our Website: Mathura Vrindavan Tourism
📧Email: mathuravrindavantourism.com@gmail.com

FAQs – Mathura To Ayodhya Distance

1. What is the exact Mathura to Ayodhya distance?
The distance is approximately 556 km via Agra–Lucknow Expressway, taking about 7 hours 54 minutes by road.

2. What is the best mode of travel from Mathura to Ayodhya?
Road travel is fastest; trains are budget-friendly; flights are quickest but indirect.

3. Are there direct buses from Mathura to Ayodhya?
No direct buses, but you can find services with changeovers at Lucknow or Kanpur.

4. Is there a direct train between Mathura and Ayodhya?
There are no direct express trains, but you can travel via Lucknow or Faizabad Junction.

5. Can I do a same-day trip from Mathura to Ayodhya?
It’s possible by car if you start early, but not recommended due to temple hours and travel fatigue.

6. Are Ayodhya temples open year-round?
Yes, most temples remain open all year but may have timings or restrictions during major events.

7. What is the best time of year to travel?
October to March is ideal due to pleasant weather and festival activities.

8. How far is Ayodhya from Lucknow Airport?
Around 135 km, taking about 3 hours by road.

9. Is Ayodhya safe for solo travel?
Yes, it’s safe for all travelers including solo pilgrims.

10. Can I customize a Mathura to Ayodhya tour package?
Yes! We offer fully personalized packages with transport, accommodation, and temple visits.