Planning to celebrate Diwali in Ayodhya? Should you choose a train or a flight—which one saves more time and money?

If you are planning to visit the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya for Diwali, it is worth considering whether a train or a flight would be the more economical and practical choice for your journey. Here are the details.

November has arrived, and Diwali is just a few days away. This year, the festival of Diwali will be celebrated on November 8, 2026. Many people plan to travel to Ayodhya to celebrate Diwali and visit the Ram Mandir. However, it is a fact that the demand for trains and flights to Ayodhya surges significantly during the Diwali period. If you are planning a trip to Ayodhya, it is important to decide whether traveling by train or flight would be more advantageous. Both modes of travel have their own pros and cons, and it is essential to determine which option best suits your needs.

Is traveling by flight the best option?

A flight from Delhi to Ayodhya takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours. When you factor in the time required to reach the airport, complete check-in, and board the aircraft, the entire journey takes about 4 to 5 hours. In contrast, traveling by train takes considerably longer; superfast trains from Delhi typically take 10 to 12 hours to reach the destination. Therefore, if you are short on time and wish to minimize travel duration, a flight is the better choice.

It is true that airfares may be higher than usual during this period due to the sharp increase in demand for both trains and flights. It is advisable to check the current airfares and plan according to your budget. Currently, flight tickets could range from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000—or even more.

Travel by train if you have a limited budget

If time is not a constraint for you and your budget is limited, then traveling by train is a good option. Fares for General and Sleeper class can range from ₹370 to ₹400, while traveling in 3AC or 2AC coaches could cost between ₹900 and ₹1,600. In short, if you are on a tight budget, you might consider traveling by train; conversely, if budget is not an issue, you could opt for a flight.

If you are planning to visit Ayodhya during Diwali to see the Ram Mandir, expect large crowds. Hotel rates may also be higher than usual, and finding available accommodation could be challenging. Therefore, it is advisable to plan everything—including your train or flight tickets and hotel bookings—well in advance before finalizing your trip.